ILR VISA UK

IMPORTANT UPDATE: NEW UK ILR RULES FOR 2025

The UK government has outlined proposed changes to the eligibility criteria for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) in its Immigration White Paper released in May 2025. These changes could significantly impact the ILR application process and requirements.

Key proposed changes include:

• Extension of the qualifying period: The standard qualifying period for ILR may increase from 5 years to 10 years. Consequently, the qualifying period for British citizenship by naturalisation could extend from 6 years to 11 years.
• Early eligibility exceptions: Certain groups, such as partners of UK citizens, victims of domestic violence, abuse survivors, and refugees, might still be eligible to apply sooner, though specific details are yet to be finalised.
• Introduction of a revised points-based system: This new system would include an “earned settlement” factor that considers an individual’s contributions to the UK economy and society.
• New bereaved parent route: Individuals on the route of a parent of a British or settled child who have lost their child may be allowed to settle immediately.
• Updates to the Life in the UK Test: The test is set for revision, along with measures to reduce financial barriers for young people who have lived in the UK throughout their childhood.

These proposals have not yet been confirmed into law or given an official implementation date, but the government suggests these changes could take effect by the end of 2025.

If you are currently on a route towards settlement or planning to apply for ILR, it’s important to consider these potential changes. To avoid possible complications, it is advisable to apply for ILR as soon as you become eligible under the existing rules.

PETITION: KEEP THE 5-YEAR ILR PATHWAY FOR EXISTING SKILLED WORKER VISA HOLDERS

In response to the proposed changes, a petition has been launched urging the UK government to maintain the current 5-year ILR pathway for existing Skilled Worker visa holders. The petition argues that altering the ILR rules mid-journey is unfair and causes stress for families who have already made significant life decisions based on the existing system.

As of now, the petition has garnered over 155,000 signatures and is scheduled for a parliamentary debate on 8 September 2025. The government has acknowledged the petition and indicated that the proposals on earned settlement will be subject to a formal consultation process.

Indefinite Leave to Remain Visa UK

ILR Visa UK , also known as Permanent Residency or Settlement visa, allows people who have legally resided in the UK for a certain period to apply for permission to settle in the country. This process represents the final prerequisite that non-UK nationals must fulfil before becoming eligible to apply for British Citizenship.

Acquiring indefinite leave to stay (ILR) in the UK is a big achievement for many immigrants. It allows them to live and work in the UK without time restrictions.

Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) is granted to non-UK citizens, allowing them to live, work, and study in the UK with no time restrictions. ILR is a significant step towards obtaining full British citizenship, offering numerous benefits and a sense of security for those who qualify.

What is an Indefinite Leave to Remain Visa (ILR)

ILR Visa UK allows individuals to stay in the UK on a permanent basis. It is usually the last step before applying for British citizenship. ILR has several benefits, including:

• Able to work and study without any restrictions.
• Access to public funds and healthcare.
• Freedom to travel in and out of the UK without visa restrictions.

Advantages/Benefits of ILR Visa UK:

• No Time Limits: You can stay in the UK indefinitely without visa renewals.
• Work and Study Freedom: Work in any job or study without restrictions.
• Access to Public Funds: Eligible to claim certain benefits and public services.
• Travel Flexibility: Travel in and out of the UK freely; however, prolonged absences may affect your status.
• Path to Citizenship: Usually eligible to apply for British citizenship after holding ILR for 12 months.
• Sponsor Family Members: Ability to sponsor some family members to join you in the UK.

ILR Visa UK Requirements

To be eligible for ILR Visa UK, you must meet specific criteria based on your current visa status. Some common requirements include:

1. Qualifying Period: You need to have lived in the UK continuously for a set period, usually five years, under a qualifying visa category (such as Tier 2 General, Spouse Visa, etc.).
2. Continuous Residency: Throughout the qualifying period, you must not be outside the UK for more than 180 days in any 12-month period.
3. Knowledge of Life in the UK: You need to pass the Life in the UK Test, which assesses your knowledge of British customs, culture, and history.
4. English Language Requirement: To prove your English proficiency, you need to either pass an approved language test or complete a degree program taught in English.
5. Good Character: To stay in the UK, you must have no serious criminal convictions or immigration violations.

When can you apply for an ILR visa UK?

The length of time required for a Settlement Visa in the UK depends on the applicant's current immigration status.

Application Process

Step 1: Compile All Required Documents
Prior to starting the application process, it is crucial to ensure that all necessary documentation is in order. This includes the following: -

• Current Passport and Previous Passports: Your valid passport, along with any previous passports used during your UK residency, to establish your immigration history.
• Biometric Residence Permit (BRP): Include your expired BRP card, if you hold one.
• Evisa (Electronic Visa): If you entered the UK using an eVisa or hold electronic immigration status, include printouts or screenshots of your eVisa records or digital status.
• Proof of Continuous Residence: Documents such as utility bills, bank statements, tenancy agreements, or council tax bills that confirm your continuous residence in the UK during the qualifying period.
• English Language Evidence: Certificates or test results that satisfy UKVI’s English language requirements.
• Life in the UK Test Certificate: Proof that you have passed the official Life in the UK Test.
• Employment or Self-Employment Evidence: Payslips, employer letters, contracts, or self-assessment tax returns proving your work or business activity in the UK.
• Additional Supporting Documents: Any other documentation required for your specific visa category, such as marriage certificates or refugee status documents.

Properly organising and preparing these documents will help avoid delays and strengthen your ILR application.

Submit your ILR application online via the official UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) website. When filling out the application form:

• Enter accurate personal details, including your full name, date of birth, and nationality.
• Disclose your immigration history, including all visas and electronic immigration statuses.
• Provide details of your residency, including any time spent outside the UK.
• Answer all questions truthfully to avoid issues that could delay or invalidate your application.

Accuracy and honesty are essential for a successful ILR application.

The ILR application fee is substantial and depends on your visa category. Be sure to:

• Budget for the ILR application fee, which as of 2025 may exceed £2,000.
• Pay the biometric enrolment fee.

Payments are made online during your application submission. Keep all receipts and payment confirmations safely.

Once you have submitted your application, you need to schedule an appointment at a UKVCAS centre located across the UK to provide biometric information.

Attending your biometric appointment on time is mandatory. Missing your appointment can delay your application or lead to refusal.

Upload all required documents through the UKVCAS online portal before or on the day of your biometric appointment. Tips for successful submission:

• Ensure documents are clear, legible, and complete.
• Label files correctly as per UKVI instructions.
• Keep originals handy as the Home Office may request to verify them.

Proper document submission is critical for avoiding delays and improving application success.

ILR applications typically take up to six months to process. During this time:

• The Home Office may request additional information or an interview.
• You can pay for faster processing via the Priority Service (around 5 working days) or Super Priority Service (same day decision) for an extra fee.

Upon approval, you will receive confirmation of your ILR status and guidance on your rights and responsibilities as a settled person in the UK.

Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) – Required Documents (UK 2025 Guide)

Preparing a complete and accurate set of supporting documents is one of the most critical steps when applying for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) in the UK. Submitting incomplete or incorrect documentation can lead to significant delays or even rejection of your application. Below is a detailed list of documents commonly required for a successful ILR application. Please note that the exact requirements may vary depending on your visa route, personal circumstances, and immigration history.

1. Valid Passport(s)
   You must submit your current valid passport, as well as any previously held passports that show your entry stamps, visa endorsements, or travel history to and from the UK. These documents help confirm your lawful stay and continuous residence in the UK.
   
   
2. Biometric Residence Permit (BRP)
   Include your most recent Biometric Residence Permit, even if it is expired. The BRP provides evidence of your current or previous immigration status and is essential for verifying your identity.
   
   
3. Evisa (Electronic Immigration Status)
   If you have been granted immigration status digitally, include screenshots or printouts of your UKVI account showing your eVisa or immigration status. This applies to those who entered the UK or extended their visa under the new digital immigration system.
   
   
4. Proof of Continuous Residence in the UK
   To meet the residency requirement, you must provide evidence demonstrating that you have lived in the UK continuously for the qualifying period (typically 5 years). Acceptable documents include:
   • Utility bills (gas, electricity, water)
   • Council tax statements
   • Tenancy agreements or mortgage statements
   • Bank statements showing UK transactions
   • NHS appointment letters or official correspondence
   Ensure there are no significant gaps in your evidence.
   
   
5. Employment and Financial Documentation
   a) For Employed Applicants:
   
   • Recent payslips (typically last 3 to 6 months)
   • Bank statements showing salary deposits
   • Employment contract
   • Letter from your employer confirming:
     • Job title
     • Employment status
     • Start date
     • Annual salary
     • Approval of any leave or absences
   
   b) For Self-Employed Applicants:
   • Certified business accounts
   • HMRC tax returns (SA302)
   • Invoices and client contracts
   • Business bank account statements
   
   
6. English Language Requirement
   To demonstrate proficiency in English, provide one of the following:
   
   • English Language Test Certificate (approved by UKVI, e.g. IELTS for UKVI)
   • UK-recognised Degree Certificate taught or researched in English (with a UK NARIC statement if required)
   This is mandatory unless exempt due to age or medical conditions.
   
   
7. Life in the UK Test Certificate
   Submit the official pass certificate from the Life in the UK Test. This is a required step for all ILR applicants unless exempt.
   
   
8. Details of Travel Outside the UK
   You must declare all absences from the UK during your qualifying period. Include:
   
   • Dates of travel (departure and return)
   • Reason for each absence (e.g. holiday, business, family emergency)
   • Total number of days spent outside the UK
   
   
9. Supporting Documents for Absences
   To justify time spent outside the UK, especially if nearing the 180-day limit per year, include:
   
   • Employer letter confirming leave approval and working pattern
   • Evidence of emergency travel (e.g. medical reports or family bereavement)
   • Boarding passes or travel confirmations if available
   
   
10. Marriage or Civil Partnership Certificate
    If you are applying for ILR as a spouse or partner of a British citizen or settled person, you must submit your marriage or civil partnership certificate as evidence of your relationship.
    
    
11. Children’s Birth Certificates
    If your children are applying as dependants, you must provide their full birth certificates, showing both parents’ names.
    
    
12. Evidence of a Genuine and Subsisting Relationship
    For family-based ILR applications, you must prove that your relationship is genuine and ongoing. This can include:
    
    • Joint utility bills or bank statements
    • Tenancy agreement or mortgage in joint names
    • Photos together
    • Correspondence addressed to both partners at the same address
    • Evidence of cohabitation for at least 2 years before applying
    
    
13. Proof of Accommodation
    You must demonstrate that you have adequate accommodation in the UK. Accepted documents include:
    
    • Tenancy agreement
    • Mortgage statement
    • Council tax bill
    • Utility bill addressed to your UK residence
    
    
14. Disclosure of Previous Immigration Applications and Offences
    You must disclose details of:
    
    • All previous UK visa applications
    • Any visa refusals or immigration appeals
    • Any civil, traffic, or criminal offences, even those considered minor or spent
    
    Failure to declare offences or previous applications may result in refusal on grounds of deception.

How To Apply Online ILR Visa UK

This guide will walk you through the online application process, ensuring you have the necessary information to complete it successfully.

The following are the most commonly used application forms for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR):
SET (M) – If you are applying as a spouse, civil partner, same-sex or unmarried partner of a person present and settled in the UK or a British Citizen.

SET (O) – If you are applying as a Tier 2 General visa or Skilled Worker, Tier 1 Entrepreneur, Tier 1 Investor, PBS or Dependant Visa, or Ancestry Visa.

SET (LR) – If applying under 10 years of lawful residence.

To apply for ILR, you should apply online forms on the UKVI (Home Office) website.

1. Create an Online Account
To create an account, please visit the UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) website and follow these steps:

• Access the Gov.UK website.
  
• Proceed to the ILR application section.
  
• You need to follow the instructions to complete the registration process or log in if you already have an account.
  
  

• Personal Information: Provide details such as your name, date of birth, and nationality.
  
  
• Current Visa Information: Specify your current visa status and expiry date.
  
  
• Residence Details: Include your address history for the qualifying period.
  
  
• Employment Information: Please provide details about your work history if applicable.
  
  
• Criminal Record: Please disclose any criminal convictions.
  
  
• Absences from the UK: Please list any trips you took outside the UK during your qualifying period.
  
  

ILR Visa UK Fees

ILR Visa UK Application Processing Time

Standard Processing Time

The Home Office aims to process ILR applications within 6 months, but actual processing time may vary.

Factors Affecting Processing Times

1. Completeness of Application: To prevent delays, it is essential to submit all necessary documents accurately.
   
   
2. Type of ILR Route: Different ILR routes, such as those for work, family, or long residence, may have varying processing times.
   
   
3. Complexity of Case: Applications requiring additional verification or those with complex immigration histories may take longer to process.
   
   
4. Peak Periods: Processing times can be longer during peak periods, such as major holidays or specific times of the year when application volumes are high.
   
   
5. Biometric Information: Providing your biometric information (fingerprints and photo) promptly can help avoid delays. Please make sure to attend your scheduled biometric appointment.
   
   

• Priority Service: The application is processed within 5 working days.
  
• Super Priority Service: The application is processed by the end of the next working day.
  

• Double-Check Your Application: Ensure all sections of the form are completed accurately.
  
  
• Submit All Required Documents: Refer to the checklist provided by UKVI and submit all necessary documents.
  
  
• Attend Biometric Appointments Promptly: Please schedule your biometric appointment and attend as soon as you can.
  
  
• Consider Priority Services: If you need a quicker decision, opt for priority or super priority services if eligible
  
  

Requirements Of the English Language for ILR Visa UK

• Passing an approved English language test at the required level (CEFR level B1 or higher); or
  
• Having a degree from a recognised institution, which was taught or researched in English; or
  
• Being a national of one of the English-speaking countries.
  

What happens in case of absence from the UK?

What happens if my ILR Visa UK is successfully Accepted?

• Log in to your UKVI account to check your eVisa and make sure all your details are correct.
• Share your immigration status digitally with your employer, landlord, or other institutions when required.
• Keep your ILR decision letter and documents safe for future applications, such as British citizenship.

What happens if my ILR UK Visa is not accepted?

If your application for an ILR visa is rejected, it can be a stressful and bewildering experience. Here’s a breakdown of what happens next and the steps you can take:

Reasons why applications for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) may be rejected

First and foremost, it's important to understand why your ILR application was rejected. The refusal letter from the Home Office will provide details of the refusal. Common reasons for refusal include:

1. Insufficient Residence Period
   Residing in the UK for a minimum of five years is an essential requirement for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR). Failing to meet this condition may lead to rejection of your application. Clear evidence of residency must be provided.


2. Excessive Absences from the UK
   Excessive absences from the UK could lead to rejection, so avoid spending more than 180 days outside the UK in any 12-month period. Keep detailed travel records and adhere to these limits.


3. Criminal Convictions
   It's important to understand that having a criminal record can significantly affect your application for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR). Even minor offences can lead to refusal. The Home Office conducts thorough background checks, so it's crucial to disclose any convictions truthfully. Failing to do so can result in an automatic denial.


4. Financial Requirements
   To meet the requirements, you must demonstrate that you can support yourself and dependents financially without using public funds. This usually involves providing bank statements, payslips, and other financial documents. Inadequate evidence or reliance on public funds can lead to rejection.


5. Incorrect or Incomplete Documentation
   Submitting incorrect or incomplete documentation is a common reason for ILR application rejections. To avoid this, make sure to fill out all forms accurately and provide all necessary supporting documents. Please make sure to review your application carefully before submitting to avoid any issues.


6. English Language Requirement
   To qualify for ILR, you need to meet the English language requirement. This usually means passing an approved English language test or having a degree taught in English. Failing to meet this requirement can result in rejection.


7. Life in the UK Test
   Life in the UK test is obligatory for ILR applicants, assessing knowledge of British traditions and history. Failing or not providing proof can lead to application denial.


8. Immigration Rule Violations
   It's important to have a clean immigration record for a successful ILR application. Any history of breaking immigration rules, such as overstaying a visa, working illegally, or not following visa conditions, can significantly affect your application.


9. Changes in Circumstances
   If your personal circumstances change significantly, such as your job, marital status, or address, you must quickly inform the Home Office. Not doing so may affect your eligibility and result in rejection.


10. Inconsistent Information
    Inconsistent or conflicting immigration information can lead to rejected ILR applications. Ensure all details are accurate and consistent with past visa applications and records.

• Valid Visa Status: If you still have a valid visa, you can remain in the UK until that visa expires. You might want to reapply for ILR if you can address the reasons for rejection.


• Visa Expiry: If your current visa has expired or is about to expire, you might need to leave the UK or apply for an extension or a different type of visa to remain legally.

Next Steps

1. Review the Rejection Letter: Carefully read the rejection letter to understand the exact reasons for the decision.
2. Seek Legal Advice: Consider consulting an immigration lawyer or advisor who can provide expert guidance on your case and suggest possible next steps.
3. Appeal the Decision: You may have the right to appeal depending on the reason for rejection. The refusal letter will provide details on the appeal process.
4. Reapply for ILR: If the issues leading to rejection are addressable, you might choose to reapply for ILR. Ensure that you rectify any errors or omissions in your new application.
5. Consider Alternative Visas: If reapplying for ILR is not an option, explore other visa categories that you might be eligible for. This could include work visas, family visas, or other forms of leave to remain.

Mitigating Future Rejection

• Ensure Complete Documentation: Double-check that all required documents are included and up to date.
• Meet Eligibility Criteria: Please ensure that you qualify by meeting all the requirements for residency and financial thresholds.
• Correct Application: Complete the visa application form accurately and truthfully.
• Take Professional Assistance: Before submitting your application, it's a good idea to consult with an immigration advisor to make sure you've covered all aspects.

Returning residents

• Intend to return to live in the UK permanently
• Have been settled in the UK before your last departure
• Have not received public funds to assist your departure from the UK

Work Route leading to ILR UK

This category is designed for applicants who have spent 5 years on the work categories including Tier 1 (General), Tier 2 (General), Ancestry visa etc.

Family Route leading to ILR UK

This category is for applicants who have spent in the UK for 2 years (if initial partner visa was applied prior to 9th July 2012) or for 5 years (if the initial partner visa was applied on or after 9th July 2012) as a partner of a British National or Settled person or as a PBS dependant, except for EEA family members who need to spent 5 years.

Long Residency

This category allows applicant who have spent at least 10 years as lawful residence in the UK.