ILR VISA UK

IMPORTANT UPDATE: NEW UK ILR RULES FOR 2025

The UK government has published its Immigration White Paper in May 2025 which includes proposed changes to the eligibility criteria for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR). These changes could impact how the ILR application process works and what’s required from applicants.

Key proposed changes include:

• Extension of the qualifying period: The UK is looking to make some big changes to the qualifying period for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR). Currently it’s 5 years but they’re proposing to extend it to 10 years. This means the timeline for British citizenship through naturalisation could also go from 6 years to 11 years.

  On September 8 2025 UK Parliament discussed these proposals after two major petitions gathered over 270,000 signatures. The focus was on a new “earned settlement” model which would extend the ILR qualifying period for Skilled Workers. MPs raised important points such as is it fair to extend this period for migrants already on the 5 year route, how it would affect key services like the NHS and social care and the potential for exploitation if workers remain dependent on employer sponsorship for longer.

  While it was noted that those with a Hong Kong BN(O) visa won’t be affected and can continue on their 5 year ILR pathway, the Immigration Minister said no immediate changes would happen. Instead they will do a full consultation and impact assessments before moving forward with any changes. For now it’s important for Skilled Workers and their employers to stay informed as the current 5 year ILR route is still active but there’s uncertainty around future eligibility criteria.

• Early eligibility exceptions: There may still be early eligibility exceptions for certain groups – like partners of UK citizens, domestic violence victims and refugees – but the details are still being worked out.
• New points-based system: This new system will include an “earned settlement” factor that will consider an individual’s contribution to the UK economy and society.
• New bereaved parent route: Those on the route of a parent of a British or settled child who have lost their child may be able to settle immediately.
• Life in the UK Test updates: The Life in the UK Test is due an update with measures to reduce financial barriers for young people who have spent their childhood in the UK.

These changes haven’t been implemented yet or given an implementation date but the government says they could be in place by end of 2025.

If you’re on a pathway to settlement or planning to apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) it’s important to keep these changes in mind. To avoid any complications apply for ILR as soon as you’re eligible under the current rules.

Indefinite Leave to Remain Visa UK

Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) in the UK, also known as Permanent Residency or Settlement Visa, allows individuals who have legally lived in the UK for a certain period to apply for permission to settle permanently in the country. This is the final step for non-UK nationals before they can apply for British citizenship.

Getting Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) is a big milestone for many immigrants as it gives them the freedom to live and work in the UK without time limits.

ILR is granted to non-UK citizens allowing them to live, work and study in the UK without restrictions. It’s a big step towards full British citizenship offering many benefits and security for those who qualify.

What is an Indefinite Leave to Remain Visa (ILR)

The Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) visa allows individuals to settle in the United Kingdom permanently. It’s often considered the final step before applying for British citizenship. There are many benefits associated with ILR including:

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

ILR is an important milestone on the path to full British citizenship offering many advantages and security for those who qualify.

Advantages/Benefits of ILR

The advantages of the Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) Visa in the United Kingdom:

• No Time Limits: With the ILR visa you can live in the UK indefinitely without needing to renew your visa
• Work and Study Freedom: You can work in any job or study without restrictions, so many opportunities.
• Access to Public Funds: You can claim certain benefits and access public services
• Travel: You can travel in and out of the UK freely but be aware of long absences may affect your status.
• Citizenship: Generally, you can apply for British citizenship after holding ILR for 12 months.
• Sponsor Family Members: You can sponsor some family members to join you in the UK.

ILR Visa UK Requirements

To be eligible for an Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) Visa in the UK you need to meet specific requirements based on your current visa status. Here are the key requirements:

1. Qualifying Period: : You should have lived in the UK continuously for a set period, usually five years, under a qualifying visa category, such as the Tier 2 General Visa, or Skilled Worker Visa or a Spouse Visa.
2. Continuous Residency: You must not have been outside the UK for more than 180 days in any 12-month period during this qualifying period.
3. Knowledge of Life in the UK: Passing the Life in the UK Test is required, as it tests your understanding 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:You must have good character, which means you should not have serious criminal convictions or immigration violations.

Skilled Worker Settlement Salary Requirements

If you hold a Skilled Worker visa and planning to apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) in the UK you need to be aware of the latest salary requirements. The Home Office updated these rules on 4 April 2024 so your eligibility will depend on when your visa was granted and the job you are sponsored for.

Before looking at salary rules applicants must meet these key requirements:

• Your current employer (sponsor) must still have a valid license to sponsor Skilled workers.
• Your employer must still need you to work for them.
• You must be paid at or above the required salary for your job.

The minimum salary you must earn depends on when your Skilled Worker visa was first granted and the job you are sponsored for.

• For Standard jobs: £41,700 per year or the “going rate,” whichever is higher.
• For Jobs on the Immigration Salary List: £33,400 per year or the “going rate,” whichever is higher.

If your Skilled Worker visa was granted before 4 April 2024, you may qualify under transitional salary thresholds:

• For Standard jobs: £31,300 per year plus the relevant going rate.
• For Jobs on the Immigration Salary List (or Shortage Occupation List): £25,000 per year plus the going rate.
• For Health or education roles (SOC 2020, Table 3): £25,000 per year or the national pay scale rate (whichever is higher).
• For Tier 2 (General) migrants in specific SOC 2010 codes: £25,000 per year or the going rate listed in Home Office guidance.

In addition to meeting the general salary threshold, applicants for Skilled Worker settlement must also be paid at least the “going rate” for their specific occupation code (SOC code), as detailed in the Appendix Skilled Occupations.

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: Gather All Documents
Before you start the application process, make sure you have all the documents ready. Here is a list of what you will need: -

• Current Passport and Previous Passports: Your valid passport and any previous passports used during your time in the UK. This will help to show your immigration history.
• Biometric Residence Permit (BRP): If you have one, include your expired BRP card.
• Evisa (Electronic Visa): ): If you entered the UK with an eVisa or have electronic immigration status, make sure to include printouts or screenshots of those records or your digital status.
• Proof of Continuous Residence: You will need to show documents to prove your continuous residence in the UK during the qualifying period. This could be utility bills, bank statements, tenancy agreements or council tax bills.
• English Language Evidence: Include certificates or test results that meet the English language requirements of UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI).
• Life in the UK Test Certificate: You will need to provide proof that you have passed the official Life in the UK Test.
• Employment or Self-Employment Evidence: Add payslips, employer letters, contracts, or self-assessment tax returns that demonstrate your work or business activities in the UK.
• Additional Supporting Documents: If your specific visa category requires it, include any other relevant documents such as marriage certificates or refugee status documents.

By having all these documents in order you will avoid delays and strengthen your Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) application.

Apply for your ILR online through the UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) website. As you fill in the application form, remember:

• Enter your personal details correctly—full name, date of birth, nationality.
• Be honest about your immigration history; include all visas and electronic immigration statuses you have held.
• Provide accurate information about your residency; any time spent outside the UK.
• Answer every question truthfully to avoid any issues that could delay or even refuse your application.

Remember, honesty is key to a successful ILR application!

When applying for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) the application fee can be quite high and varies depending on your visa category. Here are a few things to consider:

• Plan for the ILR application fee which could be over £2,000 by 2025.
• Don’t forget to pay the biometric enrolment fee as well.

All payments are made online when you submit your application. Keep all your receipts and payment confirmations safe for future reference.

Once you have submitted your application you will need to book your biometric appointment at a UKVCAS centre. There are centres all around the UK so you should be able to find one near you.

Make sure you attend your appointment on time. If you miss it your application will be delayed or even refused. Keep your appointment details safe and arrive a little early!

Upload all your documents using the UKVCAS online portal by the time of your biometric appointment. Here are some tips to help you:

• Make sure your documents are clear, legible and complete.
• Label your files as per UKVI instructions.
• Keep your original documents handy as the Home Office may ask to verify them.

Uploading your documents correctly is crucial to avoid delays and to increase your chances of a successful application.

ILR applications take around six months to process. During this time the Home Office may ask for more information or even an interview.

If you want to speed things up you can opt for the Priority Service which takes around five working days or the Super Priority Service for a same day decision, both come with additional fees.

Once your application is approved you will receive confirmation of your ILR status along with guidance on what it means to be a settled person in the UK.

Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) – Required Documents

Applying for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) in the UK requires a thorough set of supporting documents. Make sure to submit everything accurately as missing or incorrect documents can cause delays or even refusal of your application. Here is a list of documents you will typically need for a successful ILR application. Note that specific requirements may vary depending on your visa category and personal circumstances.

1. Valid Passport(s)
   Include your current valid passport and any previous ones that show entry stamps, visa endorsements or travel history to and from the UK. These documents prove your lawful stay and continuous residence.
   
   
2. Biometric Residence Permit (BRP)
   Include your latest BRP even if it’s expired. This document is evidence of your immigration status.
   
   
3. Evisa (Electronic Immigration Status)
   If you have a digital immigration status, include screenshots or printouts from your UKVI account If you have a digital immigration status include screenshots or printouts from your UKVI account that show your eVisa or immigration status. This is relevant for those who entered the UK or extended their visa digitally.
   
   
4. Proof of Continuous Residence in the UK
   You need to show evidence that you have lived in the UK continuously for the qualifying period (usually 5 years). Acceptable documents are:
   • Utility bills (gas, electricity, water)
   • Council tax statements
   • Tenancy agreements or mortgage statements
   • Bank statements showing UK transactions
   • NHS appointment letters or official correspondence
   Make sure there are no gaps in your documentation.
   
   
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 that confirms your job title, status, start date, annual salary, and any approved 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 show your proficiency in English, provide one of the following:
   
   • An English Language Test Certificate (like IELTS for UKVI)
   • A UK-recognised Degree Certificate taught or researched in English (with a UK NARIC statement if needed)
   This is mandatory unless exempt due to age or medical conditions.
   
   
7. Life in the UK Test Certificate
   You’ll need to submit your official pass certificate from the Life in the UK Test unless you’re exempt.
   
   
8. Details of Travel Outside the UK
   List all absences from the UK during your qualifying period including:
   
   • 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 back up time spent outside the UK, especially if close to the 180-day limit per year, include:
   
   • Employer letter confirming leave approval and working pattern
   • Evidence of emergency travel (e.g. medical reports)
   • Boarding passes or travel confirmations if available
   
   
10. Marriage or Civil Partnership Certificate
    If you’re applying as a spouse or partner of a British citizen or settled person include your marriage or civil partnership certificate as proof of your relationship.
    
    
11. Children’s Birth Certificates
    If your children are dependants, provide their full birth certificates showing both parents’ names.
    
    
12. Evidence of a Genuine and Subsisting Relationship
    For family-based ILR applications you need to prove your relationship is genuine and subsisting. 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. Accommodation
    You must show you have accommodation in the UK, which can be supported by:
    
    • Tenancy agreement
    • Mortgage statement
    • Council tax bill
    • Utility bill addressed to your UK residence
    
    
14. Previous Immigration Applications and Offences
    Be honest about:
    
    • All previous UK visa applications
    • Any visa refusals or immigration appeals
    • Any civil, traffic, or criminal offences, even those considered minor or spent
    
    Not disclosing previous applications or offences may lead to refusal on grounds of deception.

How To Apply Online ILR Visa UK

This guide will help you through the online application process for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) in the UK. Here’s what you need to know to make it smoother.

First, there are a few common application forms you might need depending on your circumstances:
SET (M) – Use this form if you're applying as a spouse, civil partner, same-sex or unmarried partner of someone who's settled in the UK or a British Citizen.

SET (O) – This is for those applying under specific categories like a Tier 2 General visa, Skilled Worker, Tier 1 Entrepreneur, Tier 1 Investor, PBS or Dependant Visa, or an Ancestry Visa.

SET (LR) – Choose this if you’re applying based on 10 years of lawful residence in the UK.

To start, you’ll need to fill out the relevant online forms available on the UKVI (Home Office) website. Just make sure you have all your supporting documents ready.

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

• First, access the Gov.UK website.
  
• Go to the ILR application section.
  
• From there, just follow the instructions to either complete the registration process or log in if you already have an account.
  
  

• Personal Details: PName, date of birth, nationality
  
• Current Visa: Current visa status and expiry date
  
• Residence Address history for the qualifying period
  
• Employment: Work history (if applicable)
  
• Criminal Record: Disclose any criminal convictions.
  
• Absences from the UK: List any trips you took outside the UK during your qualifying period.
  

• Booking: Choose a date and time. Book as soon as possible to secure your slot.
• Attend Appointment: Bring your appointment confirmation and required documents on the day.

ILR Visa UK Fees

ILR Visa UK Application Processing Time

Standard Processing Time
When applying for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR), the Home Office aims to process applications within 6 months. However, this can vary for different reasons.
Processing Time Factors

1. Application Completeness: Make sure you submit all documents accurately. This will help avoid delays.
2. ILR Route: There are various ILR routes (work, family, long residency etc) and each has different processing times.
3. Complex Case: If your case requires additional verification or has a complicated immigration history, this will take longer.
4. Peak Periods: Processing times are longer during busy periods (holidays, specific times of the year etc).
5. Biometric Information: Providing biometric information (fingerprints and photos) promptly is crucial. Attend your biometric appointment to keep things moving.

Being organised and aware of these factors helps!

• Priority Service: 5 working days.
  
• Super Priority Service: Next working day.
  

To make your application process as smooth and quick as possible, here are some tips:

• Check Your Application: Double-check every section of the form.
  
• Submit All Documents: Use the UKVI checklist to ensure you include everything.
  
• Attend Biometric Appointments: Book your biometric appointment and go as soon as you can.
  
• Consider Priority Services: : If time is of the essence, consider priority or super-priority services if eligible.
  

Follow these and you’ll avoid delays!

Requirements Of the English Language for ILR Visa UK

• Pass an approved English language test at the required level (CEFR B1 or higher).
• Have a degree from a recognised institution where the course was taught or the research was conducted in English.
• Be a national from an English-speaking country.

What if I was absent from the UK?

What happens if my ILR Visa UK is successfully Accepted?

• Log in to your UKVI account to check your eVisa and ensure all your details are correct.
• Share your immigration status digitally with your employer, landlord or other institutions as needed.
• Keep your ILR decision letter and any related documents safe, especially for future applications like British citizenship.

Maintaining your ILR (Indefinite Leave to Remain) status is important to secure your residency in the UK. Here are a couple of key points to remember:

Absences from the UK: Try not to be away from the UK for too long. If you’re outside the UK for over 2 years, you could lose your ILR status.

Abide by Laws: You must follow UK laws and regulations. If you commit serious offences you could lose your ILR.

Just staying aware of these points can help you keep your residency status intact.

What happens if my ILR UK Visa is refused?

If your ILR visa is refused, it can be a stressful and confusing experience. Here’s what happens next and what you can do: Reasons ILR applications are refused

If you’re thinking of applying for ILR in the UK, you need to know the reasons why applications get refused. The Home Office will send a refusal letter explaining the specific grounds for refusal but here are some of the common issues to watch out for:

1. Insufficient Residence Period
   To qualify for ILR, you need to have lived in the UK for at least 5 years. If you don’t meet this requirement, your application will be refused, so make sure you have solid evidence of your residency.


2. Excessive Absences from the UK
   Being away from the UK too long can be a problem. Generally you should avoid being away for more than 180 days in any 12 month period. Keep detailed travel records to help you stay within the limits.


3. Criminal Convictions
   Even minor criminal offences can stop your ILR application. The Home Office does thorough background checks so it’s essential to be honest and disclose any convictions. Not doing so could lead to an automatic refusal.


4. Financial Requirements
   You’ll need to show you can financially support yourself and any dependents without relying on public funds. This often means providing bank statements, payslips and other financial documents. If you can’t show financial stability your application will be refused.


5. Incorrect or Incomplete Documentation
   Submitting the wrong or incomplete paperwork is a common mistake for ILR applicants. Double check to make sure all forms are completed correctly and all necessary supporting documents are included before you submit your application.


6. English Language Requirement
   To qualify for ILR you need to meet the English language requirement. This usually means passing an approved language test or having a degree taught in English. If you don’t meet this requirement your application will be refused.


7. Life in the UK Test
   Passing the Life in the UK test is mandatory and tests your knowledge of British history and traditions. Make sure you either pass the test or provide proof of having done so as not doing either can lead to a refusal.


8. Immigration Rule Violations
   A clean immigration record is key. Any issues such as overstaying a visa or not complying with your visa conditions can impact your application.


9. Changes in Circumstances
   If your circumstances change—like a job change, change in marital status or a move—make sure to inform the Home Office as soon as possible. Failing to do so can affect your eligibility and lead to refusal.


10. Inconsistent Information
    It’s important to provide consistent information across all your immigration applications. Any discrepancies can put your application at risk.

Be proactive and thorough with your application and you’ll be fine!

Next Steps

If your ILR application is refused what happens next depends on your current visa status. If you still have a valid visa you can stay in the UK until that visa expires and you may want to reapply for ILR once you’ve addressed the reasons for refusal.

However if your visa has already expired or is about to expire you’ll need to think about your options—like leaving the UK or applying for an extension or a different type of visa to stay legally. Keep on top of these details to avoid any complications.

What to do next

If you’ve recently had your immigration application refused it can be a stressful and confusing experience. Understanding what to do next is key to navigating the situation. Below are the next steps to take to address the refusal and consider your options.

1. Read the Refusal Letter: Take some time to really read the refusal letter. It’s important to understand why the decision was made.
2. Get Legal Advice: It might be a good idea to talk to an immigration lawyer or advisor. They can advise you on your situation and outline your options.
3. Appeal the Decision: Depending on why your application was refused you may have the chance to appeal. The letter should have information on how that process works.
4. Reapply for ILR: If the reasons for the rejection can be fixed, think about reapplying for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR). Just make sure to correct any mistakes or missing information in your new application.
5. Alternative Visas: If reapplying for ILR isn’t an option, look into other visas you may be eligible for. This could be work visas, family visas or other types of leave to remain.

Mitigating Future Refusal

To improve your chances of a successful ILR application in the future here are some tips:

• Ensure Complete Documentation: Make sure you double check all required documents are included and up to date.
• Meet Eligibility Criteria: Check you meet all the residency and financial requirements for your application.
• Correct Application: Fill out the visa application form accurately and honestly to avoid any issues.
• Take Professional Advice: It’s a good idea to consult with an immigration advisor before submitting your application; they can help you cover all aspects.

These will help you avoid future refusal!

Returning Residents Visa UK

Life can be unpredictable and sometimes those with Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) may find themselves outside the UK for more than 2 years. Whether it’s to care for aging parents, take up job opportunities abroad or deal with family matters, there are many valid reasons to be away. If you’ve been gone for more than 2 years your ILR has technically lapsed.

But don’t worry—there’s a silver lining! You may be eligible to return to the UK with a Returning Resident visa. This route is for those who once held settled status, had to leave for a while and now want to come back and make the UK their permanent home again.

The 2-Year Rule

When you get your Indefinite Leave to Remain in the UK it means you can live there permanently which is great! However there’s an important point to note: if you stay outside the UK for more than 2 consecutive years you risk losing that status.

If you do end up being away for over 2 years and try to come back you may actually be refused entry at the border. That’s why it’s better to apply for a Returning Resident visa before you travel back rather than waiting until you arrive. Always plan ahead to avoid any surprises!

Who Can Apply as a Returning Resident?

The basic eligibility criteria are quite simple:-

• You must genuinely intend to return to live in the UK permanently; this isn’t for occasional visitors
• You must have had settled status in the UK before you left, such as ILR or permanent residence.
• You shouldn’t have received any public funds to help you leave the UK in the first place.

On the bright side even if you’ve been away longer than you intended there’s still a chance you could qualify. The Home Office recognises that life can get complicated. If you have strong family ties in the UK or have spent most of your life here they understand that sometimes circumstances can keep you away longer than expected.

What You’ll Need

When applying make sure you get all your documents in order. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Proof of your previous ILR status: This could be your old passport with the ILR stamp, an old BRP card, or any letters you’ve received from the Home Office.
• Evidence of your time living in the UK before you left: Think of things like utility bills, council tax statements, or employment records.
• A clear explanation for your time away: Make sure you can explain why you were gone for so long.
• Proof of your ongoing ties to the UK: This could include bank statements, property ownership, or family relationships.
• Evidence of your genuine intention to live permanently in the UK: Show that you’re serious about making the UK your home again.

Having all these documents will help your application!

How to Apply

The application process is simple:

1. Apply online through the official UK government website.
2. Pay the visa fee – Don’t forget to pay the visa fee which is currently £682 so make sure to factor that into your budget.
3. You’ll need to provide your biometric details—this means fingerprints and a photo—at your nearest UK visa application centre.
4. Upload all necessary supporting documents to show you qualify.
5. Wait for a decision – Finally, be patient as you wait for a decision. Most applications are processed within 3 months, but more complex cases may take a bit longer.

Why This Route Is So Important

This route is so important for those who had to leave the UK for good reasons but still see the UK as their home. It’s a recognition that life can take us in unexpected directions. Once you’re back in the fold with this visa it’s as if your Indefinite Leave to Remain never lapsed. You get all your privileges back including:

• The right to live, work and study anywhere in the UK
• Access to public funds and NHS services
• The ability to apply for British citizenship after 12 months if that’s what you’re aiming for.

The key point here is this visa is about your connection to the UK. If you can show your strong ties to the country and your genuine intention to return for good you’ll have a good chance of getting approved.

Family Route leading to ILR UK

Applicants who have spent 2 years (if applied prior to 9th July 2012) or 5 years (if applied on or after 9th July 2012) in the UK on a spouse visa, unmarried partner or civil partner visa of a British National or Settled person or as a PBS dependant

Long Residency

Applicants must have at least 10 years lawful residence in the UK to apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain UK (ILR Visa UK). They need to show a strong connection with the UK.

Work Category leading to ILR UK

This category is designed for applicants who have spent continuous residence of 5 years in the work categories including Tier 1 (General), Tier 2 (General), Ancestry visa, etc and wish to apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain UK

EEA Permanent Residence

This category allows an EEA national who has spent at least 5 years as a qualified person in the UK.