Applying for Indefinite Leave to Remain In the United Kingdom (Permanent Resident)

For those looking to apply for indefinite leave to remain in the United Kingdom (UK) (Permanent Resident), this guide is a must-read. Yes, there is such a thing as Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) and here’s what you need to know.

Sometimes, you fall in love with a country. Your business is thriving, your career is going well, and you’ve settled in so well in your new environment that it makes sense to keep living there. That happens often in the UK, a culturally rich country enticing to many.

Moreover, ILR is a pathway toward eventually acquiring British citizenship. This pathway is worth exploring for those seeking a long-term future in the UK.

 

What Is Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR)

The ILR in the UK allows individuals to live and work in the United Kingdom without any of the usual migrant restrictions. Those with a UK visa or even refugees looking to settle permanently in the country must consider applying for an ILR to secure their future in the UK.

In some countries, the ILR is also called a permanent residency or “settlement” visa. It is available to non-UK nationals who have been staying in the UK for a specific period. Migrants are keen to get the ILR because it provides a sense of security, not to mention all the benefits that come with acquiring an ILR status.

With an ILR, you will have almost all the same rights as the locals, including access to healthcare. You can also work without restrictions, which is a significant plus point since you must earn a living here. However, you can only apply for the ILR if you meet the eligibility criteria.

Of course, one of the biggest benefits of the ILR status is that it provides a pathway to eventual British citizenship (provided you meet all the eligibility requirements). After holding an ILR for a specific period, you will eventually be able to enjoy all the rights and benefits that British citizens do when you become one yourself.

 

What are the Eligibility Criteria to Apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain in the United Kingdom?

Applications for the ILR will go through the UK Home Office. To be eligible, you must meet the residency requirements. You must have lived in the UK continuously for a specific period (typically five years) under a qualifying visa. Qualifying visas include work, family, study, and asylum.

You must also meet the English language proficiency needed for your visa category and circumstances. Financially, you must demonstrate your ability to support yourself without relying on public funding. If you need to leave the UK, your leave must not exceed 180 days in 12 months.

If you hold a Skilled Worker or Tier 2 (General) visa, T2 Minister of Religion or Tier 2 (Minister of Religion), or International Sportsperson, T2 Sportsperson or Tier 2 (Sportsperson), you are eligible to apply for an ILR. For the T2 visas, you must have lived and worked in the UK for at least five years and met all the salary requirement conditions. There must also be a need for you to remain at your job (your company needs you), and your employer must supply documented evidence to prove this. Only then can you apply for the ILR visa.

After working in the UK for five years, you can lodge your ILR application 28 days after the official 5-month period. To qualify for the ILR, you must not have been out of the UK for more than 180 days within the 5-year period.

It is important to note that the Government will be looking at whether you demonstrate commitment and the intention to continue working and contributing to British society when you lodge your application. Even after submitting your application, you must continue adhering to the requirements of your current visa until you receive an outcome for your ILR. Finally, you must have met the good character criteria, which means you have no criminal record or any involvement in criminal activities.

 

Applying for Your Indefinite Leave to Remain In the United Kingdom

When applying for your ILR, 3E Accounting can help. While the application process seems straightforward, sometimes you may overlook the documentation and small details. That is why you need our help to ensure a smooth application.

To start the process, we need to gather all your necessary documents, including proof of identification, residency, evidence of English language proficiency, and financial records. We will then help you complete the application form supplied by the UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) Department.

Next, we will help you prepare for your biometric appointment. You will need to supply a photograph and fingerprints, which can be done at your nearest application centre. Once we ensure everything is finalised, we will submit your application. All that is left to do after that is to wait for the outcome of your decision from the Home Office.

Contact us to avail of our ILR services today.