Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR): Your Path to Permanent Residency
Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR), or permanent residency, allows individuals to live and work in the UK indefinitely. This status signifies a deep-rooted connection to the UK and a commitment to making it your permanent home.
The 10-Year Route to ILR
Under the 10-Year Route, various visa categories can contribute to your eligibility for ILR, provided your stay has been continuous and lawful. Here are the common visas that count:
- Tier 1 (General) Visa: For highly skilled workers, with time spent on this visa contributing to the 10 years.
- Tier 2 (General) Visa: For skilled workers with a UK job offer. This time is also included.
- Ancestry Visa: For those with a UK-born grandparent, with eligible time contributing.
- Spouse, Partner, or Family Visa: Time on visas such as Spouse Visa or Unmarried Partner Visa counts.
- Tier 4 (General) Student Visa: Time spent on this visa during your studies can be counted if lawful.
- Work Permits: Time on work permits prior to the Points-Based System is eligible.
- Other Long-Term Visas: Various other long-term visas may qualify, depending on specific conditions.
- Asylum Seeker or Refugee Status: Time spent as an asylum seeker or refugee may be included.
- Ensuring continuous and lawful residence is essential. Any period of overstaying or unlawful presence can disrupt your eligibility.
FAQ (Frequently asked questions):
It allows individuals to apply for ILR after continuously living in the UK for 10 years legally.
You must have 10 years of continuous lawful residence in the UK, meet the Knowledge of Language and Life in the UK requirements, and not have any criminal convictions or breaches of immigration laws.
It means staying in the UK legally for 10 years without significant breaks, generally not exceeding 540 days outside the UK and no single absence of more than 180 days (about 6 months).
What is the Knowledge of Language and Life in the UK requirement?
Complete the application form (SET(LR)), pay the fee, submit biometric data, and provide supporting documents like your passport, proof of residence, and evidence of meeting the Knowledge of Language and Life in the UK requirements.
Certain short gaps in lawful residence may be disregarded if they were due to exceptional circumstances and you acted promptly to regularise your status.
You can appeal the decision or apply for an administrative review. Seek legal advice to understand your options.
Yes, if you stay outside the UK for over 2 years, are deported, or commit a serious crime.
Yes, typically after 12 months with ILR, or immediately if married to a British citizen.
It usually takes around 6 months. Priority services are available for faster processing.
For Expert legal advice and assistance, reach out to Imran & Co Solicitors today.
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