Settle in the UK, Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR)
Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) is the settled status that lets you live, work, and study in the United Kingdom without time limits. We guide you through the right route, the eligibility requirements, and the application process so your settlement is built on solid, compliant foundations.
What Is Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR)?
Indefinite Leave to Remain is the UK's settled status. It removes the time limits attached to temporary visas, allowing you to live, work, and study in the United Kingdom freely, and it is a key step on the path toward British citizenship. ILR is reached through a recognised settlement route, after you meet the residence, conduct, and knowledge requirements set out below.
Main ILR Settlement Routes
There are several routes that can lead to Indefinite Leave to Remain. The right one depends on your visa history, your work, and your family circumstances. The most common settlement routes are set out below.
Skilled Worker Route to ILR
Skilled Worker visa holders can settle in the UK after meeting the qualifying period and conditions of the route. The core requirements include:
- Continuous lawful residence
- Minimum salary threshold at settlement stage
- Employment with a licensed sponsor
- Absence limits not exceeded
- English language requirement
- Life in the UK Test
Health and Care Worker Route to ILR
Health and Care Worker visa holders can progress to Indefinite Leave to Remain through the settlement route attached to their employment, meeting the residence, conduct, and knowledge requirements that apply at the settlement stage.
Global Talent Route to ILR
The Global Talent route offers a flexible path to settlement for recognised leaders and emerging talent. Its advantages include:
- No employer sponsorship dependency
- Flexible employment options
- Accelerated settlement for recognised leaders
Family Route to ILR
Partners, spouses, and family members of British citizens or settled persons can reach Indefinite Leave to Remain through the family route, after completing the qualifying period and meeting the residence, conduct, and knowledge requirements that apply to settlement.
Long Residence Route (10-Year Route)
Individuals who have lawfully and continuously lived in the United Kingdom for ten years may qualify for settlement under the Long Residence route, provided their absences stay within permitted limits and they meet the conduct and knowledge requirements for ILR.
General ILR Eligibility Requirements
Across the settlement routes, applicants are generally expected to satisfy a common set of requirements:
- Lawful and continuous residence
- Absences within permitted limits
- No serious immigration breaches
- Life in the UK Test pass
- Ongoing compliance with visa conditions
ILR Application Process
The path to settlement follows a clear sequence of steps, from confirming your eligibility through to receiving the decision.
- Confirm eligibilityConfirm eligibility and qualifying period.
- Gather evidenceGather residence, employment, and financial evidence.
- Life in the UK TestPass the Life in the UK Test.
- Submit applicationSubmit ILR application online.
- BiometricsAttend biometrics appointment.
- DecisionReceive settlement decision.
ILR Processing Time
Standard ILR applications are usually processed within up to 6 months, with priority services available for eligible applicants.
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