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Indefinite Remain to Leave (ILR) Requirements 

Are you working in UK for a while and thinking of settling down in UK, you can apply for Indefinite Remain to Leave (ILR). Let us understand the eligibility and application process for the same.

What Is an ILR?

Are you working in UK for a while and thinking of settling down in UK, you can apply for Indefinite Remain to Leave (ILR). Let us understand the eligibility and application process for the same.

Eligibility to apply for ILR

  • You have Skilled worker or Health care visa
  • You have lived and worked in the UK for 5 years
  • You meet the salary requirements
  • You would continue your job and meet the salary requirements after you get ILR – you’ll need a document from your employer (sponsor) to confirm this
  • You must pass Life in UK test

When can you apply?

The earliest you can apply is 28 days before you’ve been in the UK for 5 years on a qualifying visa. Please check which visas count towards your time in the UK to avoid refusal if you apply earlier.

Keep in mind that if your visa expires before you can apply for indefinite leave to remain, you’ll need to renew it first.

How to apply

  1. Apply online https://visas-immigration.service.gov.uk/product/set-o.
  2. Keep all the requisite document ready.
    • Valid passport
    • Information about where you live in the UK. E.g., tenancy agreements
    • Details about any times you have been out of the UK
    • A copy of your biometric residence permit (if you have one)
    • Proof that you can speak English well (if you had to take an English language test)
    • Proof that you passed the Life in the UK test
    • Two passport-sized photographs
    • you meet the salary requirements
    • you’re still needed for your job – your employer (sponsor) will need to provide a document confirming this
  3. Pay the fee as part of your application – £3,029 for each person applying. You can include your partner and children on the same application form, if they’re eligible.
  4. Provide biometric information (fingerprints & photo) – no fee to be paid
  5. You’ll usually get a decision within 6 months if you apply using the standard service.Keep in mind that not to travel outside of the UK until you get a decision which your application will be withdrawn if you do.If you would like to get decision earlier, you can choose priority service (decision in 5 working days) or super priority service (decision by next working day) by paying additional charges.

How long can I stay on ILR

There is no time limit on Indefinite Leave to Remain in the UK, however it is important to note that you should not spend periods of more than two years outside the UK as this may lead to the loss of ILR.

You can apply for UK citizenship after staying in UK more than 12 months on ILR.