Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) is a big step. It means you can live and work in the UK without time limits, and it’s often the last stop before applying for British citizenship.
If you’ve built your life here, started a family, or simply feel at home in the UK, ILR gives you more security. But the process can be confusing, especially when it comes to timelines, visa routes, and what counts as continuous residence.
That’s where we come in. We’ll walk you through it clearly, help you avoid common mistakes, and give your application the best chance of success.
At The Nathanson Partnership, our team of expert immigration advisors are here to offer guidance and support every step of the way. We simplify the process, ensuring that you meet all the necessary criteria and submit the correct documentation for a successful application.
For a personalised consultation and expert guidance, contact us today. You can reach us at 020 3476 9523 or [email protected].
What Does Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) Allow Me to Do?
Being granted Indefinite Leave to Remain means you can make the UK your permanent home. You’ll be free to live, work, and study here without needing to renew a visa, and you won’t face restrictions on the kind of work or study you can do, including becoming self-employed. You’ll also be able to travel in and out of the UK without applying for a visa each time.
In many cases, you can bring eligible family members to join you in the UK. And once you’ve held ILR for 12 months, you may be able to apply for British citizenship, opening the door to even more opportunities.
How Long Do I Need to Live In the UK Before I Can Apply for ILR?
The length of time you need to live in the UK before applying for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) depends on the type of visa you currently hold. In most cases, you’ll need to have lived continuously in the UK for five years. However, some categories, such as those applying under the private life route as adults, may require up to ten years of lawful residence. It’s important to check the qualifying period that applies to your specific visa route, as this will determine when you can apply.
What Does Continuous Residence Mean?
To apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain, you’ll usually need to show that you’ve lived in the UK continuously for a set number of years, most commonly five. This is what’s known as the “continuous residence” requirement.
In simple terms, continuous residence means that you’ve lived in the UK lawfully for the required period without long absences, and without doing anything that would break your residence, such as leaving the UK for too long or breaching immigration conditions.
There are rules around how many days you can spend outside the UK during this period, and what kinds of absences might still be allowed, such as certain emergencies or work-related travel. What counts as a “break” in residence can vary depending on your visa route, so it’s always worth checking the guidance carefully or getting professional advice to avoid issues with your application.
If you’re unsure whether you meet the continuous residence requirement, our immigration team can help you assess your timeline and prepare your case with confidence.
How Can Continuous Residence Be Broken?
To qualify for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR), you’ll need to meet the continuous residence requirement, but this can be broken in certain circumstances, especially if you’ve spent extended time outside the UK.
As a general rule, if you’ve been out of the UK for more than 180 days in any 12-month period, it could break your continuous residence. There are exceptions for permitted reasons, but they can be quite specific.
For those applying under long residence routes (typically after 10 years in the UK), the rules are slightly different, especially if your time abroad started before April 2024. In some cases, being outside the UK for too long or leaving without valid permission can also interrupt your qualifying period.
That said, the rules are detailed and can vary depending on your circumstances, so it’s always a good idea to get legal advice to make sure you’re on the right track before applying.
What Are the Eligibility Requirements for ILR?
ILR is not automatically granted; you must meet a number of strict eligibility criteria. These include completing the minimum period of residence in the UK without long absences, showing that you’ve complied with the conditions of your visa throughout, and proving that you intend to settle permanently. You must also pass the Life in the UK Test, meet the English language requirement, and show that you have no serious criminal convictions or breaches of immigration rules. In short, the Home Office wants to see that you’ve made the UK your long-term home and that you’ve integrated into life here.
Can I Apply for ILR if I Have a Spouse Visa?
Yes, individuals on a spouse or partner visa can usually apply for ILR after five years of continuous residence in the UK. To be eligible, your relationship with your British or settled partner must still be ongoing, and you must meet the financial and accommodation requirements of your visa. You’ll also need to pass the Life in the UK Test and meet the English language standard, just as with other routes to settlement. It’s a popular pathway to ILR, but applications can be refused if key documentation is missing, so it’s vital to prepare thoroughly.
What Documents Do I Need to Provide When Applying for ILR?
You’ll need to submit a range of documents to prove that you meet the ILR criteria. This usually includes your current passport and visa, evidence of your residence in the UK (such as bank statements, utility bills or employment records), and documents to show that you meet the English language and Life in the UK requirements. If you’re applying as a spouse or partner, you’ll also need to provide proof that your relationship is genuine and ongoing. The exact documents required will vary depending on your visa type, so getting tailored legal advice is often helpful.
Do I need to pass the Life in the UK test for ILR?
In most cases, yes. If you’re between the ages of 18 and 64, passing the Life in the UK Test is a mandatory part of the ILR process. The test is designed to assess your knowledge of British culture, traditions, history and values. It’s a multiple-choice exam that you’ll need to book in advance at an approved test centre. Many applicants choose to prepare using the official handbook or online practice tests to boost their chances of success.
Is There an English Language Requirement for ILR?
Yes, you’ll need to prove that your English speaking and listening skills meet the required standard, currently Level B1 on the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages. You can meet this requirement either by passing a recognised English language test or by providing evidence of a degree taught or researched in English. There are some exemptions, such as for those over 65 or with long-term health conditions, but most applicants will need to show that they can communicate confidently in English.
How Much Does the ILR Application Cost?
The current Home Office fee for applying for ILR is £3,029 per applicant. This fee covers the application process only and does not include optional services like priority processing or legal support. If you’re applying as a family, each person, including children, must pay the full fee. It’s worth noting that fees are reviewed regularly and may change, so it’s a good idea to check the most up-to-date costs before you apply.
How Long Does It Take to Get a Decision on ILR?
Processing times can vary, but most ILR applications are decided within six months. If you’re in a hurry, you may be able to use a priority or super priority service for an additional fee; these options can speed up the process significantly, sometimes resulting in a decision within five working days or even 24 hours. However, not all visa routes offer faster processing, so it’s best to check your eligibility for these services in advance.
What are the next steps after getting ILR? Can I apply for British citizenship?
Once you’ve been granted Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR), you’re one step closer to British citizenship, but you’re not quite there yet.
In most cases, you’ll need to wait at least 12 months from the date your ILR was approved before you can apply for citizenship (unless you’re married to a British citizen, in which case you may be able to apply sooner).
There are a few additional requirements, too, things like good character, knowledge of English, and passing the Life in the UK Test. Your immigration history, time spent outside the UK, and how long you’ve lived here all play a part.
It’s worth checking whether you meet all the criteria before starting your application. If you’re unsure, we can help you review your situation and guide you through the next steps with confidence.
What You Need to Know About UK Settlement Changes 2025
The UK Government has proposed a major reform to the route to settlement (Indefinite Leave to Remain or ILR), extending the standard qualifying period for most work visa holders from five to ten years.
This shift introduces a new “earned settlement” model, positioning permanent residency as a privilege gained through long-term economic and social contribution. A new contribution-based points discount system will offer accelerated settlement for individuals who can demonstrate higher earnings, professional qualifications, work in shortage occupations, or community service.
While spouses of British citizens and victims of domestic abuse are exempt, it remains unclear whether the changes will apply retrospectively to those already in the UK. These reforms are set to significantly affect both migrants and employers, doubling visa renewal timelines and costs, while potentially offering a fast-track incentive for high-performing workers.
Anyone planning to apply for ILR should seek timely legal advice to understand how these changes may affect their pathway and whether early application or transitional provisions may apply.
Why You Should Choose The Nathanson Partnership
At The Nathanson Partnership, we help individuals and families take the final step toward making the UK their permanent home. Whether you’re applying for Indefinite Leave to Remain after years of living here, or navigating complex requirements around continuous residence and absences, our experienced team is here to make the process clear and manageable.
Let our regulated immigration professionals guide you with personalised advice, step-by-step support, and the expertise needed to give your ILR application the best possible chance of success.
For tailored guidance and a one-on-one consultation, get in touch with us today. You can reach us at 020 3476 9523 or [email protected].