Many migrants to the UK reach a point where they must decide between applying for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) or taking the next step towards British citizenship. The two are often confused, and it is common to hear ILR described as “the same as citizenship” which is not correct. While both statuses offer long-term stability in the UK, they are legally and practically very different.
Indefinite Leave to Remain is a form of permanent residence under UK immigration law, whereas British citizenship is a nationality status obtained through naturalisation. Each comes with different rights, obligations, eligibility requirements, and risks. Choosing the wrong option, or applying at the wrong time, can lead to unnecessary costs or even refusal.
This guide explains the key differences between ILR and British citizenship, covering rights, security, eligibility, timelines, and practical considerations, to help you decide which option is most appropriate for your circumstances.
Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) is a form of permanent immigration status in the UK. It allows a person to live in the UK without any time limit on their stay and without needing to extend their visa. ILR is often referred to as “settled status” although settled status under the EU Settlement Scheme is a separate legal category.
With ILR, you can live, work, and study in the UK without restriction. You can also access public funds and services, such as the NHS, provided you meet the relevant eligibility criteria. For many migrants, ILR represents the end goal of the immigration process and provides long-term stability.
However, ILR does have limitations. It is not a passport and does not make you British. You cannot vote in UK general elections, and your status can be lost if you spend long periods outside the UK (usually more than two consecutive years). Typical routes leading to ILR include work visas, family visas, ancestry routes, and long residence. Understanding your ILR rights in the UK is essential before deciding whether to remain settled or progress to citizenship.
British citizenship is a nationality status that gives you full legal membership of the United Kingdom. Most people apply for British citizenship through a process known as Naturalisation, which usually takes place after holding Indefinite Leave to Remain for a qualifying period.
As a British citizen, you can apply for a British passport, vote in all UK elections, and live in the UK permanently without any immigration conditions. Citizenship is significantly more secure than ILR, as it cannot be lost due to time spent outside the UK, except in very rare circumstances such as serious fraud.
The key difference between citizenship and permanent residence is that citizenship is not an immigration status. It is a legal identity that places you on the same footing as someone born British. In most cases, eligibility for British citizenship arises 12 months after being granted ILR, unless you are married to a British citizen, in which case you may be able to apply immediately.
ILR is permanent residence under immigration law, whereas British citizenship is full nationality. ILR can be lost through long absences or certain criminal issues, while citizenship is generally permanent and far more secure.
ILR holders can work, study, and access public services, but they cannot vote in general elections or hold a British passport. British citizens have full political rights, unrestricted travel using a British passport, and complete freedom from immigration control.
ILR is usually lost after two consecutive years outside the UK. Citizenship has no absence limit, although residence history is assessed before approval.
Only British citizens can hold a British passport. Dual nationality may be permitted, depending on your original country’s laws.
ILR eligibility is usually based on continuous lawful residence in the UK for a qualifying period, commonly five years, although some routes are longer or shorter. Applicants must meet residence, absence, and suitability requirements.
British citizenship requirements are more demanding. In addition to holding ILR, applicants must meet strict residence rules, pass the Life in the UK Test, demonstrate English language ability, and satisfy the good character requirement. The level of scrutiny is higher for citizenship than for ILR, and refusals can have long-term consequences for future applications.
Most migrants become eligible for ILR after five years on a qualifying route, such as Skilled Worker or family visas, although some routes differ. After obtaining ILR, most applicants must wait a further 12 months before applying for British citizenship.
If you are married to a British citizen, you may be able to apply for citizenship immediately after being granted ILR, provided you meet the residence requirements. Timelines vary, so individual advice is important.
ILR and British citizenship both involve significant fees. ILR fees are generally lower than citizenship fees, but both applications can include additional costs such as English language tests, the Life in the UK Test, biometrics, and for citizenship, a citizenship ceremony. Fees change regularly, so it is important to check the latest costs before applying.
In most cases, ILR is a mandatory step before British citizenship. Citizenship is usually the final stage in the immigration journey once you have secured permanent residence. However, some people choose to delay citizenship due to cost, residence requirements, or personal reasons, such as retaining flexibility with another nationality. The right decision depends on your long-term plans and travel patterns.
A common myth is that ILR is the same as citizenship – it is not. Another misconception is that ILR cannot be lost, when in fact long absences can result in its lapse. It is also incorrect to assume that citizenship is automatic after ILR; a separate application with stricter requirements is always required.
Q: What is the main difference between ILR and British citizenship?
A: ILR is permanent residence, while British citizenship is full nationality.
Q: Do I need ILR before applying for British citizenship?
A: In most cases, yes.
Q: Can I lose ILR or British citizenship?
A: ILR can be lost after long absences; citizenship is rarely removed.
Q: How long after ILR can I apply for citizenship?
A: Usually after 12 months, or immediately if married to a British citizen.
Q: Is British citizenship worth applying for?
A: For many, the security and rights make it worthwhile, but it depends on your individual circumstances.
Both Indefinite Leave to Remain and British citizenship offer stability, but they serve different purposes. ILR provides permanent residence with conditions, while citizenship offers maximum security and rights. Applying at the wrong time or without understanding the differences can lead to refusals or unnecessary expense. Careful planning and professional advice can help ensure you choose the right status at the right stage of your immigration journey.
If you’re unsure whether you should apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain or British citizenship, getting tailored advice at Migrate UK can help you avoid delays and costly mistakes.