Guides & Tools For UK Immigration

What Is ILR?

Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) is a type of immigration status that allows you to live, work, and study in the United Kingdom without any time restrictions. It represents a major milestone on your journey toward full settlement and, eventually, British citizenship.

Obtaining ILR confirms that you have lawfully built your life in the UK and met the government’s strict eligibility requirements — including continuous residence, good character, and financial stability. Once granted, you can enjoy most of the rights of a British citizen, such as free access to healthcare, education, and employment, without the need to renew your visa.

Our immigration specialists help you navigate every stage of the process — from assessing your eligibility and preparing the right documentation to submitting a complete application and ensuring compliance with Home Office requirements.

Who Can Apply for ILR?

You may be eligible to apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain if you have lived lawfully in the UK for the required continuous period — usually five years — under an eligible visa category. To qualify, you must have maintained your immigration status throughout your stay, without overstaying or breaching visa conditions.

Applicants must also pass the Life in the UK Test and meet the English language requirement to demonstrate integration into British society. Good character is essential — meaning no serious criminal convictions, immigration offences, or unpaid debts to the Home Office.

Different visa categories have their own ILR pathways, such as Skilled Worker, Spouse or Partner Visa, and Long Residence (10 years). Our team will assess your individual case and ensure that you meet all route-specific rules before submitting your application.

Documents You’ll Need

When preparing your ILR application, it’s important to gather all required documents to prove your identity, residence, and compliance with immigration rules. Missing or outdated paperwork can cause delays or even refusals, so accuracy matters.

You will typically need:

• Your current passport and Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) to confirm your lawful status in the UK.
• Proof of residence such as tenancy agreements, council tax bills, or utility statements that cover your qualifying period.
• Employment evidence, including payslips, P60 forms, or employer reference letters — or, for other routes, supporting documents that match your visa type (e.g. partner’s income for Spouse Visa).
• Life in the UK Test pass notification and approved English language certificate to demonstrate your knowledge and integration.

How to Apply for ILR

Applying for Indefinite Leave to Remain can seem complex, but following a clear process helps ensure a smooth and successful outcome. Our team supports you through each stage — from eligibility checks to final submission.

Step 1 – Check Eligibility and Residence Rules

Confirm that you’ve lived in the UK continuously for the required period and meet all ILR route-specific conditions. We assess your visa history, absences, and any potential gaps in lawful stay.

Step 2 – Prepare Your Documents

We help you gather and review the evidence needed to prove residence, employment, income, or family relationship — depending on your visa type. A detailed checklist ensures nothing is missed.

Step 3 – Submit Your Online Application

Complete the ILR form through the official UKVI portal, pay the application fee, and book your biometric appointment at a local visa centre.

Step 4 – Upload and Review Evidence

Once your documents are uploaded, our specialists double-check everything for accuracy and compliance before submission to the Home Office.

With professional preparation and attention to detail, most ILR applications can be completed efficiently and without unnecessary delays.

Fees and Processing Times

Before applying for Indefinite Leave to Remain, it’s important to understand the full cost and how long the process may take. The total expense includes the mandatory Home Office application fee, optional priority services for faster processing, and any professional fees if you choose expert assistance.

The Home Office fee is fixed per applicant and must be paid online during submission. Those who need a quicker result can select the Priority or Super Priority options — these reduce waiting times from several weeks to just a few days, depending on route availability.

At Migrate UK, we operate on a transparent fixed-fee basis, meaning you’ll know all costs upfront before your application begins. Processing times can vary based on complexity and volume, but most applicants receive a decision within 8 weeks using the standard service.

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Even small errors in your ILR application can lead to delays or refusals, so careful preparation is essential. Below are some of the most frequent issues applicants face — and how to prevent them:

Gaps in residence evidence

Missing months of proof (such as utility bills or tenancy records) can break your continuous residence period. Keep clear, dated documents covering each part of your qualifying stay.

Out-of-date or inconsistent financial documents

Always use the latest bank statements and ensure details like names, dates, and addresses match across all documents.

Incorrect visa route selected

Some applicants mistakenly apply under the wrong category. Confirm your eligibility for ILR before starting the process to avoid wasted fees.

Incomplete document uploads

Upload every required file clearly and in the correct format; unclear scans or missing pages can cause rejection.

Delays in booking biometrics

Once you’ve paid and submitted the online form, schedule your biometric appointment as soon as possible to keep your timeline on track.

After You’re Approved

Once your ILR is granted, you’ll receive official confirmation along with an updated BRP or eVisa record. Keep these documents safe, as they serve as proof of your permanent status. You’ll be free to live and work in the UK without restrictions, but should still follow travel and residence rules to maintain your ILR. After holding ILR for 12 months, you may become eligible to apply for British citizenship.

Why Choose Migrate UK

With over two decades of experience in UK immigration law, Migrate UK is a trusted and regulated firm supporting both individuals and businesses through complex visa and settlement processes. Our solicitors are fully accredited by the OISC and the Law Society, ensuring your case is handled with the highest professional standards.

We specialise in a wide range of immigration routes — from Skilled Worker and Family Visas to Indefinite Leave to Remain and Sponsorship management. Every client receives personal attention, clear communication, and transparent fixed-fee pricing. Our goal is to make your immigration journey simple, compliant, and completely stress-free.