How to Get Permanent Residency in the UK (Indefinite Leave to Remain – ILR)

How to Get Permanent Residency in the UK (Indefinite Leave to Remain – ILR)

Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) allows a person to live, work, and study in the UK without time limits. It’s the final step before applying for British citizenship.

✅ Eligibility

You can apply for ILR if you have:

• Lived 5 years legally in the UK on a Skilled Worker, Spouse, or Innovator visa.
• Lived 10 continuous years legally in the UK (Long Residence).
• Refugee or humanitarian protection status for 5 years.

⚖️ Requirements

• Continuous legal residence (no more than 180 days abroad per year).
• English test level B1 or above.
• Pass the Life in the UK Test.
• Clean criminal record.

💰 Fees & Timeline

• Fee (2025): £2,885 per person.
• Processing time: 6–12 weeks.

🏆 Benefits

• Live and work permanently.
• Apply for British citizenship after 1 year.
• Free access to NHS and education.

⚠️ You may lose ILR if:

• You stay outside the UK for over 2 years.
• You commit serious crimes or violate immigration law.