Residence Permit Archives - Halliday Reeves

When Can You Apply For Indefinite Leave To Remain?

If you are granted Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) in the UK, you will have the right to stay in the country to live, work and study as well as the ability to leave and return without the need for a visa. In addition, you will be able to apply for benefits if you are eligible for them. ILR can also be a route to British citizenship. We answer the question, when can you apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain? and look at the eligibility criteria.

At Halliday Reeves, we deal solely with immigration, meaning we have an exceptional depth of knowledge in this complex area of law. We have helped many clients secure Indefinite Leave to Remain, allowing them to settle in the UK for as long as they wish.

As well as having extensive legal expertise in dealing with ILR applications, we are also known for the high level of personal service that we provide. If you ask us to secure ILR for you, we will make sure we have a full understanding of your situation and identify the key documents that will provide evidence of your eligibility. We will make sure that we are available to answer your questions as needed and will keep you updated as to progress.

If you believe you are eligible for Indefinite Leave to Remain in the UK and you would like help with your application, we would be happy to hear from you. Please call us on 0330 133 7777, email us at enquiries@hallidayreeves.com or fill in our Contact Form.

“Thanks for the service I got from HallidayReeeves. I am pleased to say that you’re reliable & easy to work with. Thanks for always updating me every step of the way regarding my case. The relationship between client & you is excellent.”

When can I apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain?

To be eligible for ILR, you will need to have been in the UK under a valid visa for a set period of time. This is usually either five years or ten years, although in some circumstances, you may be able to apply in just two or three years.

You need to satisfy the Home Office that the following apply:

You have lived in the UK continuously for the necessary period of time, with no more than 180 days spent outside of the UK in any one year
You are of good character

You will also need evidence that you have the required standard of English and you will need to pass the ‘Life in the UK’ test.

Your application for ILR can be submitted up to 28 days before the end of your qualifying period of residence, for example, 28 days before you have been in the UK for five years if this is the route you are following.

The Five-Year Route To Indefinite Leave To Remain

Many UK visas and work visas allow you to apply for ILR after five years in the UK. These include:

Skilled worker visa
Minister of religion visa
International sportsperson visa
Family visa
Spouse visa
Ancestry visa

If you have switched to one of the above visas from a different visa, the five years may only start from the time you switched, although this is not always the case. For example, time spent on an intra-company transfer visa cannot be counted towards the five-year qualification period. If you ring to speak to one of our ILR experts, we can advise you what the situation is in your case.

The Ten-Year Route To Indefinite Leave To Remain

If you have been in the UK for ten years or more, you may be able to apply for ILR under the long residence route. Provided your visa or visas were valid throughout, it does not matter what type of visa you hold.

Eligibility For Indefinite Leave To Remain In Less Than Five Years

In certain circumstances, you may be able to apply for ILR after only two or three years. If you have a Tier 1 visa, you may be eligible after two or three years, depending on the amount of money you control and how much you have invested in the UK.

If you have an innovator visa or a global talent visa, you may be able to apply for ILR after three years, depending on your input into the UK. We can advise you of the details of the criteria and work with you to establish both whether you meet the criteria and the best documents to include with your application to prove this.

If you are in the UK as the spouse or partner of a British citizen or someone who is settled in the UK, you can apply for ILR if they die or if your relationship has broken down because of domestic abuse without needing to wait for five years. You should apply as soon as possible and not wait until your visa expires.

Contact our Indefinite Leave to Remain Solicitors

If you would like to apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain, we would be happy to hear from you. We can prepare your application on your behalf, ensuring it is as strong as possible and that the right paperwork is included in support.

We have offices in Gateshead, Middlesbrough, Wakefield and Nottingham. To speak to one of our expert indefinite leave to remain lawyers, ring us on 0330 133 7777, email us at enquiries@hallidayreeves.com or fill in our Contact Form.

“I found the services very good, a lot of patience was used on my case. Everything was perfect. Keep it up with good work. Thank you very much.”

How Long Does Indefinite Leave To Remain Last?

How Long Does Indefinite Leave To Remain Last? – Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) in the UK gives you the right to settle in the country long-term, with access to healthcare and benefits and the right to work. It is an important step on the route to British citizenship and if you hold ILR you can leave and return to the UK as you wish without the need for a visa, provided you are not out of the country for more than two years. We answer the question, How long does Indefinite Leave to Remain last? and look at the importance of keeping your Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) up to date.

At Halliday Reeves, we are experts who deal solely with immigration law, meaning we have an in-depth understanding of the complex Home Office rules and requirements. We have helped numerous clients secure ILR and renew BRPs. We also deal with applications for returning resident visas for those whose ILR status has lapsed.

We provide a bespoke service, ensuring you have the level of expertise you need for your case. We have an exceptional track record of success in helping clients settle in the UK and are known for the high levels of client care we provide.

If you would like to discuss Indefinite Leave to Remain, we would be happy to hear from you. Please call us on 0330 133 7777, email us at enquiries@hallidayreeves.com or fill in our Contact Form.

“Can we also take this opportunity to thank you for how you handled our enquiry. We were both feeling anxious about making contact with a solicitor to discuss our circumstances. You were so warm, friendly and understanding when we spoke.”

How long does Indefinite Leave to Remain last?

There is no time limit in respect of Indefinite Leave to Remain. This means that once you hold ILR, you can stay in the UK as long as you want, provided you do not breach immigration rules. The main rule in respect of ILR is that you should not be absent from the UK for more than two consecutive years.

If you are away for longer than this, then you will automatically lose your ILR. There are some exceptions, such as for members of the armed forces or if you hold settled status granted under the EU settlement scheme.

Should you lose your ILR status, you will need to apply for a returning resident visa in order to re-enter the country. We can advise you as to eligibility for this and put together a strong application on your behalf, together with evidence in support.

Renewing a Biometric Residence Permit

If you hold ILR, you need to remember to renew your Biometric Residence Permit. If you allow this to expire, you will be classed as an overstayer, even if you have ILR.

You will not be reminded that your BRP is about to expire, so you need to check the expiry date and make sure that you apply to renew it in plenty of time. Many BRPs have an expiry date of 31 December 2024. This is because the Home Office intends to start moving to an online system by this time.

You are advised to apply to renew your BRP once it has three months or less remaining. Your application must be made from within the UK. A fee of £56 is payable, plus £19.20 if you need to have your biometric information – your photo and fingerprints – taken again.

It is important not to let your BRP expire wherever possible. If it has expired, you may be able to apply within 14 days of the expiry date if you can provide a good reason for the late application.

Otherwise, you will have 30 days from the date of expiry in which to leave the country. If you do not, you will be classed as an overstayer. This is a criminal offence and could damage any future immigration applications you may wish to make.

If you are concerned that your expiry date is approaching and you would like help to ensure your application is correct, we will be happy to hear from you.

We also deal with applications for returning resident visas for individuals whose ILR has expired.

Contact our Indefinite Leave to Remain solicitors

If you need help dealing with ILR, a BRP renewal or an application for a returning resident visa, feel free to call us and we will do all we can to assist.

“All went well and I got all the special services you could expect from such a professional organisation. I will 100% advise anyone who is in need of the immigration services with pride.”

How To Renew Indefinite Leave To Remain

How To Renew Indefinite Leave To Remain – If you are settled in the UK, you may be wondering how to renew Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) and how long it is valid. We take a look at the rules surrounding ILR as well as how to renew a Biometric Residence Permit (BRP).

At Halliday Reeves, we are immigration experts who have helped many individuals obtain ILR and, where necessary, apply for a returning resident visa if ILR has been lost. We have a proven track record in dealing with ILR issues and in renewing BRPs.

We can make sure that your application is as comprehensive as possible and that all of the relevant points are dealt with. We will go through the documentation you have in support and make sure that strong evidence is included to give you the best likelihood of success.

If you would like help renewing a BRP or you are concerned about your ILR status, please call us on 0330 133 7777, email us at enquiries@hallidayreeves.com or fill in our Contact Form.

“All went well and I got all the special services you could expect from such a professional organisation. I will 100% advise anyone who is in need of the immigration services with pride.”

When does Indefinite Leave to Remain expire?

Your status as a holder of ILR will not usually expire, however you could lose ILR in certain circumstances. For example, if you were to leave the UK and not return for more than two years, you would automatically lose your ILR status. To avoid this, you should make sure that you are not away from the UK continuously for more than two years.

Biometric Residence Permit expiry

As a holder of ILR, you will need to have a valid BRP. You should check the expiry date of your BRP carefully as, if you allow the document to expire, you will be classed as an overstayer. You would then need to leave the UK within 30 days or you could be prevented from re-entering the country at a later date and be guilty of overstaying your visa without reasonable cause, which is a criminal offence.

If you overstay, the Home Office may accept a late application provided that it is made within 14 days of the expiry date and that you have a good reason for being late to apply. Because of the tight timescale, you may want to ask an immigration solicitor to deal with your application to ensure that it includes all of the necessary paperwork.

Having a record of overstaying in your immigration history could count against you in future applications to the Home Office. A BRP issued in conjunction with ILR may last for ten years before expiring, but this is not always the case and you must ensure that you know when expiry is.

You will not be officially reminded that the expiry date is approaching so it is recommended that you check this and deal with the renewal in plenty of time.

How to renew Indefinite Leave to Remain Card

The document that may need to be renewed if you hold ILR is the Biometric Residence Permit. If you have ILR and your BRP is due to expire shortly, you can apply to renew the BRP online using the government website and their BRP replacement service. You will need to fill in the form and pay the fee of £56 for a new BRP. If you also need to provide your biometric information again, which is your photograph and fingerprints, there is a fee of £19.20 for this.

In addition, you will need to provide a range of other documentation, including evidence that you have been continuously resident in the UK.

What happens if Indefinite Leave to Remain is lost because you were out of the UK

If you have been out of the UK for two years or more and you have lost your ILR status, you may be able to regain this by making an application for a returning residents visa. You will need to explain why you have not been living in the UK and show that you have strong ties to the country. We can advise you as to the evidence you can provide to satisfy the Home Office of these points. A fee of £531 is payable when your returning residents visa application is submitted.

Contact our Indefinite Leave to Remain solicitors

If you need to renew a Biometric Residence Permit or apply for a returning residents visa, we will be happy to help.

We have offices in Gateshead, Middlesbrough, Wakefield and Nottingham. To speak to one of our expert Indefinite Leave to Remain lawyers, ring us on 0330 133 7777, email us at enquiries@hallidayreeves.com or fill in our Contact Form.

“Special thanks for the most professional representation. you (hallidayreeves ) stuck by me through the years. By dealing with this stressful case. I admire the work ethic and most of all the excellent representation.”

How Much Is Indefinite Leave to Remain?

How Much Is Indefinite Leave to Remain? – Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) is a way of settling in the UK that gives you the right to live and work without the need for a visa. Family members may be able to join you and you can leave and return to the UK without applying for consent.

ILR is also a potential route to securing British citizenship and a British passport.

You will usually need to have lived in the UK for a minimum of five years before you apply for ILR, although there are exceptions. The application process needs to be dealt with carefully as there are strict criteria and you will need to provide evidence that you meet these.

There are also a number of costs involved. We take a look at the ILR fees as well as the minimum income requirements needed on some ILR routes.

At Halliday Reeves, we specialise in immigration and have a high success rate for ILR applications. We can advise you as to whether you meet the requirements for ILR and put together a strong application on your behalf together with the documents needed in support.

If you would like help applying for indefinite leave to remain, please call us on 0330 133 7777, email us at enquiries@hallidayreeves.com or fill in our Contact Form.

“Good service, I made application for skilled worker visa and later for ILR, both are successful, quick replies. Amazing job!

Application Fee For Indefinite Leave To Remain

The ILR application fee is £2,404. A priority service may be available at a cost of an additional £500. If you apply for the priority service, you should receive a decision within five working days, provided that you have supplied all of the necessary information.

A super priority service may also be available. This costs an additional £800 and you should receive a result by the end of the next working day.

You will also need to pass a Life in the UK test, which costs £50.

In certain circumstances you may also need to pass an English language test to grade 5.

To stand the best chance of receiving ILR without the need to reply to enquiries or provide further information, you need to make sure that your application is comprehensive. UK Visas and

Immigration will need evidence that you satisfy all of the ILR criteria. If documents are omitted, your application is likely to be rejected.

We routinely put together successful ILR applications and we will be happy to advise you on the process and check that you have the documents needed.

Minimum Income Requirements For ILR

If you hold a work visa, you will usually need to satisfy the minimum income requirement when you apply for ILR as well as having spent enough time in the UK prior to applying. We can advise you whether your visa and the length of time you have spent in the UK entitle you to apply for ILR and let you know whether you satisfy the financial requirements.

Minimum Income Requirement For ILR With Skilled Worker Visa

If you have spent five years in the UK on a skilled worker visa, you can apply for ILR if your income is at least:

£25,600 per year; or
£10.10 per hour; or
The going rate for the job that you hold – available on the government’s website

If your job is classed as a shortage occupation, then the minimum income requirement may be lower. We can let you know the amount required for your particular job.

Your employer will need to state in writing that they still need you to carry out the job.

Minimum Income Requirement For ILR With Tier 1 (Investor) And Tier 1 (Entrepreneur) Visa

If you hold an investor visa, you need to prove that you have invested funds in the UK, rather than show a minimum income. If you have invested £2 million, you can apply for ILR after five years.

If you have invested £5 million, you can apply after three years and if you have invested £10 million, you can apply after two years.

With an entrepreneur visa, you need to have created full-time jobs that have been in existence for at least one year. If you have created two full-time jobs, you can apply for ILR after five years. If you have created ten full-time jobs and your business income over three years is at least £5 million, you can apply for ILR after three years.

Minimum Income Requirement For ILR With Family Visa

If you hold a family visa as a spouse or partner, you and your partner will need a combined income of at least £18,600 per year.

Extra income is needed if you have children, in the sum of £3,800 for the first child and £2,400 for each additional child.

Minimum Income Requirement For Parent Or Dependant Visa Holder

As a parent visa holder or the dependant of someone who holds a work visa, you need to provide evidence that you can support yourself and your family without using public funds.

Minimum Income Requirement For ILR with Minister Of Religion Visa

If you hold a minister of religion visa, you must receive a salary that is at least as much as a UK minister would be paid to do the same job and this must also be at least the amount of the UK minimum wage.

Minimum Income Requirement For International Sportsperson

The minimum income level you will need to apply for ILR as an international sportsperson is £35,800 per year from your main job.

ILR Application After Ten Years In The UK

If you have been in the UK for ten years and you are applying for ILR, you do not need to show that you meet a minimum income.

Contact our Indefinite Leave to Remain solicitors

If you want to apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain in the UK, we will be happy to advise you of the requirements and check that you have all of the necessary evidence.

“Karim was an excellent lawyer, very pleasant to work with and very knowledgeable of the law. I feel the success I’ve had in my application was due to the clear guidance that he provided. There was also a refreshing pace to which he was able to get things done. For any future applications I will happily seek his guidance again.”

What Is Indefinite Leave To Remain?

What is Indefinite Leave to Remain? Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR), also referred to as settlement, gives overseas citizens the right to live, work and study in the UK. It can be granted to individuals who have already spent a period of time in the UK under a range of visas.

As well as being able to stay in the UK for an unlimited period, individuals with ILR can claim benefits, if they are entitled to them, and leave and re-enter the UK without needing a visa.

If you are granted Indefinite Leave to Remain, you may ultimately be able to apply for naturalisation as a British citizen.

At Halliday Reeves, we are immigration specialists who have helped countless clients secure Indefinite Leave to Remain and build their futures in the UK.

Applying for ILR can be complex, with strict criteria, and it is crucial to include the right paperwork in support of your application. We can put together a strong application on your behalf and advise you on the best documents to include by way of evidence that you are eligible.

As well as a high level of legal expertise in ILR applications, we offer an exceptional service. We will make sure that you have the advice, guidance and support that you need. We are always happy to talk through any concerns you may have and to answer your questions.

If you would like to apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain in the UK, please call us on 0330 133 7777, email us at enquiries@hallidayreeves.com or fill in our Contact Form.

“Can we also take this opportunity to thank you for how you handled our enquiry. We were both feeling anxious about making contact with a solicitor to discuss our circumstances. You were so warm, friendly and understanding when we spoke.”

What Does Indefinite Leave To Remain Mean?

Indefinite Leave to Remain means that you can live, work and study in the UK with no restrictions. If you wish to travel outside of the UK, you can do this and then return to the UK without the need for a visa if you have ILR.

Once you hold ILR, members of your family may also be able to join you if they meet the eligibility criteria. This includes your partner, spouse, dependent children and other dependent relatives. They will usually need to prove that they have the minimum standard of English and that there is enough money to support them.

ILR can be lost in certain circumstances, including if you were to leave the UK for more than two years.

If you have ILR for a year or more, you may be able to apply for naturalisation as a British citizen, provided you meet the eligibility criteria.

Am I Eligible For Indefinite Leave To Remain?

The criteria for securing ILR vary depending on your background and the visa you hold. If you have a UK work visa, you will need to have been in the UK for up to five years when you apply. You will also usually need to meet the minimum salary requirement. You should still be employed and needed by your employer and they will need to provide formal confirmation of this.

If you have a partner, child or dependent relative who is settled in the UK, you may be able to apply if you have spent long enough in the UK. This could be two years, five years or ten years, depending on the immigration route you are on.

During this qualifying period, you should not spend more than 180 days in any twelve-month period outside of the UK.

You will also need to meet the financial requirements if you are on the two year or five year route. The minimum income needed will depend on your situation. If you are applying on the basis of having family in the UK, you and your spouse or partner will need a combined income of £18,600 or more per year. If you have children who are not settled or pre-settled in the UK, you will also need extra funds for them. This is the sum of £3,800 for the first child and £2,400 per year each for any further children.

If you are applying on the basis of a skilled worker visa, you will need a minimum income for yourself of £25,600.

You will also need to show that you have been living lawfully in the UK for the required period and that you have not committed any criminal offences or breached immigration rules.

You need to pass the ‘Life in the UK’ test and show that you have an acceptable knowledge of the English language. This can be proved by passing an approved secure English language test. If you have already passed a test, you will not have to take another one.

How Do I Get Indefinite Leave To Remain?

Application for ILR is made online. You can apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain as you approach the date on which you will have been in the UK for the required period of time. For example, if you are applying after five years on a skilled worker visa, you can apply no more than 28 days before you have been in the UK for five years. Your visa must not have expired when you apply. If it has expired, you will need to renew it before you apply for ILR.

You will need to provide documentary evidence that you satisfy each requirement. This is not always straightforward and it is important not to leave anything out or your application will be rejected. We can advise you on the most appropriate paperwork to be provided and make sure that your application is as strong as possible.

You will need to provide your biometric information, which is a photo and your fingerprints, and pay the application fee of £2,404.

Once you have made your application, it is important not to leave the UK until you receive a decision. If you do, your application will be withdrawn.

You should receive a decision within six months. You may be able to pay extra to receive a faster decision. In some cases, you may be asked to attend an interview, in which case your application may take longer to deal with.

Contact Our Indefinite Leave to Remain Solicitors

If you would like to apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain, we can advise you on your application and work with you to ensure that it is as strong as possible.

We have offices in Gateshead, Middlesbrough, Wakefield and Nottingham. To speak to one of our expert immigration lawyers, ring us on 0330 133 7777, email us at enquiries@hallidayreeves.com or fill in our Contact Form.

“All went well and I got all the special services you could expect from such a professional organisation. I will 100% advise anyone who is in need of the immigration services with pride.”

How Much Does Indefinite Leave To Remain Cost?

Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) will give you the right to live and work in the UK for an unlimited period of time. It is also a route to naturalisation as a British citizen. How Much Does Indefinite Leave To Remain Cost?

To obtain Indefinite Leave to Remain, you need to have lived in the UK for a period of time, usually five years, although there are two-year and ten-year routes.

You will also need to pay the ILR application fee and satisfy minimum income requirements. We take a look at how much ILR costs.

At Halliday Reeves, we are immigration specialists dealing with a range of visa and immigration matters, including indefinite leave to remain. We have a high success rate and are known for both our legal expertise and the high level of service we provide.

If you would like help applying for indefinite leave to remain, please call us on 0330 133 7777, email us at enquiries@hallidayreeves.com or fill in our Contact Form.

“All went well and I got all the special services you could expect from such a professional organisation. I will 100% advise anyone who is in need of the immigration services with pride.”

Minimum Income Requirements For Indefinite Leave To Remain

You can apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain if you hold a range of UK visas and you have spent the required amount of time in the country, without absences of more than 180 days in any twelve-month period. The amount you will need to earn to satisfy the minimum income requirement depends on the visa you hold and your route to ILR.

Skilled Worker Visa Minimum Income For Indefinite Leave To Remain

As a skilled worker, you can apply for ILR after five years, provided you have a minimum income that is:

£25,600 per year; or
£10.10 per hour; or
The going rate for the job that you hold

If you hold a job that is on the list of shortage occupations or healthcare and education shortage occupations, then a lower income may be acceptable.
You will also need to provide formal confirmation from your employer that you are still needed for the position.

Family Visa Minimum Income For Indefinite Leave To Remain

If you are applying on the basis of a spouse or partner visa that you have had for five years or more, you and your partner need a combined minimum income of £18,600 per year.

If you have children, you will need additional income of £3,800 per year for your first child and £2,400 each for your second and subsequent children.

Minister Of Religion Visa Minimum Income For Indefinite Leave To Remain

As a minister of religion, you need to show that you are paid the same amount as a UK minister of religion would receive for your job. This must be at or above the UK minimum wage.

International Sportsperson Visa Minimum Income For Indefinite Leave To Remain

As an international sportsperson applying for ILR, you will need a minimum income of £35,800 per year and this must come from your main job.

Tier 1 (Investor) And Tier 1 (Entrepreneur) Visa Minimum Income For Indefinite Leave To Remain

Those holding an investor visa do not need to show a minimum level of income but will need to have invested sufficient funds in the UK. Those who have invested £2 million can apply for ILR after five years. If you have invested £5 million, you can apply after three years and if you have invested £10 million you can apply after two years.

If you hold an entrepreneur visa, you can apply after five years if you have created two full-time jobs and they have been in existence for a year or more. If you have created ten or more full-time jobs or your business has had an income of £5 million or more over three years, then you can apply for ILR after three years.

Other ILR Minimum Income Requirements

For those with a parent visa or a visa as the dependant of a holder of a work visa, you will need to demonstrate that you can support yourself and your family without the need for public funds.

Those applying on the basis of being in the UK for ten years do not need a minimum income.

Life In The UK Test Fee

You will need to pass a Life in the UK test in order to apply for ILR. The fee for the test is £50.

Indefinite Leave To Remain Application Fee

The application fee for ILR is £2,404. You may be able to pay extra for a faster decision. A priority service costs an additional £500 and you will receive a decision within five working days, as long as you have provided your biometric information and all of the documents needed to support your application.

There is also a super priority service which offers a decision by the end of the next working day. This costs an additional £800.

It is important to ensure that all necessary evidence is provided along with your application to give you the best chance of success. We can advise you on the right paperwork to send and ensure that your ILR application is as strong as possible.

Contact Our Indefinite Leave To Remain Solicitors

If you would like to apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain, we will be happy to advise you.

“Can we also take this opportunity to thank you for how you handled our enquiry. We were both feeling anxious about making contact with a solicitor to discuss our circumstances. You were so warm, friendly and understanding when we spoke.”

How Long Does An Indefinite Leave To Remain Application Take?

Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) will give you the right to live and work in the UK as well as access to healthcare and certain benefits, if you are eligible. If you want this type of settled status, you may be wondering how long it takes to apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain. We take a look at the evidence you will need to put together for your application as well as how long UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) will take to process this. How long does an Indefinite Leave to Remain application take?

At Halliday Reeves, we specialise solely in immigration. This means we have an exceptional understanding of both the complex and ever-changing law in this area and the way in which UKVI deals with applications.

It is essential to provide a full range of evidence with your application showing that you are eligible for ILR and that you satisfy all of the legal requirements. We can go through your paperwork with you and make sure that the documents you include will show that you meet the eligibility criteria. Sending a comprehensive application can avoid delays and help UKVI process your case promptly.

If you would like help applying for indefinite leave to remain, please call us on 0330 133 7777, email us at enquiries@hallidayreeves.com or fill in our Contact Form.

“Can we also take this opportunity to thank you for how you handled our enquiry. We were both feeling anxious about making contact with a solicitor to discuss our circumstances. You were so warm, friendly and understanding when we spoke.”

How Long Does It Take To Apply For Indefinite Leave To Remain?

Putting together all of the information you will need for an application for Indefinite Leave to Remain can be time-consuming. You will need documentary evidence for a wide range of points, including evidence that:

You have been present in the UK throughout the qualifying period, usually two years, five years or ten years, without absences of more than 180 days in any twelve-month period
If you are applying from a UK skilled worker visa or other work visa, you need formal written confirmation from your employer that your job is still necessary
You meet the necessary income requirement, which is different depending on your immigration route. For example, as a skilled worker, you need to show that you earn £25,600 per year or £10.10 per hour or the going rate for your job, while if you hold a spouse visa, you and your spouse need a combined income of £18,600 per year, plus £3,800 for a child and £2,400 each for any further children
Your immigration history is lawful
You satisfy the English language requirements, which could be by taking a Secure English Language Test
You have passed the ‘Life in the UK’ test
You have provided your biometric information

Documents you may need to prove the above include:

Your passport or other valid travel or identity document
Your expired passport, if it ended during your qualifying period in the UK
Travel documents for periods when you entered and left the UK during the qualifying period
Bank statements for each year of the qualifying period
P60s for each year of the qualifying period
Pension statements showing your employer’s contributions on your behalf
A formal letter from your employer stating how long you have worked for them and that your position is still needed
A council tax bill

You may need to provide more information than this, depending on your situation and your immigration route. We can advise you which documents will be needed to satisfy each point.

If you have had absences of more than 180 days in any twelve-month period, you may still be eligible for ILRL if you can satisfy UKVI that these were unavoidable because of issues such as natural disaster, conflict, travel disruption or medical issues. Evidence would need to be provided to support your claim, such as medical certificates or information issued by travel organisations.

In our experience, it can often take several weeks to compile all of the necessary information.

You can apply for ILR no sooner than 28 days before the end of your qualifying period. Your visa must still be valid when you apply, or you will have to renew your visa before your ILR application is sent.

Once your application has been sent, you should not leave the UK until you have a decision. If you do, then your application will be withdrawn.

How Long Does It Take For An Indefinite Leave To Remain Application Decision?

Once UKVI has your ILR application, they will aim to deal with it within six months. In practice, they are usually able to respond more quickly. If they do not have all of the information they need, your application could be rejected. They may also want to interview you, which could mean that the application takes longer.

In some cases, you may be able to pay extra for a faster decision. UKVI have a priority service which costs an extra £500 on top of the ILR application fee of £2,404. If they have the capacity to provide this service, they will return your application within five working days.

They also offer a super priority service which costs an extra £800, if available. This will give you a decision by the end of the next working day after receipt of your full application.

Contact Our Indefinite Leave To Remain Solicitors

If you would like help and advice in putting together the strongest possible application for Indefinite Leave to Remain, we will be happy to hear from you.

“All went well and I got all the special services you could expect from such a professional organisation. I will 100% advise anyone who is in need of the immigration services with pride.”

How To Apply For Indefinite Leave To Remain

If you are an overseas citizen, Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) will give you the right to live and work in the UK for as long as you want, provided you comply with certain restrictions. How To Apply For Indefinite Leave To Remain.

Once you hold Indefinite Leave to Remain, you will be able to leave and re-enter the UK without the need for a visa, provided you are not absent for more than two years.

You may be able to bring your family to the UK to live with you and, if you are eligible, apply for benefits. After you have held ILR for a year, you may be eligible to apply for naturalisation as a British citizen.

At Halliday Reeves, we put together requests for Indefinite Leave to Remain, ensuring that the right evidence is included and that you have the strongest possible application. We know how important it is that an application is correct the first time and we will check every detail to make sure that all of the necessary information is provided to UK Visas and Immigration.

We specialise in immigration, meaning we have an exceptional level of expertise and understanding of the UK immigration system and how to secure Indefinite Leave to Remain. We also provide a high level of service to our clients. We will make sure you have the advice and guidance you need and that you can speak to us as necessary to discuss any issues and ask us questions as they arise.

If you believe you are eligible for Indefinite Leave to Remain in the UK and you would like to make an application, please call us on 0330 133 7777, email us at enquiries@hallidayreeves.com or fill in our Contact Form.

“All went well and I got all the special services you could expect from such a professional organisation. I will 100% advise anyone who is in need of the immigration services with pride.”

How To Get Indefinite Leave To Remain In The UK

There are a range of different routes to securing ILR, including:

You have held a valid work visa for five years (or less with certain visas)
You have a partner, child or parent who is settled in the UK or who is a British citizen
You have been living in the UK for ten years

You will need to provide proof that you satisfy the following criteria:

A Qualifying Period In The UK

You will need to spend a minimum qualifying period in the UK before applying for ILR. This varies, depending on your immigration route.

If you are a skilled worker or hold a Tier 1 or Tier 2 visa or Ancestry visa, you can usually apply after five years in the UK. For individuals who have held a long residency in the UK, an application can be made after ten years. In some cases, the spouse or partner of a British citizen or settled person may be able to apply after two years, but more commonly, this is five years.

During the qualifying period, you cannot be absent from the UK for more than 180 days in any twelve months.

Your Employer Still Needs You And You Meet The Minimum Salary Requirements

If you hold a skilled worker visa, you need written confirmation from your employer that they still require you to fill your job.

You also need to show that you meet the minimum salary requirements. The amount required depends on your immigration route. If you are applying on the basis of a skilled worker visa, the minimum salary needed is £25,600.

You Have The Necessary Standard Of English

UK Visas and Immigration will need evidence that you have the required standard of English. If you have already passed a Secure English Language Test, this is sufficient and you will not need to take another one.

You will also have to pass the ‘Life in the UK’ test.

Other Criteria

You will need to be of good character and not have a criminal record or be in breach of the UK immigration rules.

How to apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain in the UK

Your application needs to be made online. You can save the application as you work on it and we can advise you where necessary, to include ensuring you include all of the documents needed to show that you are eligible.

You must apply before your visa expires, and no earlier than 28 days before the end of your qualifying period.

You will need to supply your photograph and fingerprints to a UK Visa and Citizenship Application Services service point or Service and Support Centre.

The ILR application fee is £2,404 and your application should be dealt with within six months, provided that UKVI does not have any questions or ask to interview you. You may be able to pay for an expedited service.

Contact Our Indefinite Leave To Remain Solicitors

If you would like to apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain, we can put together the strongest possible application on your behalf.

“Can we also take this opportunity to thank you for how you handled our enquiry. We were both feeling anxious about making contact with a solicitor to discuss our circumstances. You were so warm, friendly and understanding when we spoke.”

Biometric Residence Permit (BRP)

The UK biometric residence permit (BRP) is a small card issued by the UK authorities that can be used to confirm your identity as well as your right to study, to claim benefits and to use public services if you are entitled to do so.

It is issued to those seeking to stay in the UK for more than six months and will be dealt with as part of the process of obtaining a visa. If your visa application is approved, your BRP will be available to collect once you are in the UK if you have made an application from outside the UK, if your application is made within the UK it will be delivered. You are likely to be asked for your BRP by landlords, employers or educational establishments.

The BRP does not confirm that you have a right to work or to rent property, which should be dealt with separately online.

To speak to one of our expert immigration lawyers, ring us on 0330 133 7777, email us at enquiries@hallidayreeves.com or fill in our Contact Form.

What is a BRP UK?

The BRP is an identity card that includes your name, date of birth, place of birth, fingerprints, photo and immigration status. It will also include any conditions that relate to your stay in the UK and confirm whether you are able to access public funds, such as healthcare or benefits.

Process to obtain BRP in UK

You need to provide your biometric information, ie. your fingerprints and photo, to an official body. If you are applying for a visa from within the UK, you can go to either a UK Visa and Citizenship Application Services (UKVCAS) service point.

If you are applying from outside of the UK, you will need to go to a visa application centre.
Your biometric information is recorded by taking a digital photo of your face and scanning your fingerprints while your fingers are placed on a glass screen. The process is quick and does not involve ink.

If you wear a head covering for religious or medical reasons you do not have to remove this.

Apply for a UK BRP

You can apply for a BRP in the following circumstances:

Your passport has expired or been lost
You have lost your BRP and need to replace it
Your BRP has been damaged or stolen
Your BRP has expired and you have indefinite leave to remain in the UK so you need BRP renewal
You need to change details on your BRP because your visa details have changed or your appearance has changed or other information has changed, such as your gender or nationality, you have separated from your partner or a child has stopped living with you
You need to upgrade to a BRP from an older immigration document

Lost BRP

If you lose your BRP or it is stolen, you should report this straightaway. It is only possible to apply for a replacement from inside the UK. If you are outside of the UK, you should apply for a replacement BRP visa, which will allow you to re-enter the UK. Once you are in the UK, you can then apply for a replacement BRP.

It is important to apply for a replacement within three months of losing a BRP or you could face a substantial fine of up to £1,000 and be required to leave the UK.

Renewal of BRP that has expired

If your BRP has expired, you can fill in an application form to update it.

You will also need to provide documents in support, to include:

Proof of identity, such as your passport or other valid travel and identity document
Proof of your continuous residence in the UK if you were granted indefinite leave to remain two years or more ago (this could be by producing Council Tax bills, utility bills or a letter from your employer)
Your current BRP

Contact our expert BRP lawyers

At Halliday Reeves we specialise solely in immigration, meaning we have an exceptional depth of understanding and expertise in this complex area of law.

We offer a free 15-minute enquiry service to discuss your circumstances and how we can help you.

Securing a BRP is an important part of living in the UK and we can help you ensure that the process goes smoothly and that any visa application you make is as strong as possible, giving you the best chance of success.