Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR), also known as settled status, gives you the right to live, work and study in the UK indefinitely. You will be able to apply for benefits if you are eligible to receive them. ILR is also a step on the path to British citizenship. We look at how to get Indefinite Leave to Remain and how long an ILR application takes.
At Halliday Reeves, we specialise in immigration, including advising clients on how to get ILR and putting together applications and supporting evidence. It is crucial to send the right paperwork when applying and our team members have a sound understanding of the information that UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) need to see.
We hold the Law Society’s IAAS accreditation at both senior caseworker and senior supervising caseworker level. We have held a Legal Aid contract for thirty years and our most recent Independent Peer Review Report awarded us the high rating of ‘Competence Plus’, noting our excellence in:
- Regular and effective client communication
- Strong client care, including with vulnerable individuals
- Keeping clear records
- Preparing thoroughly
- Strong case strategies
- Establishing what evidence is needed and taking action to obtain this
- Providing bespoke advice
If you would like expert representation to get 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.
Successful ILR application
“The service was outstanding! I highly recommend Halliday Reeves.”
How To Get Indefinite Leave To Remain
The length of time you need to be in the UK to apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain will vary depending on your circumstances. For many visa holders, including those with skilled worker visas, you may be eligible to apply for ILR after five years.
During this five-year period, you cannot have spent more than 180 days out of the UK in any twelve-month period.
You will typically need to meet additional eligibility requirements. One key requirement is demonstrating that your salary meets the necessary threshold. This is assessed based on a set minimum level or the standard rate of pay for your specific role—whichever is higher.
If your job is on the official list of shortage occupations, you do not need to meet the minimum income requirement
- Your employer still needs you and you will continue to meet the minimum income requirement
- You have passed the Life in the UK Test
- You are of good character
- You have not committed any criminal offences or breached the UK’s immigration rules
When Can You get Indefinite Leave To Remain?
If you satisfy the eligibility criteria, you can apply no earlier than 28 days before the date on which you will have been in the UK for five years or however long is appropriate for your ILR route.
You should not wait until your visa expires or you will need to renew your visa before you apply for ILR.
Apply For Indefinite Leave To Remain
ILR applications are made online. We can put together the information you will need and check to ensure that you have the right documents to satisfy all of the eligibility criteria in support of your application.
If you get partway through filling in the form and need to stop, you can save it and return to the application at a later stage once you have everything you need.
When you apply, you’ll need to pay a fee for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR). You will also be required to attend a UK Visa and Citizenship Application Services centre to provide your biometric information, which includes your fingerprints and a photograph.
How Long Does It Take To Get Indefinite Leave To Remain?
UKVI aims to deal with ILR applications within six months. You should not travel outside of the UK until you receive a decision, as this will mean that your application will be withdrawn.
In some circumstances, you may be able to apply for a priority service. UKVI aim to provide this within five working days for those within the UK.
There is also a super priority service. Where this is available, you should receive a response within two working days.
If it is available and you choose to use a priority or super priority service there is an additional fee.
Indefinite Leave To Remain Solicitors
If you want to apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain, we will be happy to help. We have an outstanding track record of success in obtaining Indefinite Leave to Remain for our clients and we will ensure that your application is comprehensive.
To speak to one of our expert Indefinite Leave to Remain application lawyers, ring us on 0330 133 7777, email us at enquiries@hallidayreeves.com or fill in our Contact Form.
Success-Indefinite Leave to remain as a Partner
“From the first telephone conversation you were very helpful and honest I found the whole process stress free very pleased with the outcome which was far more than I had hoped for. I would recommend your services to friends and family if they ever have immigration problems in the future. Thank you for your assistance in this matter.”
