Immigration Services
Indefinite Leave to Remain
Make the UK Your Permanent Home
At a Glance
- Processing Time
- 6 months (standard) or 2-5 days (super priority)
- Legal Fees
- £1,800 – £3,000
- Documents Required
- 12 items
- Process Steps
- 6 stages
Overview
About the ILR
Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) is the UK's form of permanent residency, granting you the right to live and work in the UK without any immigration time restrictions. After 5 years of qualifying residence, ILR represents the culmination of your immigration journey and the gateway to British citizenship..
Eligibility Criteria
- You have lived in the UK continuously for the qualifying period (usually 5 years) on an eligible visa route
- You have not spent more than 180 days outside the UK in any 12-month period during the qualifying period
- You pass the Life in the UK Test
- You meet the English language requirement at B1 CEFR level or above
- You meet the suitability requirements — no serious criminal convictions, no deception in previous applications
- You are applying from the correct category — Skilled Worker (5 years), partner routes (5 years), long residence (10 years), etc.
- You have paid the Immigration Health Surcharge for all qualifying years
Not sure if you qualify? Book a free eligibility assessment with one of our specialist solicitors.
How It Works
The Application Process
A step-by-step guide to your ILR application, managed by our specialist solicitors from start to finish.
- 1
Residence & Absence Audit
3-5 daysWe conduct a detailed review of your entire UK immigration history, calculating qualifying residence and identifying any absence periods that could affect your application.
- 2
Life in the UK Test Preparation
2-4 weeksWe advise on registering for and preparing for the Life in the UK Test, which must be passed before your ILR application is submitted.
- 3
English Language Verification
1-2 daysWe confirm whether your existing qualifications satisfy the English language requirement or advise on the appropriate approved test to take.
- 4
Document Compilation
2-4 weeksWe compile your complete application bundle — visa history, employment records, tax documents, accommodation evidence, and any explanatory letters for gaps or absences.
- 5
Application Submission
1-2 daysWe submit your ILR application online and book your biometric appointment. We advise on whether super priority processing is appropriate for your circumstances.
- 6
ILR Grant & Citizenship Planning
6 months (standard)On grant of ILR, we advise on the 12-month qualifying period before you can apply for British naturalisation and help you plan your citizenship application.
Documentation
Document Checklist
Prepare the following documents for your ILR application. Our solicitors will review everything before submission.
- Valid passport and all previous passports covering the qualifying period
- All previous Biometric Residence Permits (BRPs)
- Life in the UK Test pass notification
- English language evidence (degree certificate, English language test result, or exemption)
- Employment evidence: payslips, P60s, employer letters covering the qualifying period
- Tax returns and HMRC records (if self-employed)
- Bank statements covering the qualifying period
- Evidence of accommodation (tenancy agreements or mortgage statements)
- Travel history and overseas trip records (flights, hotel bookings)
- Any civil or criminal court orders
- Explanation letter for any periods of absence exceeding 90 days
- Sponsor letter (for Skilled Worker route)
Missing documents? Our solicitors can advise on alternatives and how to obtain the necessary paperwork.
Get Document HelpQuestions & Answers
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about the Indefinite Leave to Remain — answered by our specialist solicitors.
Have a question that is not answered here?
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Ready to Start Your ILR Application?
Our specialist solicitors are ready to guide you through every stage of the process. Book a consultation today and get expert advice tailored to your circumstances.