If you have been living in the UK for a long time and want to make it your permanent home, applying for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) is the best way to secure your future. ILR allows you to stay in the UK without any immigration restrictions. Moving to the UK and settling down permanently is a dream for many immigrants.
It also gives you the right to work, study, and even apply for British citizenship in the future. However, the application process can be complicated if you do not understand the requirements. This blog will guide you step by step on how to apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain and how to get past all the eligibility criteria and submit a proper application.
What is Indefinite Leave to Remain?
ILR is a status granted to non-UK citizens, allowing them to stay in the UK permanently without needing a visa. Once you have ILR, you can work and live in the UK without restrictions. You also have access to public services like healthcare and education. Many people apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain after staying in the UK for a specific number of years under different visa categories.
Eligibility Requirements for Indefinite Leave to Remain
To be granted Indefinite Leave to Remain, you have to fulfill the following eligibility requirements:
- Residency Requirement: You have to stay in the UK for a specific period. The duration of residency is five years, and this may vary with the type of visa.
- Good Character: You should not have any criminal record or immigration law breaches.
- Financial Stability: You must demonstrate your ability to be self-sufficient and not dependent on public funds.
- English Language Requirement: You ought to demonstrate your ability in the English language either by passing an accepted test or having a degree taught in English.
- Life in the UK Test: This is a test to test your knowledge on British traditions, laws, and culture.
How to Apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain
Applying for ILR involves several steps. Follow these carefully to increase your chances of success.
1. Check Your Visa and Residency Requirement
Before applying for ILR, make sure your visa is eligible for ILR. There are different requirements for residency based on the visa type. For instance, those who hold Tier 2 (Skilled Worker) visas usually qualify after five years, while spouses of British citizens may apply after two or five years, depending on their visa conditions.
2. Pass the Life in the UK Test
The requirement for Indefinite Leave to Remain is to pass the Life in the UK test. It has 24 questions on British history, values, and customs. You should book it beforehand and pass at least 75% to get ILR.
3. The English Language Requirement
If you are from a non-English-speaking country, you have to demonstrate your English language proficiency. You can do this by taking an approved English language test or submitting proof of a degree taught in English.
4. Collect Your Documents
You will need to collect the following documents to apply for ILR:
- Passport and any previous visas
- Proof of residence in the UK (bills, bank statements, tenancy agreements)
- Proof of finance (pay slips, tax returns, employer’s letters)
- Test for Life in the UK (Certificate)
- English Language Test Certificate(if needed)
5. Apply for Online
You should apply for ILR on the UK Home Office website. You need to fill up the appropriate form according to your type of visa and submit all the supporting documents to the Home Office. The application fee is particularly expensive, so ensure you have that much before applying.
6. Pay Application Fee and NHS Surcharge
Applying for Indefinite Leave to Remain is accompanied by a fee, which can be expensive, and may incur the Immigration Health Surcharge if you are granted any of the following types of visa.
7. Make an Biometric Appointment and Attend It
After your application has been submitted, you will be required to book a biometric appointment where you will have your fingerprints and photograph taken at a UK Visa and Citizenship Application Services (UKVCAS) centre.
8. Waiting for a Decision
Processing times for Indefinite Leave to Remain applications vary, but it usually takes up to six months. You can check your application status online. If your application is successful, you will receive a Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) confirming your ILR status.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When applying for ILR, many applicants make mistakes that can lead to rejection. Avoid these common errors:
- Submitting incomplete or incorrect documents
- Failure to meet the English language or Life in the UK test requirements
- Giving false information
- Applying too early before completing the required residency period
What Happens After Getting ILR?
After getting ILR, one would not have any limitation from immigration to stay within the UK. However, you should ensure that you do not spend more than two years outside the UK to avoid having your ILR revoked. After 12 months of staying with ILR, one may be qualified to apply for British citizenship provided he or she meets the requirements .
It is a big step towards securing your future in the UK by applying for Indefinite Leave to Remain. To ensure success, one needs to know the eligibility criteria, obtain all the documents, and then follow the correct application process.
Be well-prepared for the Life in the UK test, meet the English language requirement, and avoid the common mistakes that are usually committed during the process. Once you obtain ILR, you will enjoy the benefits of permanent residency in the UK and will be eligible to apply for British citizenship in the future.
