**Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) Overview**

Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR), also known as permanent settlement, allows individuals to live and work in the UK without any time restrictions. It is often a pathway to British citizenship. ILR can be obtained through various routes, including long-term residence, employment, family ties, and other qualifying criteria.

**Path to British Citizenship**

After holding ILR for a minimum of 12 months, you may be eligible to apply for British citizenship, provided you meet the necessary residency and good character requirements.

**Eligibility Requirements**

To qualify for ILR, you must meet one of the following criteria:

– Hold a valid visa that leads to settlement, such as a Spouse Visa, Work Visa, or Tier 2 (General) Visa.

– Have lived in the UK continuously and lawfully for at least 5 years (or 10 years for the Long Residence route).

– Meet the financial requirement, if applicable.

– Demonstrate knowledge of the English language and life in the UK.

– Not have breached any immigration laws during your stay.

Consulting with an immigration lawyer can provide personalized advice based on your specific circumstances.

**Visa Categories Leading to ILR**

Various visa categories can lead to ILR, including but not limited to:

– Spouse or Partner Visas

– Work Visas (Tier 2 General, Skilled Worker Visa)

– Ancestry Visa

– Long Residence (10 years lawful residence)

– EU Settlement Scheme (for EU, EEA, and Swiss citizens)

**Continuous Residence Requirement**

To meet the continuous residence requirement, you must have lived in the UK without significant absences:

– No more than 180 days absence in any 12-month period during the qualifying period.

– Any time spent in the UK under a valid visa counts towards continuous residence.

**Financial and Accommodation Requirements**

Depending on your visa category, you may need to demonstrate adequate financial support without public funds. This can include:

– Income from employment or self-employment

– Non-employment income

– Cash savings

– Pensions

You also need to show that you have suitable accommodation for you and any dependents in the UK.

**English Language and Life in the UK Test**

Applicants must meet the English language requirement, which can be satisfied by:

– Being a national of a majority English-speaking country.

– Passing an approved English language test (B1).

– Holding an academic qualification taught in English.

Additionally, you must pass the Life in the UK test, which assesses your knowledge of British traditions, history, and culture.

Exemptions are available for those over 65, those with certain disabilities, or in exceptional circumstances.

**Application Process**

Applications for ILR are made online, and the required supporting documents must be carefully prepared and submitted to meet Home Office requirements. The processing time varies, but standard applications typically take up to 6 months. Priority and super priority services are available for faster processing.

**Fees and Processing Times**

The application fee for ILR is £2,389. Priority services for faster processing may incur additional costs.

**Contact Us**

To discuss your ILR application with one of our immigration barristers, contact our UK immigration lawyers on 07492911112 or complete our enquiry form below.