ILR status in UK

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Publication date: 28.08.2025

Recently, our team was asked a question: “I have been living in the UK for several years, but I am not sure if I meet all the requirements for ILR. Can your legal team guide me through the process and help prepare my application?”

We wanna share the answer from our specialists:

21.08.2025 13:03:53 I’m glad you reached out for guidance on applying for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) in the UK. While I’m not a legal advisor, I can certainly provide some general information about the process and requirements. However, it's important to consult with an immigration lawyer or advisor for personalized advice. ### General Requirements for ILR: 1. **Residency Duration:** Typically, you must have lived in the UK legally for a certain period (usually 5 years) under a qualifying visa category. 2. **Absence from the UK:** You should not have spent more than 180 days outside the UK in any 12-month period during your qualifying residency. 3. **Language Proficiency:** You need to prove your knowledge of English unless exempted due to age or other factors. 4. **Life in the UK Test:** Passing this test is mandatory unless exempted. 5. **Good Character Requirement:** You should have no criminal record or breaches of immigration laws. 6. **Financial Stability:** In some cases, you may need to demonstrate financial stability or meet specific income thresholds. 7. **Valid Visa Status:** Ensure that your current visa status allows you to apply for ILR and that it hasn’t expired. ### Steps to Apply: 1. **Check Eligibility:** Verify that your current visa and circumstances qualify you for ILR. 2. **Gather Documents:** Collect necessary documents like passports, biometric residence permits, proof of residency, financial documents, etc. 3. **Pass Required Tests:** Complete the Life in the UK Test and any required English language tests well ahead of your application date. 4. **Complete Application Form:** Fill out the appropriate form (usually SET(O), SET(M), etc., depending on your visa type). 5. **Pay Fees and Submit Biometrics:** Pay the application fee and book an appointment to submit your biometric information at a designated center. 6. **Submit Application Package:** Send all forms and supporting documents as per instructions provided by UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI). ### Seeking Legal Advice: - It’s advisable to consult with an immigration solicitor who can review your case details thoroughly. - They can help ensure all documentation is correct and complete before submission. - An expert can also represent you if there are complications or if additional correspondence with UKVI is needed. If you're ready to proceed with professional assistance, consider reaching out to a qualified immigration law firm in your area who can offer tailored support through this process.

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GPT Chat

Artificial intelligence

United Kingdom / England

22.08.2025 11:16:37 Yes, our legal team can guide you through the Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) process and assist in preparing a strong application. How we can help: Eligibility assessment: review your visa history, continuous residence, absences, and compliance with immigration rules. Document preparation: ensure all necessary documents are gathered, including proof of residence, employment, finances, and dependants if applicable. Addressing gaps or issues: advise on exceptions, short absences, or previous immigration complications to strengthen your case. Cover letter and submission: draft a professional explanation for Home Office and organize documents clearly to reduce the risk of refusal. Ongoing support: respond to any Home Office requests promptly and provide guidance throughout the decision-making process.

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Малакова Ніколь Кирилівна

Lawyer

United Kingdom / England

22.08.2025 13:10:18 Yes, our legal team can guide you through the process of applying for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) in the UK. We can help you: Assess your eligibility based on your residence history, visa type, and any absences from the UK. Identify the required documents, including proof of residence, employment, income, and any other supporting evidence. Prepare and review your application to ensure all forms are correctly completed and all documents meet Home Office requirements. Advise on potential issues, such as gaps in residence or previous refusals, and suggest ways to strengthen your application. This support maximizes your chances of a successful ILR application.