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ILR and Long Residence in the UK

lexenlaw.co.uk > ILR and Long Residence in the UK

ILR and Long Residence in the UK

Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) is normally granted after 5 years on a qualifying visa route. However, people who have lived in the UK lawfully for a long period even if on visas that don’t directly lead to settlement may qualify for ILR under the Long Residence Rule. This rule allows individuals who have built their lives in the UK to gain permanent residence after 10 years of continuous lawful stay.

Key Points:

Standard ILR Route: Typically requires 5 years on a qualifying visa.

Long Residence Rule: Provides an alternative for those with 10 years of continuous lawful residence.

Eligibility Flexibility: Even time spent on non-settlement visas can count towards the 10-year requirement.

Home is not just where you live it’s where you build your future. Every year spent here brings you closer to making the UK truly yours.

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    Continuous Lawful Residence Requirement

    Applicants must show they have lived in the UK continuously and lawfully for at least 10 years.

    Key Points:

    Lawful residence means holding valid leave to remain during the 10-year period.

    Evidence must cover the entire qualifying period (passports, BRPs, Home Office letters).

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    Types of Visas That Count

    Nearly all visa types can count toward the 10 years of lawful residence.

    Key Points:

    Student visas, work visas, family visas, and all count.

    Switching between categories is allowed as long as residence is lawful.

    English Language Requirement

    Applicants must meet the English requirement at the ILR stage.

    Key Points:

    Minimum B1 CEFR in speaking and listening.

    Can be proven by an SELT test, a UK degree taught in English, or being from an English-speaking country.

    Exemptions apply for applicants aged 65+ or with medical issues.

    Must pass Life in the UK Test unless exempt

    Good Character Requirement

    The Home Office checks that applicants meet the “good character” test.

    Key Points:

    Criminal convictions, immigration offences, or dishonesty may cause refusal.

    Applicants must provide accurate and complete information in their applications.

    Application Process

    Applications for ILR on the long residence route are submitted online.

    Key Points:

    Apply using Form SET(LR) on GOV.UK.

    Pay the ILR fee (£3029 from July 2025).

    Upload documents online.

    Provide biometrics (photo and fingerprints).

    A decision is usually made within 6 months (priority service may speed this up).

    Contact our team today to discuss your situation in confidence.

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