Settlement (ILR) — UK Immigration Advisers

Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) is the UK's permanent residence status. It grants the right to live and work in the UK indefinitely without any time or employment restrictions. ILR is typically available after 5 years on qualifying routes (Skilled Worker, Spouse, Long Residence), or 3 years on certain family routes.

ILR

Visa code

Indefinite (permanent)

Duration

£2,885

Gov fees from

OISC

Regulator

Visa details

Visa typeSettlement (ILR)

CodeILR

DurationIndefinite (permanent)

Est. gov fees£2,885 (gov) + agent

RegulatorHome Office / OISC

Key eligibility

Hold a qualifying immigration status for the required period (usually 5 years)

Not have spent more than 180 days outside the UK in any 12-month period

Pass the Life in the UK test (multiple choice, 24 questions)

Meet English language requirement at B1 CEFR or higher

No serious criminal convictions or immigration offences

Continue to meet the requirements of the original visa category

Why use an OISC adviser for the Settlement (ILR)?

ILR refusals are often caused by absences exceeding 180 days, failure to correctly calculate qualifying residence, or undisclosed criminal matters. An OISC adviser carefully reviews your travel history, counts every qualifying day, and identifies any risk factors before you apply.

Settlement (ILR) Advisers

OISC-regulated advisers and solicitors specialising in Settlement (ILR) applications.

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Frequently asked questions — Settlement (ILR)

How do I count my 5 years for ILR?

The 5-year qualifying period is measured from your first entry to the UK on a qualifying visa, to the date you apply. You must have spent no more than 180 days outside the UK in any single 12-month period during those 5 years. An immigration adviser will calculate your exact qualifying date and check your travel history.

What is the Life in the UK test?

The Life in the UK test is a 24-question multiple choice test on British history, culture, and values. You must score 75% or higher (18/24) to pass. You can take the test multiple times. You must pass the test before applying for ILR or British citizenship.

Can I leave the UK after getting ILR?

Yes, but if you remain outside the UK for more than 2 consecutive years, your ILR may lapse. A Returning Resident visa can be obtained if you have strong ties to the UK. To avoid this issue, many ILR holders apply for British citizenship, which has no residency requirement after naturalisation.

Does my partner or children qualify for ILR at the same time as me?

If they have been on the UK as your dependants for the qualifying period and met the absence requirements, they can typically apply for ILR at the same time. Each applicant must pass the Life in the UK test and meet language requirements (except dependent children under 18).

Can I apply for British citizenship after ILR?

Yes. After holding ILR for 12 months (or on the day you receive ILR if married to a British citizen), you can apply for naturalisation as a British citizen, subject to meeting the residence requirements, language test, and Life in the UK test.