What Is ILR and Why It Matters
Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) is one of the most important immigration statuses in the UK. It gives you the right to live in the UK permanently without visa restrictions and is the final step before British citizenship for most migrants.
If you’ve spent years renewing visas and meeting immigration conditions, ILR offers long-term security and peace of mind.
What Is Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR)?
ILR allows you to:
- Live in the UK without time limits
- Work or study freely
- Access public funds (if eligible)
- Leave and re-enter the UK without visa renewals
- Apply for British citizenship after meeting residency rules
⚠️ ILR is not citizenship, but it is the strongest immigration status before becoming British.
Who Can Apply for ILR in the UK?
You can apply for ILR if you’ve lived in the UK lawfully under an eligible visa route and meet the Home Office requirements.
Common ILR Routes
- Spouse or Partner Visa
- Skilled Worker Visa
- Long Residence (10-year route)
- Family Visa
- Innovator / Business routes
- Refugee or Humanitarian Protection (specific rules apply)
Each route has different qualifying periods and requirements.
ILR Eligibility Requirements (2026)
To qualify for ILR, you must generally meet the following:
- Lawful residence in the UK for the required period
- Continuous residence with permitted absences
- Meet the English language requirement
- Pass the Life in the UK Test
- Meet the good character requirement
- No serious immigration breaches
ILR Qualifying Periods Explained
5-Year Route
Most common route, including:
- Spouse visa
- Skilled Worker visa
- Family routes
You must complete 5 continuous years on the same qualifying visa route.
10-Year Long Residence Route
You may qualify if you have:
- Lived lawfully in the UK for 10 continuous years
- Had valid visas throughout (limited gaps allowed)
This route is ideal for people who switched visas over time.
2- or 3-Year Routes
Available in limited cases such as:
- Certain business visas
- Refugees (usually after 5 years, but different rules apply)
Continuous Residence & Absence Rules
Absences are strictly checked.
General Absence Limits
- No more than 180 days outside the UK in any 12-month period
- Absences must be lawful and properly documented
Excessive absences are a common reason for ILR refusal.
English Language Requirement for ILR
You must prove English at B1 level or above, unless exempt.
Accepted Proof
- Approved English language test
- UK degree
- Degree taught in English (verified by Ecctis)
Exemptions
- Applicants aged 65 or over
- Long-term medical conditions
Life in the UK Test for ILR
The Life in the UK Test assesses:
- British history
- Culture
- Laws and government
Key Details
- 24 multiple-choice questions
- 45 minutes
- Pass mark: 75%
- Test result does not expire
You must pass before submitting your ILR application.
Documents Required for ILR
Essential Documents
- Current and previous passports
- Biometric Residence Permit (BRP)
- Proof of continuous residence
- Life in the UK Test pass letter
- English language certificate
- Immigration history
Additional Supporting Documents
- Employment or self-employment records
- Payslips and bank statements
- Accommodation proof
- Relationship evidence (for spouse route)
ILR Application Process
Step-by-Step Guide
- Apply online via the UK Home Office website
- Pay the ILR application fee
- Upload supporting documents
- Attend biometrics appointment
- Await decision
ILR Processing Time
- Standard processing: Up to 6 months
- Super Priority service: Decision within 24 hours (extra fee)
ILR Fees (2026)
- ILR application fee: £2,885 per applicant
- Biometrics: Included
- Priority services: Additional cost
⚠️ Fees are non-refundable, even if refused.
What Happens After You Get ILR?
With ILR, you can:
- Stay in the UK permanently
- Work without sponsorship
- Access benefits (subject to eligibility)
- Apply for British citizenship after 12 months (or immediately if married to a British citizen)
⚠️ Leaving the UK for more than 2 years can result in ILR being lost.
Common Reasons for ILR Refusal
- Excessive absences from the UK
- Incorrect documents
- Failure to pass Life in the UK Test
- English language issues
- Immigration rule breaches
- Incomplete application
Careful preparation is essential.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is ILR permanent?
Yes, but it can lapse if you stay outside the UK for over 2 years.
Can ILR be refused?
Yes. Meeting eligibility criteria does not guarantee approval.
Can I switch jobs after ILR?
Yes. ILR removes work restrictions.
Is ILR better than a visa?
Yes. ILR provides long-term security and freedom.
ILR vs British Citizenship
| Feature | ILR | British Citizenship |
|---|---|---|
| Permanent stay | ✅ | ✅ |
| British passport | ❌ | ✅ |
| Vote in elections | ❌ | ✅ |
| Immigration control | ❌ | ❌ |
ILR is the final step before citizenship.
Final Thoughts
Indefinite Leave to Remain is a life-changing milestone. It offers stability, freedom, and a clear pathway to British citizenship. While the process is detailed, proper preparation and accurate documentation greatly increase success.
