Settle in the UK – Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR)
Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) is the UK’s permanent settlement status, allowing eligible migrants to live and work in the UK without time restrictions. ILR is a key milestone for individuals on work, family, or long-term residence routes and is often the required step before applying for British citizenship.
This page explains UK ILR routes, eligibility requirements, application process, timelines, and compliance considerations under current UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) rules.
What Is Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR)?
ILR grants permanent residence in the UK. Once granted, holders are no longer subject to visa time limits and may work, study, or establish a business freely, subject to general UK law.
ILR does not grant British citizenship or a UK passport, but it is typically a mandatory prerequisite for citizenship.
Main ILR Settlement Routes
Skilled Worker Route → ILR
Most Skilled Worker visa holders may apply for ILR after 5 continuous years in the UK, provided they have complied with sponsorship, salary, and residence requirements throughout the qualifying period.
- Continuous lawful residence
- Minimum salary threshold at settlement stage
- Employment with a licensed sponsor
- Absence limits not exceeded
- English language requirement
- Life in the UK Test
Health and Care Worker Route → ILR
Healthcare professionals sponsored under the Health and Care Worker route may qualify for ILR after 5 years, subject to continued employment in an eligible role.
This route follows the same ILR rules as Skilled Worker settlement but benefits from reduced fees at earlier stages.
Global Talent Route → ILR
Global Talent visa holders may qualify for ILR after 3 or 5 years, depending on endorsement type and field.
- No employer sponsorship dependency
- Flexible employment options
- Accelerated settlement for recognised leaders
Family Route → ILR
Applicants on family visas (spouse or partner routes) may qualify for ILR after completing either the 5-year standard route or the 10-year route, depending on eligibility history.
Long Residence Route (10-Year Route)
Applicants who have completed 10 continuous years of lawful residence in the UK across eligible visa categories may qualify for ILR under the Long Residence route.
This route is commonly used where immigration history spans multiple visa types.
General ILR Eligibility Requirements
- Lawful and continuous residence
- Absences within permitted limits
- No serious immigration breaches
- English language requirement
- Life in the UK Test pass
- Ongoing compliance with visa conditions
ILR Application Process
- Confirm eligibility and qualifying period
- Gather residence, employment, and financial evidence
- Pass the Life in the UK Test
- Submit ILR application online
- Attend biometrics appointment
- Receive settlement decision
ILR Processing Time
Standard ILR applications are usually processed within up to 6 months, with priority services available for eligible applicants.
How AMK Global Group Supports ILR Applications
- ILR eligibility and absence analysis
- Employer and sponsor compliance review
- Document preparation and filing
- Refusal-prevention strategy
