Permanent Residency for United Kingdom

There are various pathways to obtaining permanent residency in the UK, depending on your circumstances, length of stay, and visa type. Below are the key routes:

1. 1. ILR Through Work-Based Visas

For those who have lived and worked in the UK under certain visa categories, applying for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) is the next step after fulfilling the necessary residency requirements.

Skilled Worker Visa (formerly Tier 2 General)

The Skilled Worker Visa is for foreign nationals with job offers from UK-based employers who hold a sponsor license. After 5 years on this visa, you may be eligible to apply for ILR.

• • Eligibility for ILR:
    • Continuous residency of 5 years under the Skilled Worker Visa.
    • Must be employed by a UK sponsor.
    • Meet the minimum salary threshold of £25,600 per year or the job-specific “going rate.”
    • Proof of English language proficiency.
    • No criminal record or immigration violations.

Innovator or Start-Up Visa

These visas are for entrepreneurs who want to set up or run a business in the UK. After fulfilling the business and residency requirements, you may apply for ILR.

• • Eligibility for ILR:
    • Continuous residency for 3-5 years (depending on the visa) under Innovator or Start-Up Visa.
    • Must meet business performance targets and contribute to the UK economy.
    • Demonstrate a successful business track record.
    • Meet the English language requirement.

1. 2. ILR Through Family-Based Visas

Family members of UK citizens or permanent residents can also apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain through family-related visas.

Spouse or Partner Visa (Family Visa)

The Spouse or Partner Visa allows non-UK spouses, civil partners, or unmarried partners of UK citizens or residents to live in the UK. After completing 5 years of continuous residency on a family visa, you can apply for ILR.

• • Eligibility for ILR:
    • Continuous residency of 5 years under the Spouse or Partner Visa.
    • Proof of genuine and subsisting relationship with your UK partner.
    • Meet the financial requirement of £18,600 (or more if you have dependents).
    • Proof of English language proficiency (e.g., IELTS, or a degree taught in English).

Parent Visa

This visa is for individuals whose child is a British citizen or settled in the UK. After living in the UK for 5 years on a Parent Visa, you may be eligible to apply for ILR.

• • Eligibility for ILR:
    • Must demonstrate continuous residency for 5 years.
    • Be involved in the child’s upbringing and demonstrate a parental role.
    • Meet financial requirements and provide evidence of accommodation.

1. 3. ILR Through Long Residence

If you have lived in the UK legally for at least 10 years, you may apply for ILR through Long Residence. This route is available regardless of visa type, as long as you have maintained lawful residency for 10 years.

• • Eligibility for ILR:
    • Continuous legal residence in the UK for at least 10 years.
    • Must not have spent more than 540 days outside the UK during the 10-year period.
    • Meet English language and Life in the UK requirements.
    • Good character and no criminal convictions.

1. 4. ILR Through Ancestry Visa

Commonwealth citizens with UK ancestry (usually through a grandparent born in the UK) may apply for an Ancestry Visa. After 5 years of continuous residency in the UK, you can apply for ILR.

• • Eligibility for ILR:
    • Proof of UK ancestry (a grandparent born in the UK).
    • Continuous residency for 5 years in the UK.
    • Demonstrate you can support yourself financially without public funds.
    • Meet English language and Life in the UK requirements.

1. 5. ILR for Refugees and Asylum Seekers

Refugees and individuals granted asylum in the UK may apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain after 5 years of residency as a refugee or under humanitarian protection.

• • Eligibility for ILR:
    • Continuous residency of 5 years under refugee status or humanitarian protection.
    • Evidence of integration into UK society.
    • No criminal record or violations of immigration laws.

Benefits of Permanent Residency in the UK

Obtaining Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) in the UK comes with numerous benefits, including:

• • Right to Live and Work: As a permanent resident, you can live and work in the UK without restrictions.
  • Access to Healthcare: ILR holders have full access to the UK’s National Health Service (NHS).
  • Education: You and your family can access publicly funded education, including higher education at domestic tuition rates.
  • No Travel Restrictions: You can travel freely in and out of the UK without needing to apply for visas each time.
  • Pathway to Citizenship: After 12 months of holding ILR, you may be eligible to apply for British citizenship.

Application Process for ILR

Step 1: Consultation and Eligibility Assessment

• • Contact Real Gateway of Migration: We assess your current visa status, length of stay, and eligibility to determine the most appropriate route to ILR.

Step 2: Gather Required Documents

• • Documents Needed:
    • Valid passport and current visa.
    • Proof of continuous residency (e.g., utility bills, rental agreements).
    • Proof of employment or business (for work-related visas).
    • Proof of relationship (for family-based visas).
    • Evidence of financial stability (bank statements, employment contracts).
    • Criminal record check (if required).
    • Proof of English language proficiency (e.g., IELTS test results or UK degree).

Step 3: Submit Your Application

• • Complete the Online Application: We help you submit your ILR application online through the UK government portal.
  • Pay the Fees: Pay the relevant fees for the application and biometrics.
  • Book a Biometrics Appointment: Attend a biometrics appointment to provide fingerprints and photographs.

Step 4: Life in the UK Test

• • Pass the Test: Most applicants for ILR must pass the Life in the UK Test, which assesses your knowledge of British history, culture, and values.

Step 5: Application Processing and Decision

• • Processing Time: ILR applications typically take 6 months to process, though priority services may speed up the process.
  • Receive Decision: Once your ILR is approved, you will receive a confirmation letter, allowing you to live and work in the UK indefinitely.