Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR)

Settlement gives you the permanent right to live and work in the UK without visa restrictions. The route to ILR depends on which visa you currently hold and how long you have been in the country.

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FIND YOUR ROUTE

Settlement routes to ILR

The right route depends on your visa category, how long you have held it, and whether you meet the residence and absence requirements. Each route has different eligibility criteria and conditions.

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ILR on the Partner Route

You hold a spouse, civil partner, or unmarried partner visa and have completed 5 years. The most common family settlement route. After 5 years on a partner visa (two grants of leave), you can apply for permanent residence. Subject to meeting the financial and relationship requirements.

Full partner route guide >

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ILR on a Work Route

You hold a Skilled Worker, Health & Care, or other eligible work visa. After 5 continuous years on an eligible work visa, you can apply for settlement. Your salary must still meet the threshold at the time of your ILR application. Subject to meeting employment and financial requirements.

Full work route guide >

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Long Residence ILR

You have lived continuously and lawfully in the UK for 10 years. Available regardless of your visa category. The 10-year long residence route has strict absence limits and requires continuous lawful residence throughout.

Full long residence guide >

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Returning Resident Visa

You previously held ILR but have been outside the UK for more than 2 years. If your ILR has lapsed because you left the UK, you may be able to return as a returning resident if the UK remains your primary home. This route restores your settlement status.

Full returning resident guide >

Not sure which settlement route applies to you?

Your route to ILR depends on your current visa, how long you have held it, and whether you meet the residence and absence requirements. Some routes have additional conditions around salary, financial evidence, or continuous employment.