Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR)
If you are considering applying for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) to settle in the UK, our ILR solicitors can guide you through every step of the process.
At Moeen & Co. Solicitors, our team of experienced immigration lawyers in London can assist you in determining your eligibility for Indefinite Leave to Remain. We provide personalised guidance and advice, ensuring you meet all the requirements to secure your permanent residency in the UK.
If you are ready to take the next step towards UK Indefinite Leave to Remain, call us at 0203 959 7755 or fill in our online contact form to schedule a consultation.
Table of Contents
- What is Indefinite Leave to Remain?
- Types of ILR applications
- ILR application forms
- Requirements for Indefinite Leave to Remain
- Document checklist for ILR application
- What is the process to apply for ILR?
- ILR application processing time
- Indefinite leave to remain priority service
- How much does it cost to apply for ILR?
- How can our solicitors help with your ILR application?
- Frequently asked questions
- Contact immigration solicitors in London
What is Indefinite Leave to Remain?
Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) is a way to settle in the UK that grants individuals the right to live and work in the UK without any time restrictions.
The benefits of Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) include the right to live and work in the UK without restrictions, access to public funds and services, eligibility to apply for British citizenship, and the ability to sponsor family members to join them in the UK.
Types of ILR applications
There are various types of ILR applications based on the visa category you hold or your specific circumstances. Below is a list of some common types of ILR applications:
- ILR as a skilled worker
- ILR as a health and care worker
- ILR as a spouse
- ILR as an unmarried partner
- ILR after 10 years (long residence)
- ILR after 5 years of refugee status
- ILR as a parent of a British child
- ILR for a child born & lived in the UK for 7 continuous years
- Indefinite leave to remain refusal
- Fee waiver for indefinite leave to remain
ILR application forms
When applying for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) in the UK, the specific forms required can depend on various factors such as your immigration category and individual circumstances. Below is a list of some common forms that are typically used in the ILR application process:
- SET (O): This is the main application form used for most applicants applying for indefinite leave to remain in various categories, including work, family, and long residence.
- SET (M): Used by partners of British citizens or settled persons who are applying for ILR based on their relationship.
- SET (LR): Used for applications for ILR on the basis of long residence in the UK, typically after 10 years of continuous lawful residence.
- SET (F): This form is for children applying for indefinite leave to remain in the UK, usually in the context of a family reunion.
Requirements for Indefinite Leave to Remain
To be eligible to apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) in the UK, you typically need to meet certain requirements. Here are some general guidelines, but please note that specific eligibility criteria may vary depending on your circumstances.
- Continuous residence requirements
- Financial requirements
- English language requirement
- Life in the UK test requirement
- Absence from the UK
- Immigration status
Continuous residence requirement
To be eligible for ILR, applicants typically need to have resided continuously in the UK for a specific period. The length of residence requirement may vary depending on the visa category under which an individual has been living in the UK
Financial requirements
You may need to meet specific financial thresholds to demonstrate your ability to support yourself and any dependents in the UK.
English language requirement
Most applicants are required to demonstrate a certain level of proficiency in the English language. This is usually assessed through an approved English language test.
Life in the UK test requirement
Applicants are generally required to pass the "Life in the UK" test, which assesses their understanding of British culture, customs, and history.
Absence from the UK
You may need to ensure that your absences from the UK do not exceed a certain limit during the qualifying period.
Immigration status
Applicants must have valid and legal immigration status throughout their residence in the UK. This means holding a visa that allows you to stay in the country for an extended period, such as a work visa or a family visa.
You must also meet all the other eligibility requirements depending on your circumstances. Please contact us for an initial assessment to determine your eligibility, and to discuss the options.
Document checklist for ILR application
Applying for an Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) requires submitting various supporting documents to prove your eligibility. It is essential to have a complete and well-organised document package to ensure a successful ILR application.
| Document | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Proof of identity | Valid passport or travel document. |
| Proof of residence | Tenancy agreements, utility bills, or other documents showing your address history. |
| Proof of finances | Bank statements, payslips, or any other evidence of your financial stability. |
| Life in the UK test | Certificate proving you have passed the Life in the UK test. |
| English language proficiency | Evidence of meeting the English language requirement, such as an approved English test certificate. |
| Other supporting documents | Additional documents relevant to your specific circumstances, such as marriage certificates or proof of family relationships. |
Remember, the document checklist provided above is not exhaustive, and additional documents may be required based on your personal circumstances. Properly preparing your documentation is key to the success of your application. Contact us today to get a comprehensive list of supporting documents.
What is the process to apply for ILR?
To apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR), the applicant must follow these steps:
- Gather the Required Documents
- Complete the ILR Application Form Online
- Pay the Application Fees
- Submit Your Application
- Follow Up on the Application
Step 1: Gather the Required Documents
Before starting your ILR application, gather all the necessary documents, such as your valid passport, evidence of continuous residence in the UK, and any other supporting documentation required for your specific circumstances. Ensuring you have all the required evidence will streamline your ILR application process.
Step 2: Complete the ILR Application Form Online
Once you have gathered all the required documents, carefully complete the correct ILR application form. Pay close attention to accuracy and completeness, as any errors or missing information can lead to delays or even a refusal. Our team at Moeen & Co. Solicitors is experienced in assisting individuals with their ILR applications and can provide valuable guidance to ensure your forms are completed correctly.
Step 3: Pay the Application Fees
As part of the ILR application process, you will be required to pay the necessary fees. Failure to pay the correct fees may result in your application being rejected.
Please note that these fees are subject to change, and you should always check the most up-to-date information on the UK government's official website before applying for an ILR.
Step 4: Submit Your Application
Once you have gathered all the documents, completed the application form online, and paid the fees, you are ready to submit your ILR application. Ensure that you have uploaded all the required documents and that they are organised. A well-prepared and organised application will improve your chances of a successful outcome and reduce the application processing time.
Step 5: Follow Up on the Application
After submitting your ILR application, it is important to stay informed about its progress. Keep track of any updates or requests for additional information from the Home Office. Our team at Moeen & Co. Solicitors can assist you with managing the application process, ensuring that all communication with the Home Office is handled promptly and effectively.
Immigration rules, requirements, and process may change, so it's important consult with an immigration solicitor to ensure you are following the most up-to-date process for applying for Indefinite Leave to Remain in the UK.
ILR application processing time
The average processing time for an ILR application is around 6 months if applying online using a standard service. However, this is only an estimate, and actual processing times may vary. During peak periods or if additional checks are required, processing times can be longer.
All the applicants are advised to check the latest information about UK visa application processing time on the official UK government website.
Indefinite leave to remain priority service
If you require a decision on your ILR application urgently, you may be eligible to use the "Super Priority Service" or the "Priority Service", which offers faster processing times for an additional fee. These services aim to provide a decision on your ILR application within 24 hours or 5 working days, respectively.
To get a faster decision on your ILR application, you'll need to pay £1,000 for the "Super Priority Service" or £500 for the "Priority Service" fee per applicant in addition to the ILR application fee.
How much does it cost to apply for ILR?
The indefinite leave to remain application fee is currently £2,885 per applicant. You will need to pay an additional fee of £1,000 if applying using the "Super Priority Service" or £500 if applying using the "Priority Service".
Please note that these fees are subject to change, and you should always check the most up-to-date information on the UK government's official website before applying for a visa.
How can our solicitors help with your ILR application?
At Moeen & Co. Solicitors, we are dedicated to providing expert legal advice and guidance throughout the Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) process. Our experienced immigration solicitors understand the complexities of ILR applications and can help you navigate the requirements with ease.
Here are some ways in which our team of highly experienced UK immigration solicitors can assist:
- Legal Expertise: Our immigration solicitors have in-depth knowledge of UK immigration laws, policies, and procedures. We can assess your eligibility for ILR, advise you on the most suitable visa option, and ensure that your ILR application complies with all relevant legal requirements.
- Application Preparation: Our immigration solicitors will fill in your ILR application forms accurately and submit them.
- Supporting Documents: We will advise you on the required documents to be submitted in support of your ILR application and ensure that they meet the specific requirements.
- Legal Representation: We can represent you in communications with the UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) department, embassy, or consulate handling your application. We can correspond with immigration authorities on your behalf, respond to requests for additional information, and address any concerns or queries raised during the processing of your application.
- Appeals and Administrative Reviews: If your ILR application is refused, our immigration solicitors can help you explore options for appealing the decision or requesting an administrative review. We can prepare and submit appeal or review applications, gather additional evidence to support your case and represent you at appeal hearings or review proceedings.
If you have any questions or want assistance with your ILR application, please call our expert immigration solicitors based in London at 0203 959 7755. Alternatively, fill in our online contact form, and one of our UK immigration experts will get back in touch with you soon!
Frequently asked questions
The length of time required varies depending on the visa category under which you have been residing in the UK. Typically, it ranges from 2 to 10 years of continuous residence.
Yes, once you have obtained Indefinite Leave to Remain, you may become eligible to apply for British citizenship through the naturalization process. There are specific requirements and conditions to fulfil, including a minimum period of residency in the UK.
Yes, ILR status can be lost if an individual spends a significant amount of time outside the UK, commits a serious criminal offence, or breaches immigration rules. It's important to adhere to the conditions attached to ILR to maintain this status.
No, individuals who are in the UK illegally are not eligible to apply for ILR. However, there may be other options available depending on individual circumstances, such as applying for asylum or seeking legal advice on regularisation options.
Contact Immigration Solicitors in London
If you need immigration advice or help with any type of UK visa application, British citizenship application or sponsorship licence application, contact our team of immigration solicitors in London on 0203 959 7755 or fill in our enquiry form to get reliable & confidential advice and help you need.
We're authorised and regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA), so you know you're in safe hands.
Legal Disclaimer
The information provided is for general informational purposes only and should not be taken as legal advice. While we make every effort to ensure accuracy, the law may change, and the information may not reflect the most current legal developments. No warranty is given regarding the accuracy or completeness of the information, and we do not accept liability in such cases. We recommend consulting with a qualified lawyer at Moeen & Co. Solicitors before making any decisions based on the information provided on this website.
