Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR), also known as settlement, is permanent residency status in the UK. Once granted, you can live and work in the UK without any time restrictions or immigration control. You’ll receive a Biometric Residence Permit as proof of your settled status, and you can apply for British citizenship after holding ILR for 12 months.
ILR represents freedom from visa renewals, immigration fees, and the uncertainty of temporary status. You gain access to public funds, can start your own business without restrictions, and have the same employment rights as British citizens. ILR does not expire, though if you spend more than 2 years continuously outside the UK, you may lose your status.
ILR is available through several routes:
One of the most critical ILR requirements is continuous residence. You must have been physically present in the UK for the full qualifying period (5 or 10 years) without breaking residence through excessive absences.
The 180-Day Rule: You must not be absent from the UK for more than 180 days in any rolling 12-month period during your qualifying period.
Exceeding 180 days in any 12-month period can break continuous residence, forcing you to restart your qualifying period. There are limited exceptions for exceptional circumstances (serious illness, compelling compassionate circumstances) that must be evidenced.
You must prove English ability at B1 level (intermediate). This can be through an approved SELT test, a degree taught in English, or exemption by nationality.
Exemptions: Over 65, nationals of majority English-speaking countries, or passed test for previous visa.
A 45-minute test on British history, culture, and traditions. You need 75% (18/24 questions) to pass. Book at an official test center.
Study materials: Official handbook “Life in the United Kingdom: A Guide for New Residents” (£13).
ILR (Indefinite Leave to Remain) is permanent residency—you can live and work in the UK without time restrictions, but you remain a citizen of your home country. British citizenship grants you a UK passport, voting rights, and the ability to live outside the UK for extended periods without losing status.
Most routes require 5 years of continuous residence (Skilled Worker, Spouse, etc.). The 10-year Long Residence route is available for those who have lived lawfully in the UK for 10 continuous years. Some routes like Global Talent offer ILR after 3 years.
You must not be absent from the UK for more than 180 days in any rolling 12-month period during your qualifying residence. Exceeding this limit can break continuous residence and delay your ILR application. Use our absence calculator below to check your eligibility.
Yes. All ILR applicants (except children under 18 and those over 65) must pass the Life in the UK Test. The test covers British traditions, history, and culture. You also need English language at CEFR Level B1 or above.
Yes, but you should not travel if you applied for ILR using the premium same-day service. If you applied by post, you can travel using your current visa, but ensure you have your documents with you in case of delays.
You have the right to an administrative review if you believe there was a caseworker error. If the refusal is valid, you may need to reapply or appeal. We can review your refusal notice and advise on the best course of action.
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