How We Can Help?
We provide tailored support for ILR applications under family, long residence, and refugee routes. We assess your eligibility, review your immigration history, and ensure all required evidence is submitted accurately.
We guide you through the Life in the UK and English language requirements, help calculate absence limits, and prepare legal representations to strengthen your application.
Whether you are applying through family, long residence, refugee status, or ADR, we help maximise your chances of a successful outcome while reducing the risk of delays or refusals.
Visa Overview
Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) is a form of permanent residence in the UK. It allows individuals to live, work, and study in the UK without immigration restrictions and provides a pathway to British citizenship. Gaining ILR is a major milestone for migrants who have lived legally in the UK under eligible visa routes and now wish to settle permanently.
Who Can Apply?
You may be eligible for ILR if you have completed the required period of residence in the UK under a qualifying visa route, including: Work and business routes Spouse/Partner Visa (5 years under the 5-year route, longer under the 10-year route) Ancestry Visa (5 years) Long Residence Route (10 years continuous lawful residence) Global Business Mobility categories (if eligible through long residence) Refugee or humanitarian protection (5 years) Different categories have different requirements, but all require evidence of continuous residence and compliance with immigration rules.
How Long Does ILR Last?
ILR does not expire but can be lost if:
You leave the UK for more than 2 years (or as specified by your route).
You commit a serious criminal offence.
Your ILR was obtained through deception.
If ILR is lost due to absence, you may need to apply for Returning Resident status.
Common Reasons for ILR Refusals
- Exceeding absence limits. Incorrect or missing financial evidence (for family routes).
- Failure to meet English language or Life in the UK Test requirements. Gaps in lawful residence. Previous immigration breaches. Insufficient evidence of relationship (for spouse/partner routes). A well-prepared application significantly reduces the risk of refusal.
Eligibility Requirements
Applicants must meet specific criteria set by immigration authorities to qualify for their chosen visa route. Meeting eligibility early helps avoid delays and refusals.
- Continuous Residence
- Knowledge of English
- Financial Requirements
- Settled in UK
- Good Character Requirement
- Complying With Visa Conditions
Frequently Asked Question
Below you will find the most frequently asked queries with clear answers to help you understand eligibility, documentation requirements, processing timelines, and how NFTech Legal supports you through every stage of the application.
How long does it take to process an ILR application?
Processing times vary depending on the route and application type, but most ILR applications are decided within 6 months. Priority services may be available in some cases.
What is the Life in the UK Test?
The Life in the UK Test assesses your knowledge of British history, culture, and government. Most applicants must pass this test before ILR is granted. Exemptions exist for certain age groups or individuals with disabilities.
Can I travel while my ILR application is pending?
It is advisable to stay in the UK until a decision is made. Leaving the UK during processing may affect your application if it impacts continuity of residence.
When can I apply for British citizenship after ILR?
Most applicants can apply for British citizenship 12 months after obtaining ILR, provided all other requirements are met (residence, good character, English language).
Can children be included in an ILR application?
Yes. Dependent children under 18 can be included with their parents if they meet the eligibility requirements and have lived in the UK for the qualifying period.
Can I apply for ILR if I’ve had a previous visa refusal?
Yes. A previous refusal does not automatically prevent you from applying for ILR.
Do I need to provide police certificates?
In some cases, the Home Office may request criminal record certificates, particularly if you have spent significant time outside the UK during the qualifying period. Otherwise, good character is usually evidenced through police checks in the UK and disclosure of any convictions.
4 Step Follow You Can Get
Your Visa Easily
1
Choose A Service
Select the visa service that matches your needs.
Documents and Payments
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2
3
Request A Meeting
Book a consultation with our immigration experts.
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Get your visa approved with fast and reliable support.
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