What One Must Know About Permanent Residence Status In The UK?
A Complete Guide
by UK Immigration Expert in India
Published on: 17th Nov 2022
Reading time: Approx 8 mins
Every year, people from all over the world migrate to the UK hoping to find a dream career, pursue a potential business opportunity, or just because they want to take a vacation. The UK offers an environment where anyone can maximise their potential and experience a vibrant lifestyle, with a melting pot of numerous cultures. Britain is currently one of the most sought-after locations for those looking for a better life, the country even ranks 10th on the list of most-visited nations worldwide.
If you are in the UK, with a desire to achieve Permanent Residence Status, here’s what you need to know about it. The process usually involves a lengthy wait—an average of 5 years. Let’s understand more about the requirements, eligibility criteria, and application process.
“Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) = Permanent Residence in the UK”
- First off, the UK does not make use of the term ‘Permanent Residence’.
- As per the UK immigration laws, Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) Status is similar to Permanent Residency.
- ILR offers foreign nationals an immigration status that allows them to live, study, and work in the UK without any time restrictions or other limitations.
Who may apply for an ILR?
ILR based on a work visa
- Tier 2, T2, International Sportsperson or Skilled Worker visa
- Scale-up Worker visa
- Global Talent visa
- Tier 1 Entrepreneur
- Investor visa
- Innovator visa
- Representative of an overseas business
- Turkish Worker or Businessperson visa
- Private servant in a diplomatic household with an International Agreement visa, or a domestic worker
UK Visa consultants in Delhi explain getting an ILR after Tier 2
ILR based on family
It may be possible to be eligible for UK ILR on the basis of a family relationship with someone who is either a British citizen or has UK-settled status. Eligible routes include
- Spouse visa (partner visa)
- Parent visa
- Child dependent visa
- Adult dependent relative visa
- Private life route
- If your partner is deceased
- If your relationship has ended due to domestic violence
ILR based on nationality
Ancestry visa holders can become eligible for ILR after 5 years in the UK.
Commonwealth citizens with the Right of Abode in the UK are able to live and work in the UK free from immigration restrictions and may be eligible for citizenship.