Long Residence ILR (Indefinite Leave to Remain)

The Long Residence route offers indefinite leave to remain in the UK for individuals who have continuously and lawfully lived in the United Kingdom for 10 years or more.

Eligibility Requirements for ILR based on 10 Years Long Residence

To qualify for indefinite leave to remain based on 10 years of long residence, you must demonstrate to UK Visas and Immigration that:

• You are physically present in the UK at the time of application.

• You have accumulated a qualifying period of 10 years of lawful residence in the UK, during which:

  • You had permission to stay, excluding Visitor, Short-term Student (English language), or Seasonal Worker permissions; or

  • You were exempt from immigration control; or

  • You were in the UK as an EEA national or family member, exercising free movement rights before 31 December 2020 (and until 30 June 2021 or the final determination of an application under Appendix EU by that date).

• If your current permission was granted on or after 11 April 2024, you have held permission in your current immigration category for at least 12 months at the time of application, or have been exempt from immigration control in the 12 months immediately preceding your application.

• You have maintained a continuous and unbroken period of 10 years of residence in the UK.

• You can demonstrate English language proficiency at CEFR Level B1, unless exempted.

• You have passed the Life in the UK test, unless exempted.

• You are not in the UK in breach of immigration laws or on immigration bail.

• Your application does not fall under the general grounds for refusal.

Additional Information

Once granted indefinite leave to remain:

• You can live in the UK indefinitely without any time restrictions.

• Continuous residence means you must have been physically present in the UK throughout the entire 10-year period.

• Consultation with an immigration lawyer is recommended for personalized guidance on meeting specific requirements and exemptions.

For tailored advice, especially considering individual circumstances, consulting with an immigration lawyer is advisable.