What is Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR)
Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) allows you to settle in the UK, providing freedom from immigration restrictions and a step towards British citizenship. Indefinite Leave to Remain is also referred to as Permanent residence (PR). Whether you qualify under the 3-Year ILR, 5-Year ILR, or 10-Year ILR route, Conroy Baker Ltd ensures a smooth and hassle-free application process tailored to your circumstances.
- ILR is a crucial milestone in your UK immigration journey.
- It offers long-term stability and security.
- It is a highly sought-after status for those wishing to establish a permanent presence in the UK.
Indefinite Leave to Remain is also referred to as Permanent residence (PR).
3-Year ILR Route – Accelerated pathway to ILR
A “3-year ILR route” typically refers to an immigration pathway where someone can apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) in the UK after residing there for just 3 years, which is usually only possible through specific visa categories including:
- Global Talent visa
- Innovator Founder visa
- Certain Tier 1 visa categories (such as Investor or Entrepreneur visas under legacy rules)
Key Eligibility Criteria
A “3-year ILR route” typically refers to an immigration pathway where someone can apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) in the UK after residing there for just 3 years, which is usually only possible through specific visa categories including:
- Global Talent visa
- Innovator Founder visa
- Certain Tier 1 visa categories (such as Investor or Entrepreneur visas under legacy rules)
Benefits of the 3-Year ILR Route
5-Year ILR Route
The majority of ILR applications are through routes that require 5 years with lawful status and residence, visa categories include:
- Skilled Worker visa holders
- Spouse or Partner visa holders
- Ancestry visa holders
- Certain other work and family routes
Key Eligibility Criteria
- Continuous residence in the UK for 5 years under an eligible visa
- Proof of employment and salary threshold (if applicable)
- No serious criminal convictions or immigration breaches
- Completion of the Life in the UK test and English language requirement
Benefits of the 5-Year ILR Route
10-Year Long Residence ILR Route
The 10-year ILR pathway is designed for individuals who have legally lived in the UK for a decade, regardless of visa type.
Key Eligibility Criteria
- Continuous and lawful residence in the UK for 10 years
- No gaps in lawful status exceeding 180 days at a time
- Good character requirements (no serious criminal convictions or immigration violations)
- Life in the UK and English language test
Benefits of the 10-Year ILR Route
Discretionary Leave- ILR for Victims of Domestic Violence
If you are in the UK on a Spouse or Partner visa and have experienced domestic violence, you may be eligible to apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) independently. The UK government recognizes that victims should not remain dependent on an abusive partner to maintain their immigration status.
Key Eligibility Criteria
- You were last granted leave as the spouse, civil partner, unmarried, or same-sex partner of a British citizen or someone settled in the UK.
- You have experienced domestic abuse that led to the breakdown of your relationship.
- You can provide evidence of domestic violence, such as police reports, medical records, court orders, or support from domestic abuse organizations.
- You are no longer in a relationship with your sponsor due to the abuse.
How to Apply
- Complete the SET (DV) application form and submit the required supporting documents.
- You do not need to meet financial or English language requirements.
- You may be eligible for a Destitution Domestic Violence (DDV) Concession, allowing you to access public funds while your ILR application is processed.
How We Help
- Confidential & Compassionate Support – We handle your case with sensitivity and discretion.
- Strong Evidence Compilation – Assistance in gathering police reports, medical records, or legal documentation.
- Urgent Processing – We help fast-track applications where necessary.
- Legal Representation – If your case is complex, we work with legal professionals to ensure the best possible outcome.
ILR if Your Spouse or Civil Partner Has Passed Away
If you are in the UK on a Spouse or Partner visa and your partner has passed away, you may be eligible for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) under the bereaved partner route. This ensures that individuals who have built their lives in the UK with their spouse are not forced to leave due to their partner’s passing.
Key Eligibility Criteria
- You were in the UK as the spouse, civil partner, or unmarried partner of a British citizen or someone settled in the UK.
- You were in a genuine and subsisting relationship at the time of your partner’s death.
- You are already living in the UK under a valid Spouse or Partner visa.
- There is no requirement to meet financial or residency thresholds.
How to Apply
- Submit the SET (O) application form with supporting documents.
- Provide proof of your partner’s passing (such as a death certificate).
- You do not need to meet English language or financial requirements.
How We Help
- Compassionate Support – We handle your case with care and understanding.
- Application Preparation – We assist in compiling the correct documents to avoid delays.
- Guidance on Next Steps – We help you understand the pathway to ILR and British citizenship.
ILR Application Fee
- The ILR application fee is £2,885.
- Additional costs for priority processing (£500 for 5-day processing) or super priority processing (£1000 for 24-hour processing).
- A fee of £19.20 is required to register biometric information.
What Happens If Your ILR Application Is Refused?
An ILR refusal can be disheartening, but it doesn’t mean the end of your settlement journey. If your application is denied, you may have options, such as:
Administrative Review
If your refusal was due to a caseworker error, you can request a review of the decision.
Appeal Process
In cases where you have grounds for appeal (such as human rights claims), we help you build a strong case.
Reapplying
If your application was rejected due to insufficient evidence, we assist you in strengthening your case and reapplying.
Judicial Review
If you believe your application was unfairly rejected, we can help explore a legal challenge.
Our Support for ILR Refusals
- Detailed Case Review – We assess the reasons for refusal and recommend the best course of action.
- Error Identification – Ensuring UKVI did not misinterpret your case.
- Comprehensive Appeal Support – Building a strong appeal or reapplication strategy.
- Expert Legal Representation – If needed, we work with legal experts to defend your case.
Risks of a DIY ILR Application
Applying for ILR without professional support may seem cost-effective, but it comes with significant risks that could lead to delays, refusals, or even jeopardizing your immigration status.
- Incorrect Documentation – Missing or incorrect documents can lead to outright rejection.
- Application Errors – Small mistakes in form-filling or legal interpretations can cause refusals.
- Gaps in Residency – Unawareness of residency calculation rules may impact eligibility.
- Missed Deadlines – Failing to submit the application on time can mean loss of status.
- Legal Complexities – Not understanding the nuances of immigration law can result in costly reapplications.
Why Work with Conroy Baker Ltd?
- Expert Guidance – Trusted advisors with years of experience in UK immigration
- Tailored Support – Custom solutions based on your unique circumstances
- End-to-End Assistance – From eligibility checks to application submission
- Success-Driven Approach – High approval rates and client satisfaction
- Legal Compliance – Ensuring full adherence to UKVI regulations