ILR Application – A Complete Guide to Indefinite Leave to Remain (UK 2025–2026)

Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) is the UK’s version of permanent residency, allowing you to live and work in the UK without immigration restrictions. It is often the final step before applying for British citizenship and is essential for those looking to make the UK their long-term home. This guide covers everything you need to know about the ILR application process in 2025–2026, including eligibility, documents, fees, and how to apply.

What Is ILR (Indefinite Leave to Remain)?

ILR grants you permanent settlement status in the UK, allowing you to:

• Live in the UK without time restrictions
• Work or run a business freely
• Access public services and benefits
• Apply for British citizenship after 12 months (if eligible)
• Leave and return to the UK freely without a visa

Who Can Apply for ILR? (Eligibility Criteria)

You may be eligible to apply for ILR if you have legally lived in the UK for a certain period under one of the following visa categories:

• Skilled Worker (after 5 years)
• Spouse/Partner of a British citizen or settled person (after 5 years)
• Innovator/Start-Up/Entrepreneur visa holders
• Tier 1 (Investor, Entrepreneur – legacy routes)
• Long Residence Route (10 years continuous legal stay in any category)
• Ancestry visa
• UK Refugee or Humanitarian Protection (after 5 years)

You must also:

• Have no breaches of immigration laws
• Prove continuous residence and lawful stay
• Meet the English language requirement (B1 or higher)
• Pass the Life in the UK Test
• Provide biometric information and pay the correct fee

ILR Requirements – Documents Checklist

• Valid passport and biometric residence permit (BRP)
• Evidence of continuous lawful stay (payslips, tenancy agreements, utility bills)
• Proof of English language ability (IELTS, degree taught in English, etc.)
• Life in the UK Test pass certificate
• 5 years of P60s and employment history (Skilled Worker route)
• Absence records (no more than 180 days outside the UK per year)
• Relationship evidence (for Spouse/Partner visa route)
• Proof of income/financial support (if required)
• Criminal record disclosure (if applicable)

ILR Application Fees (2025)

ILR Conditions and Responsibilities

• You must not spend more than 2 consecutive years outside the UK or risk losing ILR status
• ILR can be revoked for criminal activity, fraud, or security concerns
• You must update UKVI if your personal details change (address, passport, etc.)

Pathway to British Citizenship

After holding ILR for 12 months, you may be eligible to apply for British naturalisation if you meet the following:

• Continued lawful residence
• Absences from the UK within limits
• Good character requirement
• English and Life in the UK compliance

Common Reasons for ILR Refusal

• Excessive absences from the UK
• Gaps in lawful residence
• Incomplete or incorrect documentation
• Failing Life in the UK or English test
• Criminal record or pending legal issues

How Brightlink Can Help You Apply for ILR

At Brightlink Immigration Support, we guide you through the entire ILR process—from document preparation and eligibility checks to submitting your application and booking your biometric appointment. Our immigration specialists ensure every detail is accurate and complete to improve your success rate.

Ready to Apply for ILR in the UK?

Contact Brightlink today for a eligibility check and step-by-step support through your Indefinite Leave to Remain journey.