Indefinite Leave to Remain a Journey to Settlement in the UK

Indefinite Leave to Remain a Journey to Settlement in the UK

Victoria
Victoria

4 Mins Read

Indefinite Leave to Remain is a type of immigrant status which provides an opportunity to the individuals to live and work in the United Kingdom. ILR is the most important one you can achieve as it provides you a sense of authority and security in the foreign country.

People with IRL are directly permitted to pursue education and employment in the UK without any immigration regulations or restrictions. Moreover, people can also access public finances and services and apply for British citizenship by providing the documents required for the process.

The mandatory thing to achieve for ILR is to clear the Life in UK test, in which they have to go through several proficiency tests to approve their permit.

Requirements for ILR

To apply for ILR there are certain requirements that you will have to meet.  With the requirements, your eligibility will also be accomplished. Let’s look into requirements for Indefinite leave to remain.

  • You must be living for a prolonged period in the UK.
  • You are of good character.
  • You have cleared the Life in UK test with the required score.
  • Validate your comprehension of the English Language B1, B2, C1 or C2 levels.
  • You must not spend a minimum of 180 days away from the UK in the year of the requisite period.
  • You need to have held a relevant visa during your stay in the UK.

You must be aware of the fact that there are different types of visas like spouse visas, skilled worker visas, family visas etc. The duration requirement for ILR varies according to the type of visa you possess. Most ILR applications ask you to remain in the UK for an ongoing duration of 5 years.

However, the Global Talent Visa and Innovator Founder Visa allow candidates to apply for ILR after 3 years. The sooner you meet the ILR standards, you can apply for residency in the UK. Once your application gets approved then you will get the permit to live and work in the UK without a visa indefinitely.

You can also request to become a British citizen after possessing ILR for a year.

Life in the UK Test for Indefinite Leave to Remain

The Life in the UK test is a test designed for people to check their understanding of British culture, history and law. It is a vital condition without which it will become difficult to get ILR. Here is some information that will make it easier for you to know about the test.

  • Content: The content of the test covers a variety of subjects like British history, government, constitutionality, democratic society and culture. In the test, certain questions will be asked regarding significant historical events, iconic landmarks, prominent individuals in British history and the organization of British law.
  •  Format: The test is usually computerized with a set of multiple-choice questions. You will be given a restricted period to complete the test. It will take 45 minutes to an hour to complete the test.
  • Passing Score: To pass the exam you must be correct in your choice of answers. The passing percent is usually 75 however it varies significantly.
  • Language Requirement: As the test will be administered in English, you must be fluent in the language so that you can comprehend and answer the questions correctly.
  • Retakes: If you fail the test, you can retake it after a specific amount of time, typically a few weeks or even days. But you must pay the examination fee whenever you retake the test.

How to Apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain ILR

To apply for ILR you must fit in the requirements that are mentioned above after completing the requirements you can apply for ILR. Follow the below-mentioned steps to know how to apply for ILR:

  • Fill out the online application form and pay the ILR application charges.
  • Pay the biometric residence permit (BRP) cost.
  • Make a reservation at your closest UK Visa and Citizenship Application Services (UKVCAS) center to deliver your biometric information there for approval.
  • Submit the documented evidence requested by the UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI).
  • You can submit your Indefinite leave to remain credentials online or provide them at your UKVCAS session.
  • You may be called for your interview by UKVI if there is any need for additional information.

Documents Required for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR)

Documents will be required for any application, similarly, to submit an application for ILR you need to submit the documents. The following list contains the Indefinite Leave to Remain credentials that are anticipated to be requested by UK Visas and Immigration:

  • Any passport or travel record that you owned throughout your stay in the United Kingdom.
  • Please include all the birth or adoption certificates for anyone dependent on your application.
  • Proof of your income must be added in the form of salary slips or bank statements because it will prove your financial status.
  • A police identification document if you have encountered any criminal affair or if any case is filed against you.
  • The certificate you received after clearing the Life in UK test, in addition, you must submit evidence of a qualifying English language certificate (if needed).
  • Documentation of any excursions from the UK.
  • Two coloured passport-sized photographs of the applicant with his/her complete name written on the back of the photo.

FAQs

How much time is occupied during ILR?

This mainly depends on the type of visa you possess as individuals can apply for ILR after ten or five years of residence in the UK.

Do I have to renew my ILR?

No, there is no expiration of ILR. People with ILR may need to apply for a Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) if their current one expires or becomes misplaced.

Can I sponsor family members for the ILR?

Yes, individuals with ILR may be able to sponsor particular relatives to reside with them in the UK indefinitely, based on their immigration status and connection to the sponsorship.