Indefinite Leave to Remain is a form of settlement that allows an eligible person to live, work and study in the UK without a time limit. It is commonly referred to as ILR or settlement.

The qualifying period depends on the immigration route you are applying under. Some routes provide a five-year pathway to settlement, while the Long Residence route may require 10 years of qualifying lawful residence. Simply completing a particular period of residence does not automatically mean that you qualify for ILR. You must meet all the requirements applicable to your route.

Potentially, yes. Certain immigration routes provide a five-year route to settlement, provided you meet all the relevant requirements. Your immigration history, absences from the UK and the requirements of your particular settlement route should be carefully assessed before you apply.

Potentially, yes. The Long Residence route may allow eligible individuals who have completed 10 years of qualifying lawful residence in the UK to apply for settlement, subject to meeting the other requirements of the Immigration Rules. The rules surrounding qualifying residence can be complex, so your complete immigration history should be reviewed before making an application.

For many ILR routes, applicants must demonstrate knowledge of life in the UK by passing the Life in the UK Test, unless an exemption applies. The requirements and exemptions can depend on your circumstances and the settlement route you are applying under.

For many ILR routes, applicants must demonstrate knowledge of life in the UK by passing the Life in the UK Test, unless an exemption applies. The requirements and exemptions can depend on your circumstances and the settlement route you are applying under.

In many ILR applications, you will need to meet an English language requirement unless you qualify for an exemption. The level of English required and the evidence you can use may depend on your immigration route and circumstances.

Continuous residence relates to your qualifying period of residence in the UK and the time you have spent outside the UK. The rules regarding absences and continuous residence can vary depending on the settlement route. Your travel history should therefore be carefully reviewed before submitting an ILR application.

This depends on your family members’ individual immigration status and the route they have followed. Family members do not automatically qualify for ILR simply because you are applying for settlement. Each applicant must meet the requirements applicable to their own immigration route.

The earliest date you can apply depends on your settlement route and when you completed the required qualifying period. It is important to calculate your eligibility carefully, as applying before you are eligible may result in your application being refused.

Potentially, yes. Some settlement routes allow qualifying periods to include time spent under different types of immigration permission, while others have more specific requirements. Your complete immigration history should be reviewed to determine which periods may count towards your qualifying period.

The appropriate options will depend on the reasons for refusal and your individual circumstances. MYM Solicitors can review the Home Office decision, explain your available options and advise you on the appropriate next steps.

Yes. Our immigration solicitors can provide advice and assistance throughout the settlement process, including assessing your eligibility, reviewing your immigration history and supporting evidence, preparing your application and advising you on any potential issues.