1.2.1 Requirements for settlement (ILR)

Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR), also known as settlement, gives you the right to live, work, and study in the UK for as long as you like. To apply for ILR, you normally need to have lived in the UK for a continuous period of five years on a qualifying visa. You must also meet English language requirements.

To qualify for ILR, applicants must pass the Life in the UK test, which demonstrates knowledge of British life, history, and values. You must also show that you have not spent too much time outside the UK during your qualifying period and that you have no serious criminal convictions. There is a fee for the ILR application.

Once you have ILR, you can live in the UK without any time limit on your stay. However, if you leave the UK for more than two consecutive years, you may lose your ILR status. ILR is also the first step towards becoming a British citizen, which you can apply for after holding ILR for at least 12 months.