UK visa's explained: Indefinite leave to remain

Indefinite leave to remain (ILR) is how you settle in the UK. It is sometimes referred to as “settlement”. This gives individuals the right to live, work and study in the UK for as long as possible. You can use this to apply for British Citizenship.

The route to apply for indefinite leave to remain is different based on your circumstances.

If you or your family member are EU, EEA, or a Swiss citizen, you may be entitled to apply for settled status under the EU Settlement Scheme instead.

Am I eligible for indefinite leave to remain?

• You must have lived and worked in the UK for 5 years.
• You must meet the salary requirements
• You must be needed in your job and meet the salary requirements after you get ILR, you’ll need a document from your employer (sponsor) confirming this.

If you do not have a Skilled Worker or Health and Care Worker visa, there are other ways you can apply. You can view all of the options here.

How long does this visa last?

The visa lasts indefinitely, which means it doesn’t expire.

What is the cost of applying for indefinite leave to remain?

The fee for indefinite leave to remain is £2,389. You’ll need to pay £19.20 to have your fingerprints and photo (biometrics) taken. The decision usually takes around 6 months if applying using the standard service, you must not travel outside of the UK during this time.

You can pay an extra £500 for the priority service to get a decision within 5 working days.

You can pay an extra £800 for the super-priority service which means you’ll get a decision between 1-2 working days after providing your biometric information. Once you have got your decision, the biometric residence permit will take up to 10 working days to arrive.

How do you apply?

Apply via the GOV website

 At A&E Agency, we’re passionate about the quality of our people and proud of the services we provide. If you need information or guidance with your UK Visa Application, register today with A&E Agency. Our team are here to help international doctors find great work opportunities in the UK.  

Resources

GOV.UK. 2021. Indefinite leave to remain if you have a Skilled Worker, T2 or tier 2 visa. [online] Available at: <https://www.gov.uk/indefinite-leave-to-remain-tier-2-t2-skilled-worker-visa> [Accessed 28 October 2021].

GOV.UK. 2021. Indefinite leave to remain if you have family in the UK. [online] Available at: <https://www.gov.uk/indefinite-leave-to-remain-family/partner-dependant-work-visa> [Accessed 28 October 2021].