What is Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) in the UK?
Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) is a type of visa status granted in the UK which allows non-UK nationals or citizens to live and work in the UK for an indefinite period of time. It can be obtained by applying for visa and the application needs to be approved by UK Visas and Immigration. Depending on the individual’s case, it can be granted for a fixed or a renewable period of time.
Who is eligible and who is not eligible?
In order to be eligible for Indefinite leave to Remain in the UK, the applicant must fulfil specific criteria. The criteria depend on the individual’s background and include the following:
• The applicant must have been granted a visa and must have a valid immigration status
• The applicant must have a minimum of 6 years lawful residence in the UK
• The applicant must have passed the Life in the UK test
• The applicant must have successfully completed the English language requirements
• The applicant must be able to satisfy the UK Visas and Immigration about their ability to financially support themselves and any dependants
• The applicant must have a good history of obedience to the laws and regulations of the UK
Non-UK nationals with any form of criminal convictions or individuals who have not been living in the UK lawfully are not eligible for Indefinite leave to remain in the UK.
What are the Benefits of Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) in the UK?
Those who are granted Indefinite Leave to Remain in the UK will benefit from a number of advantages. These advantages include the following:
• The applicants will no longer need to apply for visa extensions to stay in the UK
• They can work and study in the UK for an indefinite period of time
• They can apply for British citizenship after a period of 12 months
• They can access all public services
• They can travel in and out of the UK without any restrictions
• They are eligible for loans and grants available for higher education
• They have the right to vote in local and general elections
How to apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) in the UK?
The following steps need to be taken in order to apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) in the UK:
• Be aware of and understand the eligibility criteria for the visa
• Gather all the necessary documents such as passports, certificates and other supporting documents
• Complete the application form and pay the applicable fee
• Submit the application
• Attend the appointment with the Home Office if needed
• Provide fingerprints and a photograph
• Wait for the outcome of the application
What to expect after the application is submitted?
The applicants can expect that the decision regarding the application will be made within 8 weeks from the day that the application was submitted. The applicants will receive the decision in an email or a letter. If the application is approved, the applicants will receive an invitation letter from the Home Office which will include instructions regarding the pickup of any visas granted.
FAQs
Q1. What is a valid immigration status for grant of Indefinite Leave to Remain in the UK?
A1. A valid immigration status is a visa granted by UK Visas and Immigration or any other visa that entitles the applicant to live and work in the UK for a certain period of time.
Q2. Can Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) in the UK be granted to those with criminal convictions?
A2. No, those with criminal convictions are not eligible for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) in the UK.
Q3. How long does the process of application for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) in the UK take?
A3. The process of application for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) in the UK takes approximately 8 weeks from the date the application is submitted.
Conclusion
Indefinite leave to remain (ILR) in the UK is a type of visa status that allows non-UK nationals or citizens to live and work in the UK for an indefinite period of time. This status can be obtained by applying for a visa and the application needs to be approved by UK Visas and Immigration. The process of application can take up to 8 weeks and those who are granted ILR in the UK will benefit from a number of advantages.
