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Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR)

Achieve permanent residence in the UK. Expert ILR guidance from OISC-registered advisors with a 98% success rate.

Processing
6 months
Duration
Indefinite
OGS Rate
98%

Visa Overview

Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) is the UK's permanent residence status, allowing you to live, work and study in the UK indefinitely without any immigration time restrictions. ILR is a significant milestone on the path to British Citizenship.

Eligibility depends on your current visa route and requires you to meet continuous residence requirements, pass the Life in the UK Test, and demonstrate good character. Our OISC advisors have guided hundreds of clients through successful ILR applications across all routes.

Eligibility Requirements

Qualifying Period (usually 5 years)

Most routes require 5 years of continuous lawful residence in the UK. Some routes (e.g. Innovator Founder) allow 3 years.

Continuous Residence

Must not have been absent from the UK for more than 180 days in any 12-month period during qualifying period.

Life in the UK Test

Must pass the official Life in the UK Test before applying (unless exempt due to age or disability).

English Language Requirement

Must demonstrate English at B1 CEFR level (not required if from majority English-speaking country or aged 65+).

Good Character

No serious criminal convictions, deception in immigration applications, or outstanding debts to NHS.

Current Leave to Remain

Must be in the UK lawfully at the time of application — typically must apply while current leave is valid.

Required Documents

Valid Passport & Previous Passports

All passports held during the qualifying 5-year period.

Biometric Residence Permits (BRPs)

All BRPs issued during your time in the UK.

Life in the UK Test Pass Certificate

Official pass certificate from an approved test centre.

English Language Evidence

B1-level test certificate or proof of exempt qualification.

Employer Letter & Payslips

Evidence of employment throughout qualifying period.

Tax Returns / SA302

For self-employed applicants covering the qualifying period.

Travel History

Details of all absences from the UK during the qualifying period.

Key Benefits

Live and work in the UK indefinitely
No requirement to renew leave or extend visa
Pathway to British Citizenship after 12 months
Sponsor family members to join you in the UK
Access to all public funds and benefits
Peace of mind and long-term security

Frequently Asked Questions

A test of knowledge about British history, culture and law. You must score 75% or above (18 out of 24 questions) to pass. We can recommend approved study materials.

Each day you spend outside the UK counts as an absence. You must not exceed 180 days absence in any rolling 12-month period during your qualifying 5 years.

Yes — ILR allows unrestricted travel. However, if you remain outside the UK for more than 2 consecutive years, your ILR may lapse. A Returning Resident Visa may be needed.

You can apply for British Citizenship (naturalisation) 12 months after being granted ILR, provided you meet all other eligibility criteria.
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