Immigration law
Indefinite Leave to Remain
The day you no longer need a visa. We map every date between here and there.
The government has proposed longer 'earned settlement' qualifying periods, and says the changes may apply to people already here. As of October 2026 they are not yet in the Immigration Rules. Rules checked October 2026.
Is this you?
Who this is for
- You are reaching 5 years on a work or partner route
- You have 10 years' continuous lawful residence
- You hold a route that allows a shorter path, such as Innovator Founder
- You have absences, gaps or old refusals you are worried about
What the rules require
- Qualifying period
- Usually 5 years on most work and family routes, or 10 years' long residence.
- Absences
- On most routes, no more than 180 days outside the UK in any 12-month period.
- Life in the UK
- Pass the Life in the UK test, unless exempt.
- English
- B1 speaking and listening today. Due to rise to B2 for applications from 26 March 2027.
A summary, not legal advice. The Immigration Rules change often; we confirm what applies on your application date.
Free first step
10 minutes with a solicitor about your indefinite leave to remain matter.
Often goes with
Prepare
Your document checklist
Tick off what you already have. Bring the rest to mind before your consultation, and we'll tell you what really matters for your case.
0 of 8 ready
A general guide. Your solicitor confirms exactly what your case needs. Your ticks are saved on this device only.
The process
How it works
- 1Absence auditWe count every day outside the UK, period by period.
- 2Life in the UK testBooked and passed before you apply.
- 3Apply earlyUsually up to 28 days before you complete your qualifying period.
- 4BiometricsAttend your appointment.
- 5DecisionStandard applications are usually decided within 6 months.
Fixed.
How our fees work
After your free consultation we quote a fixed fee in writing, covering exactly what we will do. Home Office fees and the Immigration Health Surcharge are paid separately to the government, and we tell you the current amounts before you commit.
Free
Your first 10 minutes with a solicitor.
In writing
A fixed fee for the agreed work, before anything starts.
No surprises
Government fees quoted up front and paid to the Home Office.
FAQs
Indefinite Leave to Remain: your questions
Still unsure? A ten-minute call usually settles it.
Is ILR changing from 5 to 10 years?
It has been proposed but, as of October 2026, it is not in force. The government has said changes are planned and may apply to people already in the UK. If you are close to qualifying, it can make sense to apply as soon as you are eligible. We will advise on your dates.
I spent a long time abroad. Am I still eligible?
It depends on your route and when the absences happened. Most routes allow up to 180 days outside the UK in any 12-month period, with some exceptions for compelling reasons. This is exactly what our absence audit is for.
Do I need to pass an English test?
Usually, unless you are exempt by nationality, degree or age. The level is rising from B1 to B2 for applications made from 26 March 2027.
What happens after ILR?
Most people can apply for British citizenship 12 months after getting ILR, or straight away if married to a British citizen.