What Is Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR)?
Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR), also known as settlement or permanent residency, is the immigration status that allows you to live and work in the UK permanently without any restrictions. It's a major milestone on the path to British citizenship.
Note: This article provides general information about ILR requirements. Immigration rules change frequently — always check the latest Home Office guidance or consult an immigration adviser for advice specific to your situation.
Who Is Eligible for ILR?
Eligibility depends on your current immigration route. Common routes include:
- Skilled Worker visa — typically after 5 years
- Spouse/Partner visa — typically after 5 years
- Student visa — may lead to ILR through other routes
- Long residence — 10 years continuous lawful residence
General ILR Requirements
Most ILR routes require you to meet these criteria:
- Continuous residence — usually 5 years in the UK (or 10 years for long residence)
- No more than 180 days outside the UK in any 12-month period (for most routes)
- Pass the Life in the UK Test — see our guide
- English language requirement — B1 level or above
- Meet the financial requirement — if applicable to your route
- Good character — no serious criminal record
- No immigration breaches
The Life in the UK Test for ILR
Passing the Life in the UK Test is a mandatory requirement for ILR. The test:
- Has 24 multiple choice questions
- Lasts 45 minutes
- Requires a 75% pass mark (18/24)
- Covers British history, culture, government, and daily life
Prepare with our free practice tests and check the test overview for full details.
ILR Timeline
Here's a typical timeline for a Skilled Worker visa holder:
- Years 1-5: Hold Skilled Worker visa, renewing as needed
- Year 4-5: Begin preparing ILR application
- Before applying: Pass the Life in the UK Test and English test
- Submit application: Up to 28 days before your 5-year qualifying period ends
- Decision: Usually within 6 months (or priority processing available)
Documents You'll Need
Common documents for an ILR application include:
- Valid passport and/or BRP
- Proof of continuous residence (payslips, bank statements, utility bills)
- Life in the UK Test pass certificate
- English language test certificate
- Employment evidence (if applicable)
- Accommodation evidence
- Life insurance or pension evidence
For a detailed document checklist, see our guide to ILR documents.
ILR Processing Time
Standard processing takes up to 6 months. You may be able to pay for priority processing (usually 5 working days) or super-priority (next working day), depending on the service centre.
For more on timelines, see our ILR timeline guide.
What Happens After ILR?
Once you have ILR, you can:
- Live and work in the UK permanently
- Use the NHS without restriction
- Apply for public funds (benefits)
- Apply for British citizenship after 12 months of holding ILR
Important: ILR can be lost if you leave the UK for more than 2 consecutive years.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not counting absence days correctly
- Forgetting to pass the Life in the UK Test before applying
- Missing documents or providing incomplete evidence
- Applying too early or too late
- Not keeping copies of all supporting documents
Start preparing for the Life in the UK Test early with our free practice exams.