A Step-by-Step Guide to Applying for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) in the UK
Overview:
Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR), often known as Permanent Residency or a Settlement visa, allows those who have resided in the UK lawfully for a certain period of time to remain there.
Many times, obtaining ILR comes last in the process of applying for British citizenship. Using a range of resources, this workshop provides a comprehensive, step-by-step process to help you navigate the ILR application effectively.
Steps to Applying for Indefinite Leave to Remain
Step 1: Determine Your Eligibility
Step 2: Gather Required Documents
Step 3: Complete the Online Application Form
Step 4: Pay the Application Fee
Step 5: Book and Attend a Biometric Appointment
Step 6: Submit Supporting Documents
Step 7: Await a Decision
Step 8: Receive the Decision
Step 1: Determine Your Eligibility
To begin the ILR application, it is vital to verify eligibility by confirming that you meet both the general and visa-specific requirements, ensuring compliance with the continuous residence requirement and allowable absences, and meeting all the standard ILR application requirements. Eligibility criteria depend on the specific UK visa held.
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Step 2: Gather Required Documents
An employer letter, proof of work and financial stability, a passport, a Biometric Residence Permit (BRP), English language competency, To apply for an ILR, you must provide proof of a continuing relationship, proof of habitation, travel outside the UK, a marriage certificate, your children's birth certificates, information regarding previous immigration applications and crimes, and the Life in the UK Test Pass Notification. These documents are necessary for a successful and seamless application process in the UK. Additionally, you must provide proof of your employment, residence, and housing.
Step 3: Complete the Online Application Form
Create an online account on the UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) website, or sign in if you already have one, to apply for an ILR.
Visit the Gov.UK website and fill out the appropriate ILR application form. Common types include SET (O), LR (LR), and M (SET). Provide details like name, date of birth, nationality, current visa status, address history, work history, criminal convictions, and trips outside the UK. The UK government website provides guidance on completing the online application.
Read Complete Guide: What One Must Know About Permanent Residence Status In The UK
Step 4: Pay the Application Fee
Before completing the payment sections of the ILR application, it is imperative to verify the current cost on the UKVI website since it is subject to change.
As of 2023, the ILR charge is £2,885 and is the same for primary applicants and dependent family members. Online payments are made with debit or credit cards.
Step 5: Book and Attend a Biometric Appointment
Once the ILR application is submitted, schedule a biometric appointment at a UKVCAS centre to provide biometric information. You can choose the date and time for the appointment. To ensure a hassle-free experience, upload all the documents before the biometric appointment, and remember to bring the appointment confirmation and all required documents when you attend.
Step 6: Submit Supporting Documents
You must provide scanned copies of your supporting documentation via the UKVCAS site when filing your ILR application. It is essential to make sure that each document is clear, legible, and appropriately labeled. The documents should have clear labels and be easy to read in order to avoid processing delays.
Step 7: Await a Decision
After your ILR application is submitted, the UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) will review it. During this review, you may be contacted to provide additional information. Additionally, the UKVI may invite you to an interview if they require more details about you or your application. You can typically expect an official decision on your ILR application within six months. However, this processing time can vary.
Step 8: Receive the Decision
A decision letter will be sent to you via email or postal mail after the UKVI has reviewed your ILR application. First, an email confirming the choice will be sent to you. The Biometric Residence Permit (BRP), which verifies that ILR has been granted, will be issued to you if your application is accepted.
Additional Tips for a Successful Application
Seeking legal advice from immigration experts to ensure a complete and accurate application; providing complete and genuine evidence; maintaining a detailed travel log documenting all trips outside the UK with dates and reasons to demonstrate continuous residence compliance; double-checking the application form for accuracy and truthfulness to avoid errors; and understanding and adhering to all visa conditions are all essential steps to increase the likelihood that an ILR application will be successful.
By following these steps and ensuring meticulous preparation, you can navigate the ILR application process effectively.
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