Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR)

Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) – Settle Permanently in the UK

Secure your permanent future in the UK. Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR), also called settlement, gives you the right to live in the UK without time limits. At Atwal Law, we know how much ILR means to families and individuals – it’s not just a status, it’s security, freedom, and peace of mind.

What is ILR?

ILR is permanent residency. Once granted, you can live, work, and study in the UK without restriction, access public services, and eventually apply for British citizenship. ILR is usually the goal after spending a qualifying period on a visa such as a spouse visa (5 years), a work visa (5 years), or the 10-year long residence route.

ILR Eligibility Criteria

5 years of lawful residence on a qualifying visa route (e.g. 5 years on spouse visa).
Relationship requirement: still in a genuine partnership if applying as a spouse.
Financial requirement: continue to meet the minimum income threshold relevant to your route.
English & Life in the UK: pass the Life in the UK Test and show B1 English level ability (unless exempt).
Good character: no serious criminal convictions or immigration breaches.

Benefits of ILR

Permanent residence: no more visa renewals or expiry worries.
Freedom to work: any job, any employer, or self-employment with no restrictions.
Access to public funds: the “no recourse to public funds” condition is lifted, meaning you can claim benefits if eligible.
Path to British citizenship: after 12 months with ILR, you can usually apply to naturalise. If married to a British citizen, you may apply immediately after ILR if you have lived in the UK for at least 3 years.
Family stability: your children and dependants can also gain security and status.

How Atwal Law Supports You

Eligibility review – we confirm when you qualify for ILR and identify any issues (e.g. absences).
Preparation – guidance on tests, documents, and timelines so you’re fully ready.
Document check – thorough review of your evidence to avoid refusal risks.
Application & submission – forms completed and a strong legal representation letter provided.
Follow-up – we manage communication with the Home Office until a decision is made.

Call us today on 07973 760075 to secure your permanent status.
Atwal Law helps clients across Coventry, Birmingham, London, the wider UK, and abroad achieve ILR and secure their future in the UK.

FLR (Further Leave to Remain) FAQs

ILR is permanent residency in the UK. It allows you to live, work, and study without time restrictions, and access public funds if eligible.

Most people need 5 years of lawful residence on a qualifying visa, such as a spouse visa or Skilled Worker visa. Some routes, like long residence, require 10 years.

Yes. Unless exempt (for example due to age or health), you must pass the Life in the UK Test and show English at B1 CEFR level.

Evidence usually includes: • Current passport and Biometric Residence Permit • Proof of residence over the qualifying period • Marriage/relationship documents (for spouse ILR) • Financial evidence (for spouse route) • Life in the UK and English test certificates

Standard processing usually takes up to 6 months, though many are decided sooner. Priority services are available for faster decisions.

Yes. ILR can lapse if you stay outside the UK for 2 or more continuous years. It can also be revoked in cases of fraud or serious criminality.

Most people can apply after 12 months with ILR. If you are married to a British citizen, you may apply immediately after getting ILR, provided you have lived in the UK for at least 3 years.

Yes. If you are applying as a spouse or partner, you must still meet the minimum income threshold at ILR unless you are exempt.

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