Understanding Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR)

Indefinite Leave to Remain, often referred to as permanent residency, is a status that grants individuals the right to live and work in the UK without any time restrictions. It signifies a strong connection to the UK and the intention to make it a permanent home.

For the 10-Year Route to Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR), you can count time spent in the UK on various visa categories, provided that your stay has been continuous and lawful. Here are some of the common visa categories that can contribute to your eligibility for ILR through the 10-Year Route:

• Tier 1 (General) Visa: The Tier 1 (General) visa allowed highly skilled workers to live and work in the UK. Time spent on this visa can be counted toward the 10 years.
• Tier 2 (General) Visa: The Tier 2 (General) visa is for skilled workers with a job offer in the UK. If you have held this visa during your stay, that time can be counted toward the 10-year requirement.
• Ancestry Visa: An Ancestry Visa is available to individuals who have a grandparent born in the UK. Time spent on this visa can be considered for the 10-Year Route.
• Spouse, Partner, or Family Visa: If you have been in the UK on a spouse, partner, or family visa (e.g., Spouse Visa, Unmarried Partner Visa), the time spent on these visas can count toward the 10 years.
• Tier 4 (General) Student Visa: If you held a Tier 4 (General) Student Visa while studying in the UK, the duration of your studies can contribute to the 10 years, provided it was within the rules.
• Work Permits: If you held a work permit before the introduction of the Points-Based System, the time spent on this visa can be included.
• Other Long-Term Visas: Certain other long-term visas may also be eligible, but the specific conditions can vary. Its essential to review the rules for your particular visa category.
• Asylum Seeker or Refugee: Time spent as an asylum seeker or refugee in the UK may count toward the 10 years.

Its important to keep in mind that your entire stay in the UK must be both continuous and lawful to qualify for ILR on the 10-Year Route. Any periods of overstaying or being in the UK without lawful status can break the continuity of your residence.