Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR)
Secure Permanent Residence in the United Kingdom
Apply for ILR through Legate Hub | Specialist Immigration Solicitors guiding you to settlement
Overview
Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) grants permanent residence in the United Kingdom. Holders of ILR may live and work in the UK without immigration restrictions and may later qualify to apply for British citizenship. ILR is typically available to applicants who have completed a qualifying period on certain visa routes and meet the relevant eligibility criteria.
Eligibility Requirements
- Completion of the required qualifying residence period on an eligible visa route (commonly five years for many routes; three years for some marriage/civil partner routes where applicable).
- Continuous residence in the UK (with permitted absences within the allowed threshold for the route).
- Demonstration of good character (including no serious or recent criminal convictions and compliance with immigration laws).
- Satisfactory knowledge of language and life in the UK (usually passing the Life in the UK Test and meeting the English language requirement at the required level, unless exempt).
- Any additional route-specific criteria (for example, employment, long residence, or DV routes) must be satisfied.
Required Documents Checklist
- Current passport and any previous passports showing UK residence stamps and travel history.
- E-Visa.
- Evidence of continuous residence (tenancy agreements, utility bills, employer letters, school records, bank statements).
- Current and historic payslips, P60s, and employment letters (where relevant).
- Proof of English language ability or exemption evidence.
- Life in the UK Test pass certificate (where required).
- Criminal record certificates or police clearances where requested or relevant.
- Certified translations of any documents not in English or Welsh.
Application Process
- Step 1 – Eligibility Review: Arrange a detailed ILR assessment with Legate Hub to confirm qualifying residence period, permitted absences, and route-specific requirements.
- Step 2 – Document Assembly: Download ILR application forms and the supporting evidence checklist from our Document Centre below. Our solicitors will prepare and review your case file to ensure it meets Home Office standards.
- Step 3 – Life in the UK & Language: If required, complete the Life in the UK Test and provide evidence of English language competence, or establish an exemption.
- Step 4 – Submission & Biometrics: Legate Hub will submit the ILR application on your behalf, arrange biometrics if necessary, and liaise with UK Visas & Immigration throughout the decision period.
- Step 5 – Decision & Next Steps: On a successful decision, you will receive confirmation of ILR. Legate Hub will advise on next steps, including eligibility for British citizenship and any further actions required.
Typical Processing Timeline
| Service | Typical Timeframe* |
|---|---|
| Standard ILR Application | Approximately 6 months (times vary by caseload and complexity). |
| Priority / Premium Options | Priority decisions may be available for certain ILR applications at an additional fee—timings vary. |
Note: Processing times depend on the complexity of evidence, route, and UKVI workload. Legate Hub provides continuous case updates and will address any ongoing requests from UKVI.
Download Application Forms
Download the recommended forms and guidance documents here. Return completed forms and supporting evidence to Legate Hub for expert review and submission.
Why Choose Legate Hub
Legate Hub offers specialist ILR services with comprehensive case preparation and rigorous evidence review. Our solicitors understand the precise evidential standards required for settlement and work proactively to reduce the risk of refusal. We support clients through appeals or administrative review where necessary and provide clear advice on the pathway to British citizenship.
Book a Consultation
Secure your permanent residence in the UK with experienced legal support. Contact Legate Hub to schedule an ILR assessment and begin your application.