Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) in the UK is a big deal. It means you can stay and work here legally and 12 months later you can apply for British Citizenship. But it is not that simple to apply for ILR, there are many eligibility criteria and you may lose the application if you do not apply well. Here is a simple, step-by-step process to get ILR done successfully. And you can be sure everything is in order, in a very short time with Law and Visas.
Step 1 – Verify If You Are a Good candidate for ILR.
- The first step is to see if you are eligible for ILR. Rules for eligibility are different based on the type of visa you hold.
- If you are a Tier 2 General Visa (the most common work visa) then you can seek ILR after 5 years.
- This isn’t a route directly to ILR for you if you are on a Tier 2 Intra-company Transfer visa.
- You can apply for ILR sooner if you’ve already created at least 10 full-time jobs for UK nationals, or your business has a turnover of £5 million per year, for a Tier 1 Entrepreneur Visa (now the Start-up and Innovator Visas).
- You might qualify for ILR under the long residence route if you’ve been in the UK for 10 years on different visas.
- They will also ask you to prove that you know enough English and have passed the Life in the UK Test.
Step 2 – Fill Out Forms and Gather Supporting Documents.
Then, you’ll have to complete the right forms and send in the correct documents. There are two types of ILR applications:
- SET(M): If you’re applying as the spouse or parent of someone already resident in the UK.
- SET(O): For all other visas like Tier 1 or Tier 2 visas.
- So don’t go filling these out rashly. That’s the hardest part of the ILR application: gathering the relevant documents. That is where Law and Visas come in. An immigration lawyer will know what you need and how to file it in the proper sequence.
- Also, you have to pay the ILR application fee while submitting your forms.
Step 3 – Upload Your Biometric Data.
- For the ILR application, you’ll have to fill in biometric data (photo, fingerprints, and signature). It’s given on the application and is needed for your biometric residence permit.
Have You Got to Show Up for an Interview?
You might have to appear for an interview by UKVI (UK Visas and Immigration). This happens primarily if there is something unclear or incomprehensible about your application. You are asked for an interview so don’t screw it up and be ready. You can have an immigration lawyer support you in doing this, and get you prepared.
What If Your ILR Application Gets Dismissed?
If you are rejected on your ILR application, you can always appeal. The immigration lawyer can help you to get an idea of what is an appeal and how to appeal the refusal.
Apply for ILR before your visa runs out. You could be illegally in the UK if you do not apply by the deadline and that might impact future applications. By filling out the application correctly and contacting Law and Visas to get legal help you can increase your chances of an application.
Be patient, don’t rush through, and always feel free to reach out to us at Law and Visas in case you need it to get your ILR approved.
How Law and Visas Can Help?
At Law and Visas, our team of expert immigration consultants is here to make your travel to the UK straightforward and successful. Whether you’re applying for a Business Visa or an Immigrant Investor Visa, we handle every step—from preparing your application to gathering the required documents.
Our immigration lawyer consultants and Lawyers ensure that your application meets the highest standards, with no details missed. We’ll also keep you informed throughout the process, coordinating with the immigration office or embassy on your behalf.
Law and Visas has a strong record of helping clients secure the visas/permits they need travel to the UK. Call us today at +234 812 5505 986 to learn how we can assist you.
