We'll also dispel some of the myths that often surround this topic. So whether you're just starting out on the immigration journey or are already well on your way, read on for all the information you need!

What Is Indefinite Leave to Remain?

ILR or indefinite leave to remain is a visa category that allows people to work and live in the UK for ever. It's one of the most sought-after visas, as it offers a path to British citizenship.

To be qualified for ILR, you must satisfy a number of prerequisites. These include:

Stayed in the UK for A Particular Duration

You have remain in the UK for a minimum of five years to be eligible for ILR. In some cases, the year requirement can be more or less based on your individual circumstances.

No criminal record

You must also have a clean criminal record. This means you cannot have any convictions or cautions that would prevent you from being granted ILR.

You must be of good character, meaning you must not have any habits or behaviour that could adversely affect your application.

Evidence of resident

You will also need to prove that you have been a resident of the UK for at least five years with all appropriate documents. This can be your utility bills, bank statements, or other official documents.

Must not stay 180 outside the UK

You can't stay out of the Kingdom for more than 180 days within a time-frame of an year. If you do, your application or ILR might get disapproved.

English language requirement

You'll also require to ensure that you're able to communicate effectively in English. You must demonstrate a language proficiency level at a specific standard.

There can be some other requirements depending on your personal circumstances. You can check them out from relevant official web pages of the UK government.

How to Apply for ILR

The ILR application procedure might be difficult, but don't worry. The phases you require to execute will be discussed below.

First, you'll need to gather all the demanded documents. This includes your passport, proof of residency in the UK, evidence of your criminal record (if applicable), and more.

Next, you'll need to complete the application form online and pay your fee. Then, send all of this off with your documents to UK Visas & Immigration (UKVI).

In most cases, it will take about six months for them to process your application and issue a decision. If everything goes smoothly, you'll be granted ILR!

Your application may be denied in particular states. If this happens to you, don't despair – there are ways to appeal the decision and have it overturned.

What Happens When You Got ILR

When you get ILR, you can do most of the things that British citizens can do. For example, you can work or study without restrictions and live in any part of the United Kingdom. You'll also be eligible for public benefits like healthcare and social housing.

However, there are some specific benefits that only UK citizens have access to. These include the right to vote and stand in elections, the ability to work for the British government, and more.

You can begin working on the application for British citizenship once you have held ILR for at least one year. This procedure is pretty uncomplicated, and you can find out all about it on UKVI's website.

How long can I Stay in the UK with ILR?

You can take ILR as a synonym of permanent residency. That means you can live in the UK as long as you want, and there is no time frame for it. You will have access to all public benefits, including healthcare, social housing, etc.

What can Cause of Loss of ILR

Although ILR gives you a lot of freedoms and benefits, it's not permanent. Your status can be revoked if you commit serious crimes or leave the UK for more than two years at any time after being granted ILR. The same treatment is applicable if you got into any offence in the public interest.

Conclusion

ILR allows you to dwell in the UK permanently without restrictions on where or how long you can live here. It also delivers your authorization to a range of public benefits, including healthcare and social housing. We hope this write-up has been assisting in explaining everything you need to know about ILR. For any further enquiries, don't hang back to get in touch with us!