What is a No Time Limit (NTL) Application?

A No Time Limit application falls under the same category as a Biometric Residence Permit (BRP). It enables you to transfer a visa from an old passport to a new one. A No Time Limit stamp is actually the 'old' way Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) used to be granted with new applications for ILR, you will be given a Biometric Residence Permit.

NTL is an administrative process by which someone can apply for confirmation of their status as a person with Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR). You can make an NTL application if you already have ILR, and this is then issued on a Biometric Residence Permit.

You can apply for NTL if your passport containing your ILR endorsement has been lost and stolen, your passport has expired or if you have settled status in the UK but don't have any evidence documenting this. You should apply for an NTL BRP if your overall stay in the UK is longer than 6 months and if any of the following details on your visa document change:

• Name

• Nationality

• Facial appearance

• Date of birth

• Gender

You'll need to make a No Time Limit application from within the UK, although note that you don't need to report any changes or get a BRP if your stay in the UK is less than 6 months.

While you don't have to apply for an NTL BRP, there are a number of benefits. Firstly, there are security benefits when compared to the old NTL stamp. Secondly, it can be used as evidence that you have the right to stay in the UK and can, therefore, access certain benefits and are entitled to work. Finally, it helps when you travel to and from the UK.

In order to be eligible to apply for a No Time Limit BRP, you must:

• Have Indefinite Leave to Remain in the UK and continue to be entitled to it

• Apply from within the UK using the relevant No Time Limit application form

You're not eligible - and don't need to - apply if you are a British citizen, have right of abode in the UK or are an EEA national.