Applying for the right to abode in the UK means that you want to stay in the UK without any time restrictions. Applying to settle in the UK is also known as indefinite leave to remain, but there are many different types of applications that suit different visas. If you want to apply to settle in the UK you will be required to take a ‘Life in the UK Test’. You can also apply to become a British Citizen, if you meet the criteria - find out more about British Citizenship. A child born in the UK to parents on ILR or British Citizen can apply for registration of a child as a British Citizen.

What is Indefinite Leave to Remain?

Indefinite leave to remain is an immigration status granted to a person who does not hold the right to live in the UK, but has been admitted to the UK without any time limit on his or her stay. Those granted ILR are also is free to take up employment or study without restrictions. However, in order to be granted indefinite leave to remain you must have proof that you have had long residence in the UK. This means that you must have:

• Lived in the UK for 10 years more continuously
• Not have left the UK for a continuous period of 180 days or more
• Not have spent more than 539 days outside the UK during 10 years’ stay.

Returning Residents who have Previously Settled

If you were previously granted indefinite leave to remain and you have been living out of the UK for more than two years, or have lost your documentation, you may be granted a Returning Resident visa. However, you must prove that it was under exceptional circumstances that led to you leaving the UK. Find out more about Returning Residents.

What is a Biometric Residence Permit?

A Biometric Residence Permit falls under the same category as a No Time Limit Stamp. A Biometric Residence permit is the transfer of a visa from an old passport to a new one. However, if you have indefinite Leave to Remain then you should apply for a No Time Limit Stamp in order to transfer your visa onto your new passport.

How do EEAs Seek Permanent Residence in the UK?

If you have an EEA Visa or EEA Family Visa and want to apply for permanent residence, you must have lived in the UK for five years and contributed to the UK’s economy. Applying for EEA Permanent Residence in the UK on an EEA Visa is under the EEA Regulation of 2006.

Apply for UK Settlement if your Partner Dies

If your partner has passed away but was granted British Citizenship or a settled person with Indefinite Leave to Remain, then you are eligible for ILR in the UK. You can be a:

• Spouse
• Civil partner
• Unmarried Partner

Find out the requirements for UK Settlement if your Partner Dies

If you’d like more information if you would like to apply to settle in the UK, or would like to make an appeal, then do not hesitate to get in touch.