The indefinite leave to remain is also known as settlement. In simple words, it gives us the permission to settle in the United Kingdom. Thus, if we are granted indefinite leave to remain, then we can enjoy the right to live, work and study in the UK for as long as we like. The successful applicants can also try to avail various other benefits, if eligible. This can also be used in case of applying for British citizenship. Thus, the importance of indefinite leave to remain is quite evident. Now, in this blog, we will be discussing how to apply for indefinite leave to remain. There are different ways of applying for settlement. These are discussed below in detail.
- Applicants working in the UK
A person with a work visa can easily apply for settlement. The applicant must have lived and worked in the UK for five years. However, this requirement varies from visa to visa. In case of a tier 1 visa, it can be two or three years. In case of an Innovator or Global Talent visa, it can be three years. The applicant must also meet the financial or salary requirements as well. The application process also varies to some extent for different types of visas.
- Applicants having family in the UK
A person can also think about applying for the settlement, if he/she has a partner, parent or child or other relative settled in the UK - either as a British citizen or a person with indefinite leave to remain. Again the application process depends on two factors. First, is the type of visa that the applicant has and the second is how their family member is settled in the UK.
- Applicants who have lived in the UK for 10 years
Thus, a person who has lived in the UK for 10 years or more can easily apply for indefinite leave to remain. Again the process of application varies depending upon whether the applicant has a visa that’s on the basis of their private life.
- Applicant who is a Commonwealth citizen
According to this concept, some Commonwealth citizens have ‘right of abode’ in the UK. Thus, they can live or work in the UK without any kind of immigration restrictions.
Thus, these are the few ways in which you can apply for indefinite leave to remain. Hence, before proceeding with the application, one should go through all the details and select the process that works for them.
