UK Sets Conditions for Foreigners Seeking Permanent Residence

The UK government has published the conditions that foreign nationals must meet to qualify for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) after residing in the UK for 10 years. Applicants must hold valid permission to stay and meet four core conditions: they must have lived legally in the UK for 10 continuous years, usually hold their current permission for at least one year before applying, pass the Life in the UK Test if aged 18 to 65, and demonstrate sufficient English language skills.

Continuous residence is defined as unbroken time spent in the UK, allowing for absences of up to 180 days in any 12-month period. Certain periods do not count towards the 10 years, including time spent on a Standard Visitor visa, Short-term study visa, Seasonal Worker visa, or while in prison.

Different rules apply for those who traveled abroad before April 11, 2024, regarding continuous residence. Additionally, applicants with a family visa may apply for ILR as a partner if their partner is British or settled in the UK.