UK Home Office Updates Long Residence Settlement Guidelines

The UK Home Office published updated guidance regarding the Long Residence route, which allows individuals who have lived lawfully in the UK for 10 or more continuous years to apply for indefinite leave to remain. This guidance is primarily directed at Home Office caseworkers but has significant implications for others in the UK.

It explicitly states that certain groups should not apply for settlement through this route. Notably, Commonwealth citizens who were continuously resident in the UK on or before 1 January 1973 are directed to the Windrush Scheme instead.

Additionally, time spent as a visitor, short-term English language student, or seasonal worker does not count towards the 10-year qualifying period and breaks continuous residence. Dependants must submit separate applications, and individuals on immigration bail or in breach of immigration laws are barred from this route, although some exceptions exist.

Applications submitted more than 28 days before the qualifying period ends will be refused, while those submitted within 28 days may be granted if all other requirements are met.