Individuals who have lived legally in the UK for 10 continuous years to apply for permanent stay.
Grants an extension to stay in the UK for those already living lawfully on a temporary visa.
Permanent resident status to eligible individuals, to live and work in the UK without time limits.
Eligible family members of EEA nationals to join or stay with their relatives in the UK after Brexit.
10 Years Long Residence
If you have lived lawfully in the UK for 10 continuous years, you may be eligible to apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) on the basis of long residence. Highfin Solicitors offers expert legal advice to guide you through this complex route, ensuring your application is accurate, complete, and supported by the correct evidence.
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What Is the 10-Year Long Residence Rule?
The long residence rule allows individuals who have spent 10 continuous years lawfully in the UK to apply for ILR, regardless of the type of visa held during that period. This route is ideal for those who have built their life in the UK through a combination of visas, such as student, work, family, or other temporary categories.
Key Requirements for 10-Year Long Residence ILR
To qualify under the long residence rule, you must show:
- 10 years of continuous lawful residence in the UK
- No breaks in residence due to overstaying, removal, or absence exceeding 180 days at once or 540 days in total over the 10 years
- Good character – including no serious criminal convictions or immigration breaches
- English language proficiency (B1 CEFR or higher)
- Life in the UK Test pass certificate
Highfin Solicitors will carefully assess your immigration history, ensure that time spent in the UK meets the residence criteria, and highlight any areas of risk that need to be addressed.
Home Office Fees
ILR Application Fee: £2,885
- Biometric Enrolment Fee: £19.20
- Super Priority Service (Optional – 24 hours): £1,000
- IHS (Immigration Health Surcharge): Not required for ILR applications
Common Challenges with Long Residence Applications
Applications may be refused if there are:
- Gaps in lawful residence
- Periods of overstaying or unauthorised leave
- Absences from the UK that exceed permitted limits
- Errors in calculating time spent in the UK
- Failure to provide sufficient documentary evidence
Highfin Solicitors takes a thorough approach, checking travel records, visa continuity, and supporting documents to build a strong, compliant application.
Why Choose Highfin Solicitors?
Applying for ILR based on long residence requires precision and a clear understanding of immigration rules. Highfin Solicitors provides:
- A detailed review of your 10-year immigration history
- Identification of any gaps or periods of concern
- Strategic advice to resolve potential legal issues
- Preparation and submission of a professionally presented ILR application
- Clear communication throughout the process
With a track record of success in complex long residence cases, Highfin Solicitors is a trusted choice for individuals seeking to settle in the UK permanently.
Ready to Apply?
If you have lived in the UK for 10 years and want to secure permanent residence, speak to Highfin Solicitors today. Call 0207 113 5728 or complete our online enquiry form to book your consultation.
