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.
Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) Solicitors
Applying for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) is a significant milestone in your journey toward settling permanently in the UK. At Highfin Solicitors, we provide clear, expert legal advice to help you navigate the ILR process with confidence. Whether you’re applying based on long residence, a work visa, family route, or other eligibility, we offer tailored support to maximise your chances of success.
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- Our approach
What Is ILR?
Indefinite Leave to Remain grants permanent residency in the UK. Once granted, you are free from immigration time limits, with the right to live, work, and study in the UK without further visa renewals. ILR is also a key requirement for those planning to apply for British citizenship in the future.
Who Can Apply for ILR?
If you’re in the UK as the spouse, civil partner, or unmarried partner of a British citizen or settled person, you may be eligible to apply for ILR after completing 5 years under the Family route. Key requirements include:
- Genuine and subsisting relationship
- Meeting the financial requirement
- Passing the Life in the UK Test
- Satisfying the English language requirement
10-Year Long Residence ILR
You may be eligible for ILR if you have lawfully lived in the UK under one of the following categories:
- 5-Year Route on a Skilled Worker (formerly Tier 2) Visa
- 10-Year Long Residence
- Spouse or Partner of a British Citizen or Settled Person
- Ancestry Visa Holders
- PBS Dependants
- Refugee or Humanitarian Protection status (after 5 years)
Each route has specific requirements related to residence duration, absences, immigration history, and more. Highfin Solicitors will assess your eligibility and advise on the best pathway for your application.
ILR Requirements
Common requirements across most ILR categories include:
- Lawful and continuous residence in the UK for the required period
- No more than 180 days’ absence in any 12 months during the qualifying years
- Passed the Life in the UK Test
- English language proficiency (unless exempt)
- Good immigration and criminal record history
Some categories, such as ILR based on long residence, carry different conditions. Our solicitors will explain what applies to your case and prepare your application accordingly.
Our ILR Services
Highfin Solicitors provides end-to-end support, including:
- Confirming eligibility and residence requirements
- Reviewing immigration history and travel absences
- Preparing and submitting a full ILR application
- Drafting detailed legal representations
- Supporting you through the biometric and Home Office process
- Advising on next steps toward British citizenship
ILR Home Office Fees
It’s important to understand the full cost of applying:
- ILR Application Fee: £2,885
- Biometric Enrolment: included
- Optional Priority Service (decision in 1 working day): £800 extra
Common ILR Pitfalls
Applications may be refused for a variety of reasons, including:
- Gaps in immigration status
- Excessive absences from the UK
- Incorrect documentation or missing evidence
- Criminal convictions or previous immigration breaches
Highfin Solicitors provides detailed case assessments to help avoid these issues before you apply.
Refusals and Reapplications
If your ILR application is refused, it may be possible to:
- Challenge the decision via an Administrative Review
- Appeal, if human rights grounds apply
- Reapply with stronger evidence or corrected information
We offer a full review of your refusal and will advise on the most appropriate route forward.
Why Choose Highfin Solicitors?
- Clear, honest legal advice from experienced immigration solicitors
- Strategic guidance tailored to your personal immigration history
- SRA-regulated practice ensuring compliance and professionalism
- Fixed-fee services available to help manage your costs
- Convenient consultations—both in-person in London or remotely across the UK
Start Your ILR Application Today
Get the peace of mind that comes with expert legal support. Contact Highfin Solicitors on 0207 113 5728 or submit your enquiry via our secure online form. Let us help you take the next step toward permanent settlement in the UK.
