Long Residence (10 years)
What Is the 10-Year Long Residence Route to ILR?
Understanding Long Residence ILR: What It Means and Who It Helps
This route is for applicants who may have had different types of visas over the years and wish to settle permanently in the UK.
ILR allows you to live, work, and study in the UK without time restrictions.
Once granted, you’re no longer subject to immigration control and can eventually apply for British citizenship if eligible.
Who Can Apply for ILR under the 10-Year Long Residence Route?
Eligibility Requirements for Long Residence ILR
You can apply if
- You’ve lawfully resided in the UK for 10 continuous years
- Your residence includes any combination of valid visas (e.g. student, work, family, etc.)
- You’ve not been outside the UK for more than:
- 6 months at one time, or
- 540 days in total across the 10 years
- You meet suitability and good character requirements
- You pass the Life in the UK test
- You meet the English language requirement (unless exempt)
You do not qualify if
- You’ve lived in the UK unlawfully during part of the 10 years
- You spent too much time outside the UK
- You’re subject to a deportation order or have serious criminal convictions
What Documents Do You Need for a 10-Year Long Residence ILR Application?
Essential Paperwork for a Successful Application
Typical documents include:
- Current and all previous passports
- Biometric Residence Permits (if applicable)
- Proof of lawful stay (e.g. visas, BRP copies, Home Office letters)
- Immigration history printout (SAR, if available)
- Travel history (flights, entry/exit stamps, travel summary)
- Life in the UK test certificate
- English language evidence (B1 or above unless exempt)
- Proof of continuous residence (optional: tenancy agreements, bank statements, letters)
What Is 'Continuous Lawful Residence' for ILR?
How the Home Office Defines '10 Years Lawful Stay'
Continuous residence means you’ve been living in the UK legally without long breaks. You must:
- Not be absent for more than 6 months at once
- Not have more than 540 days abroad in total
- Not have had gaps in lawful leave (overstaying or unlawful presence)
Breaks in residence or overstaying—even briefly—can make you ineligible. Some exceptions apply depending on the circumstances (e.g. COVID-related issues or administrative delays).
Life in the UK Test and English Language Requirement
Meeting the Knowledge of Language and Life in the UK Requirements
You must
- Pass the Life in the UK Test
- Prove your English language skills at CEFR level B1 or higher (speaking and listening)
You are exempt if
- You’re aged 65 or over
- You have a physical or mental condition that prevents testing
Acceptable evidence includes
- Home Office-approved English tests
- UK-recognised academic qualifications taught in English
- Nationality from majority-English-speaking countries (for English requirement only)
ILR 10-Year Long Residence Fees and Processing Times
How Much Does It Cost & How Long Does It Take?
Application fee
- £3,029
Processing times
- Standard: up to 6 months
- Priority: within 5 working days
- Super Priority: usually next working day
Can You Include Dependants in a 10-Year Long Residence ILR Application?
Applying for ILR for Family Members
You cannot include family members (e.g. partner or children) on your long residence application.
Each dependant must apply for ILR in their own right (via their eligible route) or switch to another visa category (e.g. family visa).
What Happens After ILR Is Granted?
Rights and Responsibilities with ILR Status
Once ILR is granted, you can
- Live and work in the UK without time limits
- Access healthcare, education, and certain benefits
- Apply for British citizenship (usually after 12 months)
- Travel freely without needing a visa to re-enter the UK
But note
- ILR can be lost if you leave the UK for over 2 continuous years
You must not commit criminal offences or breach immigration laws
What If Your Long Residence ILR Application Is Refused?
Refusal Reasons and Your Next Steps
Common refusal reasons include
- Gaps in lawful residence
- Excess absences from the UK
- Failure to meet the knowledge of language/life requirements
- Character or criminality issues
If refused, you may
- Appeal (under human rights grounds)
- Request an administrative review (if available)
- Submit a fresh application with improved evidence
Latest Long Residence (10 years) News
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