The settlement, also called ‘indefinite leave to remain’, is limitless/unrestricted permission to reside in the UK. This status removes restrictions on travel or work and allows the holder to receive public funds. Most of the settlement route is often available to applicants after they have completed at least five years’ UK residence in a qualifying immigration route.
Applications for settlement can be complicated, and the requirements will vary depending on your immigration category. Our helpful solicitors are on hand to advise and assist, whether you would like information about an application or help to complete it.
Who is eligible for settlement?
Settlement is only available to those who meet the specific requirements of their immigration route.
For most applicants, this will mean, completing five years’ continuous UK residence and satisfying any other criteria their route demands. For example:
• Partners can settle in the UK after five years if their relationship remains valid and they satisfy the income and other requirements such as language and life in the UK.
• Under the Skilled Workers route once may be eligible to settle after five years, providing they remain in a suitably highly skilled and well-paid position, and they are required by their employer for a foreseeable future
• A refugee will be eligible to settle here in the UK on completion of 5 years leave as a refugee or under the Humanitarian protection
• An EU citizen or family members of an EU citizen with presentment status may be entitled to settlement in the UK on completion of 5 years residence in the UK
• A person can get a settlement at any point of his/her leave as a victim of domestic violence if the marriage broke down as a result of domestic abuse
• If someone has lived here lawfully for 10 years, can also apply for settlement under the long residence route
Almost all applicants for settlement will need to prove their English language ability and their knowledge of life in the UK (except a refugee, EU citizen, and a victim of domestic violence). This is usually achieved by completing tests approved by the Home Office for this purpose.
All settlement applications are submitted online and are usually supported by specified evidence confirming your time in the UK and that you satisfy the requirements of your immigration route.
Our expert legal team/solicitors can help you to identify the correct application form and the documents needed for a successful outcome
