Obtaining UK permanent residence is a significant milestone for individuals seeking long-term residency in the United Kingdom.
How to get UK permanent residence?
Securing permanent residence in the UK can be achieved through various pathways. One may attain this status by meeting the eligibility criteria for settlement visas, such as the Spouse, Partner, or Work visas. Additionally, individuals can explore options like the Investor or Entrepreneur routes, demonstrating their commitment to contributing to the UK's economic growth.
Permanent residence in the UK: requirements and rules
Applicants seeking permanent residence in the UK as family members of settled individuals or British citizens must meet specific eligibility criteria:
- Residency: Reside in the UK for either a 2 or 5-year period.
- Financial Requirements: Satisfy the financial criteria, which differ depending on the chosen application route.
- Life in the UK Test: Successfully pass the Life in the UK test, demonstrating knowledge of British life and culture.
- English Language Requirements: Fulfill the designated English language proficiency requirements as part of the application process.
UK permanent residence: required documents
To apply for permanent residence in the UK, you must submit the following documents:
- Proof of Identity and Nationality: A valid passport or any other document that verifies your identity and nationality.
- Biometric Residence Permit (BRP): If you possess a Biometric Residence Permit, include it in your application.
- Passport History: Provide all passports you have held during your stay in the UK.
- Life in the UK Test: If you are between 18 and 65 years old, demonstrate that you have passed the Life in the UK test. This can be confirmed with either a 'unique reference number' or a letter containing a 'test reference ID.'
- Certified Translations: If any of your documents are not in English or Welsh, include certified translations.
- Additional Documents: Depending on your specific circumstances, additional documents may be required. The specific documents needed will be communicated to you during the application process.
UK permanent residence: minimum salary
The minimum salary requirement for individuals applying for UK permanent residence under the Skilled Worker visa is scheduled to increase to £38,700 in Spring 2024. Currently, the minimum salary threshold for the Skilled Worker visa is £26,200, having been raised from £25,600 in March 2023. Nevertheless, certain individuals may be eligible for lower salary thresholds, specifically £20,960, if they qualify for 'tradeable points.' Examples of such qualifications include having a job offer in a shortage occupation or holding a relevant PhD.
How to apply for permanent residence in the UK?
To initiate the UK permanent residence application process, follow these steps:
- Fill out and submit the appropriate online application form based on the chosen immigration route. If applicable, you can include your eligible partner and children in your Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) application.
- Pay the required application fee.
- Schedule and attend an appointment at a UK Visa and Citizenship Application Services (UKVCAS) office to furnish your biometric information, including a photo and fingerprints.
- Submit any documents requested by the Home Office, such as your Life in the UK test pass certificate.
UK permanent residence for Indian: nuances
Securing permanent residence in the UK, specifically in the form of Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) for Indian nationals, involves meeting stringent criteria. Typically, this includes fulfilling residency requirements, maintaining lawful residence throughout a specified period, and abiding by immigration regulations. It is crucial to stay informed about potential changes in immigration policies and to ensure compliance with evolving rules. Factors such as financial stability and good character are also integral to the application process. As immigration laws can undergo modifications, staying updated with the latest information from official sources or seeking professional guidance is essential for a successful and accurate pursuit of permanent residence in the UK.
Permanent residence in the UK: cost and processing time
The application fee for securing permanent residence in the UK stands at £2,389, with an additional charge of approximately £20 for the Biometric Residence Permit (BRP). The processing duration for this application is estimated to be around six months.
UK permanent residence: benefits
The UK boasts a diverse population, with 14% of its residents born in another country, according to the Migration Observatory at the University of Oxford. Holding a UK permanent residence document empowers individuals with the rights accorded to permanent residents, enabling unrestricted work, study, and travel. Additionally, access to various public services, including healthcare, is granted.
- Apply for British Citizenship: As a permanent resident, the opportunity to apply for British citizenship arises after one year in this status, provided a minimum of five years' presence in the UK. If partnered with a British citizen, the qualifying time reduces to three years.
- Entry Rights to the UK: Possessing Permanent Residence UK (PR UK) allows for free entry and exit without the need for a visa on each occasion. However, it's important to note that staying outside the UK for more than two years may void the pre-settled status, necessitating a reapplication.
- Access to Jobs and Education: Permanent residence in the UK opens doors to educational institutions and job opportunities not easily accessible with a restricted visa. Certain job applications may be simplified, and the need to prove the right to work is eliminated.
- Bring Family Members: Immediate family members can apply for the EU Settlement Scheme, while extended family members can do so with a UK residence card, provided they meet the same requirements as the primary permanent resident.
- Social Security Benefits: Permanent residents are entitled to a range of social security benefits, including child benefits, job seekers' allowance, unemployment insurance, and state pension contributions, among others.
- Access to Healthcare: Permanent residents enjoy free healthcare through the National Health Service (NHS), covering various medical treatments, hospital care, and access to medicines.
- Child's British Citizenship: The PR status extends the opportunity for a child to be registered as a British citizen, providing potential benefits for their future.
- International Education Benefits: Discounts on tuition fees for international students and support from the SKA fund for covering education costs become accessible with permanent residence UK.
- Housing Benefits: Permanent residence UK may also grant access to housing benefits, including deposit guarantee schemes and support from local authorities for rent payments.
Does time spent on graduate visa count towards permanent residence in the UK?
Similar to a standard Student visa, the duration spent on the Graduate visa does not directly expedite the process of obtaining Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR). Nevertheless, the time spent on the visa does count towards the overall period considered when applying under the Long Residency category.
