Immigration, Simplified
10-Year Long Residence (ILR)
The 10-Year Long Residence Route to Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) allows eligible individuals to apply for permanent settlement after completing 10 years of continuous lawful residence in the United Kingdom. If you meet the long residence requirements, our experienced immigration advisers will guide you through the eligibility assessment, document preparation, and application process to maximise your chances of success.
Official UK Government Updates
For the latest guidance, eligibility requirements, and visa regulations, we recommend checking the official UK Government website before submitting your application.
Core Eligibility Requirements
To secure settlement through long residence, you must meet the following criteria under Appendix Long Residence:
- 10-Year Threshold: You must have completed at least 10 years of continuous lawful residence in the UK.
- Knowledge of Life and Language: You must pass the Life in the UK Test and meet the English language requirement (at least CEFR Level B1) unless exempt due to age (65+) or a medical condition.
- General Grounds: You must not have a criminal record or immigration history that would lead to a refusal under the “General Grounds for Refusal.”
- Public Interest: The Home Office must be satisfied that granting you residency is not contrary to the public interest.
Defining “Lawful Residence”
Lawful residence means you held valid leave to enter or remain (a visa) throughout the 10 years. You can combine different visa categories (e.g., 4 years as a Student and 6 years as a Skilled Worker).
- Exclusions: Time spent as a Visitor, Short-term Student, Seasonal Worker, or on Immigration Bail does not count toward the 10-year qualifying period.
- Common Travel Area: Time spent in Ireland, the Channel Islands, or the Isle of Man does not count toward the 10-year UK residence requirement.
The 2026 Rules on Continuous Residence
Significant changes were introduced in 2024 and 2025 to streamline how absences are calculated. As of 2026, the rules distinguish between time spent before and after April 2024.
| Absence Type | Rule for Period Before April 11, 2024 | Rule for Period After April 11, 2024 |
| Single Absence Limit | Must not exceed 184 days | Must not exceed 180 days |
| Total Cumulative Limit | Must not exceed 548 days | No specific cumulative limit (applies 180-day rolling rule) |
- The Rolling 180-Day Rule: For any part of the qualifying period after April 2024, you must not have been absent for more than 180 days in any 12-month period.
- Gap Disregards: Short gaps in lawful residence (overstaying) of 28 days or less may be disregarded if they occurred before November 2016, or if they fall under “Paragraph 39E” (extraordinary circumstances) for more recent dates.
2026 Costs and Processing
Applying for ILR based on Long Residence is a one-time, high-value investment in your permanent status.
| Fee Type | 2026 Rate |
| Standard Application Fee | £3,029 |
| Super Priority (24-hour decision) | £1,000 (Optional) |
| Health Surcharge (IHS) | Exempt (ILR applicants do not pay IHS) |
Breaking Continuous Residence
Your 10-year “clock” will reset to zero if you:
- Were absent for more than 184 days (pre-April 2024) or 180 days (post-April 2024) in one go.
- Were removed, deported, or left the UK following a visa refusal.
- Left the UK with no “reasonable expectation” of being able to return lawfully.
- Received a prison sentence (unless it was suspended).
The “Current Visa” Requirement
A key rule introduced in 2024/2025 is that you must have held your current permission (visa) for at least one year before applying for ILR via Long Residence, unless your current visa is as a Skilled Worker or in another specific work category.
10-Year Long Residence (ILR)
Expert consultancy to meticulously compile your 10-year continuous residence history and secure your Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR).
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Important Information About Our Fees
Professional Service Fees: Our quoted fees cover our professional immigration advice and application support only. They do not include UK Government application fees, the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS), biometric appointment charges, translation services, or any other third-party costs.
Personalised Fee Estimates: All prices provided are intended as estimates and may vary depending on the complexity of your case, the level of support required, the volume of documentation, and any urgent processing requests.
Disclaimer: All quoted service fees are exclusive of VAT where applicable.
Expert UK visa and immigration services designed to simplify your application, provide real-time progress updates, and maximise your chances of success.
