If you’re currently on a Tier 2 (General) visa and looking to settle in the UK permanently, you may be eligible to apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR). ILR grants you the freedom to live, work, and travel without immigration restrictions. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the step-by-step process to transition from a Tier 2 (General) visa to ILR successfully.
Step 1: Check Your Eligibility
Before you apply for ILR, ensure that you meet the eligibility criteria, including:
- You have lived in the UK continuously on a skilled worker visa (previously known as Tier 2) for at least five years.
- Your current employer has continuously sponsored you under a valid Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS).
- You meet the minimum salary requirement, which is generally £26,500 per year or £10.10 per hour (subject to changes).
- You have not spent more than 180 days outside the UK in any 12-month period within the five years.
- You pass the Life in the UK test.
- You meet the English language proficiency requirements.
Step 2: Gather the Necessary Documents
To apply for ILR, you’ll need to provide:
- Your valid passport and biometric residence permit (BRP).
- A letter from your employer confirming your continued employment and salary.
- Your Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) reference number.
- Evidence of meeting the salary threshold.
- Proof of continuous UK residence (such as bank statements, council tax bills, or utility bills).
- Life in the UK test pass certificate.
- Proof of English language proficiency.
Step 3: Complete the ILR Application
You can apply for ILR online through the UK Home Office website. Make sure to:
- Fill in the form accurately.
- Upload all required documents.
- Pay the application fee, which is currently £2,885.
- Book an appointment for biometric submission at a UK Visa and Citizenship Application Services (UKVCAS) centre.
Step 4: Attend Your Biometric Appointment
At your UKVCAS appointment, you will need to provide your fingerprints, photograph, and supporting documents. Ensure that you attend your appointment on time and bring all necessary paperwork.
Step 5: Wait for a Decision
Standard processing for ILR applications takes up to six months. However, if you need a quicker decision, you can opt for:
- Priority service (decision within five working days) for an additional fee of £500.
- Super-priority service (decision within 24 hours) for an additional fee of £1,000.
Step 6: Receive Your ILR Status
If your application is successful, you will receive an ILR confirmation letter along with a new biometric residence permit. With ILR, you can:
- Work in the UK without restrictions.
- Apply for British citizenship after 12 months.
- Travel in and out of the UK freely.
What If Your Application Is Refused?
If your ILR application is denied, don’t panic. You may have the option to:
- Request an administrative review if you believe a mistake was made.
- Reapply with stronger evidence.
- Seek professional legal assistance to appeal the decision.
Considering Other UK Visa Options?
If you are an entrepreneur or looking for alternative routes to settlement, you may want to explore the UK Skilled Worker Visa or the Start-Up Visa for other business and employment opportunities.
Final Thoughts
Switching from a Tier 2 (General) visa to ILR is a crucial step toward securing permanent residency in the UK. Ensuring you meet all eligibility criteria, submitting accurate documentation, and following the correct procedures will improve your chances of a successful application. If you need professional assistance, our team at MRK Immigration is here to help.