Application for EEA Permanent Residence

Benefits of Choosing IAS for Your Residency Application

IAS is the ideal choice for a range of UK residency applications, such as indefinite leave to remain, long residence and permanent settlement.

Our expert, capable lawyers can help address a wide range of issues and concerns, helping to make the process of applying for residency simple and hassle-free.

At IAS, we are committed to offering the highest-quality level of service available in the law sector. When getting in touch with us for help, you will:

Fully understand all the steps you need to take to succeed in your residency application.

Be fully prepped on all Home Office-required documents and evidence you will need to submit.

Receive regular check-ins from your personal immigration lawyer throughout the entire process.

Continue to receive support from your lawyer to address any requests from the Home Office.

Services we Provide

What is the Application for EEA Permanent Residence (PR) Process?

An application for EEA Permanent Residence can be made if you are an EU citizen residing in the UK. Permanent Residence is a status granted to EEA citizens under European law which allows them to live and work in the UK permanently. It is different to Indefinite Leave to Remain, which is granted to citizens who are subject to UK immigration law.

An EEA application for Permanent Residence status can be submitted once you have spent five years of continuous residence in the UK. You will also need to show that you have been exercising your Treaty Rights for those five years. You have been exercising your rights if you have been working or studying during your stay.

There are other requirements related to how you have been spending your time in the UK, such as health insurance for students at UK universities.

Am I Eligible to Apply for Permanent Residence?

The requirements for an application for an EEA permanent residence document will depend on how you have spent your time in the UK, as well as how long you have been in the country.

Usually, you will have to show that you have spent the majority of the past five years in the UK. Your application may be at risk if you have spent time overseas, which exceeds the residence requirement.

Please visit our Permanent Residence page for more information on the application requirements for PR.

How do I Apply for Permanent Residence?

There are two ways to apply for Permanent Residence, either by using the 85-page form or by completing the online application.

The online application form is not suitable for everyone. If any of the following factors apply to you, you will not be able to use the online form:

You are a family member of a qualifying EEA national (your sponsor), and you are not applying at the same time as them
You are a student or a self-sufficient (self employed) person who is financially responsible for any other family member
You are a student or self-sufficient who is financially reliant on family members for financial support
You are applying on the basis of retained rights
You are applying under the Surinder Singh category

After that, you are to submit your documents and await the processing time to receive a decision. You may also need to provide your biometric information.

What are the Benefits of Using the Online System to Apply for Permanent Residence?

Unlike the paper version of the EEA PR application, the online form will only ask you questions which are relevant to you. This structure means that you have to answer all of the questions before you proceed, so you should make sure you have all of the required information and documents before you start the application for Permanent Residence.

The other benefit of this method is that your local authority can check your passport and give it back to you using the European Passport Return Service. In order to use this service, you will need to attend an appointment within five days of submitting the application, so you should book the appointment first and then submit your application in line with this date.

What do I Need Before Making My EEA application?

Before starting your application for Permanent Residence, you should gather documents that prove you have been living in the UK. You will need to be able to provide details of what you have been doing in the UK.

This might include details of paid work, information about your job search, or bank statements to show your income. You should gather other documents that will help to prove you have been ordinarily resident in the UK. This might include council tax documents, utility bills, bank statements or NHS correspondence.

You will also need proof of identification, such as a passport or national identity card plus documents such as birth certificates, adoption certificates, marriage certificates or any other paperwork which will prove your relationship to others.

Get in touch with us today for assistance with your application for EEA PR.

What if I Do Not Have My Identification Document?

If you have lost your identification documents, you will need to explain this sufficiently in your application for Permanent Residence. You will also need to find a way to prove your identity. If you have lost your passport, for example, you will find it easier to get a replacement from your country of origin rather than trying to prove your identity without it.

How do I send my biometric information?

As part of your application for Permanent Residence, you will be required to send your biometric information, similar to that required for a passport. This is simply your fingerprints, a digital photograph and your signature.

You can do this at certain post office branches, and it costs £19.20.

This applies to all applications for Permanent Residence. Children under the age of six will not be required to give their fingerprints or signature, but they will need a digital photograph for their application.

What if I Have Not Been Living in the UK for Over Five Years?

If you have been living in the UK for less than five years, you can apply for an EEA Residence Card. This is not necessary in order to live or work in the UK, but some people are choosing to apply for these cards in order to secure their position during the Brexit negotiations.

Note that the residence card is not a document certifying permanent residence; you still need to apply for PR before getting settled status. The EEA Residence Card is valid for five years, after which you may apply for Permanent Residence.

Take the first step. Request a Fact Finding + Expert Consultation

How Can IAS Help?

Our team of dedicated lawyers can answer all the questions you have on your application for EEA Permanent Residence. We can help you find out if you are eligible to apply, help prepare your documents and advise you on your best options.

Our services include liaising with the Home Office and completing your application form to the highest standard. One of our lawyers will also prepare a personalised Letter of Representation to accompany your application. This outlines your case and references relevant UK immigration laws, which help to support your application.

As EU laws are in a constant state of flux, we will also monitor the current EU legislature. This will ensure that your application is up-to-date. Contact us now on +44 (0)333 414 9244 or use our online contact form to speak with an immigration lawyer who can help you with your application for EEA Permanent Residence.

We offer immigration advice sessions as face to face appointments at all of our UK offices, or via the phone.

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Get clear, professional guidance for your immigration case.

Written by Immigration Advice Service

Ono Okeregha

Director – Immigration Advice Service

Ono Okeregha is the director of the Immigration Advice Service. He is a committed human rights and immigration lawyer. He was awarded the IoD North West SME of the year award and commended for his work in equality, diversity, and inclusion.

Legal Disclaimer

The information provided is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. While we make every effort to ensure accuracy, the law may change, and the information may not reflect the most current legal developments. No warranty is given regarding the accuracy or completeness of the information, and we do not accept liability in such cases. We recommend consulting with a qualified lawyer at Immigration Advice Service before making any decisions based on the content provided.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you notice a mistake on your Permanent Residence Card, it is important that you inform the Home Office as soon as possible. You should send an email to [email protected] and include the following information:

Your full name, date of birth and nationality
Your passport number
Your case reference number
A contact telephone number
Your delivery address
Details of exactly what information is wrong

At IAS, we have a team of expert lawyers who will be able to answer any questions or concerns you have, your status within the UK and your next steps. Their advice will be personally tailored to you and your situation and they are fully-equipped to assist and support you throughout your enquiry and application process.

We will check your eligibility and support you throughout your application for EEA Permanent Residence. Our services include:

ensuring your documents are satisfactory before making your application;
providing you with a Letter of Representation to support your application;
communicating with the Home Office until the end of the process; and
making sure that your application form is completed to the highest standard.

Contact us today using our online contact form or call us on 0333 363 8577 to speak with one of our specialist immigration lawyers, and take your first steps towards completing your application for EEA Permanent Residence.

What our clients are saying

Immigration Advice Service4.7

Based on 2001 reviews

Ridley

1 day ago

Laura Christian has been very helpful in giving me advice and the information I needed. Immigration law is very strict and confusing, but this service breaks it down in manageable chunks and hiring them makes the application process a lot smoother and without too much stress.

Mohammed Fhaid

2 days ago

I would like to thank Mark for taking the time to review my case and provide detailed legal advice. He was professional, respectful and took the time to explain the relevant immigration options and limitations clearly. I would also like to mention that my initial contact with IAS was with Nadeen Taylor. From the beginning, I explained that my main concern was not simply obtaining a Student visa, but finding a possible lawful way to leave Gaza and continue my studies in the UK. I specifically asked whether IAS could assist with this particular aspect of my situation, and I was reassured that this could be looked into. While the advice I ultimately received clarified a number of important points, I had hoped that the specific issue of possible evacuation from Gaza, including whether there might be an exceptional or alternative legal mechanism, could be explored further. Overall, I appreciate Mark’s professionalism and the time he spent considering my circumstances. I am grateful for the assistance provided and for the clarity of the advice I received.

peter mccann

4 days ago

Very helpful and knowledgeable

Eddie O'Neil

6 days ago

Highly recommend this service. My caseworker, Charlene Phillips, was very knowledgeable, professional & was able to answer all of our questions & put our minds at ease. She helped my partner & I with the guidance we needed to make a plan which would finally see us re-locate together.

Noah Izadpanah

6 days ago

I am incredibly grateful to Clare for all the support and hard work she has given me throughout my asylum case. After everything I have been through, receiving my Visa was an incredibly emotional and unforgettable moment for me. Clare was always patient, supportive and understanding, and she stood by me throughout a very difficult period of my life. I truly appreciate all the time, effort and care she put into my case. Her support meant more to me than I can put into words, and I will never forget her kindness. Thank you so much, Clare, for everything you have done for me. ❤️

David C

7 days ago

Ms Saimah Razzaq assisted me in successfully obtaining my wife's settlement, having helped on her prior visas also. She has always been professional, efficient and helpful in advising exactly what documents and other information is required that she then checks prior to finally submitting the application. She will answer any questions that you you may have, and gives feedback along the way. I can highly recommend Saimah to assist you.

David Morley

1 week ago

Carina gave me great advice and guidance, really easy to talk to

King Hashim

1 week ago

5/5 Stars — Exellant service "I cannot thank Saima Razzaq enough for all her hard work and support throughout our ILR application process. From start to finish she was professional, patient, and kept us updated every step of the way. We faced delays and extra checks due to being self-employed, which made the process longer and more stressful than expected. Saima was there through it all — giving clear advice, helping us chase things up, and guiding us on making formal complaints and claiming a refund when the service took far longer than promised. She fought our corner properly and never gave up. My husband has now had his application approved and we are absolutely over the moon. We couldn’t have got here without Saima’s help. If you need assistance with immigration applications, Saima Razzaq is the person to go to. Thank you so much!"

C.M. Jacob

1 week ago

Han Wei was an incredible source of knowledge, support and expertise for my settlement application. I could not have acheived a positive outcome without her and her team

Robert Scheer

1 week ago

I would like to say thank you so much for all your help and support. I couldn't have been happier with the outcome.

Hilary LeFur

2 weeks ago

My immigration enquiry was rather unusual and complex. I spoke to Mark Rigby an Immigration Advice Lawyer who was patient, understanding and offered clear, detailed advice. A comprehensive explanation of future procedures required and associated fees was given. This conversation was helpful and reassuring.

Adenike

2 weeks ago

Rachel was really attentive, calm and encouraging. She took the time to listen and explain everything clearly. I definitely recommend this service; it was worth the investment.

Vanshika Agrawal

2 weeks ago

Working with Abdul on our spouse visa extension has been an absolute pleasure. He’s been incredibly professional and meticulous with our paperwork. He helped us navigate the complex process of visa extension and moved so quickly whenever we needed extra help - even drafting custom letters to prove my right to work and rent while we wait for the decision. His warm, collaborative approach made this process incredibly easy. I can't thank him enough and highly recommend him to anyone looking for a brilliant immigration lawyer!

Ahmed Mansoor

2 weeks ago

I did my Spouse Visa Application inside the UK with the help of IAS and my case worker was Abdul Mutee who helped me throughout the process from documentation to the application and finally after the application I got a positive response from the home office.

Nesrine Shalabi

2 weeks ago

My residency was renewed promptly and without glitches.

Stephanie Shoemaker

2 weeks ago

My experience with IAS has been fabulous so far Laura Christian was very helpful in taking the time to research what my options were based on my needs and wants can’t recommend her enough

Katende Moses

2 weeks ago

I appreciate the professional handling and advice by counsel Shazia Ershad and the Immigration advice service as a whole.

Man Chung CHAU

2 weeks ago

Staff are nice, solicitors are reliable and helpful.

adeniyi esther oluwatobi

2 weeks ago

Shazia Ershad, was very helpful and informative while she stayed very professional during the consultation.

Josephine

3 weeks ago

I am so grateful to Immigration Lawyer Saimah Razzaq and the team at Immigration Advice Service (IAS) for helping me secure my ILR! From our very first consultation, they were professional, patient, and completely clear about what documents I needed. ILR applications can feel overwhelming, but Saimah Razzaq went through everything with incredible attention to detail and kept me updated at every step. Thanks to thier hard work and expertise, my application was approved immediately a day after my biometrics! I coudn't recommend them enough to anyone navigating the UK immigration system!

Tawanda Matonga

3 weeks ago

I spoke with Saima Jabeen about the areas where I needed assistance. She was very helpful and provided me with clear and useful information. I was satisfied with the support and guidance she provided.

Nicholas Peasgood

3 weeks ago

Very positive professional experience. My immigration advisor Mariam Adebayo helped my wife successfully obtain her Spouse visa extension. At the very start we had a face to face meeting at their Oldham office to discuss our needs, explain the process and what evidence we would need. We later received a written confirmation of advice laying out everything from timeframes, fees and documentation needed. Through out we had video calls and regular emails for updates and when our input was needed, Mariam even uploaded all of the extensive evidence as part of the application process which I was very happy with as I know from my own experience this can take a while. I would definitely use IAS again, don't be fooled in to opting for cheaper options, I came to IAS after a poor experience with a different company and so came back as I'd had a good experience with IAS way back in the 90's so know that they have been around for a years. Thank you IAS Oldham and Mariam Adebayo.

Fatima Babar

3 weeks ago

I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude to Abdul Mutee for everything he has done throughout my visa process. The past year was incredibly stressful, especially after facing two Canada visa refusals. During this difficult time, Abdul Mutee did not simply provide guidance; he actively worked on my case and supported me every step of the way when I felt overwhelmed and uncertain about my future. Thanks to his dedication, hard work, and continuous support, my UK visa has now been approved. This approval allows me to continue my education and pursue my dream of becoming a dentist. I truly believe that this achievement would not have been possible without his assistance and commitment. Abdul Mutee played a significant role in making this outcome possible, and I am deeply thankful for the relief, hope, and opportunity he has given me. His efforts have made a lasting impact on my life, and I will always be grateful for everything he has done. I will never forget the support, encouragement, and professionalism he showed throughout this journey. Abdul Mutee's help has made a real difference in my future, and I sincerely appreciate all of his hard work and dedication.

Elizabeth chuks

3 weeks ago

I had a great experience with Anna Claridge. She was professional, friendly and very helpful throughout our consultation. She explained everything clearly, answered all our questions and made sure we understood the options available to us. I really appreciate her support.

Sami Abdi

3 weeks ago

I would like to say a huge thank you to Lauren Blommel for all her help and support with my case. She has been absolutely amazing from start to finish. Lauren was very kind, professional and patient. She explained everything clearly and always made sure I understood what was happening. She worked very hard on my case and did everything she could to help me. I am extremely grateful for everything Lauren has done for me. I am very happy with the service I received and would definitely recommend Lauren to anyone who needs immigration advice and support. Thank you so much, Lauren, for everything. I truly appreciate all your hard work and support. I wish you all the best for the future!

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