Do you want to settle in the UK?

If you are currently residing in the UK with a valid UK visa then there are options if you are interested in applying for settlement.

The most common type of UK settlement visa is called Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR).

Given that a successful application will grant you Permanent Residency in the UK, there are strict criteria set out under the Immigration Rules that you must satisfy. Your right to apply for settlement will depend on your current immigration status and whether you continue to meet the criteria for the category you fall under.

You will usually be able to apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain after five years, but there are other requirements you will need to fulfil. Your application may require you to have 10 years’ continuous residence in the UK.

For more information on Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR)

If you want to remain permanently in the UK, with the same rights as those born here, you will need to become a British Citizen.

A British Citizenship is not limited and allows holders to leave and enter the UK freely. To become a British Citizen you must be married to a British national or hold a successful Indefinite Leave to Remain status. Unless you are of British descent you will need to go through the process of British Naturalisation in order to become a British Citizen.

For more information on British Citizenship

If you are a refugee who has resettled in the UK through the Gateway Protection Programme, you will automatically be granted Immediate Leave to Remain.

Find out more about Seeking Asylum and Refuge in the UK

If you do not yet qualify for ILR you may be able to extend your existing visa temporarily. This is known as Further Leave to Remain. It is important to remember that you must apply to extend your stay before your existing permission expires. If you do not do this, you will be considered an over stayer and you risk an order for enforced removal.

At IAS, we understand the importance of being able to settle in one place, and the security this can bring. Our team of expert immigration lawyers are fully-equipped to help you towards this goal.

Our services include:

• deciding whether you are eligible for the UK Settlement Visa/settlement route;
• meeting with you in person, via phone or Skype at a suitable time that works for you;
• confirming that you have suitable documentation for your application;
• producing a Letter of Representation to be submitted to the Home Office. This letter provides information about your case and its qualities, as well as referencing relevant UK immigration laws which might support your application;
• liaising with the Home Office until a decision is reached;
• helping you to prepare for your IELTS test;
• helping you to prepare for your ‘Life in the UK test’;
• Having a lawyer complete each part of your application form using their accomplished expertise.

If you would like to discuss the possibility of you applying for settlement in more detail, then get in touch with us at 0333 363 8577 or use our online enquiry form now.