Apply Now: The Guide to Permanent Residency in the UK
Gaining UK permanent residence—commonly referred to as Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR)—is a major milestone for African immigrants aiming to build long-term lives in the United Kingdom. Unlike temporary visas, permanent residence in the UK allows you to live, work, and study without time limitations, access healthcare and public benefits, and eventually apply for British citizenship.
This guide is designed to be your friendly roadmap. It explains the benefits, visa categories, eligibility requirements, application processes, and essential tips to help you successfully navigate UK permanent residence. Whether you’re arriving on a skilled worker visa, family route, or as a refugee, this resource will clarify the entire journey to applying.
By the end of this article, you’ll understand how to assert your pathway to permanent residence in the UK, what steps to take, and why it’s worth pursuing. Plus, you’ll find relatable examples from fellow African migrants who have achieved ILR and made the UK their long-term home.
Why Permanent Residence in the UK Is a Game-Changer
- Unrestricted Rights: As a permanent resident, you can live and work in the UK without visa renewals or restrictions.
- Public Services Access: You’ll be eligible for NHS services, student tuition fees, and other welfare benefits.
- Family Stability: You can sponsor relatives like spouse and children and enjoy long-term stability.
- Citizenship Pathway: After holding ILR for 12 months and fulfilling residence requirements, you can apply for British citizenship.
For many in Africa, ILR transforms international mobility into domestic security—opening doors to home ownership, professional growth, and real integration.
Who Is Eligible for Permanent Residence in the UK?
Skilled Worker Route (formerly Tier 2)
If you’ve been working under the Skilled Worker visa for at least 5 continuous years, you may apply for UK permanent residence, provided you meet:
- Salary threshold: at least £26,200 per year (or the “going rate” for your role)
- Proficiency in English at B1 level or above
- Life in the UK test passed
- No long absences: Typically, no more than 180 days outside the UK per year
Global Talent, Innovator, and Start-up Visas
Permanent residence may be sought after 3 or 5 years, depending on visa terms and continued endorsement.
Family Route
If you’ve lived in the UK on a spouse, fiancé(e), or partner visa, you usually can apply after 5 years of continuous residence, subject to income and no criminal record.
Long Residence Rule
You may apply after 10 years of lawful continuous UK residence on any visa combination.
Refugees and Humanitarian Protection
Refugees are eligible to apply for ILR after completing 5 years of residence in the UK.
Path to Permanent Residence in the UK — Step by Step
Step 1: Confirm Your Eligibility
Ensure you meet the necessary criteria (5 years continuous residency, salary thresholds, life test, etc.).
Step 2: Pass the “Life in the UK” Test
This is a mandatory civic test covering UK history and culture. Book via the official Life in the UK test website.
Step 3: Prove Your English Level
If you are not a national of a majority English-speaking country, take an approved test such as IELTS Life Skills or SELT at B1 level or higher.
Step 4: Gather Supporting Documents
Make sure to compile:
- Passport(s) with visa stamps
- Biometric Residence Permit (BRP)
- Proof of employment and income (if needed)
- Bank statements, payslips
- Life in the UK and English test certificates
Step 5: Submit the Online Application
Complete form SET(O) (partner), SET(M) (family), or SET(R) (Skilled Worker), and pay the application fee (currently £2,389, plus biometric costs).
Step 6: Provide Biometrics
Visit a UKVCAS centre to provide fingerprints and a photograph for your passport or BRP.
Step 7: Await Decision
ILR decisions generally take around 6 months but may be expedited under ‘priority’ service for a fee.
Additional Routes to Secure UK Permanent Residence
Post-Brexit Frontier Worker Permits
If you worked certain cross-border jobs in Ireland before December 2020, you could apply for this permit leading to ILR after 5+ years.
EU Settlement Scheme
EU, EEA, or Swiss citizens living in the UK before 31 December 2020 might be eligible for settled status, equivalent to ILR.
Work-Based Routes
Visas like Global Talent, Innovator, and Start-up offer fast-track routes to residency, typically within 3–5 years.
Tips for African Applicants
- Keep Records of Your Residency
Dates matter. Document travel and absences to show continuous presence. - Plan Ahead for English & Civic Tests
These are required, even if English is your native language. - Save Fees & Legal Support
ILR filing is expensive—budget carefully and consider professional advice via OISC-regulated advisers. - Be Honest and Detailed
Visa officers check for contradictions—consistency in employment dates and personal history is crucial.
Relatable Anecdotes from African Migrants
From Skilled Worker to ILR: Nana’s Experience (Ghana)
Nana, an IT specialist from Accra, moved to London in 2018 under a Skilled Worker visa. After working five years meeting salary criteria and passing her Life in the UK test, she was granted ILR in 2023. “I found the process painless once I organized my documents and passed the tests,” she said.
Navigating Long Residence: Amina from Kenya
Amina arrived on a spouse visa in 2012 and switched employers between 2015–2017. She applied under the Long Residence Rule, took her Life in the UK test, and gained ILR in 2022. For her, flexibility and attention to detail were key.
Common Questions About UK Permanent Residence
Can Spouses Apply Separately?
Yes—they must each meet eligibility and pass Life in the UK and English requirements.
What Happens if I Leave the UK?
Long absences risk your ILR. After being granted permanent residence, avoid stays outside the UK exceeding 2 years, or consider applying for British citizenship.
Can I Bring Family After ILR?
Yes. With ILR, you are able to sponsor eligible family members, including spouses and dependent children.
Final Thoughts: Start Your Permanent Residence Journey Today
Securing UK permanent residence transforms your life in the UK—granting freedom, economic security, and pathways for family and citizenship. Whether you’re on a Skilled Worker visa, partner route, or another eligible category, now is the time to prepare and apply.
For detailed guides on specific visa routes, visit the UK government’s ILR guide, and plan your pathway to staying in the UK permanently!
Wishing you every success in your application. Let’s make your permanent UK home a reality—apply now!
