How to Settle in the UK Through Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) – June 2025 Update
The UK’s ILR pathway is still open as of June 2025—but with major immigration reforms on the horizon, eligible migrants are advised to apply now before stricter rules take effect.
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Yes, as of June 2025, the UK’s Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) route is still open for eligible migrants who have lawfully lived in the UK for five years under qualifying visa categories. However, with major immigration reforms expected soon, it’s strongly recommended to apply as soon as you become eligible to avoid stricter rules in the future.
What Is Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR)?
Indefinite Leave to Remain is the UK’s main settlement route, allowing foreign nationals to live permanently in the UK without immigration restrictions.
Once granted ILR, you can:
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Live, work, and study in the UK without time limits
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Access the NHS and public funds
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Travel freely in and out of the UK
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Apply for British citizenship after 12 months (or immediately if married to a British citizen)
Who Can Apply for ILR in 2025?
You may qualify for ILR if you’ve spent five continuous years in the UK under any of the following visa routes:
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Skilled Worker visa
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Global Talent visa
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Innovator Founder visa
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Spouse or Partner visa
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Ancestry visa
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Certain other long-term routes
ILR Eligibility Criteria (2025)
To apply for ILR, you must:
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Complete 5 years of lawful residence in an eligible visa category
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Pass the Life in the UK Test
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Meet the English language requirement
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Prove continuous residence (limited absences allowed)
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Have no serious immigration or criminal history
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Submit your application within 28 days of reaching the 5-year mark
Important: Settlement Reforms Are Coming
The UK government has announced plans to tighten immigration rules, including:
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Raising the ILR qualifying period from 5 to 10 years for most visa types
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Introducing an “earned settlement” model — faster ILR only for:
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High-income earners
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Healthcare workers
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Engineers, scientists, and tech specialists
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While these changes are not yet in effect, they could be implemented in stages in late 2025 or early 2026.
What Should You Do Now?
If you’re already living in the UK and getting close to ILR eligibility:
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Apply early — up to 28 days before your 5-year completion date
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Gather documents — including:
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Life in the UK Test certificate
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English language proof
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Evidence of continuous residence and employment
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Monitor government announcements on immigration rule changes
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Seek professional advice from a registered immigration consultant
Pro tip: Don’t wait until reforms are confirmed. Applying under current rules could save you years of waiting and stricter conditions.
How to Apply for ILR
You must apply online via the UK government website. The application process involves biometric appointments, document uploads, and sometimes interviews.
Summary: ILR June 2025 Snapshot
| Feature | Current Requirement |
|---|---|
| Residency Requirement | 5 years (for most categories) |
| Life in the UK Test | Mandatory |
| English Language Requirement | Mandatory |
| Application Timing | 28 days before 5-year mark |
| Settlement Reform Coming? | Yes – 5 years may become 10 |
| Best Time to Apply | Now, before changes begin |
Final Thoughts
Indefinite Leave to Remain offers a clear path to permanent settlement and British citizenship. But with the UK government preparing to introduce stricter conditions, eligible applicants should act quickly to secure their status under the current rules.
If you’re living in the UK on a work, family, or talent visa and are close to completing your 5-year stay, applying for ILR in 2025 could be your smartest move.
