Long Residence Guidance: ILR 10-Year Route (2025)

What Is Long Residence?

Long residence refers to a route to Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) for individuals who have lawfully and continuously resided in the UK for 10 years. This pathway is ideal for those who have lived in the UK under various visa types, as long as they have maintained legal status and avoided overstaying. Unlike other ILR pathways that require specific visas for 2, 3, or 5 years, the 10-year long residence route allows applicants to combine time spent on different visa categories. This unique feature prevents the ILR “clock” from resetting when switching visas, making it a preferred option for those who have held multiple visas during their time in the UK.
Eligibility Requirements for Long Residence ILR (2025)
To qualify for ILR through the 10-year long residence route, you must meet the following conditions:

1. Lawful and Continuous Residence: Resided in the UK lawfully for at least 10 years without significant gaps. From 11 April 2024, applicants must not have been outside the UK for more than 180 days in any 12-month period.
2. English Language Proficiency: Pass an approved CEFR English test (B1, B2, C1, or C2) or hold a degree taught in English.
3. Life in the UK Test: Pass the required knowledge of life in the UK test.
4. Current Visa Status: Have held your current visa for at least one year.
5. Suitability Criteria: No criminal convictions or immigration violations. No actions that pose a threat to public interest or immigration control.
   Continuous 10-Year Lawful Residence
   The Home Office assesses the 10-year period by evaluating lawful residence and absence limits:

• Absence Rules: Absences before 11 April 2024 must not exceed 184 days per trip or a total of 548 days. Absences after 11 April 2024 must not exceed 180 days in any 12-month period.
• Excluded Timeframes: Time spent in the following categories does not count towards continuous residence: Visitor visas or short-term study visas. Seasonal worker visas. Immigration bail or temporary admission/release. Prison, secure hospitals, or overstaying visas. For accurate calculations, consider submitting a Subject Access Request (SAR) to the Home Office to obtain your immigration and travel history.
  Documents Required for ILR Application
  When applying for ILR under the long residence route, ensure you include:
• Mandatory Documents: Current passport or travel ID. Biometric Residence Permit (BRP). All passports used during your UK residence.
• Supplementary Evidence: Proof of residence (e.g., rental agreements, utility bills, bank statements). Education or employment records. Any documents not in English or Welsh must be translated.
  When to Apply for Long Residence ILR
  You can submit your ILR application up to 28 days before meeting the 10-year residence requirement. Applying too early or miscalculating your residence period may lead to refusal. To avoid delays or errors, consider seeking advice from an immigration solicitor who can verify your documents and eligibility.
  Extending Stay on the 10-Year Route
  If you meet all ILR criteria except passing the English language or life in the UK tests, you may apply for a 2-year extension under Paragraphs 276A1 and 276A2 of the immigration rules. This allows you to meet the missing requirements without losing your continuous residence status. For expert guidance, contact Adamir Immigration Solicitors at 02033020074, located at 5 Norman Road, Unit-1, N15 4ND, London, and let us help you secure your ILR under the 10-year long residence route. Optimize your path to permanent residency with this flexible and accommodating ILR option!