UK Government refers to permanent residency as ‘Indefinite Leave to Remain’ (abbreviated as ILR). One who is granted ILR has the right to live, study or work in UK, without any immigration related restrictions and there is no restriction to his/ her stay unless government itself revokes it. You must know that, you are only entitled to apply for Permanent Residency in UK if you have lived there for a minimum period of five years.
Having ILR has many benefits such as it can be quite handy while dealing with authorities or administrative formalities as they may no longer require you to prove that you have a job, sufficient resources, health insurance, etc.
How to apply for UK Permanent Resident Card
#1. In order to fill the permanent residence card application form, you need to visit official website and download it.
#2. The next step after filling it is to post it to Home Office (using address on the form).
#3. You will need to pay fee of Rs 4,360 (£65 fee per person) approximately to apply for PR in UK.
#4. You will need to attach the list of documents that are specified on the form.
Need More Information Regarding UK Immigration Process?
Processing Time
The processing time and requirements to qualify for PR in UK may vary greatly depending upon the visa class that you are currently on.
Other-Documents Required
1. A proof stating your legally stay in the country for five years before applying for permanent residency in UK.
2. Authorities may ask for valid registration certificate issued by you when you arrived.
3. Also, documents such as work contracts, tax returns, rental contracts or utility bills can be required.
Language Proficiency Requirements To Get UK Permanent Resident Card
An applicant (over age of 18 and under 65) will need to provide a proof of his/her English skills in all four sections of listening, reading, writing and speaking. UKIV (UK Visa and Immigration) conducts special exam called IELTS Life Skills. Applicants need to clear certain levels of this exam as per current status to qualify for Permanent Residency in UK.
Bio-metric Information
A digital photo taken, fingerprints scanned along with signature are required by immigration authorities.
After PR Has Been Granted
It is vital to maintain ties to UK and consider it to be home. Spending short periods of time will lead to loss of permanent residency of UK. This card is valid for 10 years and is automatically renewable without any condition or requirement.
Learn About How To Get Business Visa To UK
Conditions of Indefinite Leave to Remain
It is advised not to be outside of UK for more than 90 days during qualifying period and no more than 180 before applying for ILR in UK. Remember that visa grants permission for Indefinite Leave to REMAIN and PR in UK will be revoked if one stays outside UK for more than 2 years.