Indefinite Leave to Remain Solicitors

Indefinite Leave to Remain Solicitors — Expert UK Settlement Support

Applying for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) is a significant step in your UK immigration journey. At The McKenzie Friend, we provide professional guidance to help you secure your permanent residence efficiently and confidently — from eligibility checks to document preparation and submission.

What is Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR)?

Indefinite Leave to Remain grants you permanent resident status in the UK, allowing you to live, work, and study without time limits or immigration restrictions. It’s the final stage before applying for British citizenship and a crucial milestone for those who’ve built their lives here.

Our role is to ensure your application meets every Home Office requirement — helping you avoid delays, refusals, or costly mistakes. We guide you through the entire process, presenting your case clearly and professionally.

Who Can Apply?

You may qualify for ILR after a continuous period of lawful residence in the UK. Common routes include:

• Spouse or Partner Visa (after 5 years in the UK)
• Skilled Worker Visa (after 5 years)
• UK Ancestry Visa (after 5 years)
• Private Life or Long Residence Route (after 10 years)
• Refugee or Humanitarian Protection (after 5 years)
• Parent or Dependant Visa routes (case-specific)

Our Step-by-Step Approach

1. Initial Consultation: We review your immigration background and confirm which ILR route applies.
2. Document Review: You’ll receive a detailed checklist, and we’ll check your evidence before submission.
3. Application Preparation: We assist with completing your online SET(M), SET(O), or other ILR forms.
4. Supporting Evidence: We guide you on how to compile proof of residence, finances, and employment.
5. Submission & Follow-Up: We ensure your application is submitted correctly and track progress until a decision is made.

Required Documents

The required evidence varies depending on your visa route but typically includes:

• Passport and Biometric Residence Permit (BRP)
• Proof of continuous residence (bills, payslips, or tenancy agreements)
• Life in the UK Test pass certificate
• English language qualification (if applicable)
• Employment or self-employment records
• Marriage or partnership evidence (for spouse visa holders)

Home Office Fees & Processing Time

The current fee for Indefinite Leave to Remain is £2,885 per applicant (2025 rate). Most decisions take between 3 to 6 months, though faster “Super Priority” options are available for an additional fee.

Why Choose The McKenzie Friend?

• Affordable, transparent fixed-fee service
• Step-by-step application guidance — from start to approval
• Professional document review to avoid refusals
• Personalised support — online or in person
• Comprehensive preparation for Life in the UK and English tests

After ILR — What’s Next?

Once you receive ILR, you can remain in the UK permanently and access most benefits, healthcare, and employment rights. After 12 months of holding ILR (or immediately if married to a British citizen), you can apply for British citizenship.

While The McKenzie Friend provides professional application support, we can refer clients to OISC-regulated advisers or immigration solicitors for complex legal representation when required.