Indefinite Leave to Remain for Skilled Worker & T2 Visas
Can You Get Indefinite Leave to Remain with a Skilled Worker or T2 Visa?
If you hold a Skilled Worker, Health and Care Worker, T2, or Tier 2 visa, you may be eligible to apply for indefinite leave to remain (ILR) after living and working in the UK for five years. ILR allows you to settle permanently, granting you the right to live, work, and study in the UK without restrictions. It can also be a step toward British citizenship.
T2 visas have replaced Tier 2 visas, but if you still hold a Tier 2 (General), Tier 2 (Minister of Religion), or Tier 2 (Sportsperson) visa, you can still apply for ILR if you meet the eligibility criteria.
Eligibility Criteria for Indefinite Leave to Remain
To qualify for ILR with a Skilled Worker, Health and Care Worker, T2, or Tier 2 visa, you must:
✅ Have legally lived and worked in the UK for at least five years
✅ Meet the salary requirements for your role
✅ Show that your job is still required by your employer
✅ Pass the Life in the UK Test (if aged 18 to 64)
✅ Apply at least 28 days before completing five years in the UK
If you do not meet these requirements, you may still be eligible for ILR through other immigration routes.
Meeting the Salary Requirements
Your salary must be at least the higher of:
✔️ £38,700 per year
✔️ The standard going rate for your job
However, there are exceptions for:
🔹 Health and care workers – Minimum salary: £23,200 per year
🔹 Education workers – Pay is based on national pay scales
🔹 Jobs on the Immigration Salary List – Minimum salary: £30,960 per year
🔹 Workers sponsored before 4 April 2024 – Minimum salary: £29,000 per year
For detailed salary requirements, check the Home Office’s going rate table.
Application Process and Fees
How and When to Apply
📅 Apply at least 28 days before completing five years in the UK
💻 Submit your application online
📝 Provide documents, including proof of employment and salary
Fees and Processing Time
💰 Application Fee: £2,885 per person
👨👩👧 Family Applications: Partner and children can be included
📸 Biometric Information: Fingerprints and a photo are required
⌛ Processing Time: Up to 6 months (faster options available)
Faster Decision Options
⚡ Priority Service (£500 extra) – Decision in 5 working days
⚡ Super Priority Service (£1,000 extra) – Decision in 1-2 working days
🚫 Do not travel outside the UK while waiting for a decision, or your application will be withdrawn.
ILR Rules for Time Spent in the UK
Your five years in the UK must be continuous. Be aware of these rules:
📌 Time outside the UK – You cannot spend more than 180 days outside the UK in any 12 months
📌 Switching visas – Time spent on certain visas (e.g., Tier 1, Scale-up Worker, Global Talent) can count toward your ILR application
Bringing Family Members with You
Your partner and children can apply for ILR if they:
✔️ Have lived in the UK as your dependants for five years
✔️ Are still in a genuine relationship with you
✔️ Meet financial requirements and are not using public funds
Children aged 18 or over must:
✔️ Have been your dependant before turning 18
✔️ Not be living an independent life (e.g., married, working full-time)
✔️ Pass the Life in the UK Test and meet English language requirements
After Getting Indefinite Leave to Remain
With ILR, you can:
✅ Work, start a business, or study in the UK
✅ Access public services (healthcare, schools)
✅ Apply for benefits and pensions
✅ Apply for British citizenship after 12 months
⚠️ Losing ILR: If you stay outside the UK for more than two years, you may need to reapply before returning.
If you have a Skilled Worker, Health and Care Worker, T2, or Tier 2 visa, applying for indefinite leave to remain is a crucial step toward settling permanently in the UK. Ensure you meet the salary and residence requirements, apply on time, and provide all required documents.
For official guidance, visit the UK Home Office website or consult Citizens Advice for support.
Source / Ref.: Gov.uk Contains public sector information licensed under OGL v3.0.
