Indefinite leave to remain (private life)

Skip contents

Apply

You must apply online for indefinite leave to remain on the basis of your private life.

There is a different way to apply if you’re:

  • under 18
  • between 18 and 25 years old, and came to the UK as a child
  • currently in the UK as a dependant on a parent’s visa and you’re over 18

Apply online for indefinite leave to remain as a child.

Parents can apply on behalf of children under 18.

Once you’ve started your application, you can save your form and complete it later.

Check what documents you’ll need to apply.

You must be in the UK to apply.

Proving your identity and providing supporting documents

As part of your application you’ll need to prove your identity. How you do this depends on where you’re from and the type of passport or resident permit you have.

You’ll either:

  • use the ‘UK Immigration: ID Check’ app to scan your identity document - you’ll also create or sign in to your UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) account
  • have your fingerprints and photo (biometric information) taken at a UK Visa and Citizenship Application Services (UKVCAS) service point

You’ll be told what you need to do when you apply.

When to apply

The earliest you can apply is 28 days before you’re eligible. Check how long you need to have spent in the UK to be eligible.

Your application may be refused if you apply earlier.

Do not wait until your current visa expires. If your visa expires before you can apply for indefinite leave to remain, you’ll need to renew it first.

How long it takes

There is no standard processing time, but you’ll usually be told whether your application has been successful within 6 months.

Your application may take longer if your case is complex, for example:

  • if your supporting documents need to be verified

  • if you need to attend an interview

  • because of your personal circumstances, for example if you have a criminal conviction

If you urgently need to travel overseas, contact UK Visas and Immigration.

If your application is successful

You’ll get an eVisa (an online record of your immigration status).

Your decision email or letter will tell you how to get access to your eVisa. You’ll need to create a UKVI account.

Find out how to get your biometric residence permit (BRP) if you were told you’d get one when you applied.

You’ll then be able to do the following:

If you stay outside the UK for more than 2 years

You’ll lose your indefinite leave to remain if you stay outside the UK for more than 2 years at a time.

You’ll need to apply for a Returning Resident visa before you can return to the UK.

Get help using a computer to apply online

You can get help with completing the online form if you:

  • do not feel confident using a computer or mobile device
  • do not have internet access

You can only use this service if you’re applying in the UK.

You cannot get immigration advice through this service.

View a printable version of the whole guide