Indefinite leave to remain if you're a Turkish Worker or Businessperson

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After you apply

You’ll be asked to make an appointment at a UK Visa and Citizenship Application Services (UKVCAS) service point to provide your biometric information (your fingerprints and a photo).

You’ll also need to submit your supporting documents. You can:

  • upload them into the online service
  • have them scanned at your UKVCAS appointment

Any children aged 6 or over must provide biometric information if you’re applying for them on your form.

You must not travel outside of the UK, Ireland, the Channel Islands or the Isle of Man until you get a decision. Your application will be withdrawn if you do.

Getting a decision

You’ll usually get a decision within 6 months.

You’ll be contacted if your application is complex and will take longer, 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 your application is approved

You can do the following:

  • work
  • run a business
  • study
  • use public services, such as healthcare and schools
  • apply for public funds (benefits) and pensions
  • apply for British citizenship, usually after a minimum of 12 months

If you stay outside of the UK for 2 years

You can lose your indefinite leave to remain if you stay outside the UK for 2 or more years at a time. You may need to apply before you can return to the UK.

View a printable version of the whole guide

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