Work Route Settlement

Many people working in the UK under a Skilled Worker Visa or other qualifying work route become eligible to apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) after five years of continuous lawful residence.

To qualify, you must have been employed continuously during your qualifying period by a licensed sponsor, earning at least the minimum salary threshold applicable to your occupation code. Your employer must still hold a valid sponsor licence at the time of your application.

You should not have been absent from the UK for more than 180 days in any 12-month period during your qualifying period. You will also need to pass the Life in the UK Test and meet the English language requirement unless you are exempt.

Settlement through the work route gives you the right to live and work in the UK indefinitely, without ties to a specific employer or occupation. Once you have ILR, you no longer need an employer to sponsor you, and you are free to change jobs, become self-employed, or take a career break.

Some work routes — such as the Global Talent visa — may qualify for an accelerated route to settlement after three years of continuous residence.

Preparing a thorough ILR application is important. Missing documents or gaps in your employment history can cause unnecessary delays. At Terence Ray Solicitors, we carry out a detailed review of your qualifying period and advise you on exactly what evidence is required.

Call 020 3367 1430 or email info@trsolicitors.co.uk to arrange a consultation.