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Settlement Visa (UK)

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For an initial consultation, call us now on 0300 131 6767

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Introduction

A settlement visa - also known as indefinite leave to remain - can only be applied for once a person qualifies, usually after a set period of residence in a visa category that leads to settlement. In most instances, settlement is obtained once a person has resided in the UK for five years. It remains valid unless you leave the UK for a continuous two-year period; even if you do so, it may still be possible to apply for a ‘returning resident’ visa.

Applications for settlement or indefinite leave to remain can be complicated, and the requirements will vary depending on your immigration category. Our helpful solicitors are on hand to advise and assist, whether you would like information about a visa application or help to complete it.

To speak to one of our solicitors about how to make an application for settlement, Call us today on 0300 131 6767 or complete our enquiry form and we will get straight back to you.

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How Latitude Law can help

Our team of expert solicitors has extensive knowledge and years of experience helping individuals achieve settlement in the UK on their way to becoming a British citizen. Settlement status can be achieved in many different ways, including working under the points-based system, sponsorship, UK ancestry, and so on.

Settlement applications are submitted online and are supported by specified evidence confirming your time in the UK and that you satisfy the requirements of your immigration route. We can help you to identify the correct application and the documents needed for a successful outcome enabling you to live in the UK permanently.

If you are unsure what your settlement status is, our solicitors will be able to help and explore the best options for British citizenship.

For an initial consultation, call us now on 0300 131 6767

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What is settlement in the UK?

Settlement, also called ‘indefinite leave to remain’ or ‘permanent residence’, is unlimited permission to reside in the UK. This status removes restrictions on travel or work and allows the holder to receive UK benefits if otherwise eligible. Settlement is often available to applicants after they have completed at least five years’ UK residence in a qualifying immigration route. Some routes - such as Global Talent and Innovator - offer a three-year settlement option. It may also be available to people who have completed 10 years’ continuous lawful UK residence regardless of the type of permission they held.

What is a UK settlement visa?

A UK settlement visa allows you to live, work and study in the UK with very few restrictions. Permanent residence is the most secure status you can obtain under immigration rules, short of becoming a British citizen.

Who is eligible for settlement?

Indefinite leave to remain is only available to those who meet the specific requirements of their immigration route. For most applicants, this will mean completing five years’ continuous UK residence and satisfying any other criteria their route demands. For example:

  • Partners can settle in the UK after five years if their relationship is continuing and they satisfy income requirements and other criteria. Partners who cannot satisfy all these requirements may be eligible for settlement after 10 years
  • Workers can settle after five years, providing they remain in a suitably highly skilled and well-paid position and they retain the support of their employer
  • EU citizens and their family members (including non-EU citizens) may be eligible for settlement under the EU Settlement Scheme either after five years’ UK residence under the old EU regulations or with pre-settled status under the EU Settlement Scheme

It is also now possible for children who were born in the UK and then lived in the UK for the first seven years of their life without valid permission to obtain settlement.

A person who has spent 10 years in the UK with valid, legal leave on different routes, or routes that don’t lead to settlement normally, will be eligible for indefinite leave to remain after 10 years in the UK, providing there are no gaps in their residence.

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Why choose Latitude Law?

We understand how challenging it can be to navigate the process of obtaining Settlement. That is why our team of experienced solicitors, who have many years of experience in immigration law, will do everything they can to help your settlement application be successful.

We are pleased to be recognised as a leading law firm by the following independent bodies: The Times Best Law Firms 2024, Chambers & Partners 2024, Legal 500 2024 and Who'sWhoLegal 2024. These endorsements from the international legal directories demonstrate our integrity and success in dealing with difficult cases. We are also proud of our 5-star Google reviews from over 150 satisfied clients.

Call us today on 0300 131 6767 or fill out our enquiry form and we will get straight back to you. Let our legal experts take the uncertainty out of your settlement application, so you can start your successful journey to the UK today.

FAQs about settlement visas UK

How much is a settlement visa for UK?

Settlement fees are around £2,885 in most categories. For more information regarding fees, visit the government website to see which fee will apply to you.

What is the meaning of 'leave to remain'?

Indefinite leave to remain in the UK is another way of saying ‘indefinite permission to stay’. Indefinite leave to remain is permanent permission to stay in the UK.

Can students qualify for settlement?

Not based on their study alone. Students are not on a UK settlement route, so their study is not building up qualifying time for settlement.

However, students can combine their status with other categories and when they have completed 10 years’ continuous lawful residence, may apply for settlement on that basis (unless they qualify for it some other way first).

How long does it take to process a settlement visa application?

You should receive a decision on your application within six months. However, you can pay for a faster decision in some visa categories. Our aim is to prepare clear and persuasive settlement applications which can be processed quickly by the Home Office.

Does the UK settlement visa expire?

The UK settlement visa allows an individual to remain in the UK for as long as they like. Once you have lived in the UK for at least one year on a settlement visa, you will be eligible to apply to become a British citizen (immediately if you are married to a British citizen).

Can you lose your UK settlement visa?

Settlement in the UK can only usually be lost if you are absent for a continuous period of two years or more, or if you commit a serious criminal offence and face deportation from the UK.

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Contact us

As the requirements for obtaining settlement are complex, to ensure success, you should seek specialist advice from an immigration solicitor before you proceed with an application. Latitude Law’s specialist lawyers can advise you about your individual requirements and ensure that your supporting documentation is compliant with the very latest immigration rules.

Get in touch with our legal team today on 0300 131 6767 or fill out our enquiry form and we will get straight back to you. Face your future knowing you have the dedicated support of one of our expert lawyers.

Our other relevant visa services

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For an initial consultation, call us now on 0300 131 6767

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