Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR): Converting from a Skilled Worker Visa

Published Date: August 11, 2023

If you are a professional living in the UK on a Skilled Worker Visa and intend to gain permanent residency. In that case, you may be considering switching from your current Skilled Worker status to Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR).

Extending Your Skilled Worker Visa and the Journey to ILR

As a holder of a Skilled Worker Visa, if you hope to reside in the UK longer, free from the constraints imposed by your Skilled Worker Visa regulations, applying for ILR after completing five years in the UK may be the best path.

Upon being granted ILR the need to adhere to specific Skilled Worker Visa regulations will cease. Consequently, you will be exempted from requirements such as having an employer with a Sponsorship Licence or being employed in a role with a UK skills shortage.

Regrettably, the pathway from a Senior or Specialist Worker Visa to ILR is no longer accessible. However, with the guidance of our team of experienced lawyers specializing in UK visas and immigration, you may be eligible to apply for a Skilled Worker Visa, effectively setting you on the trajectory towards permanent residency.

Criteria for Transitioning from Skilled Worker Visa to ILR

Specific eligibility conditions govern transitioning from a Skilled Worker Visa to Indefinite Leave to Remain. Principally, you must have at least five years of legal, continuous residence in the UK. This period can consist solely of time spent in the UK under a Skilled Worker Visa. Still, it can also include time spent under different visa categories, such as:

Global Talent
Innovator
T2 Minister of Religion
T2 Sportsperson

In addition to the above, further eligibility conditions must be met. One such prerequisite is passing the ‘Life in the UK’ test to assess your understanding of British culture, history, and contemporary events. The test is comprised of 24 questions which must be answered within a 45-minute time frame, requiring a score of 75% or higher for a pass.

Moreover, you are required to meet the English Language requirement. Depending on your circumstances, this may involve passing a certified English language test unless you qualify for an exemption.

The Process of Transitioning from Skilled Worker Visa to ILR

After meeting the five-year residency requirement, applying for ILR can be initiated. Interestingly, you are not required to wait for the expiration of your Skilled Worker Visa before submitting your application, provided you have met the residency condition mentioned above.

The application for ILR must be submitted online via the UK government website. After completing the application form, you must submit your supporting documentation to the Home Office.

This includes your test pass certificates, a current passport or another valid travel ID, your biometric residence permit (if available), and all passports held during your stay in the UK.

Your documents must be translated if they are not in English or Welsh. You can submit your supporting documents either by uploading them into the online service or by having them scanned at your UKVCAS appointment. This appointment is necessary to provide your biometric information, such as your photograph and fingerprints.

After submitting your application and documentation, you should anticipate a decision from the Home Office within six months.

Concluding Remarks

The transition from a Skilled Worker Visa to ILR is a significant step towards achieving permanent residency in the UK. It is essential to understand and meet the eligibility criteria and be fully aware of the application process to enhance the chances of a successful transition. This transition will result in greater freedom and flexibility during your extended stay in the UK. For expert guidance, consider consulting an Immigration Lawyer London.

Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR): Converting from a Skilled Worker Visa

Extending Your Skilled Worker Visa and the Journey to ILR

Criteria for Transitioning from Skilled Worker Visa to ILR

The Process of Transitioning from Skilled Worker Visa to ILR

Concluding Remarks

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