Long residence settlement
Allows foreign nationals who have lived in the UK continuously and lawfully for at least 10 years across any combination of valid visas to settle permanently.
Who this pathway suits
Individuals with 10 years of unbroken legal residence (students, workers, dependants).
Eligibility at a glance
- 10 continuous years of lawful residence in the UK with valid leave throughout
- No single absence exceeding 180 days (for absences starting on or after 11 April 2024)
- Passed Life in the UK Test and CEFR B1 English
- Clean immigration record with no public interest reasons for refusal
How the process works
- Audit complete 10-year travel history and visa grants
- Pass Life in the UK Test
- Lodge application and attend biometrics
Documents you will typically need
- Current and historical passports covering the full 10-year period, Home Office grant letters, Life in the UK certificate
What to keep in mind
Time spent in prison, on immigration bail, or as a visitor does not count toward the 10 years.
Official source: GOV.UK — Long residence. Government authorities make all final decisions; no outcome is guaranteed.
Parallel Options & Supporting Tools for Long residence settlement
Explore supporting intelligence briefings, interactive points assessment tools, institutional services, and parallel global migration pathways.
Supporting Tools & Verification Checklists
Institutional Legal Services & Representation
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EU Settlement Scheme — eligibility/status guidance
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