ILR as a Refugee (5-Year Route)

You may be able to apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) as a Refugee if you have lived in the UK for 5 years as a refugee and meet all the requirements. Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) is a common way to settle in the UK. It is also known as 'settlement'.

ILR allows you to live, work or study in the UK without any immigration restrictions. You may be able to apply for the benefits if eligible.

UK immigration rules and requirements are subject to change, so it is always best to consult with a qualified immigration solicitor for the most up-to-date information.

If you are applying for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) as a refugee, our team of immigration solicitors can provide you with the help you need. Call us on 0203 417 3700 for legal advice and assistance with your ILR application.

Page Contents

1. ILR as a Refugee (5-Year Route)
2. How to apply for ILR as a refugee?
3. What are the requirements to apply for ILR as a refugee?
4. What documents are required to apply for ILR as a refugee?
5. How long does it take to process an ILR application?
6. Super Priority Service for ILR applications
7. Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) application fee
8. Solicitors for ILR applications
9. Frequently asked questions (FAQs)
10. Need Legal Advice & Assistance?

How to apply for ILR as a refugee?

You must apply online for an ILR as a refugee after the completion of 5 years if meet all the eligibility requirements. If you need expert legal advice or guidance then you can contact our highly experienced immigration solicitors based in London.

The steps for an ILR application are as follows:

• Assess your eligibility for an ILR application (if not sure, our immigration solicitors can help)
• Complete and submit the ILR application form online
• Pay the relevant ILR application fee
• Upload documents in support of your ILR application
• Book and attend a biometric appointment.
• Wait for the outcome (you should get a decision within 6 months)

The application process for ILR can be complex, and it is recommended that you seek professional legal advice if you are unsure about any aspect of the process.

What are the requirements to apply for ILR as a refugee?

To apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) in the UK as a refugee, you must meet certain requirements. These include:

• You must have been granted refugee status or humanitarian protection by the UK government;
• You must have lived in the UK continuously for at least five years;
• You must not have spent more than 180 days outside the UK in any 12-month period during the five-year period;

You must meet all other eligibility requirements depending on your personal circumstances.

What documents are required to apply for ILR as a refugee?

To apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) in the UK as a refugee, you will need to provide the following documents:

• Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) - This is proof of your legal right to stay in the UK as a refugee and will be issued to you when you are granted refugee status.
• Passport or travel document - You will need to provide a valid passport or travel document to prove your identity.
• Home Office letter - The Home Office will send you a letter confirming your refugee status. You will need to include a copy of this letter with your ILR application.
• Evidence of residence - You will need to provide evidence that you have been living in the UK since being granted refugee status. This can include things like utility bills, bank statements, and rental agreements.

Depending on your individual circumstances, you may need to provide additional documents. This could include things like medical certificates or criminal record checks.

How long does it take to process an ILR application?

You will usually get a decision from the Home Office (UKVI) within 6 months if you apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) using the standard service. You might be able to use "Super Priority Service" to get a faster decision.

Super Priority Service for ILR applications

If you have Discretionary Leave and you paid to use the "super priority service", you'll get a decision within 2 working days. Working days are Monday to Friday, not including bank holidays.

You cannot use the "super priority service" if you have protection status (permission to stay as a refugee or person with humanitarian protection).

Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) application fee

There's no fee if you have protection status (permission to stay as a refugee or person with humanitarian protection). This will also apply to your partner or child.

If you have Discretionary Leave it costs £2,885 for you and each other person you include in your application. You'll each need to have your biometric information (fingerprints and a photo) taken - there's no fee for this.

Solicitors for ILR applications

Our expert team of UK immigration solicitors and lawyers will be able to assist you with ILR as a refugee application.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)