When can you get ILR without being sponsored?

Indefinite leave to remain (ILR) is a significant milestone for anyone seeking permanent residency in the UK. While many achieve ILR through sponsored routes, such as the Skilled Worker visa, several non-sponsored visa categories also provide a pathway to settlement. Understanding these routes can help you navigate the UK immigration system more confidently.

The key non-sponsored visa routes leading to ILR include:

1. UK Ancestry visa

The UK Ancestry visa is designed for Commonwealth citizens who have a grandparent born in the UK, the Channel Islands, the Isle of Man or Ireland (before 31 March 1922). This route is ideal for those with family ties to the UK who wish to work and live in the country.

You will qualify to apply for ILR after five years of continuous residence in the UK.

Requirements for ILR 

• Evidence of continuous employment or genuine intention to work.
• Proof of financial stability without recourse to public funds.
• Meeting the English language and Life in the UK requirements.
• No breaches of immigration laws, including absences not exceeding 180 days in any 12-month period.

2. Global Talent visa

The Global Talent visa is for individuals who are leaders or emerging leaders in fields such as academia, research, arts and culture or digital technology. This route offers flexibility and does not require employer sponsorship but does need endorsement from an approved UK body.

You will qualify for ILR after three or five years, depending on the nature of the endorsement and achievements.

Requirements for ILR

• Continuous residence with permitted absences.
• Proof of significant contributions and achievements in your field.
• Meeting the English language and Life in the UK requirements.
• Evidence of active participation in your sector within the UK.

3. Spouse or partner visa

If you are married to or in a civil partnership with a British citizen or someone settled in the UK, you may apply for a spouse or partner visa. This route is based on establishing the genuine and subsisting nature of your relationship.

You will need to spend five continuous years of residence in the UK in order to qualify for ILR.

Requirements for ILR 

• Proof of a genuine and ongoing relationship.
• Meeting financial requirements (minimum income threshold or adequate maintenance).
• Demonstrating adequate accommodation.
• Meeting the English language and Life in the UK test requirements.
• No breaches of immigration conditions.

4. Long residence route

This route is for individuals who have legally lived in the UK for a continuous 10-year period, regardless of the types of visas held during that time.

Requirements for ILR

• Proof of continuous lawful residence with absences not exceeding 180 days in any 12-month period.
• Demonstrating good character with no serious breaches of immigration laws.
• Meeting English language and Life in the UK requirements.

5. Innovator Founder visa

For entrepreneurs establishing an innovative, viable and scalable business in the UK, the Innovator Founder visa offers a pathway to settlement.

You will qualify to apply for ILR after three years, if business growth and success criteria are met.

Requirements for ILR 

• Endorsement by an approved body confirming business sustainability and growth.
• Evidence of investment and job creation.
• Meeting financial requirements.
• English language proficiency and passing the Life in the UK test.

6. British National (Overseas) Visa

For those with links to Hong Kong and are or have held British National (Overseas) Citizenship alongside their family looking to settle in the UK. The BN(O) visa offers a pathway to settlement.

You would qualify to apply for ILR if you lived in the UK for a continuous five-year period.

Requirements for ILR 

• Evidence of continuous residence in the UK for a full five-year period.
• Proof of financial stability without recourse to public funds.
• Meeting the English language and Life in the UK requirements.
• No breaches of immigration laws, including absences not exceeding 180 days in any 12-month period.

Achieving ILR through a non-sponsored route can offer greater independence and flexibility. Whether you're establishing a business, advancing in your field or reuniting with family, understanding the specific requirements for each route is crucial. Timely preparation and accurate documentation can streamline your ILR application process.

For tailored advice and support on your ILR journey, get in touch with our immigration experts on immigration@sableinternational.com or give us a call on +27 (0) 21 657 2180 or +44 (0) 20 7759 5330