Skilled Worker ILR – Indefinite Leave to Remain
Many Skilled Worker visa holders become eligible for Indefinite Leave to Remain after completing the qualifying residence period in the UK.
Settlement allows you to live and work in the UK without immigration time restrictions and may be a pathway towards British citizenship.
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Who Can Apply for Skilled Worker ILR?
Applicants may qualify where they have completed the required period of lawful residence under the Skilled Worker route and continue to meet the settlement requirements.
Five Year Route
Many Skilled Worker migrants become eligible after completing five years of qualifying residence.
Sponsored Employment
The applicant must normally continue to be required for the sponsored role.
Settlement Planning
ILR is often the final immigration stage before British citizenship.
Main Skilled Worker ILR Requirements
Qualifying Residence
You must satisfy the required qualifying residence period.
Salary Requirement
Your salary must satisfy the applicable settlement requirements at the time of application.
Employer Confirmation
Your sponsor may need to confirm continued employment and future need for your role.
Life in the UK Test
Most applicants must pass the Life in the UK Test before applying.
English Language
Applicants must satisfy the English language requirement where applicable.
Absence Rules
Travel outside the UK should be reviewed carefully before submission.
Documents Required for Skilled Worker ILR
Passport
Current and previous passports where relevant.
Immigration Status
Evidence of current permission and immigration history.
Employer Letter
Confirmation of continued employment and salary.
Payslips
Recent payslips and supporting salary evidence.
Life in the UK Test Pass
Evidence of passing the required test.
Absence Records
Travel history and supporting records where needed.
Common Skilled Worker ILR Problems
Absence Issues
Excessive absences may affect eligibility.
Salary Threshold Problems
Salary evidence may not satisfy settlement requirements.
Employer Letter Errors
Settlement letters may omit required information.
Life in the UK Test Delay
Applicants sometimes leave this requirement too late.
Residence Calculation Errors
Incorrect residence calculations can lead to refusal.
Immigration History Issues
Previous status gaps should be reviewed carefully.
Related Skilled Worker Pages
Skilled Worker Visa
Complete Skilled Worker guidance.
Skilled Worker Extension
Extend your Skilled Worker permission.
Skilled Worker Dependants
Partner and child dependant advice.
Document Checklist
Prepare your application correctly.
ILR Document Checklist
Settlement document guidance.
British Citizenship
The next step after settlement.
Ready for Settlement?
NM Immigration Lawyers can assess your eligibility, review your absences, salary evidence and employer documentation before your ILR application is submitted.
Book Skilled Worker ILR Advice