If you are planning to live and work in the United Kingdom long-term, securing permanent residency (also known as Indefinite Leave to Remain or ILR) is one of the most important steps. Permanent residency allows foreign nationals to settle in the UK without immigration time restrictions, giving them the stability and benefits similar to those of UK citizens. Many people wonder: What are the easiest ways to get permanent residency in the UK?
This article will explain everything in clear, simple terms, including the main routes to residency, eligibility requirements, and step-by-step processes. Whether you are a worker, student, family member, or entrepreneur, you will find practical insights to guide you.
What is Permanent Residency (ILR) in the UK?
Permanent Residency, or Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR), is a status that allows you to live and work in the UK without time limits. It is often the final step before applying for British citizenship.
Benefits of Permanent Residency in the UK include:
- Freedom to live and work in the UK without visa restrictions.
- Access to public healthcare (NHS) and social services.
- Ability to study without international student fees in some cases.
- Freedom to travel in and out of the UK more easily.
- A pathway to apply for British citizenship after one year.
Easiest Ways to Get Permanent Residency in the UK
There is no single “fastest” route, as the process depends on your personal situation. However, certain immigration categories provide clearer and easier paths to ILR. Below are the most common and practical options.
1. Permanent Residency Through Work (Skilled Worker Route)
One of the easiest and most popular ways to gain permanent residency in the UK is through employment. If you hold a Skilled Worker Visa or a similar work-based visa, you may qualify for ILR after a certain period.
Eligibility:
- Hold a Skilled Worker visa, Health and Care Worker visa, or other eligible work visa.
- Live and work in the UK continuously for 5 years.
- Be employed with an approved UK sponsor.
- Meet salary and job role requirements.
- Prove English language ability.
Step-by-Step Process:
- Work in the UK for 5 years under an eligible visa.
- Ensure your employer is approved by the Home Office.
- Maintain continuous residence (no more than 180 days outside the UK in any 12 months).
- Apply for ILR before your visa expires.
Why is it an easy route?
Because skilled workers are in high demand, especially in healthcare, IT, and engineering. Employers often sponsor visas, making it straightforward to transition into permanent residency.
2. Permanent Residency Through Family
If you have family ties in the UK, this can be one of the easiest ways to secure permanent residency.
Eligibility Routes Include:
- Spouse or Partner of a British Citizen or Settled Person
- Must live together in the UK for 5 years.
- Provide proof of genuine relationship.
- Meet financial requirements (minimum income threshold).
- Children of British Citizens or Permanent Residents
- Children under 18 may apply if their parents are settled in the UK.
- Elderly or Dependent Relatives
- Available in some cases where care is required from a UK-based family member.
Why is it an easy route?
Family-based residency is one of the most natural paths since the UK prioritizes keeping families together.
3. Permanent Residency Through Long Residence
For people who have stayed in the UK for a long time, the long residence rule is one of the most straightforward options.
Eligibility:
- Must have lived lawfully in the UK for 10 continuous years.
- During this time, you must not have overstayed visas or broken immigration laws.
- Absences from the UK must not exceed 540 days in total (and no more than 180 days at a time).
Why is it an easy route?
This path does not depend on your job, family, or visa type—only your lawful long-term residence. Many international students and workers use this route if they have stayed for a decade.
4. Permanent Residency Through Investment or Business
For entrepreneurs or wealthy individuals, the UK provides business-based settlement opportunities.
Main Routes Include:
- Investor Visa (Tier 1) – Invest £2 million or more in UK businesses or government bonds.
- Innovator Visa – Start a business with at least £50,000 in investment funds.
- Global Talent Visa – For highly skilled individuals in tech, science, arts, or academia.
Settlement Timeframe:
- Investor visa: ILR in as little as 2 to 5 years, depending on investment amount.
- Innovator visa: ILR after 3 years, if the business is successful.
Why is it an easy route?
It is “easy” for those with financial resources, as it provides a faster track compared to employment or family visas.
5. Permanent Residency Through Asylum or Humanitarian Protection
If you were granted asylum or humanitarian protection in the UK, you can apply for permanent residency after 5 years.
Eligibility:
- Recognized as a refugee or granted humanitarian protection.
- Continuous residence in the UK for 5 years.
- No breaches of UK law.
Why is it an easy route?
For people fleeing persecution, this is often the most accessible and secure path to residency.
Comparison Table: Easiest Routes to Permanent Residency in the UK
| Route | Minimum Stay Required | Key Requirements | Difficulty Level |
|---|---|---|---|
| Work (Skilled Worker Visa) | 5 years | Eligible job, sponsor employer, English test | Easy – if employed |
| Family (Spouse/Partner) | 5 years | Genuine relationship, financial threshold | Easy – if family ties |
| Long Residence | 10 years | Lawful stay, no immigration breaches | Moderate – time-based |
| Investment/Business | 2–5 years | Large investment or business success | Easy – for investors |
| Asylum/Humanitarian | 5 years | Refugee status, protection needs | Easy – for refugees |
Additional Requirements for All Routes
Regardless of the route you choose, all applicants must meet certain conditions to qualify for ILR:
- English Language Requirement – Pass an approved English test or have a degree taught in English.
- Life in the UK Test – A multiple-choice exam about British history, culture, and values.
- Continuous Residence – You must not spend too much time outside the UK during your qualifying period.
- Good Character Requirement – No serious criminal records or immigration violations.
Step-by-Step Guide to Apply for Permanent Residency
- Check Your Eligibility – Ensure you meet the requirements for your chosen route.
- Gather Documents – Passport, biometric residence permit, payslips, proof of residence, etc.
- Take Required Tests – English test and Life in the UK test.
- Apply Online – Submit the ILR application form on the UK government website.
- Pay Fees – Currently £2,885 per applicant (as of 2025).
- Biometric Appointment – Provide fingerprints and photos.
- Wait for Decision – Usually within 6 months. Priority services may be available.
Conclusion
Getting permanent residency in the UK may sound complicated, but by understanding the rules and choosing the right pathway, it can be a smooth process. The easiest ways to get permanent residency in the UK depend on your personal situation: workers and family members often achieve ILR after 5 years, while investors and innovators may qualify sooner. Those who have lived in the country for 10 years can also secure residency through long residence.
If your dream is to build a secure future in the United Kingdom, plan your visa route carefully, follow immigration rules, and prepare your application well in advance. Permanent residency is the key step toward full settlement and even British citizenship.