Life in the UK Test Practice
✓ Last verified: 2026-07-20
The Long Residence route allows eligible people who have lived lawfully in the UK for a continuous period to apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR).
This route is different from visa-specific settlement routes because it is based on a person's overall lawful residence history in the UK.
Long Residence ILR is a settlement route for applicants who have completed the required period of lawful residence in the UK.
The route considers a person's immigration history rather than only their current visa category.
Applicants generally need to show that they:
The Home Office assesses applications according to the Immigration Rules.
The Long Residence route is commonly associated with 10 years of lawful residence in the UK.
Applicants should carefully review whether all periods of residence qualify and whether any periods cannot be counted.
Applicants must meet continuous residence requirements.
Important factors include:
Applicants should review their complete immigration history before applying.
Applicants normally need to pass the Life in the UK Test unless exempt.
The test covers:
Applicants normally need to prove knowledge of English unless they qualify for an exemption.
Accepted evidence depends on individual circumstances.
The application process normally involves:
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Last updated: 2026-07-20 • Category: Immigration Guides
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