In This Guide
Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) is the ultimate goal for many care workers in the UK. After 5 years of continuous residence on the Health and Care Worker visa, you can apply for permanent settlement, giving you the right to live and work in the UK without any visa restrictions.
This guide explains the complete pathway from your first care worker visa to ILR, including eligibility requirements, what you need to prepare, and how to make a successful application.
ILR Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for ILR, you must meet ALL of the following criteria:
5 years continuous residence
You must have spent 5 continuous years in the UK on the Health and Care Worker visa (or qualifying work route). Switching sponsors does NOT reset this clock.
No more than 180 days absence per year
You must not have been outside the UK for more than 180 days in any 12-month period during the 5 years.
English language at B1 level
Same level as your initial visa application. You may be able to reuse your existing test result if still valid. See our IELTS guide.
Pass the Life in the UK test
A 24-question multiple-choice test on British history, values, and culture. Costs £50. Must score 75% or above.
Still working for a licensed sponsor
You must be employed by a licensed sponsor at the time of your ILR application, earning at least the minimum salary for your role.
No criminal convictions
Unspent criminal convictions may disqualify you. Minor spent convictions are usually not a barrier.
Your 5-Year Timeline
Year 1: Settle In
Start your role, register with a GP, open a bank account, get familiar with your area. Keep all documents safe. Your 5-year clock has started.
Year 2: Build Your Career
Gain qualifications (NVQ/QCF), build experience. Consider switching to a better employer if needed — it will not affect your ILR timeline.
Year 3: Visa Extension
Your initial visa may expire (if granted for 3 years). Apply to extend well before expiry. Your employer assigns a new CoS for the extension. Keep records of continuous employment.
Year 4: Start Preparing
Begin studying for the Life in the UK test. Ensure your English language evidence is current. Gather 5 years of payslips, P60s, and employment records.
Year 5: Apply for ILR
You can apply up to 28 days before completing your 5-year qualifying period. Submit your ILR application with all supporting documents. Processing takes approximately 6 months for standard service.
ILR Costs
| Fee | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| ILR application | £2,885 | Per person (main applicant + each dependant) |
| Life in the UK test | £50 | Per attempt (adults only) |
| Biometric enrolment | Included | Included in application fee |
| Super priority (optional) | £1,000 | Decision within 1-2 working days |
| Priority (optional) | £500 | Decision within 5 working days |
No more IHS: Once you have ILR, you no longer pay the Immigration Health Surcharge. You have permanent access to the NHS as a settled resident.
Life After ILR
Once you have ILR, your life in the UK changes significantly:
Important: ILR can lapse if you spend more than 2 continuous years outside the UK. If you plan extended travel, consider applying for a Returning Resident visa before you leave.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do I need to work to get ILR as a care worker?
You need 5 years of continuous lawful residence in the UK on the Health and Care Worker visa (or a combination of qualifying work visa routes). The 5-year clock starts from the date you first entered the UK on your current visa route, not from when you started working.
Do I need to pass the Life in the UK test for ILR?
Yes, the Life in the UK test is mandatory for ILR. It costs £50 and consists of 24 multiple-choice questions about British history, culture, and values. You need to score at least 75% (18 out of 24) to pass. The test is available in English, Scottish Gaelic, and Welsh.
What English level do I need for ILR?
For ILR, you need English at CEFR B1 level or above. If you already proved B1 for your initial visa application (e.g., IELTS 4.0+), you may be able to use the same evidence. However, check if your test is still within its validity period.
Does time spent on a different visa count towards ILR?
Time on certain other qualifying visas (such as the Skilled Worker visa or Tier 2 General) can count towards your 5 years. However, time on a Student visa, visitor visa, or asylum seeker status does NOT count. The 5 years must be on qualifying work routes.
Can I leave the UK during the 5-year period?
You can leave the UK, but you must not be absent for more than 180 days in any 12-month period. Absences of more than 180 days may break your continuous residence and reset or extend your qualifying period. Keep records of all travel.
How much does ILR cost?
The ILR application fee is currently £2,885 per person. There is no Immigration Health Surcharge for ILR since it grants permanent residence. You also need to pay £50 for the Life in the UK test. Dependants each pay the same ILR application fee.