Bookmark this Page
UK Immigration
HomeAbout the UKHSMP Highly Skilled Migrants   ›› HSMP Points Calculator   ›› HSMP for MBA Graduates   ›› Further HSMP Information   ›› HSMP Country EarningsPoints Based System   ›› Tier 1 Visas     ›› Tier 1 HSMP Visa       ›› Tier 1 HSMP Calculator     ›› UK Graduates - Post StudySkills Shortage ListWork Permits UK GuideUK Work Permit - EmployersUK Work Permit - EmployeesPermits for Doctors and DentistsWork Permits for NursesWork Permits for EngineersFor Recruitment AgenciesFor InvestorsFor InnovatorsFor EntrepreneursFor Eastern EuropeansWorker Registration SchemeBusiness ImmigrationInteractive Online ApplicationsTraining+Work ExperienceWorking HolidaysStudent VisasInternational Graduates SchemeFamily and Dependent VisasUK ResidencyNaturalisationVisitorsPermit Free EmploymentSports and EntertainersContact UsUK Immigration Fees
Immigration to:
UKUSACanadaAustraliaSouth AfricaNew ZealandGermanyJapanChina
Quick Links:
Flights and TravelResourcesLanguage TranslationCurrency ConverterLink to UsCheap International Calls

UK Immigration Work Permit and Visa Services

UK Residency - Permanent Residence in the UK

Permanent residence [ or indefinite leave to remain ] depends on the status of your stay in the UK to date and consequently how long you need to have been here to qualify.

Status ( Type of Visa currently ) Qualifying period
Ancestry 5 years
Work permit 5 years
Investors 5 years
Writers, composers and artists 5 years
Sole representatives 5 years
To establish in business 5 years
Unmarried partners 2 years
Marriage 2 years
Illegal stay on any basis 14 years
legal stay on any basis 10 years


Permanent residence removes any immigration based restrictions.

After one year of permanent residence you can apply for naturalisation.