UK Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) — Settlement Guide

Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) is the UK equivalent of permanent residency. Most Zimbabweans reach ILR after 5 years on a qualifying visa (Skilled Worker, Health and Care Worker, Family visa). REQUIREMENTS: (1) 5 CONTINUOUS YEARS on a qualifying route — absences must not exceed 180 days in any 12-month period; (2) ENGLISH LANGUAGE at B1 level (IELTS Life Skills or equivalent); (3) LIFE IN THE UK TEST — 24 multiple-choice questions about British history, culture, and institutions. Pass mark 75% (18/24). Study the official handbook. Cost £50 per attempt; (4) NO SERIOUS CRIMINAL CONVICTIONS or immigration breaches; (5) SALARY THRESHOLD still met at time of ILR application (for Skilled Worker route). COSTS: £2,885 application fee plus £19.20 biometric fee. No more IHS payments once you have ILR. BENEFITS: Can live and work in the UK without restrictions; access public funds (benefits); no visa renewals needed; pathway to British citizenship after 12 months. BRITISH CITIZENSHIP: After holding ILR for 12 months, you can apply for naturalisation as a British citizen (cost £1,580). Requires same English and Life in the UK test, plus good character, plus not exceeding absence limits. IMPORTANT: ILR can be lost if you spend more than 2 continuous years outside the UK.