The United Kingdom is a top destination for students, professionals, and entrepreneurs seeking better career opportunities and a high standard of living. If you want to settle in the UK permanently, obtaining a Permanent Residence (PR), also known as Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR), is the key step. This guide provides updated details on how to get PR in the UK in 2025.

What is PR in the UK?

PR, or Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR), allows a person to live and work in the UK without any immigration restrictions. After holding ILR status for a certain period, individuals may also be eligible to apply for British citizenship.

How Kandor Can Help with Your UK PR Journey

Navigating the PR process can be overwhelming, but platforms like Kandor simplify the journey for international students and professionals. Kandor provides personalized guidance, real-time insights, and step-by-step support to help applicants understand visa options, work requirements, and immigration rules. Whether you need assistance transitioning from a Student Visa to a Skilled Worker Visa or guidance on meeting PR eligibility, Kandor ensures you stay on track with accurate and up-to-date information.

Eligibility Criteria for PR in the UK

To qualify for PR in the UK, applicants typically need to meet specific requirements based on their visa type, stay duration, and other conditions. The main categories for PR eligibility include:

1. PR Through Work Visa

If you are in the UK on a work visa, such as a Skilled Worker visa, you may be eligible for ILR after five years of continuous residence. Requirements include:

• A valid and continuous work history in the UK
• No major gaps in employment
• Meeting the minimum salary threshold (currently £26,500 per year or £10.75 per hour, subject to change in 2025)
• Passing the Life in the UK test
• Meeting the English language requirement

2. PR Through Study and Post-Study Work

Students who study in the UK cannot directly apply for PR, but they can transition through the following route:

1. Complete studies in the UK on a Student Visa
2. Switch to a Graduate Visa (valid for 2 years after completing a degree, or 3 years for PhD holders)
3. Secure a Skilled Worker visa and work for five years
4. Apply for ILR after fulfilling all conditions

3. PR Through Family Route

If you are married to or in a civil partnership with a British citizen or a person with ILR, you can apply for PR after five years of continuous residence on a Family Visa. Requirements include:

• Proof of a genuine relationship
• Financial stability and minimum income requirement
• Meeting the English language requirement

4. PR Through Investor or Business Route

Entrepreneurs and investors can apply for PR through:

• The Innovator Founder Visa (replacing the old Tier 1 Entrepreneur Visa)
• The UK Expansion Worker Visa (for business expansion)
• Investor visa routes, though many have been phased out in recent years

These visas usually lead to ILR after 3 to 5 years, depending on investment and business performance.

5. PR Through Long Residence

Individuals who have legally lived in the UK for 10 years on any valid visa(s) may apply for PR under the long residence rule. They must have maintained lawful residence without major visa gaps.

Step-by-Step Process to Apply for PR in the UK

Step 1: Check Eligibility

Ensure you meet the residency and employment requirements for your visa category.

Step 2: Pass the Life in the UK Test

This is a mandatory test covering UK history, culture, and values. It costs around £50, and you must score at least 75% to pass.

Step 3: Meet the English Language Requirement

Applicants must demonstrate English proficiency through an approved test (e.g., IELTS for UKVI) unless they have a degree taught in English.

Step 4: Gather Required Documents

Typical documents include:

• Passport and current visa details
• Proof of employment (if applying through a work route)
• Bank statements and payslips
• Proof of residence in the UK
• Life in the UK test certificate
• English language test results

Step 5: Apply Online

Submit your PR (ILR) application via the UK Home Office website. The application fee is around £2,404 (subject to changes in 2025).

Step 6: Biometric Appointment

Attend an appointment to provide fingerprints, photographs, and other biometric data.

Step 7: Decision and Approval

Decisions typically take 6 months under standard processing. Priority and super-priority services are available for faster processing at an additional cost.

Benefits of UK PR

• No restrictions on work and stay in the UK
• Access to public funds and benefits (after a qualifying period)
• Eligibility to apply for British citizenship after one year
• Freedom to travel in and out of the UK without visa concerns

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Gaps in employment or legal residence
• Failing the Life in the UK test or English test
• Incorrect or incomplete documentation
• Applying too early before meeting the residency requirements

Conclusion

Getting PR in the UK in 2025 requires careful planning, adherence to visa conditions, and proper documentation. Whether you are on a work, study, or family route, understanding the requirements can help you navigate the process smoothly. With expert guidance from platforms like Kandor, you can simplify your immigration journey and ensure a hassle-free transition to permanent residency in the UK.