UK Long Residence Rule
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10-Year Legal Residence Pathway (2025 Updates)
In the UK, there are specific rights to appeal certain immigration decisions:
Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for indefinite leave to remain (ILR) under the long residence rule, you must:
- Have 10 years continuous lawful residence in the UK
- Not exceed 548 days total absence (18 months) across 10 years
- Not exceed 180 days in any single absence
- Meet the good character requirement
- Pass the Life in the UK test
- Meet English language requirement (B1 level or academic qualification)
Key Changes
- Stricter absence monitoring - All travel records digitally verified
- New good character test - Includes social media screening
- Digital status only - No physical BRP cards issued
Calculating Your 10 Years
Acceptable Visa Types That Count Toward Long Residence
- Work visas (Skilled Worker, T2)
- Student visas
- Family visas
- Ancestry visa
- Discretionary leave
Periods That Do Not Count
- Overstaying (even if less than 14 days)
- Immigration bail time
- Short-term visitor status
Application Process
Automated Residence Check
- Verify your 10-year timeline via UKVI Digital Timeline Tool
- Synchronize with HMRC/DWP/NHS records
Document Submission
- Upload all passports/visas from 10-year period
- Provide digital proof of address history
- Submit AI-verified English test results
Biometric Verification
- Facial recognition via UKVI app
- Fingerprint scan at selected post offices
Decision Timeline
- Standard processing: 8 weeks
Good Character Requirements
New Disqualifying Factors
- Unpaid civil judgments over £1,000
- Community protection notices
- Repeat minor offences (3+ fixed penalty notices)
- Online hate speech convictions
Financial Requirements
- Must show 3 years of clean tax records
- No outstanding NHS debts over £500
After Approval
- Digital ILR status accessible via UKVI account
- Right to work/share codes immediately available
- Path to citizenship after 12 months
- No expiry date but must maintain UK ties
Common Refusal Reasons
- Gaps in lawful residence (even 1 day)
- Undisclosed minor offences
- Inconsistent address history
- Failure in digital verification
For expert assistance at any stage of the appeal or judicial review process, it is advisable to consult with immigration solicitors or legal advisers who specialize in these areas.
