United Kingdom · Permanent Residency

Skilled Worker settlement

Settlement route for Skilled Worker and Tier 2 (General) visa holders after completing 5 continuous years of lawful sponsored residence in the UK.

Who it suits

Who this pathway suits

Sponsored professionals completing 5 years of continuous employment in the UK.

Eligibility

Eligibility at a glance

  • 5 continuous years on Skilled Worker, Tier 2, or permitted combining routes
  • Salary meeting the higher of the general settlement threshold or occupation going rate
  • Absences under 180 days in any 12-month period
  • Passed Life in the UK Test and CEFR B1 English
  • Employer confirmation of ongoing employment requirement
Process

How the process works

  1. Apply online up to 28 days before 5-year anniversary
  2. Upload employer letter and bank statements
  3. Biometrics at UKVCAS
  4. ILR grant
Documents

Documents you will typically need

  • Employer confirmation letter, recent payslip, bank statement, Life in the UK pass reference, English certificate, passport
Good to know

What to keep in mind

Continuous residence is strictly calculated on a rolling 12-month basis.

Official source: GOV.UK — Skilled Worker settlement. Government authorities make all final decisions; no outcome is guaranteed.

Is Skilled Worker settlement the right route for you?

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