Indefinite Leave to Remain after 5 years Skilled Worker (formerly Tier 2)
Settlement after 5 years as a skilled worker is an important milestone for individuals who have been living and working in the UK on a Tier 2 visa. Settlement, also known as Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR), grants an individual the right to live and work in the UK without any restrictions.
To apply for settlement after 5 years as a skilled worker, there are a few requirements that must be met. Firstly, the individual must have spent a continuous period of 5 years in the UK on a Tier 2 visa. This means that they have not left the UK for more than 180 days in any 12-month period. Additionally, they must have a valid Tier 2 visa at the time of the application.
To demonstrate their eligibility for settlement, individuals must provide evidence of their employment and earnings during the 5-year period. This includes payslips, bank statements, and P60s. They must also demonstrate that they have not breached any immigration laws during their time in the UK.
One of the most important requirements for settlement is meeting the English language proficiency requirements. Individuals must prove that they can speak and understand English at the required level by passing an approved English language test, such as the IELTS.
Another requirement is passing the Life in the UK test. This test covers topics such as British history, culture, and politics, and aims to demonstrate the individual’s knowledge of life in the UK.
Once all the requirements have been met, individuals can apply for settlement by filling out the appropriate application form and submitting it to the Home Office. The application fee for settlement is currently £2,389.
It is important to note that the settlement application process can take several months, so individuals are encouraged to apply well in advance of their Tier 2 / skilled worker visa expiry date. Additionally, they must continue to meet the requirements of their visa until they are granted settlement.
In summary, applying for settlement after 5 years as a skilled worker involves meeting several requirements related to employment, language proficiency, and knowledge of life in the UK. It is a significant milestone for individuals who have been living and working in the UK and grants them the right to live and work in the UK without restrictions.
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