Long Residence Help

Who the route is for

It is for people who have lived in the UK lawfully and continuously for the long qualifying period set by the rules, usually across a mix of routes such as study, work and family.

Main requirements

• A continuous period of lawful residence of the required length
• Absences within the permitted limits
• Permission held on a qualifying basis immediately before applying
• Knowledge of language and life in the UK, unless exempt
• No reasons for refusal arising from character or conduct

Gaps in lawful residence

The whole history is examined: every application, every grant and every gap. A late application years ago can break continuity. Some short gaps are disregarded, others are not.

Absences from the UK

Time spent outside the UK is counted against limits that differ between routes. Go through your travel history carefully before you apply: passports, tickets and employer records all help.

Documents commonly required

• All passports covering the period
• Home Office letters and permits for each grant
• A full list of absences with dates
• Life in the UK test pass and English language evidence

Previous refusals or periods without permission

If an earlier application was refused, or there is a problem in your immigration history, it is important to understand the reasons given before deciding what to do next.

A new application that does not deal with those reasons is likely to meet the same result.