For many aspiring migrants, settling in the UK is not just a dream but a long-term goal. Yet, navigating the complex web of immigration rules to achieve Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) can seem daunting. At our firm, clients frequently ask, “What is the quickest way to settle in the UK?” In this article, we explore the fastest settlement routes, tailored to both prospective migrants and those already residing in the UK.
Accelerated Settlement: Two-Year Route
The shortest path to settlement is the now-defunct Tier 1 Investor visa, which offered a two-year Accelerated Settlement option for individuals who invested £10 million or more in the UK. While this route is closed to new applicants, existing Tier 1 Investor visa holders may still apply for ILR until 17 February 2028, provided they meet the investment threshold and other requirements. However, dependents on this route face a five-year settlement requirement.
Three-Year Settlement Options
Accelerated settlement in three years is available under specific categories:
- Tier 1 Investor (£5 million investment)
- Tier 1 Entrepreneur (creating 10 jobs or achieving £5 million turnover)
- Global Talent (endorsed by prestigious bodies such as the Royal Society or UKRI, or winners of prestigious prizes)
- Innovator Founder Visa (demonstrating two significant business achievements)
The Investor and Entrepreneur routes are closed to new applicants, with final ILR deadlines set for 2028 and 2025, respectively. However, the Global Talent and Innovator Founder categories remain open, offering dynamic opportunities for high-achieving professionals and entrepreneurs.
For families aiming to settle together, note that accelerated settlement typically applies only to the main applicant. If both partners qualify, applying as separate main applicants may expedite the process for the entire family, bypassing the longer dependent timelines.
Standard Five-Year Settlement Routes
Most migrants achieve ILR after five years under the following visa categories:
- Skilled Worker
- Scale-up
- International Sportsperson
- Minister of Religion
- Sole Representative of an Overseas Business
- Spouse, Civil Partner, or Unmarried Partner
- UK Ancestry
- Hong Kong BN(O)
Dependents in these routes typically align with the five-year requirement, allowing families to settle together after this period.
Combining Time Across Visa Categories
For those already in the UK, combining time across different visa categories can provide a faster route to settlement. For example, Skilled Workers may combine their time with periods spent under the Global Talent, Innovator, or Minister of Religion visas to meet the five-year qualifying period. Conversely, certain categories, such as Tier 1 Investor or Sole Representative, require the full qualifying period to be spent within the same route.
Long Residence: A Ten-Year Path
For individuals who do not qualify for faster settlement routes, the Long Residence route offers an alternative. This allows ILR after ten years of continuous lawful residence in various visa categories, including those that do not traditionally lead to settlement, such as Student visas. However, time spent under visitor visas does not count toward this route.
Naturalisation and British Citizenship
Once ILR is obtained, the next step for many is British citizenship. Generally, a minimum of five years’ residence is required, with at least one year free from immigration restrictions. However, those married to British citizens may apply for naturalisation immediately after obtaining ILR, provided they meet the three-year residence requirement.
Reflections and Practical Advice
The UK’s immigration system offers diverse paths to settlement, each with its own set of complexities. Choosing the right route depends on individual circumstances, including career goals, family dynamics, and financial resources. It is crucial to remain vigilant about deadlines and eligibility criteria, particularly for categories like Tier 1 Investor and Entrepreneur, which are no longer open to new entrants.
For families, strategic planning can significantly reduce the overall time to settlement. For example, couples should evaluate whether applying as separate main applicants under eligible categories could expedite settlement for all family members.
Finally, given the intricate nature of immigration law, professional advice is invaluable. At GigaLegal Solicitors, we specialise in guiding clients through every step of their settlement journey, from initial applications to securing British citizenship. Contact us today for tailored advice and comprehensive support.
Get in touch: For a comprehensive understanding of your options or queries on UK immigration matters, contact GigaLegal Solicitors at 02074067654 or click here to book a no-obligation consultation with an immigration expert.