ArticleUK Settlement Made Simple: Shortest Paths to ILR

For many, the dream of settling in the UK offers stability, opportunity, and a gateway to British citizenship. But with a range of immigration categories and timelines, understanding the quickest routes to settlement—or Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR)—can be daunting. In this article, we explore the pathways to ILR for newcomers and those already residing in the UK, with a focus on the shortest qualifying periods and key considerations for individuals and families.

The Fastest Path: Settlement in Two Years

The quickest route to settlement is through the Accelerated Settlement option in the Tier 1 Investor category, allowing applicants to achieve ILR after just two years. This pathway requires a substantial investment of £10 million in the UK and is only available to those who already hold a valid Tier 1 Investor visa. While the Tier 1 Investor route is closed to new applicants, existing visa holders can apply to extend their stay until 17 February 2026 and apply for ILR until 17 February 2028.

Key caveat: Dependants of Tier 1 Investors are not eligible for accelerated settlement and must complete a full five-year residence period.

Three-Year Settlement: Opportunities for Innovators and Talented Professionals

Several immigration routes offer the chance to settle in the UK after three years:

1. Accelerated Settlement for Tier 1 Investors and Entrepreneurs

• Investors: A reduced investment threshold of £5 million applies to achieve ILR in three years, available to those with an active Tier 1 Investor visa.
• Entrepreneurs: Tier 1 Entrepreneurs can qualify if they’ve either created at least 10 jobs or achieved a £5 million business turnover increase. Like investors, this route is closed to new applicants, but current visa holders can apply for ILR until 5 April 2025.

2. Global Talent

Endorsed individuals in the Global Talent category can apply for settlement after three years if:

• Endorsed by the Royal Society, British Academy, Royal Academy of Engineering, or UK Research and Innovation (UKRI);
• Recognised under the exceptional talent criteria by Arts Council England or Tech Nation;
• Awarded a prize listed in Appendix Global Talent: Prestigious Prizes.

3. Innovator Founder Visa

Innovator visa holders endorsed by an approved UK body can qualify for ILR after demonstrating at least two significant business achievements in line with immigration rules.

Important note: For families, dependants must complete five years in the UK, meaning main applicants may wish to apply individually as main applicants in certain categories, ensuring the entire family can settle together after three years.

Five-Year Settlement Routes: The Standard Journey

For many, the journey to settlement spans five years, with eligibility across a broad spectrum of visa categories, including:

• Skilled Worker: For sponsored employment in a qualifying role.
• Scale-up: For high-growth professionals meeting salary requirements.
• Global Talent: For those endorsed under “exceptional promise” criteria.
• Spouse or Partner Visas: For spouses, civil partners, or unmarried partners of British citizens or settled persons.
• UK Ancestry: For Commonwealth citizens with a grandparent born in the UK.
• Hong Kong BN(O) Visa: A route exclusively for British National (Overseas) citizens.
• T2 Minister of Religion and International Sportsperson visas.

Flexible Pathways for Those Already in the UK

For individuals already in the UK, time spent under different visa categories can often be combined to meet ILR requirements. For instance:

• Skilled Worker visa holders can combine time spent in routes such as Global Talent, Innovator, or Scale-up.
• Global Talent migrants can include time in Innovator or Tier 1 Entrepreneur categories toward their qualifying period.

However, some categories require the full qualifying period to be completed solely in that route, such as Tier 1 Investor, Tier 1 Entrepreneur, and Spouse or Partner Visas.

The Long Game: Settlement on the Basis of Long Residence

For individuals who have spent a continuous 10 years in the UK under any combination of valid visas, the Long Residence route offers another pathway to settlement. Crucially, even categories that typically don’t lead to ILR—such as Student visas—can contribute toward the 10-year qualifying period.

The Final Step: British Citizenship

Achieving settlement opens the door to British citizenship, a significant milestone for many. The timeline for naturalisation depends on the settlement route:

• Minimum five years for most ILR holders, with the final year free from immigration restrictions.
• Three years for spouses or civil partners of British citizens, with an immediate application for citizenship upon obtaining ILR.

Planning Your Journey: Tailored Strategies for Individuals and Families

Navigating the complexities of settlement requires careful planning, particularly for families. For example:

• Children under 18 can settle once both parents hold ILR, unless one parent has sole custody.
• Dependants’ five-year residence requirement often means families must strategise to avoid prolonged separation.

For those on accelerated routes, exploring dual main applicant options in categories like Global Talent can streamline family settlement timelines.

Final Thoughts: Seek Expert Guidance for Your Route to Settlement

With UK immigration rules constantly evolving, the quickest route to settlement depends on your personal circumstances and goals. Whether you’re seeking to invest, build a business, or contribute as a talented professional, expert advice can ensure a smooth and efficient journey.

At GigaLegal Solicitors, we specialise in tailored immigration solutions. Contact us to explore your pathway to settlement and secure your future in the UK.

This article is reflective of the UK’s current immigration rules and is designed to provide general guidance. For tailored advice, please consult a qualified immigration solicitor.