The 10-year long residence route allows individuals who have lawfully lived in the UK for a continuous decade to apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR). This path to settlement is complex and highly document-sensitive. At Visa and Migration Ltd, our experienced immigration solicitors in London help clients prepare strong ILR applications by guiding them on the exact 10 year long residence documents required and ensuring full compliance with UKVI standards.
What Is the 10-Year Long Residence ILR Route?
This ILR route is based on continuous lawful residence in the UK across any combination of visa categories. Whether you've lived here on a student visa, family visa, or under the Point Based System, if your stay totals 10 lawful years without major breaks or immigration breaches, you may qualify to apply.
It’s essential that you’ve complied with all immigration conditions during your stay and passed the Life in the UK test, along with meeting the English language requirement.
Key Documents Required for 10-Year Long Residence ILR
If you're applying under this route, understanding the 10 year long residence documents required is critical. Submitting incomplete or incorrect documentation is a common reason for refusal. Below is an outline of the key supporting evidence you'll need.
1. Passports and Travel History
You must provide all current and expired passports covering the 10-year period. These documents confirm your lawful status and help calculate absences from the UK.
2. UKVI Immigration History
A full immigration history is necessary to verify lawful residence. You can request this through a Subject Access Request (SAR) to UKVI. Our team at Visa and Migration Ltd can help you obtain and interpret this data accurately.
3. Absence Evidence
Applicants must list all absences from the UK over the 10 years. These must not exceed 180 days in any 12-month period or 540 days total. Supporting evidence such as flight tickets or employer letters is essential.
4. Proof of Residence
Documents such as tenancy agreements, council tax letters, and bank statements are needed to prove continuous residence. These should span the full 10 years without significant gaps.
5. Life in the UK Test and Language Certificate
These are mandatory unless you fall under certain exemptions. Certificates from recognised test providers must be submitted.
6. Biometric Residence Permits
Copies of your BRPs (past and present) help support a timeline of your immigration status during the 10-year period.
Common Pitfalls and How to Avoid Them
Even minor gaps or unclear documentation can lead to delays or refusals. As an established immigration advice service in London, we’ve helped many clients overcome complications such as excessive absences or missing records.
At Visa and Migration Ltd, our solicitors perform a full case assessment, identify risks early, and help gather and structure your documentation for maximum success.
Can You Apply for British Citizenship After Long Residence ILR?
Yes—after being granted ILR under the long residence route, many applicants move on to British citizenship at discretion. This process involves its own set of criteria, including residence, good character, and integration into UK life.
Our firm also assists with family-based applications such as child dependant visa UK or parent of a British child visa UK, for those seeking to secure their family’s future in the UK.
Final Thoughts
Understanding the 10 year long residence documents required is essential for a successful ILR application. With the right legal support, you can ensure your submission is complete, accurate, and meets all UKVI requirements.
At Visa and Migration Ltd, we offer honest, expert-driven assistance tailored to your personal immigration history. If you're unsure whether you qualify or need help gathering evidence, speak to one of our experienced immigration solicitors in London today.
