Your Journey to Permanent Residency and British Citizenship
After years of building your life in the UK, the final step is achieving permanent residency or British citizenship. Whether you’re applying for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) or Naturalisation, it’s essential to ensure your application is accurate, compliant, and complete the first time.
At AHJ Immigration, our IAA-regulated immigration advisors provide clear, professional guidance for settlement and citizenship applications, helping you secure your long-term future in the UK with confidence.
What Is Settlement (Indefinite Leave to Remain)?
Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) grants you permanent residency in the UK, allowing you to live, work, and study without time restrictions.
You may qualify for ILR if you’ve:
Lived lawfully in the UK for 5 years under a qualifying visa (e.g. Spouse, Skilled Worker, or other routes)
Continued to meet the visa requirements during that period
Passed the Life in the UK Test and met English language standards
Maintained good immigration and criminal record history
ILR is the final step before applying for British citizenship through naturalisation.
How AHJ Immigration Helps You
Every application receives personal attention from a qualified immigration advisor, ensuring nothing is missed and deadlines are met.
1
Eligibility Check
We review your circumstances and confirm if you meet the Home Office requirements.
2
Document Guidance
Receive tailored document checklists, sample templates, and examples to support your case.
3
Application Preparation
We ensure your forms, statements, and evidence are clear and compliant.
4
Submission Support
Step-by-step help so your Settlement or Citizenship application is submitted correctly the first time.
Key Requirements for a Indefinite Leave to Remain
British citizenship gives you the full rights of a UK national including the ability to hold a British passport, vote, and access unrestricted work and study opportunities.
You can usually apply for citizenship if you:
Have held ILR for at least 12 months
Have lived in the UK for 5 years (3 if married to a British citizen)
Passed the Life in the UK Test and English language test
Intend to make the UK your permanent home
We guide you through eligibility, documentation, and form completion to ensure your application is complete and correct.
Common Reasons for Refusals ILR or Citizenship
Many ILR and citizenship applications are refused due to:
Incomplete or incorrect residency evidence
Gaps in lawful stay or overstaying previous visas
Missing or outdated test certificates
Errors in application forms or declarations
We review your documents in detail and ensure your case is ready for submission to reduce the chance of refusal.
Why Choose AHJ Immigration
IAA-Regulated Advisors – Trusted professionals providing compliant immigration advice.
Transparent Guidance – Honest, step-by-step support with no hidden costs.
Experienced Team – Helping clients from Pakistan, India, Nigeria, and across the UK secure their settlement and citizenship.
Personal Service – Every case handled with integrity and care.
Start Your Citizenship or Settlement Application Today
Take the final step in your UK immigration journey with expert guidance you can trust.
Book your free 30-minute consultation or upgrade to a 1-hour detailed session (£120) fully deductible from your final service cost.
Start Your Visa Application Today
Avoid mistakes and make your travel plans stress-free.
Citizenship & Settlement – Frequently Asked Questions
1. How long do I need to live in the UK before applying for ILR?
In most cases, you must live in the UK for 5 continuous years under a qualifying visa route before applying for ILR.
2. Can I apply for citizenship immediately after getting ILR?
You can usually apply for citizenship after 12 months of holding ILR, or immediately if you’re married to a British citizen.
3. Do I need to pass the Life in the UK Test?
Yes. Both ILR and citizenship applicants must pass the Life in the UK Test and demonstrate sufficient English language ability.
4. How long does it take to get ILR or citizenship?
ILR decisions typically take 8 to 12 weeks, while citizenship applications can take 3 to 6 months, depending on Home Office processing times.
5. What happens if my ILR or citizenship application is refused?
We can review your refusal notice, identify what went wrong, and guide you on reapplying correctly with improved documentation and eligibility evidence.
