ILR – Time in the UK counts towards the 5 years

[ltd]

I hope you are all well.

I'm counting on seeing when my 5 years are up. I would like to get your opinion and see if I'm doing it correctly.


Tier 1 Entrepreneur: 22/04/2021 until Tier 2 started
- Time outside country: 01/12/2022 to 04/03/2023 – around 93 days
Tier 2 Skilled worker: 03/04/2024, valid until 04/07/2026
-Time outside country: 18/01/2025 to 26/02/2025 – around 36 days

I understand the ILR application can be submitted 28days earlier than when 5 years is expected to reach.

Is it safe to submit the application on the 1st of April 2026?


Kind regards, and thank you in advance for the responses.

[zimba]

READ --> All you need to know about applying early, the application date, 28-day concession and more

[ltd]

READ --> All you need to know about applying early, the application date, 28-day concession and more

Thank you for the link, very informative.

Do you think I have the 5 years covered by April 1st?


Kind regards

[zimba]

You do not need 5 years. I explained everything in that link

[ltd]

You do not need 5 years. I explained everything in that link

Explained well indeed. Just trying to see if I understand the rules and apply them correctly.

I think I will have completed the 5 years by 22/04/2026, which is 25/03/2026 if applied 28 days early.

I am wondering now, is submitting the application on the 1st of April a safe choice?


Kind regards

[zimba]

The day you submit your application is irrelevant. Again, read the advice given

So, how can you calculate your earliest date of ILR eligibility ??

1. You will assume a date of ILR decision (this can be the date of your biometrics if applying for priority service)
2. You then subtract (Your ILR qualifying period - 28 days) from that date, so counting backwards. Your ILR qualifying period could be 3, 5 or 10 years, depending on your immigration route.
3. This new date should be on or after the date of first visa approval.

Formula ---> The date of decision - (Your ILR qualifying period - 28 days)