Settlement now runs on earned routes of three, five or ten years depending on your circumstances, following the November 2026 changes. Continuous residence, absence records and the Life in the UK test all need to be right — and early advice protects your timeline.
Basic requirements
Every case turns on its own facts — these are the core requirements we assess at your consultation:
- Completion of your qualifying residence period
- Continuous residence — absences within the permitted limits
- Life in the UK test passed
- English language requirement met
- No breaches of immigration conditions during the qualifying period
How we work
Honest assessment
A paid initial consultation with a named lawyer: where you stand, your strongest route, and a fixed fee confirmed in writing.
Evidence & strategy
A tailored document list and a plan that anticipates the questions caseworkers actually ask.
Application prepared properly
Forms, representations and supporting bundle — drafted, checked and submitted by us.
Submission & follow-up
We deal with the Home Office, chase where chasing helps, and keep you updated in plain English.
Outcome & after-care
Decision explained, next steps planned — extensions, settlement, citizenship. We stay with you.
Common questions
How do the new earned settlement rules affect me?
The three-, five- and ten-year routes depend on your contributions, compliance and circumstances. Anyone part-way to settlement should have their route mapped now.
Do my absences from the UK matter?
Yes — absence limits apply across the qualifying period, and miscounting them is a common refusal reason. We audit your travel history before you apply.
What happens after ILR?
ILR can lapse through long absence, and citizenship is usually available after a further period. We plan both at the same consultation.