Moving to the UK is a dream for many around the world — and with good reason. From its rich cultural heritage and strong economy to world-class healthcare and education systems, the UK offers a high standard of living and endless opportunities.
A key goal for many immigrants is obtaining Permanent Residency (PR), officially known as Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR). This status allows you to live, work, and study in the UK without time restrictions — essentially giving you the freedom to build a stable, long-term life in the country.
But how do you get there?
While the process may seem complex at first, there are several pathways that can lead you to PR more smoothly. In this article, we’ll walk you through 10 of the easiest and most accessible routes to permanent residency in the UK, including visa options, eligibility requirements, and helpful strategies to get started.
1. Skilled Worker Visa
The Skilled Worker Visa is one of the most popular and direct routes to PR in the UK.
Eligibility:
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Job offer from a UK employer with a sponsor licence
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Minimum salary of £26,200
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Role must meet required skill levels
Why it’s easy:
If your skills are in demand, many UK companies are eager to sponsor workers and help them stay long-term. After 5 years, you can apply for ILR.
2. Spouse or Partner Visa
If you’re in a genuine relationship with a UK citizen or someone with ILR, you can apply for this visa and eventually gain permanent status.
Eligibility:
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Proof of a genuine and ongoing relationship
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Evidence of financial stability and accommodation
Why it’s easy:
This route offers a clear path to PR, with the added benefit of living with your partner from day one. ILR is available after 5 years of residency.
3. Family Visa
A Family Visa allows you to join close relatives (like parents or children) who are settled in the UK.
Eligibility:
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Proof of relationship
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Financial and accommodation support
Why it’s easy:
If you already have family in the UK, this can be one of the most straightforward ways to gain long-term residency. You can apply for ILR after 5 years.
4. Innovator Visa
Entrepreneurs and business owners can gain PR through the Innovator Visa, provided they set up a viable and endorsed business in the UK.
Eligibility:
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Innovative, endorsed business plan
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Minimum investment of £50,000
Why it’s easy:
You can apply for ILR in just 3 years if your business achieves growth targets — a fast-track for serious entrepreneurs.
5. Graduate Visa to Skilled Worker Route
Graduates from UK universities can start with the Graduate Visa, stay for up to 2 years (3 for PhD graduates), and transition to the Skilled Worker Visa.
Eligibility:
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Degree from a UK higher education institution
Why it’s easy:
This route offers a smooth progression from studying to working and eventually applying for ILR after 5 years on a Skilled Worker Visa.
6. Long Residence Route
If you’ve lived legally in the UK for 10 continuous years, you may qualify for ILR through the Long Residence route.
Eligibility:
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10 years of lawful stay (can include different visa types)
Why it’s easy:
Perfect for long-term residents — this route acknowledges your ongoing contribution and connection to the UK.
7. UK Ancestry Visa
If you have a grandparent born in the UK, you could be eligible for the Ancestry Visa, which allows you to live and work in the UK.
Eligibility:
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Proof of British ancestry
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Financial support
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Intention to work in the UK
Why it’s easy:
A simple and direct option for those with UK roots — ILR is available after 5 years.
8. Global Talent Visa
Designed for leaders or emerging talents in fields like science, tech, and the arts, the Global Talent Visa offers an expedited path to ILR.
Eligibility:
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Endorsement from an approved UK body in your field
Why it’s easy:
For recognized professionals, this visa offers a fast-track to ILR in 3–5 years, depending on achievements.
9. Investor Visa
High-net-worth individuals can apply for ILR through the Investor Visa, which requires a significant financial investment in the UK.
Eligibility:
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Invest £2 million or more in the UK economy
Why it’s easy:
With larger investments (£5M or £10M), you can gain PR in as little as 2–3 years, making it one of the fastest routes for wealthy individuals.
10. Refugee or Humanitarian Protection
If you’ve been granted asylum or humanitarian protection, you can apply for ILR after 5 years in the UK.
Eligibility:
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Proof of risk or persecution in your home country
Why it’s easy:
For those fleeing danger, the UK offers a secure legal path to settle permanently and rebuild your life.
Final Thoughts
Getting permanent residency in the UK is a major milestone — one that unlocks the freedom to live, work, and thrive in the country without limitations.
Whether you’re a skilled professional, a family member, an entrepreneur, or someone seeking protection, there are accessible pathways to ILR tailored to your background and goals.
Start planning your journey today — the UK could be your forever home.