ILR as a Refugee
Your future in the UK starts here. Our legal experts simplify the immigration process, ensuring a smooth transition.
What is ILR as a Refugee in the UK?
Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) as a Refugee is a form of permanent immigration status granted to individuals who have completed five years of lawful residence in the UK under refugee status, humanitarian protection, or discretionary leave.
This pathway, commonly referred to as refugee settlement, allows you to stay in the UK permanently, enjoy full rights to work and study, and eventually apply for British citizenship. You must submit a formal application for indefinite leave to remain before your current permission to stay expires.
Who is Refugee Settlement in the UK for?
You may apply for ILR as a refugee if you:
This route also applies to those with discretionary leave to remain under special circumstances, such as serious medical conditions or family/private life considerations.
What is the Application Process for ILR for Refugees in the UK Like?
The refugee settlement process follows a defined pathway set out by the UK Home Office. If you have completed your 5-year period, you must apply for ILR before your leave expires.
Step-by-Step Application Process
Check Your Eligibility
Confirm that you have completed 5 years of lawful stay in the UK as a refugee or humanitarian protection holder.Prepare Your Documentation
Gather evidence showing:You still qualify for protection under UK immigration and asylum rules
You have not returned to your home country
You are continuing to reside in the UK
Proof of any dependents to include in the application
Complete the ILR Application
Submit the appropriate application for indefinite leave to remain online using the SET (Protection Route) form.Biometric Information
Provide your biometric data at a UKVCAS service point.Await a Home Office Decision
Most decisions on refugee ILR applications are made within 6 months. In urgent cases, expedited processing may be available.
What Are the Requirements of ILR Based on Refugee Status?
To qualify for indefinite leave to remain as a refugee, you must meet the following:
1. Residence in the UK for 5 Years
You must have lived in the UK for five years continuously under:
2. No Return to Country of Origin
3. Continued Need for Protection
4. Immigration Compliance
5. Biometric Submission
Key Benefits of ILR for Refugees
Being granted Indefinite Leave to Remain as a refugee offers significant advantages:
ILR ensures you no longer need to renew your refugee status and provides long-term security in the UK.
Why Choose Bekenbey?
Bekenbey Immigration provides trusted and personalised support for those applying for refugee ILR and humanitarian protection settlement.
We assist with:
Reviewing your asylum history and leave type (refugee, humanitarian, or discretionary)
Ensuring you meet residency and protection requirements
Preparing a complete and accurate ILR application
Supporting family reunification or dependents in the same application
Advising on naturalisation and citizenship after ILR
Responding to Home Office queries or complications
With our help, your refugee settlement application is in safe hands.
Apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain as a Refugee Today with Bekenbey
If you were granted refugee status or humanitarian protection and have lived in the UK for 5 years, you may now apply for indefinite leave to remain and settle permanently.
Here’s how to start:
Review your grant of refugee status date
Check that you have not returned to your home country
Prepare your ILR application form and supporting documents
Contact our immigration solicitors for guidance
We ensure your refugee ILR application is accurate, compliant, and properly presented for the best chance of success.
Documents Needed
We’ve listed all the key documents required for your application to make your process as smooth as possible. Here are some common documents you may need to provide:
If there are complexities in your immigration history, we help explain them with a cover letter and legal clarification.
Your Immigration
Questions, Answered
Have questions about UK immigration? We’ve got you covered. If you have more questions, you can contact us.f