Indefinite Leave to Remain for Refugees and Those Under Humanitarian Protection
Refugees and those granted humanitarian protection in the UK can apply for indefinite leave to remain (ILR) after residing in the country for a set period. ILR offers numerous benefits, such as the ability to work, study, and access healthcare without restrictions.
Q: What is a refugee, and what does refugee status entail in the UK?
A: A refugee is someone who has fled their country due to a well-founded fear of persecution based on race, religion, nationality, social group, or political opinion. Refugees in the UK are granted asylum, allowing them to live and work without restrictions. After holding refugee status for 5 years, they can apply for permanent residency (ILR), gaining all the benefits and rights of settled persons, including access to social benefits and healthcare.
Q: What are the criteria for obtaining ILR as a refugee?
A: To qualify for permanent residency, refugees need to:
- Have lived in the UK under refugee status for 5 continuous years.
- Not have breached any immigration rules or committed any offenses that might lead to a denial based on public interest considerations.
- Provide biometric information and any supporting documents required for the application.
Q: Can my family members apply for ILR with me?
A: Yes, family members of those with refugee or humanitarian protection status can apply for ILR, but they must meet specific conditions:
- The family must have resided in the UK and been in a recognized relationship (e.g., spouse, civil partner, dependent child) before the refugee left their home country.
- Family members not already in the UK can apply through family reunification schemes.
Q: What is the application fee for ILR?
A: The ILR application fee is £2,885 per person. However, refugees and individuals with humanitarian protection are exempt from paying this fee when applying for settlement in the UK.
Q: How long does it take to process an ILR application?
A: ILR applications are generally processed within 6 months. The processing time may vary based on the complexity of the case and the volume of applications received by the Home Office.
How Kaya Legal Can Assist
At Kaya Legal Consultancy Ltd, we offer comprehensive services to refugees and individuals under humanitarian protection seeking to obtain ILR. We can help you by:
- Assessing your eligibility and guiding you through the entire application process.
- Assisting with documentation to prove residence and eligibility for ILR.
- Advising on alternative visa routes for dependents.
For more information or assistance with your ILR application, visit our website and contact our immigration team.