Congratulations! Getting Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) in the UK is a big step. It means you have the permanent right to live here. This is your chance to build a lasting life in the UK.

Does your ILR ever just disappear?

Well, not exactly expire like a regular visa. Your ILR status itself doesn't have an end date. It’s a long-term permission to call the UK home. Think of it as your solid foundation in the UK.

But there’s something important to keep in mind. If you decide to live outside the UK for a long time, things can get a bit tricky. You might need permission to come back to your UK home. Usually, if you haven't been away for too long, you just show your ILR proof (like your stamp or BRP card) when you arrive back in the UK.

So, how long is “too long”?

There are time limits. These depend on how you got your permanent status.

• Most people with ILR can be outside the UK, the Channel Islands, and the Isle of Man for up to two continuous years.
• If you have settled status through the EU Settlement Scheme, you have a bit more time. You can be away for up to five continuous years.
• For Swiss citizens or their family members with settled status under the EU Settlement Scheme, the limit is four continuous years.

What happens if you have been away for longer than these times?

Don't worry too much!

There is a special visa you might need. It's called a UK Returning Resident Visa.

A Returning Resident Visa is for people who used to have ILR (or another type of settled status) before they left the UK. If you have been gone for longer than the allowed time, this visa could be your way back to your permanent life in the UK.

Think of a Returning Resident Visa as a bridge to get your ILR back. If your application is successful, it's like your ILR never actually went away because of your time abroad.

Are there any situations where you might not need a Returning Resident Visa?

Yes, there are a few exceptions.

For example, if you or your partner are serving in the British armed forces. Or, if you work for certain UK government departments or the British Council.

Applying for a Returning Resident Visa isn't automatic. You will need to show a few important things to the authorities.

Firstly, you need to prove that you have strong ties to the UK. This could be things like having family members who still live in the UK.