10 Easiest Ways to Get Permanent Residency in the UK

Moving to the United Kingdom is a life-changing dream for many. With its strong economy, world-class healthcare, and diverse culture, the UK offers countless opportunities for career growth and quality of life.

A key step toward building a long-term future here is gaining Permanent Residency (PR)—formally known as Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR). ILR gives you the right to live, work, and study in the UK without any time limit.

Wondering how to make it happen? Here are the 10 easiest ways to get permanent residency in the UK.

1. Skilled Worker Visa

The Skilled Worker Visa is one of the most accessible paths to UK PR.

• Eligibility: Job offer from a licensed UK employer, minimum salary of £26,200, and a role that meets skill requirements.
• Time to PR: 5 years
• Why it’s easy: In-demand professions are regularly added to the Shortage Occupation List, making sponsorship more accessible.

2. Spouse or Partner Visa

If your spouse or partner is a UK citizen or holds ILR, this route is a direct path to settlement.

• Eligibility: Legal marriage or civil partnership, genuine relationship, financial and accommodation proof.
• Time to PR: 5 years
• Why it’s easy: Enables you to live with your partner and build a life together in the UK while working toward ILR.

3. Family Visa

This visa is for joining close family members already living in the UK, such as parents or dependent children.

• Eligibility: Family connection, financial support, and adequate housing.
• Time to PR: 5 years
• Why it’s easy: If you have family ties, this route offers emotional and legal support throughout your journey.

4. Innovator Founder Visa

Entrepreneurs with a unique business idea can use the Innovator Founder Visa to gain PR in just 3 years.

• Eligibility: Endorsed business plan, minimum £50,000 funding (unless waived), active involvement in the business.
• Time to PR: 3 years
• Why it’s easy: Fast-tracked for those with solid, innovative business ideas and entrepreneurial drive.

5. Graduate Visa to Skilled Worker Route

International students can stay in the UK after graduation and transition to PR through employment.

• Eligibility: UK degree, Graduate Visa, then transition to Skilled Worker Visa.
• Time to PR: 5 years on a Skilled Worker Visa (after Graduate Visa)
• Why it’s easy: Offers a smooth transition from student life to work and eventually PR.

6. Long Residence (10-Year Rule)

If you’ve been in the UK legally for 10 continuous years on various visa types, you may qualify for ILR under the long residence route.

• Eligibility: 10 years of continuous, lawful stay in the UK.
• Time to PR: 10 years
• Why it’s easy: Perfect for long-term residents who have lived under different visa categories.

7. UK Ancestry Visa

If one of your grandparents was born in the UK, this is a straightforward route to PR.

• Eligibility: Commonwealth citizen with UK-born grandparent, intent to work, financial support.
• Time to PR: 5 years
• Why it’s easy: No job offer required upfront; flexible route with work rights from the start.

8. Global Talent Visa

This visa supports world-class talent in science, tech, academia, and the arts.

• Eligibility: Endorsement from an approved UK body (e.g. Tech Nation, Royal Society).
• Time to PR: 3 to 5 years, depending on endorsement level.
• Why it’s easy: Offers unmatched flexibility and a quicker route for top professionals and researchers.

9. Investor Visa (Tier 1 – Now Closed to New Applicants)

Note: This visa is closed to new applicants as of 2022, but still relevant for those already on this route.

• Eligibility: Investment of £2 million or more
• Time to PR: 2 to 5 years (depending on investment amount)
• Why it was easy: Fastest route for high-net-worth individuals with minimal residency requirements.

10. Refugee or Humanitarian Protection Route

For those fleeing danger, the UK offers protection and a pathway to settlement.

• Eligibility: Proof of persecution or danger in your home country.
• Time to PR: 5 years of humanitarian protection or refugee status.
• Why it’s easy: Provides a vital lifeline and long-term security for those in need.

Final Thoughts: Choosing the Best Path for You

There’s no single “easiest” way to get PR in the UK—it depends on your personal background, profession, and goals. Whether you’re a skilled worker, entrepreneur, graduate, or partner of a UK citizen, the UK offers multiple clear and structured pathways to permanent residency.

Once you secure ILR, you’ll enjoy the freedom to live and work in the UK indefinitely—and after 12 months, you can apply for British citizenship.

Ready to Start Your UK PR Journey?

If you're unsure which route suits you best, consider seeking guidance from an immigration advisor to help you create a tailored application strategy.