Long Residence (10 Years)
For those who have built a life in the UK over a decade. The challenge is proving Continuous Lawful Residence.
🕒 The Definition of "Continuous"
It's not just about time. It's about legitimate status and absence limits.
Rule 1: The 548-Day Limit (Old Rule)
For qualifying periods ending before April 2024 (mostly), you typically shouldn't have been absent for more than 548 days total over the 10 years.
Rule 2: The 180-Day Rule (Current)
You cannot be outside the UK for more than 180 days in any 12-month period.
💡 Key Exceptions
Absences may be disregarded if they were due to:
- Serious illness of the applicant (or close relative).
- Natural disaster (e.g., volcanic eruption grounded flights).
- Pandemic travel restrictions (COVID-19 concessions).
⚠️ The "Lawful" Trap
Did you ever have a gap between visas where you were an "overstayer"?
Even a small gap (unless covered by 3C leave or specific exceptions) can reset your 10-year clock to zero.
Visualizing the 10 Years
Start
Entry Date
Finish
ILR Date
Document Checklist
- All Passports (10 Years)
- BRP Cards
- Police Registration (Old)
- Life in the UK Pass
- B1 English Test
Common Blockers
Correction of Tax Returns
Amending self-assessment can trigger 'Good Character' refusals (Paragraph 322(5)).
Criminal Record
Even minor offences must be declared.
