Returning Residence Visa

Returning to the UK for those who had indefinite leave to remain, but have been away for more than 2 years

If you previously held Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) or Indefinite Leave to Enter (ILE) in the UK and have been away from the UK for more than 2 years, you will need to apply for a Returning Resident Visa to return and resume your settlement status in the UK. This visa is designed for former residents who wish to come back to the UK after an extended absence.  Here away from the UK means physically absent from the UK, Jersey, Guernsey or the Isle of Man.

Who Can Apply for a Returning Resident Visa?

You can apply for a Returning Resident Visa if you:

• Previously held Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) in the UK.
• Have been outside the UK for more than 2 years and therefore lost your ILR status.
• Intend to return to the UK to live permanently.

Even though you may have lost your ILR status, the Returning Resident Visa provides a way for you to re-establish your right to live and work in the UK.

Evidence Required for a Returning Resident Visa Application

When applying for a Returning Resident Visa, you will need to provide evidence to support your case by demonstrating strong ties to the UK. Typical documents include:

• Proof of Previous ILR: This could be your old UK residence permit or a letter from the Home Office confirming your previous ILR status.
• Evidence of Ties to the UK: This might include family member details, property ownership documents, evidence of previous employment in the UK and length of the original residence in the UK.
• Intention to Settle in the UK: Provide evidence of your plans to resettle in the UK, such as proof of searching for a job, proof of house hunting, job offers, letters from family members or tenancy agreements for housing in the UK.
• Reason for Prolonged Absence: If applicable, provide documentation such as medical records, letters from employers or other evidence that explains why you were away for over 2 years.
• Financial Evidence: Proof that you can support yourself upon returning to the UK without relying on public funds, such as bank statements or employment offers.

Passportia will:

Applying for a Returning Resident Visa requires a strong application that demonstrates your ties to the UK and your intention to return permanently. Passportia offers expert guidance to ensure your application is comprehensive prepared and successful.

Our services include:

• Eligibility assessment: We will evaluate your previous ILR status and determine whether you qualify for a Returning Resident Visa.
• Document preparation: We will assist you in gathering and preparing the necessary documents, including proof of ties to the UK, reasons for your absence, and evidence of your plans to resettle.
• Application submission: Our team will ensure your Returning Resident Visa application is accurately completed and submitted on time to the Home Office.
• Support with discretion requests: If your case involves exceptional circumstances, we can assist in building a strong argument to request discretion from the Home Office.
• Ongoing guidance: We will provide advice and support throughout the entire process, from preparing your application to receiving a decision.

To enquire about a quotation - please fill in the form below or call a number on the right. No-win no fee arrangements may be available in certain circumstances. We look forward to hearing from you.   

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