RETURNING RESIDENT VISA

Reclaim Your Permanent Residency in the UK

Have you previously held Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) in the UK but lost it after being abroad too long? The Returning Resident Visa allows you to regain ILR and return to live and work in the UK permanently.

Who Is Eligible?

You can apply if you:

• Previously held ILR or settled status, but it lapsed due to being absent for more than 2 years (or up to 5 if you were settled under the EU Settlement Scheme)
• Are applying from outside the UK (required)
• Genuinely intend to live in the UK again and maintain strong ties to the country
• Haven’t used public funds to leave the UK (unless through the Windrush Scheme)
• Have a valid TB certificate, if you lived in a high-risk country for 6+ months

What Counts as “Strong Ties”?

Home Office guidance considers:

• Family connections in the UK
• Property or business ownership
• Length of prior UK residence
• Regular visits or ongoing relationships
• Reasons for staying abroad (e.g., work, study, family care)

What You Should Know

• You cannot apply from within the UK
• If refused, you may request an Administrative Review, but there’s no appeal right
• Dependants (partners/children) must apply individually, even if eligible

Ready to Return?

Don’t risk the complications of a weak application. Let us connect you with a specialist immigration solicitor to help you:

• Reclaim your UK settlement status
• Provide top-quality legal support and documentation
• Navigate any post-refusal processes