Indefinite leave to remain or enter (domestic violence or abuse)
After you apply
After you submit your application, you’ll be asked to make an appointment to provide your fingerprints and photo (biometric information).
You’ll need to take your passport with you to the appointment. You’ll be able to collect it on the day.
You may have to travel to get to your nearest centre - this could be in another country.
Any children aged 6 and over who are applying on your form must also provide biometric information.
Getting a decision
You’ll usually get a decision within 6 months.
You’ll be contacted if your application is complex and will take longer, for example:
- if your supporting documents need to be verified
- because of your personal circumstances, for example if you have a criminal conviction
If your application is approved
You can do the following:
- work
- run a business
- study
- use public services, such as healthcare and schools
- apply for public funds (benefits) and pensions
- apply for British citizenship, usually after a minimum of 12 months
If you stay outside of the UK for more than 2 years
You can lose your indefinite leave to remain if you stay outside the UK for more than 2 years at a time. You may need to apply before you can return to the UK.
If you sent your documents with your application
If you sent your passport or supporting documents with your application, you can ask for them to be returned if you need them urgently. This only applies to applications made before 30 October 2025.
You might have to cancel your application to get your documents back.