Choose the Right Visa for Permanent Residency
For Canadians hoping to move to the UK permanently, selecting the correct visa is the first and most crucial step. The visa you apply for determines your eligibility for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) — a status that grants permanent residency rights.
Here are the main visa options available to Canadian citizens:
- Skilled Worker Visa: For Canadians with a confirmed job offer from a licensed UK employer in a qualifying occupation.
- Spousal or Partner Visa: For Canadians with a spouse, fiancé, or long-term partner who is a British citizen or permanent resident.
- Ancestry Visa: For Canadians with at least one grandparent born in the UK or qualifying British territories.
- Investor, Innovator, or Start-Up Visa: For those seeking to invest in or establish a business in the UK.
- Student to Skilled Worker Route: For Canadians studying in the UK who plan to remain and work after graduation.
Each visa offers different routes and timelines toward ILR, so choosing the right one based on your personal circumstances and long-term goals is essential.
Skilled Worker Visa: For Canadian Professionals
The Skilled Worker Visa is one of the most common pathways for Canadians aiming to live and work in the UK long term. It allows skilled individuals to work for licensed employers in eligible roles.
Key Requirements
- Job Offer: Must be from a UK employer licensed by the Home Office.
- Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS): Provided by the employer confirming your offer.
- Salary Threshold: The role must meet the minimum salary requirement (usually £38,700 or the “going rate” for that job).
- English Language Ability: Proof through an approved English test or academic qualification.
- Financial Maintenance: Show sufficient funds or certification from your employer.
Pathway to Permanent Residency
You can apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain after five years on a Skilled Worker Visa, as long as you’ve maintained continuous employment in an eligible role.
Spousal or Partner Visa: Joining Family in the UK
If your partner or spouse is settled in the UK, you may be eligible for a Spousal or Partner Visa. This route enables family reunification and leads to permanent settlement.
Key Requirements
- Relationship Proof: Evidence of marriage, civil partnership, or cohabitation for at least two years.
- Financial Requirement: The UK partner must earn at least £18,600 per year (higher if there are children).
- Accommodation: Proof of suitable living arrangements.
- English Language: Demonstrate proficiency in English at the required level.
Pathway to Permanent Residency
After five years on a Spousal or Partner Visa, you can apply for ILR and settle permanently in the UK.
UK Ancestry Visa: For Canadians with UK Roots
Canadians with a grandparent born in the UK can apply for a UK Ancestry Visa — a popular option among Commonwealth citizens.
Key Requirements
- Proof of Ancestry: Birth certificates linking you to your UK-born grandparent.
- Intent to Work: Evidence you plan to work in the UK, such as job applications or offers.
- Financial Support: Sufficient funds to sustain yourself upon arrival.
Pathway to Permanent Residency
The Ancestry Visa is valid for five years, after which you may apply for ILR if you’ve been working and living continuously in the UK.
Investor, Innovator, and Start-Up Visas
Entrepreneurs and investors from Canada can move to the UK through one of these business-focused visa routes.
Investor Visa
- Invest £2 million or more in UK businesses.
- Apply for ILR after 2 to 5 years, depending on your investment amount.
Innovator Visa
- Must have a business idea endorsed by a recognised UK endorsing body.
- Eligible for ILR after three years if your business is successful.
Start-Up Visa
- Designed for first-time entrepreneurs with innovative business ideas.
- Valid for two years, after which you can switch to the Innovator Visa.
From Student Visa to Skilled Worker Visa
Many Canadians studying in the UK decide to remain after graduation. The Graduate Route and Skilled Worker Visa allow for a smooth transition to permanent residence.
Steps to Transition
- Complete your degree at a recognised UK institution.
- Secure a job offer from a licensed UK employer.
- Switch to a Skilled Worker Visa to begin your five-year residency path toward ILR.
This route is ideal for those who wish to build their careers in the UK after studying.
Applying for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR)
After living in the UK for five years on a qualifying visa, you can apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain — the gateway to permanent residency.
ILR Requirements
- Continuous Residence: Must not have been outside the UK for more than 180 days in any 12-month period.
- Life in the UK Test: A mandatory exam on British life, culture, and laws.
- English Language Proficiency: Demonstrate English at CEFR level B1 or higher.
- Lawful Residence: You must not have breached immigration conditions.
Once granted, ILR gives you the right to live, work, and study in the UK indefinitely, without further visa renewals.
Applying for British Citizenship
After holding ILR for at least 12 months, you can apply for British citizenship, which provides full legal rights and a UK passport.
Citizenship Requirements
- Hold ILR for at least one year (unless married to a British citizen).
- Demonstrate at least five years of UK residence.
- Meet the “good character” requirement, showing lawful conduct and financial stability.
Citizenship gives you voting rights, access to public services, and permanent protection under UK law.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can Canadians work in the UK without a visa?
No. Canadians must hold a valid work visa such as a Skilled Worker, Ancestry, or Partner Visa to work legally in the UK.
How long does it take to get ILR?
It typically takes five years on an eligible visa to qualify for Indefinite Leave to Remain.
Can Canadians hold dual citizenship with the UK?
Yes, both the UK and Canada permit dual citizenship, allowing you to retain both nationalities.
How much does ILR cost?
As of 2024, the ILR application fee is £2,404, excluding biometric and test costs.
Do I need a job offer to apply for a UK visa?
A job offer is required for the Skilled Worker Visa, but not for family or ancestry-based routes.
Can I bring my family to the UK?
Yes, most UK visa categories allow dependents, including your spouse or partner and children under 18.
Conclusion
Moving from Canada to the UK permanently is an exciting opportunity for work, family, or business. With the right visa and preparation, Canadians can build a long-term life in the UK and eventually achieve British citizenship. From the Skilled Worker route to the Ancestry Visa, each pathway offers a legitimate and structured route toward permanent residency and settlement.
For fixed-fee legal help with your case,
contact Martin Taggart — your trusted UK legal partner.