Martin taggart

Proof of ILR in the UK: Your Complete Guide

1. What is Proof of Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR)?

Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) is a form of permanent residency that grants non-UK citizens the right to live, work, and study in the UK without time restrictions. Proving ILR status is essential for accessing UK public services, employment, and benefits.

2. Documents Accepted as Proof of ILR

Several documents can serve as proof of ILR in the UK. Commonly accepted forms of proof include:

  • Biometric Residence Permit (BRP): This card displays ILR status and acts as the primary physical proof of ILR.
  • Digital Immigration Status: Non-EU ILR holders may now have digital records linked to their passport, accessible via the UK government’s View and Prove Service.
  • Old Stamps or Vignettes in Passport: Some long-term ILR holders may have ILR stamps or vignettes in older passports (pre-2015), which are still accepted if they haven’t expired.
  • Home Office Letter of Approval: Upon ILR approval, the Home Office issues a letter confirming the grant of ILR. While not standalone proof, this letter is helpful for supporting verification processes.

3. How to Prove ILR Status Online

Step 1: Access the UK Government’s “View and Prove” Service

The View and Prove service lets you access and share digital proof of ILR status. It’s especially useful for employment and renting property.

  1. Go to the View and Prove Service on the UK government website.
  2. Log in with Your Passport Number and Date of Birth.
  3. Access a Share Code: Generate a shareable code that can be given to employers, landlords, or others who need to verify your ILR status.

Step 2: Share Code Verification

The share code allows third parties to access your immigration status for 30 days. It can be used for employment, housing, and other verification needs.

4. Using Your Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) as Proof of ILR

The Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) is one of the most widely recognized forms of ILR proof. The BRP includes:

  • ILR Status: Clearly labeled on the card.
  • Personal Information: Photo, date of birth, and visa type.
  • Expiry Date: Note that BRPs issued to ILR holders often expire after 10 years, though ILR status itself does not expire.

Important: Keep your BRP up-to-date. Report lost or damaged BRPs to the Home Office and apply for a replacement if needed.

5. Proving ILR Status Without a BRP

If you don’t have a BRP or it’s unavailable, these alternatives can serve as ILR proof:

  • View and Prove Digital Service: For newer ILR holders who opted for digital status.
  • ILR Stamps or Vignettes in Old Passports: Accepted if still valid. You may need to carry the old passport for physical verification.
  • Home Office ILR Approval Letter: Use the original approval letter along with any supporting identification (passport or residence card).

6. Documents Required for Employers and Landlords

Employers and landlords need specific documentation to verify ILR status:

  • Employers: Use the BRP or View and Prove service to confirm the right to work in the UK.
  • Landlords: May accept the BRP, digital status share code, or ILR stamps in a passport.

Right-to-Work Verification

Employers are legally required to check ILR status to confirm an employee’s eligibility to work in the UK. This is done using the View and Prove Service or by examining the physical BRP or passport stamp.

7. How to Replace Lost or Expired ILR Proof

If you lose your BRP or it’s close to expiring, follow these steps to replace your ILR proof:

Step 1: Report the Loss or Expiry

Report a lost or stolen BRP to the UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) department. For expired cards, file an application for a replacement.

Step 2: Apply for a Replacement BRP

  1. Submit Form BRP(RC): The application for a replacement card.
  2. Pay the Replacement Fee: The fee is typically £56, though additional costs apply for expedited processing.
  3. Biometric Appointment: If required, attend a biometric appointment for identity verification.

8. Frequently Asked Questions

  1. What do I do if my BRP expires but my ILR status does not?
    Apply for a replacement BRP. Your ILR status remains valid even if the BRP expires, but it’s essential to have an up-to-date BRP card.
  2. Can I use my ILR approval letter as proof of ILR status?
    The Home Office ILR approval letter can serve as supporting documentation, but you’ll generally need a BRP or digital status for primary proof.
  3. What if I have an ILR stamp in an expired passport?
    An ILR stamp in an expired passport is still valid proof of ILR. However, consider transferring it to a BRP for easier verification.
  4. Can my employer verify my ILR digitally?
    Yes, use the View and Prove Service to generate a share code for your employer to verify ILR status.
  5. How long does it take to replace a lost BRP?
    Replacement processing typically takes 8-12 weeks, though priority services can expedite it.

9. Conclusion

Proving Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) status is essential for accessing employment, housing, and services in the UK. With options like the Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) and the View and Prove digital service, ILR holders can provide verification efficiently. Whether using digital status, physical BRPs, or older passport stamps, staying prepared with up-to-date proof ensures smooth navigation of work, residency, and public service access in the UK.

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Trisha Lee