1. Introduction: What Is Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR)?
Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) is a permanent immigration status that allows non-British nationals to live, work, and study in the UK without time restrictions.
While ILR provides many of the same rights as British citizenship, you must keep valid proof of your ILR to demonstrate your legal status. This proof is essential for work, travel, access to services, and future citizenship applications.
2. Why You Need Proof of ILR
Proof of your ILR status is required in several key situations, including:
✅ Right to Work and Rent — Employers and landlords must verify your immigration status.
✅ Access to Public Services — Required for NHS registration, banking, or benefits.
✅ Travel — You’ll need ILR proof to re-enter the UK after international travel.
✅ Citizenship Applications — ILR evidence is mandatory when applying for naturalisation.
Without proof, you may face difficulties proving your right to stay or re-enter the UK.
3. Types of Acceptable Proof for Indefinite Leave to Remain
Depending on when and how your ILR was granted, proof can take several forms:
| Type of Proof | Description |
|---|---|
| Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) | The most common modern proof. A physical card showing ILR details. |
| Passport Stamp or Vignette | For ILR granted before BRPs were introduced; still valid. |
| Digital ILR Status (E-ILR) | Electronic proof accessible via the UKVI online portal. |
| Home Office Letter | A formal confirmation letter accompanying your ILR decision. |
4. Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) as Proof of ILR
The BRP is the main proof of ILR for most recent applicants.
Features of a BRP:
- Includes your name, date of birth, nationality, and immigration status.
- States “Indefinite Leave to Remain” or “Indefinite Leave to Enter.”
- Contains your photo and fingerprints for identification.
Key Details:
- The card itself expires, typically in 2024 or 2025, but your ILR does not.
- You’ll need to replace your BRP if it’s lost, stolen, damaged, or expired.
How to Replace a BRP:
Apply online through the UKVI website and pay the replacement fee.
5. Passport Stamp or Endorsement
Before BRPs, ILR was recorded as a stamp or vignette in the passport.
Examples of Valid ILR Endorsements:
- “Indefinite Leave to Remain”
- “Given Indefinite Leave to Enter the United Kingdom”
Important Notes:
- Old ILR stamps remain valid proof, even in expired passports.
- If your ILR stamp is in a lost or expired passport, apply for a No Time Limit (NTL) replacement to obtain a BRP.
6. Digital Status (E-ILR) as Proof of ILR
As of April 2022, the UKVI has begun issuing digital ILR status instead of physical cards.
How It Works:
- Your ILR is stored electronically in the Home Office’s system.
- You can view and share your immigration status using the “View and Prove” service.
Accessing Your E-ILR:
- Go to the View and Prove service.
- Log in using your passport details or BRP number.
- Generate a share code to provide to employers or landlords.
💡 Tip: Save your login details securely — this is now your official ILR proof.
7. Home Office ILR Confirmation Letter
When ILR is granted, the Home Office issues a decision letter confirming your approval.
- This letter can serve as supporting evidence, especially if your BRP or digital record is under review.
- Always keep a copy (physical or digital) for your records.
If you lose this letter, you can contact the Home Office or file a Subject Access Request (SAR) to retrieve your immigration records.
8. How to Check Your ILR Status Online
If you have a digital ILR (E-ILR), you can verify and share it online.
Steps to Check ILR Status:
- Visit the UKVI “View and Prove” portal.
- Sign in using your passport or ID information.
- View your ILR confirmation.
- Generate a share code to give to employers, landlords, or government services.
The recipient can then verify your status at:
👉 www.gov.uk/view-right-to-work
9. Applying for Proof of ILR if Lost or Expired
If your proof of ILR is missing or outdated, you must apply for a replacement.
Option 1: Replace a Lost BRP
Apply online via the UKVI BRP replacement page.
Option 2: Apply for a No Time Limit (NTL) Document
If you have ILR but only an old passport stamp, apply for an NTL to get a modern BRP.
Requirements:
- Proof of ILR (old passport, decision letter).
- Proof of identity and residence in the UK.
- Application fee: £229 (as of 2024).
10. Travelling Abroad and Returning with ILR
You can travel freely with ILR, but be cautious:
Re-Entry Rules:
- Bring your BRP, ILR stamp, or digital proof for re-entry.
- If using digital ILR, border officers can verify it electronically.
Time Limits Abroad:
If you stay outside the UK for over two years, your ILR may lapse.
You’ll then need to apply for a Returning Resident Visa to regain your status.
11. Indefinite Leave to Remain vs. British Citizenship
| Feature | ILR | British Citizenship |
|---|---|---|
| Residency | Permanent | Permanent |
| Nationality | Keeps original nationality | Becomes a UK national |
| Right to vote | ❌ No | ✅ Yes |
| British passport | ❌ No | ✅ Yes |
| Travel flexibility | Limited (by passport) | Full British travel rights |
After holding ILR for 12 months, you may be eligible to apply for British citizenship by naturalisation.
12. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. Can I lose my ILR status?
Yes. You can lose ILR if you stay abroad for more than 2 years or commit serious criminal offences.
Q2. Is my BRP the same as ILR?
No. The BRP is proof of your ILR; ILR itself is your legal immigration status.
Q3. Can I work in the UK with ILR?
Yes. ILR grants full rights to work and study in the UK without restrictions.
Q4. How do I replace lost ILR proof?
Apply for a replacement BRP or a No Time Limit (NTL) document through the UKVI.
Q5. Do I need to update ILR to digital status?
The UKVI plans to phase out BRPs by end of 2024. You’ll eventually need to switch to digital ILR.
13. Conclusion
Proof of Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) is essential for living, working, and travelling in the UK. Whether you hold a BRP, passport endorsement, or digital ILR, keeping your documentation secure and up to date is vital.
With the Home Office moving toward digital immigration records, ILR holders should familiarise themselves with the UKVI “View and Prove” service for easier access and verification of their status.
For expert legal assistance or help replacing your ILR documents,
contact Martin Taggart — your trusted UK legal partner.