Returning Resident Visa

The UK Returning Resident visa restores Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) for people whose settlement lapsed after an extended absence — typically more than 2 years (or 5 years for those under the EU Settlement Scheme). Applicants must show they previously held ILR and still maintain strong ties to the UK.

The application costs £726 and typically takes around 3 weeks to process. If granted, the visa confers full settlement rights with no time limit — the applicant can live, work, and study freely. Dependants must apply separately. The visa is not renewable as it restores permanent status directly.

This visa is ideal for former UK residents who lost ILR through prolonged absence and can demonstrate that the UK remains their primary home through family, property, or employment ties.