My Journey from Tier 2 to ILR in 3 Years – Step-by-Step Guide (2026)
My Journey from Tier 2 to ILR in the UK
Full Timeline, Documents, and Approval Process (2026)
I arrived in London in January 2023 on a Tier 2 (General) Work Visa. By February 2026, I received my Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) approval letter.
No agent. No shortcuts. Just strategic planning, consistent documentation, and patience.
📌 Key Stats:
- Tier 2 Start Date: Jan 2023
- ILR Application Submitted: Dec 2025
- ILR Approved: Feb 2026
- Total Processing Time: 9 weeks
- Salary: £42,000/year (above threshold)
- Tier 2 Start Date: Jan 2023
- ILR Application Submitted: Dec 2025
- ILR Approved: Feb 2026
- Total Processing Time: 9 weeks
- Salary: £42,000/year (above threshold)
Year 1: 2023
Laying the Foundation (2023)
- Jan 2023: Arrived in UK, collected Biometric Residence Permit (BRP).
- Feb 2023: Registered with GP, opened bank account (HSBC), got NHS number.
- Strategy: Paid full income tax, maintained continuous employment, avoided gaps > 180 days.
Year 2: 2024
Building Strong Ties (2024)
- Maintained salary above £38,700 (2024 threshold).
- Filed accurate Self Assessment tax returns via HMRC.
- Rented stable accommodation in Zone 3 (kept tenancy agreement).
- Joined local community events (library talks, borough meetings).
💡 Pro Tip: Keep a "UK Life Journal" – photos, bills, event tickets. It shows genuine integration during ILR review.
Year 3: 2025-2026
ILR Application & Approval (2025–2026)
- Nov 2025: Checked eligibility: 5 years not required for Tier 2 → ILR after 3 years if salary ≥ £38,700.
- Dec 2025: Submitted ILR application via UKVCAS under "Settlement – Tier 2" route.
- Required Documents:
- Valid passport + BRP
- Last 3 months' payslips + P60
- HMRC tax history (via Personal Tax Account)
- Employment letter confirming role/salary
- Proof of English (IELTS B1 or degree taught in English)
- Life in the UK Test pass certificate
- Jan 2026: Attended biometrics appointment at UKVCAS centre.
- Feb 2026: Received ILR approval email + BRP replacement notice.
3 Critical Success Factors
- Salary Compliance: Never dropped below threshold – even during bonus months.
- Tax Transparency: All income declared to HMRC with no discrepancies.
- Continuous Residence: No single absence > 180 days in any 12-month period.
What I'd Do Differently
- Take Life in the UK Test earlier (it's valid for life!)
- Use a solicitor for document checklist (saved time)
- Apply 28 days before 3-year mark (not after)
🇬🇧 UK VISA JOURNEY 🇬🇧
📥 Free Resource: Download my "UK ILR Checklist 2026" – includes document list, timeline tracker, and UKVCAS booking tips. [Download Here]
If you're on a Tier 2 visa, your ILR is absolutely possible. Stay compliant, keep records, and apply with confidence.
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