Returning Resident Visa

The Returning Resident Visa allows individuals who were previously settled in the UK to return to the country after living abroad for a period of time. This visa is designed for those who have held Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) status but have been outside the UK for more than the allowed duration and wish to return to live permanently.

This visa is for people who were previously living in the UK and want to regain their settled status.

Eligibility

To qualify for a Returning Resident Visa, you must meet the following criteria:

• Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR): You must have previously been granted ILR status in the UK.
• Residency Requirement: You must have lived in the UK for a significant period of time before leaving. The Home Office typically expects you to have lived in the UK for at least 2 years before departing.
• Continuous Residence: You must not have been outside the UK for more than 2 years. If you have been abroad for longer than this, you may need to show that you had strong ties to the UK and intended to return.
• Intent to Reside in the UK: You must demonstrate that you intend to return to the UK to live permanently and have not abandoned your settled status.

Duration of Stay

The Returning Resident Visa allows you to return to the UK and live there permanently. Once granted, you will be able to resume your settled status in the UK and access the same rights as before, including:

• The ability to live, work, and study in the UK.
• Access to public services, healthcare, and benefits.

Application Process

Timeline

You can apply for a Returning Resident Visa up to 3 months before your intended travel date. As part of your application, you will need to:

• Prove your identity and provide details of your previous settled status in the UK.
• Provide documents showing that you meet the residency requirements and your intention to return.
• Attend a biometric appointment to provide your fingerprints and photograph.

Decision Timeframe

• 12 weeks is the usual processing time for Returning Resident Visa applications, though it may vary depending on the complexity of your case.

Rights and Restrictions

What You Can Do:

• Return to the UK and resume your permanent residency status.
• Live, work, and study in the UK without restrictions.
• Access healthcare, education, and other public services.

What You Cannot Do:

• Apply for a Returning Resident Visa if you do not meet the residency or intent to return requirements.
• Use this visa as a means to apply for ILR if you never had it before.

Get in touch with us now at Squadlead to make your Returning Resident Visa application process seamless and stress-free!