For those in the fields of science, engineering, technology, arts, and academic high-achievers, the Global Talent Visa is more than just a work visa — it's an opportunity for long-term settlement in the United Kingdom. Once you've entered the UK under this visa, the next logical step is to apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain in the UK (ILR). In addition to providing stability and lifting work limitations, ILR opens the door to British citizenship, allowing you to fully lay down roots for your future in the UK. It should be noted, however, that the switch from a Global Talent Visa to ILR is not as straightforward.
The UK Home Office has rigid conditions, and even top-class professionals are thwarted by minor mistakes, incomplete paperwork, or inadvertent contraventions of visa conditions. To prevent delays—or worse, rejection—the following guide will dissect precisely what you must qualify for, how to prepare, and what to anticipate throughout the ILR application process.
Are You Eligible? Main Conditions for ILR Following a Global Talent Visa
Please verify that you meet all of the requirements prior to starting your application. The Home Office assesses those applying for ILR on residency, professional, financial and more general immigration grounds.
1. Your UK Stay Counts
When you can apply will depend on how long you have been in the UK on your Global Talent Visa.
If you were supported under the "Exceptional Talent" category, you can apply after three years.
If you were sponsored under the "Exceptional Promise" category, you would have to wait for five years before you could apply.
It's important that you verify your visa category first.
2. Your Stay Must Be Continuous
The Home Office is strict about residency regulations. You have not spent over 180 days outside the UK in any given 12 months.
If you've been moving around a lot, check passport stamps and documentation thoroughly. Work travel, emergency family visits, or other reasons may be approved, but being away from the UK for extensive periods without grounds can be a problem.
3. Your Work Should Speak for Itself
ILR is not about time in the UK—it's about demonstrating your contribution to your industry.
You will require solid evidence of your professional contribution, including:
Research papers, patents, or significant projects
Industry awards, grants, or funding acknowledgments
Employer letters attesting to your work and its value
Evidence of ongoing work in your specialist field
If you are planning a job-switch or have taken a career break, you’ll need direct proof that you’ve been active in your profession.
4. You Must Demonstrate English Competence
If you are from outside an English-speaking country, you will have to pass a recognised English language test (e.g. IELTS) or bring a degree in English. A few applicants are eligible for an exemption, so look and see if this is one of them.
5. You Must Pass the Life in the UK Test
This test assesses your understanding of British history, culture, and legislation. You'll need to book and pass this prior to applying—so don't wait until the last minute.
6. You Must Have Complied with Immigration Regulations
Your immigration record is paramount. Any past visa violations, tax problems, or legal issues may impact your application. Ensure:
You've paid all UK taxes and have no outstanding HMRC matters
You've complied with your visa's work limitations
Your endorsement and visa conditions remain in place
If you're not clear on any of these points, taking professional guidance can prevent last-minute setbacks.
Step-by-Step: Application for ILR from a Global Talent Visa
If you've fulfilled all of the above, here's the step-by-step guide to applying formally from a Global Talent Visa to ILR:
Step 1: Gather Your Documents
Good Documentation is the foundation of a good application. You’ll need:
Your passport and biometric residence permit (BRP)
Acclimatisation of Continuous UK Residence (e.g. utility bills, tenancy / rental agreements)
Indications of continuous professional involvement (employment letters, publications, patents, etc.)
Proof of finances (bank statements, HMRC tax returns, payslips)
Certificate of the English language test (if applicable)
Life in the UK Test pass certificate
Step 2: Apply Online for ILR
Applications are made using the UK Home Office's online platform. Form SET(O) is used by the majority of applicants. Double-check everything carefully before submitting—little errors will delay processing or lead to refusals.
Step 3: Pay ILR Fees
ILR fees vary annually, so visit the UK Home Office website for the current fees. You may have your application processed faster by requesting priority (5-day processing) or super-priority (24-hour processing) at an additional fee.
Important: ILR applicants no longer have to pay the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) after approval, but any outstanding IHS fees during the visa period must be paid first.
Step 4: Book and Attend a Biometric Appointment
Then you’ll need to book a biometric appointment at a UK Visa and Citizenship Application Services (UKVCAS) center after submitting your application. It involves taking your fingerprints and photo.
Step 5: Go for a Home Office Interview (If Necessary)
The majority of applicants don't require an interview, but where additional clarification is necessary (e.g., breaks in employment or residence), the Home Office can ask for one. Expect to be asked to explain your work, visa record, and plans.
Step 6: Wait for a Decision
Standard processing is up to six months, but you can get it done much more quickly with priority services. You will be sent a new Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) to verify your ILR status once it is approved.
If you want to know the new immigration rules for a Global Talent visa, check out this video:
Life After ILR: What's Next?
With Indefinite Leave to Remain in the UK, your immigration status is vastly different. You can:
✔ Work and live in the UK without any restrictions
✔ Come and go in the UK as you please
✔ Claim British citizenship after 12 months (if eligible)
It should be remembered that ILR can be revoked if you stay outside the UK for over two years without a Returning Resident visa.
Steer Clear of Blunders, Seek Professional Assistance
Transitioning from the Global Talent Visa to ILR is one of the biggest steps towards making the UK your permanent home. But even the best can stumble — a missing document, a misinterpreted residency rule, an unforeseen legal problem. With A Y & J Solicitors, the ILR process can be made as smooth, stress-free, and successful as it can be. We have successfully assisted numerous professionals in getting their Indefinite Leave to Remain in the UK without any unnecessary risks or delays.
A Y & J Solicitors is a specialist immigration law firm with extensive experience in Global Talent Visa to ILR. We have an in-depth understanding of immigration law and are professional and results-focused. For assistance with your visa application or any other UK immigration law concerns, please contact us at +44 20 7404 7933. We’re here to help!
