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Indefinite Leave to Remain UK 10 Years

Expert Immigration advice for individuals and businesses. 

We specialise in business
and individual
immigration.

Authorised and
Regulated by SRA,
England and Wales

Proven track record in
sponsor license & visa
applications

We are open Mon-Fri
9:00am to 7:00pm
24/7 in emergency

We pride ourselves on our specialisation in Business and Personal Immigration, offering expert guidance and support to navigate the complexities of immigration law.

Key Service we offer to businesses and corporates:

  • Sponsor Licence:

A Sponsor Licence is required by UK employers or educational institutions who wish to sponsor foreign nationals, including international students or skilled workers, to come to the UK. With a valid sponsor licence, organizations can issue Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) to students or Certificates of Sponsorship (CoS) to employees. Tide Immigration provides expert guidance on obtaining and maintaining a UK Sponsor Licence, ensuring full compliance with Home Office regulations.

  • Sponsor Licence Compliance Audit:

A Sponsor Licence Compliance Audit is an official review conducted to ensure that an organization holding a UK Sponsor Licence is meeting all Home Office requirements. This includes maintaining accurate records, monitoring sponsored individuals, and reporting any changes promptly. At Tide Immigration, we help educational institutions and employers prepare for these audits by reviewing internal systems, identifying compliance gaps, and providing tailored recommendations to avoid penalties or licence suspension.

  • Pre-Sponsor Licence Compliance:

Pre-Sponsor Licence Compliance involves reviewing an organisation’s systems and processes before applying for a UK Sponsor Licence to ensure they meet Home Office standards. This proactive step helps identify and fix any weaknesses in HR, record-keeping, and reporting practices. At Tide Immigration, we offer tailored pre-licence compliance checks to help businesses and educational institutions strengthen their readiness and improve their chances of a successful licence application.

  • Home Office Interview Training:

Home Office Interview Training is designed to help visa applicants prepare for credibility interviews conducted by the UK Home Office. These interviews assess whether applicants are genuine students or workers and understand their chosen course, institution, funding, and future plans. At Tide Immigration, we provide one-on-one mock interviews and expert coaching to help you answer confidently and clearly, increasing your chances of visa approval.

  • Suspension and revocation of a Sponsor Licence:

Suspension and revocation of a Sponsor Licence occur when the Home Office finds that a sponsoring organisation has breached compliance duties or failed to meet immigration rules. Suspension may temporarily prevent the organisation from sponsoring new applicants, while revocation permanently removes the licence. At Tide Immigration, we provide expert legal support to help institutions and employers respond to compliance issues, challenge unfair decisions, and take corrective actions to protect their sponsorship status.

  • Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS):

A Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) is a crucial document that UK employers must assign to foreign workers they wish to sponsor under the Skilled Worker or other visa routes. There are two types: Defined CoS for overseas applicants and Undefined CoS for those already in the UK. At Tide Immigration, we assist licensed sponsors with accurate and timely CoS applications, ensuring compliance with Home Office guidelines and helping businesses hire international talent efficiently.

  • Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) refusal:

A Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) refusal can disrupt hiring plans and delay visa applications. If the Home Office refuses a CoS request, it’s essential to understand the reasons and respond appropriately. At Tide Immigration, we offer expert advice on challenging CoS refusals, whether through administrative review, appeal, or by correcting and resubmitting the application. Our legal team works to protect your sponsorship rights and ensure your business remains compliant and operational.

  • Delays in Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) applications:

Delays in Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) applications can cause significant setbacks in hiring international staff or supporting visa applications. These delays may arise due to incomplete documentation, compliance issues, or Home Office backlogs. At Tide Immigration, we help employers and sponsors navigate such delays by identifying the cause, communicating with the Home Office when necessary, and ensuring all CoS applications are accurate and fully compliant to avoid unnecessary hold-ups.

  • SMS (Sponsor Management System) management:

SMS (Sponsor Management System) management is essential for maintaining your UK Sponsor Licence. It involves keeping sponsor records up to date, reporting changes such as employee start dates or visa status, and managing Certificates of Sponsorship (CoS). Proper use of the SMS is a key Home Office requirement. At Tide Immigration, we provide expert SMS management services, ensuring your records are compliant, accurate, and submitted on time to reduce the risk of licence suspension or revocation.

  • SMS Level 1 User Training:

SMS Level 1 User Training is designed to equip designated staff with the knowledge and skills needed to effectively operate the UK Home Office’s Sponsor Management System (SMS). A Level 1 user is responsible for key tasks such as assigning Certificates of Sponsorship (CoS), updating sponsor details, and reporting changes to migrant status. At Tide Immigration, we offer tailored training sessions that ensure Level 1 users understand their responsibilities, maintain compliance, and confidently manage the sponsor licence obligations.

  • Advising the employers on sponsorship and record keeping duties:

Employers holding a UK Sponsor Licence have strict sponsorship and record-keeping duties set by the Home Office. These include maintaining accurate records of sponsored workers, tracking absences, reporting job or salary changes, and ensuring visa conditions are met. At Tide Immigration, we provide expert advice to employers on how to meet these responsibilities, implement compliant HR systems, and avoid the risks of licence suspension or revocation through proactive guidance and ongoing support.

  • Advising on TUPE and Sponsor licence in case of mergers and takeovers:

In cases of mergers, acquisitions, or takeovers, employers must carefully manage their Sponsor Licence obligations to remain compliant with UK immigration law. Under TUPE (Transfer of Undertakings Protection of Employment) regulations, sponsored workers may transfer to a new employer, but the Home Office must be properly notified, and sponsor records must be updated promptly. At Tide Immigration, we provide expert advice on handling these complex transitions, including reporting duties, licence transfers, and maintaining sponsorship continuity to avoid disruption to your workforce or immigration status.

  • Visa application for employees:

Applying for a UK work visa can be a complex process that requires careful planning and compliance with Home Office regulations. At Tide Immigration, we assist employers and their international staff with employee visa applications, including Skilled Worker visas and other sponsored routes. Our team ensures each application is complete, accurate, and supported by the required documentation—helping your employees secure their visas smoothly and start work without unnecessary delays.

  • Advising sponsor licensee employers on leaves, absence and wages of the migrant workers:

UK sponsor licence holders have strict duties when it comes to managing leaves, absences, and wages of sponsored migrant workers. Employers must accurately record and report long-term absences, unpaid leave, changes in working hours, and any salary adjustments to the Home Office via the Sponsor Management System (SMS). At Tide Immigration, we provide tailored advice to ensure employers remain fully compliant with immigration rules, helping them avoid penalties and maintain their sponsor licence in good standing.

  • Global business mobility (All routes):

The Global Business Mobility (GBM) visa is a UK immigration route designed for overseas businesses looking to establish or support their UK presence. It includes five key subcategories: Senior or Specialist Worker, Graduate Trainee, UK Expansion Worker, Service Supplier, and Secondment Worker. Each route serves different business needs, from transferring senior staff to setting up a UK branch. At Tide Immigration, we advise companies on choosing the right GBM route, meeting sponsorship requirements, and preparing strong visa applications to support smooth and compliant business mobility into the UK.

Key Service we offer to individuals:

    • Skilled Worker Visa:

    The Skilled Worker visa allows UK employers to sponsor international talent for eligible jobs that meet salary and skill thresholds. At Tide Immigration, we guide both employers and applicants through the sponsorship and visa process, ensuring compliance and a smooth relocation.

  • Self-Sponsorship Visa:
  • The Self-Sponsorship visa route enables entrepreneurs to start or manage a UK-based business without a traditional sponsor. We assist in setting up the business, securing a sponsor licence, and submitting a compliant Skilled Worker application to support your self-sponsored move.

  • Innovator Founder Visa:
  • The Innovator Founder visa is for experienced entrepreneurs with innovative, viable, and scalable business ideas endorsed by a UK-approved body. Tide Immigration supports you from business plan development to visa approval and ongoing compliance.

  • Global Talent Visa:
  • The Global Talent visa is aimed at leaders or promising individuals in fields like tech, academia, arts, and science. We help you navigate the endorsement process and build a strong application to secure entry to the UK without sponsorship.

  • Health and Care Visa:
  • This special category under the Skilled Worker route supports healthcare professionals joining the NHS or adult social care sector. Tide Immigration streamlines the application process for both sponsors and workers, reducing costs and processing times.

  • GBM Expansion Worker Visa:
  • The UK Expansion Worker visa under the Global Business Mobility route allows overseas businesses to send staff to the UK to set up a new branch. We help ensure all sponsorship, documentation, and visa steps are handled accurately for smooth market entry.

  • Graduate Route / PSW:
  • The Graduate Route (Post-Study Work) visa lets international students stay in the UK for up to 2 years (or 3 for PhD holders) after completing an eligible UK degree. No sponsorship is needed. Tide Immigration helps you apply confidently to take advantage of post-study opportunities.

  • Dependant Visa:
  • Dependant visas allow family members of UK visa holders to live, work, and study in the UK. We guide families through the eligibility, documentation, and visa application process, ensuring a smooth transition and compliance with immigration rules.

  • Spouse Visa:
  • The Spouse visa lets non-UK partners of British citizens or settled persons join them in the UK. Tide Immigration assists with financial requirements, relationship evidence, and the application process to reunite families with confidence.

  • Standard Visitor Visa:
  • The Standard Visitor visa allows individuals to visit the UK for tourism, business meetings, or short courses for up to 6 months. We help you prepare a clear, well-documented application to improve your chances of approval.

  • Student Visa:
  • The UK Student visa allows international students to study at recognised institutions. Tide Immigration helps applicants with CAS issuance, financial documents, and interview preparation to secure your visa with ease.

  • Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR):
  • ILR offers permanent settlement in the UK after a qualifying residence period. We assess your eligibility and support you in compiling strong applications, including Life in the UK test and English language requirements.

  • British Citizenship / Naturalisation:
  • Becoming a British citizen is the final step toward full integration. Tide Immigration provides expert support with naturalisation applications, ensuring you meet residence, good character, and documentation standards.

  • Fee Waiver Applications:
  • If you cannot afford visa or extension fees, a fee waiver application may allow you to apply without cost. We help assess your financial situation and prepare strong supporting evidence to increase your chances of success.

  • Further Leave to Remain (FLR) Applications:
  • Further Leave to Remain (FLR) allows individuals to extend their stay in the UK when their current visa is due to expire. Whether you’re applying under a family, private life, or human rights route, Tide Immigration ensures your application is timely, well-documented, and meets all Home Office requirements, helping you maintain lawful status in the UK.

  • Seven-Year Child Route Applications:
  • Children who have lived in the UK for seven continuous years may qualify for leave to remain under the private life route. The application must show it would be unreasonable to expect the child to leave the UK. Tide Immigration helps families prepare strong, child-focused applications that demonstrate deep ties and integration into British life.

  • Ten-Year Private Life Route Applications:
  • The Ten-Year Private Life route offers a pathway to regularise immigration status for individuals who have spent significant time in the UK—especially those who’ve built their lives here. We help applicants prove long residence, community ties, and personal circumstances to meet the Home Office’s strict human rights criteria.

  • Private and Family Life / Human Rights Applications:
  • If returning to your home country would breach your right to private or family life under Article 8 of the ECHR, you may be eligible to apply to stay in the UK. Tide Immigration specialises in human rights-based applications, helping individuals and families build compelling cases based on their life and relationships in the UK.

  • Adult Dependant Relative Visa:
  • The Adult Dependant Relative visa allows elderly parents or relatives of British citizens or settled persons to join them in the UK for long-term personal care. This is a high-threshold visa that requires strong evidence. Our team supports families in building compassionate, well-prepared applications to reunite loved ones.

  • Same-Sex Partner Applications:
  • Same-sex partners of British citizens or settled individuals can apply for visas under the same rules as opposite-sex couples. We provide inclusive, confidential, and respectful support to LGBTQ+ applicants in proving genuine relationships, cohabitation, and long-term commitment, with full guidance through the application process.

  • EUSS Applications (EU Settlement Scheme):
  • The EU Settlement Scheme (EUSS) protects the rights of EU, EEA, and Swiss citizens and their family members living in the UK after Brexit. Tide Immigration assists with late applications, family permits, and the transition from pre-settled to settled status, ensuring applicants secure their legal rights and status in the UK.

Other legal service we offer :

    • Detention, Removal and Deportation Matters:

    Facing immigration detention, removal, or deportation can be distressing and life-altering. At Tide Immigration, we provide urgent legal support for individuals detained under immigration powers or threatened with removal from the UK. We assess each case thoroughly, explore legal remedies, and take swift action to protect your rights and prevent unlawful deportation wherever possible.

  • Immigration Bail:
  • If you or a loved one is being held in immigration detention, applying for immigration bail can secure release while your case continues. Tide Immigration offers expert representation in preparing strong bail applications and representing clients at bail hearings, ensuring that all conditions and legal arguments are properly presented to the tribunal or Home Office.

  • Pre-Action Protocol:
  • The Pre-Action Protocol (PAP) is a formal legal step before initiating Judicial Review. It gives the Home Office a chance to reconsider unlawful or unreasonable decisions without court intervention. At Tide Immigration, we draft persuasive PAP letters to challenge visa refusals, delays, or removals, often resolving cases efficiently without the need for full litigation.

  • Administrative Review:
  • If your visa or immigration application has been refused due to a legal or factual error, you may be eligible for Administrative Review. This process allows the Home Office to reassess its own decision. We identify errors in decision-making and submit detailed representations on your behalf to secure a fair outcome.

  • Immigration Appeals:
  • An immigration appeal allows you to challenge certain Home Office refusals through the First-tier Tribunal. Whether it’s a family visa, human rights, or asylum case, Tide Immigration provides expert representation, case preparation, and legal advocacy to give your appeal the best chance of success.

  • Judicial Reviews:
  • When no other remedy is available, a Judicial Review (JR) can be used to challenge unlawful immigration decisions. It’s a powerful legal tool used in high-stakes cases, such as removals, detention, or refusal of protection claims. Our experienced legal team prepares and files Judicial Review claims with precision, advocating fiercely for your rights in the High Court.

Family law services we offer :

    • Divorce Applications – No Fault:

    With the introduction of no-fault divorce in the UK, couples can now end their marriage without assigning blame. Tide Immigration provides sensitive, straightforward guidance through the divorce process, ensuring all legal steps are handled with care—especially in cases involving international or immigration elements.

  • Intercountry Child Adoption Matters:
  • International adoption involves complex legal and immigration procedures. At Tide Immigration, we assist families with intercountry child adoption, guiding them through UK adoption recognition, visa applications, and Home Office processes to ensure a smooth and lawful transition for the adopted child.

  • Registration of Overseas Adoption of Child in the UK:
  • If you’ve adopted a child abroad, you may need to register the adoption in the UK to have it officially recognised. We assist with this formal registration process, ensuring it meets UK standards and enables access to UK residency or citizenship pathways for the child.

  • British Citizenship Application of Adopted Child from Overseas:
  • Applying for British citizenship for an adopted child from overseas requires careful attention to legal status, adoption recognition, and immigration history. Tide Immigration ensures your child’s application is complete, compliant, and supported with all required documentation for a successful outcome.

  • Other Miscellaneous Matters:
  • From complex family immigration issues to rare or sensitive legal concerns, Tide Immigration is equipped to handle miscellaneous immigration and nationality matters with professionalism and discretion. If you’re unsure where your case fits, our team is ready to provide clear guidance and support.

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Long Residence in the UK
Secure Your Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR)

Our experienced team of immigration solicitors is dedicated to ensuring your Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) application is submitted accurately and without error, giving you the best chance of success.

Ensure Full Compliance with Home Office Regulations.

Prevent Unnecessary Delays and Speed Up the Process.

Turn Your Long UK Residence into Permanent UK Settlement

Having lived in the UK for over a decade, it’s natural to want to make the UK your permanent home. However, securing Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) under the long residence route can be challenging due to stringent requirements set by the British government. That’s where our expertise comes in. With a thorough understanding of ILR criteria, our team is committed to guiding you through the process, ensuring you meet all requirements for the highest chance of approval. Let us help you seamlessly transition your long-term stay in the UK into permanent settlement through ILR.

Licence, accreditation & awards

Simplify Compliance, Minimize Risks, and Accelerate Your Sponsorship Licence Approval.

Helping Clients with Their Long Residence Application for 10+ Years

At Tide Immigration in London, we have successfully assisted countless clients with their long residence applications. We understand your strong desire to remain in the UK, and we’ve spent years ensuring that every application we handle fully meets the ILR requirements. Our expert lawyers are here to offer the guidance and support you need, providing clear answers to your questions and helping you secure your right to stay in the UK for as long as you wish.

Expert Guidance You Can Trust

Poor advice can result in costly delays and application refusals—risks no business can afford. That’s why we assign a dedicated UK immigration specialist to handle your case from start to finish, ensuring precision, compliance, and the best possible outcome.

Transparent Pricing with Fixed Fees

Unexpected legal costs can be stressful. That’s why we offer fixed-fee services, ensuring you know exactly what you’ll pay—no hidden charges, no surprises, just clear and upfront pricing.

Swift and Reliable Support

Uncertainty can be frustrating when dealing with immigration matters. That’s why we guarantee a response to all messages and emails within 24 working hours—or we’ll refund 20% of your fees. Your case deserves prompt attention, and we ensure you’re never left waiting.

We Can Help You

Struggling to navigate the complexities of UK employer sponsorship licence regulations? Let the experts at Tide Solicitors guide you with confidence. With 1,000+ positive client reviews on Google and Trustpilot and recognition in The Legal 500’s top UK law firms, we offer unmatched expertise to ensure your sponsor licence application is in safe hands.

Follow these three simple steps to secure success:

 

Assess Your Requirements – Share your sponsorship licence objectives, and we’ll outline how our tailored support can help you achieve them.

 

Expert Case Handling – A dedicated Sponsor Licence Specialist will meticulously assess your case and guide you through our proven 10-step application process, ensuring full compliance and efficiency.

 

Peace of Mind – Our comprehensive, hands-on service eliminates guesswork, providing expert guidance at every stage and maximizing your chances of a successful outcome.

 

Take the stress out of the sponsorship licence process—partner with Tide Solicitors today.

Frequently Asked Questions About UK Sponsorship Licence

What is Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) under the 10 Years Long Residence Route?

Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) under the 10 Years Long Residence Route allows non-UK citizens to settle permanently in the UK after residing legally and continuously for 10 years. It grants the right to live, work, and study without immigration restrictions and is a pathway to British citizenship.

Who is Eligible for ILR under the 10 Years Long Residence Route?

To be eligible, applicants must:

  1. Have lived in the UK continuously and lawfully for at least 10 years.
  2. Not have left the UK for more than 180 days in a single trip or 540 days in total during the 10 years.
  3. Hold valid immigration status throughout the 10 years.
  4. Pass the Life in the UK Test and meet the English language requirement.
  5. Have no criminal record or breaches of immigration laws.

What Counts as Continuous Residence?

Continuous residence means living in the UK without significant breaks. Specifically:

  1. Absences must not exceed 180 days in a single trip.
  2. Total absences should not exceed 540 days over the 10 years.
  3. Leaving the UK for reasons such as family visits, holidays, or business trips is allowed if within the permitted limit.
  4. Time spent in prison or in immigration detention is not counted as continuous residence.

What Immigration Categories Count Towards the 10 Years?

Key documents include:
Business registration proof (Companies House certificate)
Employer’s Liability Insurance details
Financial statements and PAYE records
HR compliance policies to monitor sponsored employees

What Immigration Categories Count Towards the 10 Years?

Any lawful stay counts, including time spent on:

  1. Student Visa or Tier 4 Visa
  2. Work Visa (Tier 2 or Skilled Worker Visa)
  3. Family Visa
  4. Asylum or Humanitarian Protection
  5. Visitor Visa (if followed by lawful long-term visas)
  6. Any other visa granting lawful residence

Does Time as an Overstayer Affect Eligibility?

Yes, overstaying your visa can affect eligibility unless:

  1. The overstay was for 28 days or less before 24 November 2016.
  2. It was due to circumstances beyond your control, such as illness or processing delays, and reasonable action was taken to regularize your stay.

Can You Combine Different Visa Categories to Make Up the 10 Years?

Yes, different visa categories can be combined as long as they were lawful and continuous. For example, you can combine time spent on a Student Visa and a Work Visa.

What Documents Are Required for ILR under the 10 Years Route?

Documents required include:

  1. Valid passport and previous passports covering the 10-year period.
  2. Proof of continuous residence (e.g., travel history, tenancy agreements, bank statements).
  3. Life in the UK Test certificate.
  4. Evidence of English language proficiency (e.g., degree taught in English or recognized English test).
  5. Biometric information.
  6. Proof of lawful stay (e.g., visa approvals, BRP cards).

What Are the English Language Requirements?

Applicants must prove their English language proficiency by:

  1. Passing an approved English language test at B1 level or higher.
  2. Having a degree taught in English.
  3. Being a citizen of a majority English-speaking country (e.g., USA, Canada, Australia).

How Long Does the ILR Application Process Take?

The standard processing time is up to 6 months. Priority and super-priority services are available for faster decisions (within 5 working days or 24 hours, respectively) for an additional fee.

Trusted Visa Consultants for a Smooth Process

Let Tide Solicitors handle your sponsor licence application, so you can focus on what matters most. Our expert immigration lawyers ensure a seamless process, giving you the confidence and peace of mind you deserve. Contact our team today to get started.

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