UK Crown Dependencies and Indefinite Leave to Remain

There are many benefits to living and working in one of the Crown dependencies, and whilst they are in many respects similar to the UK, it is important to know how Crown dependencies can affect an indefinite leave to remain application.

Apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain from UK Crown Dependencies with LEXVISA.

What are Crown Dependencies?

The Crown dependencies are the Isle of Man in the Irish Sea, and Guernsey and Jersey in the English Channel. These territories are independently administered, meaning they do not form part of either the UK or the British Overseas Territories. This can be somewhat confusing when considering visa matters, as time spent outside the UK will usually break continuity requirements when calculating indefinite leave to remain. However, this is not always the case for Crown dependencies, though there are some important differences with the UK.

Are there any differences between Crown Dependencies and UK Indefinite leave to remain?

Time spent in the Crown dependencies will count towards the 2, 3, 4 or 5 year qualifying period for indefinite leave to remain in the UK, if certain requirements are met. This will depend on which category of leave you fall under, as not all categories are available in each Crown dependency. Jersey and Guernsey operate the work permit system, whilst it is closed in the Isle of Man, for example, whilst the Isle of Man operates the same points-based system as the UK, with the exception that there is no Tier 1 (Exceptional talent) category.

Leave in each Crown dependency will only count towards indefinite leave to remain if it was granted in the same type of category – or the equivalent – as one specified for indefinite leave to remain in the UK. For example, where someone would apply for indefinite leave to remain in the Tier 1 entrepreneur category in the UK, they would need to have Crown dependency leave in the Isle of Man as either an entrepreneur, a business person, or an innovator. These differences add an extra layer of complexity to any application, and negotiating each difference will require a great deal of preparation.

Are there any similarities between Crown Dependencies and UK Indefinite leave to remain?

If you are applying for indefinite leave to remain in the UK having spent time in the Crown dependencies, you will need to meet the same requirements as those applying for ILR in the UK: you will have to show evidence of continuous residence and continuous employment, provide information about periods of absence from the Crown dependencies, and not have any outstanding convictions. However, as each Crown dependency has slightly different requirements regarding employment sectors and Knowledge of Life Tests, it is imperative that you receive expert advice regarding each matter.

Using Legal Representation to Apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain

Legal representatives, such as our specialist immigration and visa law firm, are qualified to advise you on immigration law and your immigration status. It is possible to instruct an immigration and visa legal representative to submit an indefinite leave to remain application.

Caseworkers at the Home Office are trained to reject applications which are improperly prepared for example by failing to provide the correct supporting evidence. In order to ensure your application succeeds, all necessary documents must be provided.

This can be a significant administrative task and you will need to submit the correct documentary evidence. The UK Immigration Rules are complex and a legal representative can help ensure that your application meets the Immigration Rules.

Successful Indefinite Leave to Remain Applications

Our team of solicitors and barristers are specialist immigration lawyers who act in your best interest. We offer a client-tailored approach from the outset. From the very first meeting, we will be able to advise you in respect of your immigration status and the merit of your visa and immigration application before your matter even reaches the Home Office UK Visa & Immigration department. We can assist you with the preparation of your immigration and visa application and ensure that you meet all the requirements of the relevant rules.

We are based in the legal epicentre of London, just across the road from the Royal Courts of Justice in order to ensure we get the best results for our clients.  We are minutes away from the Immigration and Asylum Tribunal, the Royal Courts of Justice and other central London courts.

Preparation is the key to successful immigration applications. Our UK immigration and visa solicitors are here to guide you through the complex immigration rules and requirements. If you wish to meet one of our lawyers, please call our Immigration Team so we can assess your case and arrange your legal consultation.

Contact our London immigration solicitors on 02030110276 or complete our contact form.

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