Getting residence in the United Kingdom
Post-Brexit UK uses points-based visas (work, talent, founder). Indefinite leave (ILR) after 5 years on most routes.
How to read the paths
Each card combines a category (how you qualify), an outcome (what you get) and duration (renewable title or permanent). RBI ≠ CBI: the first grants residence, the second a passport.
- EU free movement — EU/EEA citizens: registration, not a classic consular visa.
- Work / employment — Status tied to a local employer or qualifying contract.
- Entrepreneur / company — Activity or company setup: the visa follows the project, not a passport.
- Passive income / retirement — Stable income (pension, dividends, rent) without local employment.
- Nomad / remote — Remote work for an employer or clients outside the country.
- Residence by investment — Investment or financial threshold → residence (not a passport).
- Citizenship by investment — Investment or contribution → passport (programmes often restricted).
- Naturalisation / long stay — After years of legal stay: PR, ILR, C permit, etc.
- Other — Visit, transit or routes outside the frames above.
Paths by category
Indicative thresholds, timelines and fees — verify with official sources and local counsel.
Work / employment
Skilled Worker visa
Work / employment
Residence permit
Temporary
Process steps
- Certificate of Sponsorship
- Online UKVI application
- IHS health surcharge
- Biometrics
- Entry
- Renewal
Sources: gov.uk
Entrepreneur / company
Innovator Founder visa
Entrepreneur / company
Residence permit
Temporary
Process steps
- Endorsement
- Business plan
- UKVI visa
- UK incorporation
- Endorsing body milestones
Sources: gov.uk
Naturalisation / long stay
Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR)
Naturalisation / long stay
Permanent residence
Permanent
Process steps
- Document 5 years
- Life in the UK + English
- ILR application
- BRP decision
Sources: gov.uk