I've been in the UK illegally for years. Can I still apply?

The 20-year private life route

The UK Immigration Rules provide a specific route for people who have lived in the UK continuously for 20 years or more, regardless of their immigration status during that time. If you qualify, you can apply for leave to remain on private life grounds.

What does 'continuous' mean?

You must have been living in the UK throughout the 20-year period. Short absences may be acceptable, but significant time spent outside the UK could break the continuity of your residence. Each case is assessed on its specific facts.

What do you need to prove?

You need to demonstrate: that you have lived in the UK for 20 or more years; the depth and nature of your private life here — your work history, relationships, community ties, and life roots; and that you meet any other applicable requirements. Evidence might include employment records, tenancy agreements, bank statements, witness statements from people who know you, and other documents establishing your presence over the years.

What happens if you are granted leave?

If successful, you are typically granted 30 months of limited leave to remain. You can then apply to extend that leave. After completing a 10-year period of lawful residence (which begins when your leave is first granted), you can apply for indefinite leave to remain.

What about shorter periods of unlawful residence?

If you have not been in the UK for 20 years, this particular route is unavailable. However, there may be other grounds depending on your circumstances — for example, a British or settled partner. Every case is different.

Get in touch

If you are in this situation, seek proper legal advice before taking any steps. Making an application at the wrong time or without the right evidence can harm your position. We handle long residence and private life cases regularly and can give you a frank assessment of your options.