Introduction: From Classroom to Citizenship?
Thousands of international students arrive in the UK each year, drawn by its world-class universities and multicultural environment. But many of them share a common long-term goal—to settle permanently in the UK.
After completing their education, the big question becomes: Can time spent on a UK Student visa (formerly Tier 4) count towards Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR)?
This blog explores this crucial question in depth. We’ll unpack the rules, highlight exceptions, and help you understand how your time as a student fits into your broader immigration journey.
What Is Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR)?
Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) grants you permanent residency in the UK. It allows you to live, work, and study without immigration restrictions. You’re no longer required to extend your visa or report to the Home Office regularly. ILR also gives access to certain public services and is a necessary step toward British citizenship (unless you’re married to a British citizen, in which case the rules differ slightly).
To qualify for ILR, you usually need to meet the following:
- Spend a qualifying period in the UK lawfully (usually 5 or 10 years)
- Maintain continuous residence (with limited absences)
- Pass the Life in the UK Test
- Meet the English language requirement
- Have no serious immigration or criminal violations
Does Student Visa Time Count Towards ILR Under Most Routes?
Short answer: No, not for standard ILR routes.
Time spent on a Student visa does not count towards the 5-year ILR requirement under the most common settlement categories, such as:
- Skilled Worker visa (formerly Tier 2)
- Spouse/Partner visa
- Global Talent visa
- Innovator or Start-Up visas
These routes require five continuous years in that specific visa category. Switching from a Student visa to, say, a Skilled Worker visa restarts the ILR clock from zero in that category.
Exception: The 10-Year Long Residence Route
However, there’s one important exception—the 10-Year Long Residence Rule.
Under this rule, any lawful residence in the UK, including time on a Student visa, can count towards ILR if:
- You’ve lived in the UK legally for 10 continuous years
- You have not been outside the UK for more than 180 days in any 12-month period
- Your total absences do not exceed 540 days over 10 years
- You meet the English language and Life in the UK Test requirements
- You have maintained legal immigration status without gaps or overstays
Real-Life Example: Combining Student and Work Visa Time
Example: Rina from India
- 2014–2017: Student visa (Bachelor’s degree)
- 2017–2019: Post-Study Work visa (Tier 1)
- 2019–2024: Skilled Worker visa
In 2024, Rina completes 10 years of continuous, lawful residence. She’s now eligible for ILR under the 10-Year Long Residence route—even though only five years were spent on an ILR-qualifying visa.
This option is ideal for those who arrived early and transitioned through multiple visa types over time.
Documents Needed for ILR via Long Residence Route
To apply under the 10-year rule, you’ll typically need:
- Passport and all previous visa documents
- Proof of lawful stay across all visa types
- A detailed list of travel history and absences
- Evidence of residence throughout the period (bills, contracts, letters, etc.)
- Life in the UK Test pass certificate
- Proof of English language proficiency (e.g., IELTS or degree taught in English)
Smart Tips to Plan Your Journey
- Track Your Stay From Day One
- Save all immigration paperwork and visa approvals.
- Minimize Absences
- Avoid exceeding the 180-day limit in any 12-month span.
- Plan Early for a Qualifying Visa Switch
- If you want to settle in under 5 years, move to an ILR-qualifying visa like Skilled Worker ASAP.
- Document Everything
- Bills, tenancy agreements, academic letters—all serve as proof of residence.
- Study for the Life in the UK Test in Advance
- It’s not as easy as it sounds—start preparing early!
Final Thoughts: Can Students Settle in the UK?
Yes, international students can eventually settle in the UK—but not through the 5-year ILR route unless they switch to a qualifying visa. The most realistic path is through the 10-Year Long Residence Rule, where all time spent on lawful visas—including as a student—counts.
If your goal is permanent residency, it pays to think long-term. Know your options, track your time, and ensure every year in the UK is a step forward on your immigration journey.
Need help reviewing your visa history or planning your ILR application?
Speak to an immigration adviser to map the best route based on your personal timeline and documents.