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Sole representatives of overseas firms

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How do I apply for settlement (indefinite leave to remain) under the sole representative of an overseas firm category?

This section explains how you can apply to stay in the United Kingdom permanently (sometimes callled settlement or 'indefinite leave to remain') as a sole representative of an overseas firm.

You should read this section if you have been in the United Kingdom as a sole representative for at least five years.

If you are currently outside the United Kingdom or are here in a different immigration category, you should read the page on eligibility. If you have been in the United Kingdom as a sole representative for less than five years, you should read the extending your stay page.

The requirements for settlement

To qualify for settlement in the United Kingdom as a sole representative, you must:

  • have been living legally in the United Kingdom for the last five years; and
  • currently have permission to stay in the United Kingdom as a sole representative; and
  • have been in the United Kingdom as a sole representative throughout the five years; and
  • have maintained and accommodated yourself and any dependants without the use of public funds throughout the five years; and
  • intend to continue as a sole representative; and
  • have sufficient knowledge of language and life in the United Kingdom.

Making an application

To apply for settlement in the United Kingdom as a sole representative, you must use application form SET(BUS). You can download the form and a detailed guide to the form from the right side of this page. Please read the guide and the information in this section before you make your application, to make sure that you meet the requirements.

You will need to pay a fee when you apply. If your application is unsuccessful because you do not meet the requirements, the fee will not be refunded.

It is important that you complete the application form correctly and provide all the supporting documents we need. Your completed application form and the fee should be sent to our offices.

After your application

If your application for indefinite leave to remain is successful, you will be able to remain in the United Kingdom permanently. You will not need to apply to extend your stay any more, and you will not have any time limit on your stay. You may want to consider applying for British citizenship.

Transferring your indefinite leave to remain to a new passport

If you have been issued with a new passport or travel document, you can apply for us to transfer your indefinite leave to remain stamp. You can travel with your new passport or travel document without having your leave transferred, provided that you carry your old passport or travel document with the stamp or the letter in which your leave was granted.

If you want to transfer your permission to your new passport or travel document, you should apply using application form NTL. For details of how to apply, see the United Kingdom residency section of this website.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What is my immigration status while my application is being decided?

    If you make an application before your authorised stay ends, your existing immigration status will continue until your application is decided, even if the decision is not made until after the end of your permitted stay. If your existing visa or other permission to stay here allows you to work, you can continue to do so until your case is decided.

Application forms

Application for permanent residence in the UK as a retired person of independent means or a sole representative

Policy & Law

Internet links