Explore the routes
A general overview of the main categories of UK immigration permission. This page does not ask about your situation and does not give a verdict.
Important: This website provides general information about the UK immigration system only. It is not immigration advice and must not be relied on as advice about your individual circumstances. UK Immigration Information Service is not regulated by the Immigration Advice Authority (IAA), and is not affiliated with the IAA, UK Visas and Immigration, the Home Office or any government body. For advice about your own situation, consult a regulated immigration adviser (check the IAA register) or a solicitor. Always check official guidance at gov.uk.
Work
Work routes cover people coming to the UK to take up employment, including skilled worker categories, health and care roles, and specific schemes for particular sectors or sponsors. Each route has its own requirements set by the Home Office.
Whether you qualify, and which route fits, depends entirely on your individual circumstances. This page is general information, not advice. Check gov.uk and speak to a regulated adviser about your own case.
Family
Family routes cover partners, spouses, children and certain other relatives of British citizens and people settled in the UK. Different rules apply depending on the relationship and the sponsor’s status.
Whether you qualify, and which route fits, depends entirely on your individual circumstances. This page is general information, not advice. Check gov.uk and speak to a regulated adviser about your own case.
Study
Study routes cover people coming to the UK to study at a licensed sponsoring institution, with separate arrangements for children, higher education students, and short courses.
Whether you qualify, and which route fits, depends entirely on your individual circumstances. This page is general information, not advice. Check gov.uk and speak to a regulated adviser about your own case.
Settlement
Settlement (also called indefinite leave to remain) is the status that lets someone live in the UK without time limits. Different routes have different qualifying periods and conditions before settlement can be applied for.
Whether you qualify, and which route fits, depends entirely on your individual circumstances. This page is general information, not advice. Check gov.uk and speak to a regulated adviser about your own case.
EU Settlement Scheme (EUSS)
The EUSS covers EU, EEA and Swiss citizens (and certain family members) who were resident in the UK by the end of the Brexit transition period. It has its own application rules and deadlines.
Whether you qualify, and which route fits, depends entirely on your individual circumstances. This page is general information, not advice. Check gov.uk and speak to a regulated adviser about your own case.