What is a 10 year residency check?
A 10 year residency check is used to confirm whether an individual has lived in the UK lawfully and continuously for a full 10 years. It is most commonly required when applying for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) or British citizenship under the long residence route.
Why is it important?
This check helps determine if someone qualifies to settle permanently in the UK, giving them the right to live, work, and study without immigration restrictions. It also supports applications for British citizenship.
What does the check involve?
To pass the 10 year residency check, an individual must show:
- Continuous residence: No single absence from the UK longer than 3 months or 93 days continuously in a period of 10 full, continuous years.
- Lawful residence: Time spent in the UK must be under valid immigration status (e.g. visas, permits).
- Valid documentation: Applicants must provide passports, visas, and other evidence of their stay.
Who needs this check?
This check is relevant for:
- Employers or authorities verifying long-term lawful residence for immigration or compliance purposes.
Folkestone & Hythe District Council taxi licensing policy information
If an applicant has within the last 10 years lived outside the UK for a continuous period of 3 months of more, a certificate of good conduct from the relevant embassy or equivalent document, issued and authenticated by the relevant embassy will also be required. This must either be in English or translated by an approved translator at the applicant’s expense. Drivers – 2.7.7.
If an officer has any doubt as to the validity, completeness or accuracy of the document, then an applicant may not proceed to next step of process. The burden to establish validity lies with the applicant. Drivers – 2.7.8.