UK ILR BRP expires renew|replacement

pppp4 wrote: ↑

Wed Oct 19, 2022 12:09 pm

I have an Indefinite leave to Remain(ILR) with a Biometric residence(BRP) permit which will expire in May 2023.

My Case:

I have been outside UK from end of 2017 but have kept my ILR valid with regular visits to UK ( have not been away for more than 2 years in the last 10 years). I do have bank statements for the last 10 years with some transactions.

I have continuous proof of residence till end of 2017 (Had my UK company active till 2019) and post that I had been outside UK on a 2 year work assignment but wasn't able to return back to UK permanently in 2020 due to covid due to which I had to postpone my return back to UK to Aug 2022. To keep my ILR active, I had visited UK every 2 years though.

From August 2022, I had moved back to UK taking a permanent opportunity and I'm trying to gather other proofs like council tax, utility bills from August 2022 onwards.

Given my situation, need some advice on the following questions

1.When should I apply for BRP renewal ? Is it mandatory to apply 3 months in advance (by Feb 2023) before ILR expiry date or can I wait until April 2023 to apply so I can gather more documents ? You can apply anytime. Even after the expiration date of you BRP. ILR is a status that doesn't expire unless you fall short of it's requirements. The BRP card is just a confirmation of your status. However, you might not be able to leave the UK as you might find it hard to come back unless BRP is renewed.

2. Is there a Document checking service which I can avail for ILR BRP renewal ? - I couldn't find any option for such service.Not sure you need one.

3. What are the chances of getting my BRP renewed as I don't have proof of residency in UK from 2018 to Aug 2022 and also considering covid uncertainties which delayed my return back to UK ? That excuse wouldn't fly. People have been travelling in and out of the UK for years. Certainly boarders weren't closed till 2022.

4. Does Covid-19 qualify as a valid reason ?In your case, NO!

5. May I know the approximate processing time for an application made ?6 months

6. Considering that i'm planning to settle down in the UK from 2022, how can I prove strong ties in the UK ?