Applying to Stay in the UK Because You’ve Lived Here a Long Time

This guide covers the various "long residence" routes to leave to remain in the UK, including the 20-year continuous residence rule, the seven-year rule for children, and provisions for young adults aged 18–24. It explains what counts as continuous residence, how breaks in residence are assessed, and the detailed evidence required to prove 20 years of presence in the UK — from official documents and medical records to witness statements and digital footprints. The guide also sets out the suitability requirements applicants must meet, including updated mandatory and discretionary refusal grounds that came into force on 11 November 2025, covering criminal convictions, deception, NHS debt, and a new child safeguarding rule. Note that this guide does not cover indefinite leave to remain applications based on long residence.