Discretion in applications for absences when applying for Indefinite Leave to Remain/ILR.

05.12.2025

The Home Office states that no more than 180 days of absences are allowed in a consecutive 12 month period.

Part day absences of less than 24 hours are not calculated.

You must have usually lived and worked in the UK for at least 5 years before applying for Indefinite Leave to Remain. This differs with each visa category, make sure to discuss your case individually with a licensed immigration advisor. 

There can be exceptions to the current rules when preparing an application for Indefinite Leave to Remain, if the permitted days of absences have been exceeded. 

If you have exceeded your permitted absences, contact an advisor at Vistas Immigration here. 

Where exceptions for exceeding the absence limit can be considered by Home Office: 

-Absences which are linked to being in the UK. This includes trips for: business and work commitments. 

-Serious or compelling reasons such as a close relative dying, a serious illness, a conflict, a natural disaster.

-Service outside of the UK as a full time HM armed forces reserve.

Disclaimer: This article was written on the 5th December 2025. Immigration Law in the UK is complex and is constantly changing.