Representatives of overseas business
Settlement
This section explains how you may be able to apply for permission to settle permanently in the UK (also known as 'indefinite leave to remain'), if you have been in the UK legally for at least 5 years as a representative of an overseas business, and/or in the former immigration categories of:
- sole representative of an overseas business
- representative of an overseas newspaper, news agency or broadcasting organisation
If you have been in the UK as a sole representative for less than 5 years, you should see the Applying to extend your stay page.
To qualify for settlement, you must:
- currently have permission to stay here in one of the above categories;
- have maintained and accommodated yourself and any dependants without the use of public funds throughout the 5 years; and
- still be required for the employment for which you have had permission to stay in the UK, as certified by your employer; and
- have sufficient knowledge of language and life in the UK.
During the continuous residence period, you cannot be outside the UK for more than 180 days in any 12 consecutive months. The absences must usually be for a reason that relates to the purpose of your leave in the UK, or for a serious or compelling reason (such as serious illness). Your sponsor must confirm the reason for the absence if it was related to your work. You must do so for a serious or compelling reason.
If your current permission to stay is as a representative of an overseas newspaper, news agency or broadcasting organisation, you should apply for settlement using application form SET(O).
If your current permission to stay is as a representative of an overseas business, or a sole representative of an overseas business, you should apply using application form SET(BUS).
You can download both application forms and the associated guidance from the right side of this page.
For more information about settlement, see the Settling in the UK section.
Application forms
Application for permanent residence in the UK in an employment or other category listed on the form
- Form SET(O) PDF 616KB opens in a new window
- Guide SET(O) PDF 243KB opens in a new window
- Photo guidance (new)PDF 374KB opens in a new window
Application for permanent residence in the UK as a retired person of independent means or a sole representative
- Form SET(BUS) PDF 365KB opens in a new window
- Guide SET(BUS) PDF 213KB opens in a new window
- Photo guidance (new)PDF 374KB opens in a new window