This provision allows someone who was a resident in the United Kingdom and who has left the UK and wants to come and live here permanently. A resident is someone who has been given permission to stay in the United Kingdom without time limit.

If you were settled in the United Kingdom when you last left, you have not been away for more than two years, and are returning to live here permanently, you may return as a resident unless you were given public funds to pay the costs of leaving the United Kingdom.

If you have been away for more than two years, you may still qualify to return to live in the United Kingdom if, for example, you have strong family ties here or have lived here most of your life.

If you have been away for more than two years, you must apply for permission to return, known as entry clearance. You should do this at the British diplomatic post in the country where you live now. The entry clearance will be in the form of a visa or entry clearance certificate.

Please note that you should carry your old and new passport when travelling back to the United Kingdom. If you cannot produce the visa that shows your indefinite leave to remain, then you would not be allowed to enter.