If your Thai wife previously lived in the UK with Indefinite Leave to Remain and has been outside the UK for a long period, she may need to check whether her settlement status has lapsed before travelling back.
2026 check: Returning Resident rules are legally sensitive and depend on how long the person has been outside the UK and what status they held. Check current GOV.UK guidance before travelling or applying.
What is a Returning Resident visa?
A Returning Resident visa may allow someone who was previously settled in the UK to return and live there permanently again after their Indefinite Leave to Remain has lapsed because of time spent outside the UK.
When may a Returning Resident visa be needed?
GOV.UK states that a person can lose Indefinite Leave to Remain after being outside the UK, Channel Islands and Isle of Man for more than the relevant continuous absence period. For many people this is more than 2 continuous years, although different periods can apply to some EU Settlement Scheme cases.
Evidence to prepare
Evidence may include:
- Current passport and previous passports
- Evidence of previous Indefinite Leave to Remain
- Documents showing strong ties to the UK
- Evidence of family, property, employment or financial connections in the UK
- Explanation of current circumstances and why the applicant lived outside the UK
- Evidence of intention to return to live permanently in the UK
Strong ties to the UK
Strong ties might include family in the UK, long previous residence, property, employment history, financial commitments or other evidence showing an ongoing connection to the UK.
How long does it take?
Processing times vary by country and service availability. Applicants should check current visa processing times and avoid making firm travel plans until a decision has been made.
How Thai Visa Express can help
Thai Visa Express can review previous UK status, absence history and evidence of UK ties before a Returning Resident application is submitted.
Official guidance
Contact Thai Visa Express if you need help reviewing a Returning Resident case.