Understand what documents and timelines are needed before submitting your application.
To prove continuous residence in the UK, you need to show a consistent timeline of where you lived, worked, and stayed over a defined period. This is usually supported by documents such as tenancy agreements, payslips, bank statements, and official correspondence.
The key is not just having documents — but showing they align across time without gaps or inconsistencies.
Leases, rental contracts showing your address and dates
Employment records with employer address and dates
Statements showing your registered address
Gas, electric, water bills in your name with address
Official records proving residence and dates
Letters from HMRC, NHS, DWP with your address
Payslips from one employer, rental agreements from another, utility bills spread over years
Employment ended before new tenancy started. Bills don't cover the full period. Gaps emerge.
Without a clear timeline, you won't see overlaps, missing periods, or inconsistencies until an immigration officer points them out.
For each document you have, note the dates it covers and the address it shows.
Look for periods with no supporting documents. Check for inconsistencies between documents.
Does your employment record match your rental address? Do utility bills align with tenancy dates?
Note any absences, unexplained gaps, or conflicting information before you apply.
Most people check this too late — after applying.
Checking your timeline first helps you prepare properly, identify issues early, and submit a stronger application.
Upload your documents. We extract the dates and build your residence timeline for you.
Start your residency checkReconstruct from memory and other available evidence. Bank statements, employer records, or travel companies can help. Flag missing periods for explanation.
Not necessarily. Documents that cover key periods (employment, tenancy) are usually sufficient. Focus on providing a consistent timeline.
Gaps will be reviewed by the immigration officer. Explain what you were doing during gaps (e.g., abroad, between jobs). Supporting evidence strengthens your case.
Yes. Bank statements, emails, and digital records are acceptable. Originals or certified copies may be required for submission.
The specific period depends on your visa route. For ILR, typically the past 5 years. For citizenship, the past 6+ years. Check your application requirements.