Indefinite leave to remain (often called ILR or “settlement”) means you can live, work and study in the UK with no time limit on your stay. For many families it is the big step after years on a spouse or partner visa. This guide explains, in simple English, how ILR works for partners on a family visa.
All facts in this article come from GOV.UK and were checked on 14 October 2026. Immigration rules and fees change often, so always check GOV.UK before you apply.
What is indefinite leave to remain?
ILR is a type of permission to stay in the UK. With ILR, you no longer need to renew your visa. It is also usually a step on the way to British citizenship. There are different ILR routes: for example for family members, for people on work visas, and for people with long residence. This guide is about the family route for partners.
Who can apply as a partner?
You may be able to apply if your partner is settled in the UK. GOV.UK says this means your partner is a British citizen or has indefinite leave to remain. You must be:
- the husband, wife or civil partner of that person, or
- in a relationship like a marriage or civil partnership with them for at least 2 years.
You must have lived together since you last renewed your visa, and you must plan to stay together.
How long do you need to live in the UK?
It depends on your route. GOV.UK lists three:
- 5-year route: 5 continuous years on your family visa as a partner.
- 2-year route: 2 continuous years.
- 10-year route: at least 10 continuous years. You can count time on some other visas that lead to ILR, but not time as a fiancé, fiancée or proposed civil partner.
The earliest you can apply is 28 days before you meet the time requirement. GOV.UK warns that your application may be refused if you apply earlier.
The money (financial) requirement
On the 5-year route, GOV.UK says:
- If you first applied on or after 11 April 2024, you and your partner need a combined income of at least £29,000 a year.
- If you first applied before 11 April 2024, you need a combined income of at least £18,600 a year, plus £3,800 for your first qualifying child and £2,400 for each other child (up to £29,000 in total).
- If your partner gets certain disability or carer’s benefits, you need to meet the “adequate maintenance” requirement instead.
On the 2-year route you must show you can support yourselves without public funds. The 10-year route has no financial requirement.
English language and the Life in the UK Test
If you are aged 18 to 64, you must:
- have a recognised English qualification at level B1 or higher in speaking and listening, or a degree taught or researched in English, and
- pass the Life in the UK Test.
The Life in the UK Test costs £50 and must be booked at least 3 days before. It has 24 questions about British traditions and customs, and you have 45 minutes. Read our Life in the UK Test guide for more.
Coming change: a GOV.UK explanatory memorandum (March 2026) says the English level for settlement on family routes will rise from B1 to B2 from 26 March 2027, including for people already on the route. If you can apply before then, check GOV.UK carefully.
Documents you will need
GOV.UK lists documents such as:
- proof of your income and where you live (5-year and 2-year routes)
- proof you have lived in the UK with your partner since your last visa
- proof your relationship is genuine
- proof of your English language level and your Life in the UK Test pass
How to apply and how much it costs
You must apply online. On the 5-year or 2-year route you use the “SET(M)” application. On the 10-year route GOV.UK points to a different form.
- Home Office fee: £3,226 for each person applying (checked on GOV.UK on 14 October 2026).
- Biometrics: you give your fingerprints and a photo. There is no fee for this.
- Decision time: usually within 6 months of giving your fingerprints and photo. You may be able to pay for a faster decision.
Important: do not leave the UK, Ireland, the Channel Islands or the Isle of Man before you get a decision, or your application will be withdrawn. Also, do not let your current visa run out while you wait to become eligible. If it will expire first, you need to renew it.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Applying more than 28 days early.
- Booking the Life in the UK Test or English test too late.
- Missing documents, especially proof of living together.
- Travelling abroad while the application is waiting for a decision.
- Using old information. Always check the latest GOV.UK page on the day you apply.
How David Parley can help
David Parley, based at 225 Cranbrook Road, Ilford, helps people prepare their UK settlement applications and get their documents in order. See our UK settlement (ILR) help page, or our page on settlement for a family member.
FAQ
When can I apply for ILR as a spouse?
On the 5-year route, after 5 continuous years on your partner visa. You can apply up to 28 days before you reach this point.
How much is the ILR fee?
GOV.UK says it costs £3,226 for each person applying (checked 14 October 2026).
Do I need the Life in the UK Test for ILR?
Yes, if you are aged 18 to 64. GOV.UK says you do not need it if you are under 18, 65 or over, or have a long-term physical or mental condition (with an exemption form or doctor’s letter).
Can I travel while my ILR application is being decided?
No. If you leave the UK, Ireland, the Channel Islands or the Isle of Man before you get a decision, your application will be withdrawn.
This article is general information, not legal, immigration or financial advice. Rules and fees can change – always check GOV.UK.
Need help? Call David Parley on 020 7050 0712 or email info@davidparley.co.uk.
