ILR Application Guide

Before starting your application, confirm that you meet the ILR eligibility requirements. You must have completed the qualifying period of continuous residence (5 years for most routes, 10 years for Long Residence), meet the absence limits, have passed the Life in the UK test, and meet the English language requirement.

Read our full ILR requirements guide →

The Life in the UK test is a mandatory requirement for ILR. It costs £50 per attempt and covers British history, values, traditions, and government. You must book the test online and take it at an approved test centre. The fee is non-refundable if you fail, so study the official handbook thoroughly.

You must demonstrate English language ability at B1 level (or above) on the CEFR scale. This is typically done by passing an approved English language test at a SELT (Secure English Language Test) provider, or by having a qualifying degree taught in English. The English test typically costs £150-200 depending on the provider.

Prepare all supporting documents before starting your application. The exact documents required depend on your visa route, but typically include:

• Current passport and Biometric Residence Permit (BRP)
• Life in the UK test pass certificate (reference number)
• English language test certificate or qualifying degree
• Evidence of continuous residence (e.g. employment records, utility bills, council tax letters)
• For Skilled Worker: employer letter confirming continuous employment
• For Spouse/Partner: relationship evidence (marriage certificate, joint financial documents)
• For Long Residence: evidence of 10 years of lawful residence

Submit your application through the gov.uk website. You will need to complete the settlement application form, upload your supporting documents, and pay the application fee. The standard ILR application fee is £3,226, plus the biometric enrolment fee of £19.20.

You can choose to add a priority service (£228 addon, decision within 5 working days) or super priority service (£500 addon, decision by end of next working day) at this stage.

After submitting your application and paying the fee, you will be asked to book a biometric enrolment appointment. At the appointment, your fingerprints and photograph will be taken. This information is used to produce your Biometric Residence Permit if your application is successful.

You can attend your appointment at a UKVCAS (UK Visa and Citizenship Application Services) centre. Some centres offer premium services with shorter wait times for an additional fee.

After your appointment, you will receive a decision by letter or email. Standard processing can take up to 6 months. If you paid for priority or super priority service, you should receive your decision within 5 working days or by the end of the next working day, respectively.

If your application is successful, you will be granted Indefinite Leave to Remain and receive a Biometric Residence Permit confirming your settled status. You can then apply for British citizenship one year after receiving ILR (or immediately if married to a British citizen).