ILR Documents Checklist

A complete guide to the documents you need for your Indefinite Leave to Remain application, organised by visa route.

Gathering the right documents is one of the most important parts of your ILR application. Missing or incorrect evidence is a common cause of delays and refusals. This checklist covers what every applicant needs, plus route-specific requirements.

Choose Your Route

Document requirements differ depending on your visa route. Select your route below for a tailored checklist.

Skilled Worker ILR Documents

Payslips, P60s, employer letter, CoS reference, and all standard ILR evidence.

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Spouse Visa ILR Documents

Marriage certificate, proof of cohabitation, sponsor financial evidence, and all standard ILR evidence.

View checklist

Documents Every Applicant Needs

Regardless of your route, every ILR applicant must provide the following core documents. Route-specific evidence is listed on each route page.

Document	Notes
Current passport(s)	All valid passports. If you have held multiple passports during your qualifying period, include them all.
BRP or eVisa share code	Your Biometric Residence Permit, or your eVisa share code if you have transitioned to digital status.
Life in the UK test pass certificate	The unique reference number from your passed test. Must be booked and passed before applying.
English language evidence	B1 level SELT pass certificate, or a qualifying degree taught or researched in English (confirmed by UK ENIC).
Continuous residence evidence	Council tax letters, utility bills, tenancy agreements, NHS letters, or other documents showing you have lived in the UK throughout the qualifying period.
Absence records	A list of all trips outside the UK during your qualifying period, with dates and reasons. Use our ILR calculator to check if your absences are within limits.

Note: This is a general guide. The Home Office may request additional documents depending on your individual circumstances. Always check the official guidance on gov.uk and seek advice from an OISC-registered immigration adviser or SRA-regulated solicitor if you are unsure.