Skilled Worker ILR Documents Checklist
Everything a Skilled Worker visa holder needs to gather for an Indefinite Leave to Remain application.
Last updated: 30 August 2026
Standard Documents (All Applicants)
| Document | Notes |
|---|---|
| Current passport(s) | All valid passports held during the qualifying period. |
| BRP or eVisa share code | Your current BRP or digital eVisa share code. |
| Life in the UK test pass certificate | Reference number from your passed test. |
| English language evidence | B1 SELT pass certificate or qualifying UK ENIC-recognised degree. |
| Continuous residence evidence | Council tax letters, utility bills, tenancy agreements, NHS letters covering the full 5-year period. |
| Absence records | List of all trips outside the UK with dates and reasons. |
Skilled Worker Route-Specific Documents
In addition to the standard documents above, Skilled Worker ILR applicants must provide evidence of continuous, lawful employment throughout the qualifying period.
| Document | Notes |
|---|---|
| Payslips | Recent payslips (typically last 6–12 months). Retain all payslips for the full qualifying period in case they are requested. |
| P60s | P60 forms for each tax year during the qualifying period, showing your total earnings and tax paid. |
| Employer letter | On company letterhead, confirming your continuous employment, job title, salary, and employment dates. Signed by an authorised person. |
| Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) reference | The CoS reference number for each sponsor employer during the qualifying period. The Home Office uses this to verify your lawful employment. |
| Previous grant letters | If you held previous Skilled Worker (or Tier 2) visas, include the grant letters showing each visa was approved. |
Important: If you changed Skilled Worker sponsors during your qualifying period, you must provide CoS references, payslips, and employer letters from each employer. Gaps between sponsored employment can break continuous residence. Seek advice from an OISC-registered immigration adviser if you have had any gaps.
Tips for Skilled Worker Applicants
- Request your employer letter early — HR departments can take weeks to issue one.
- Keep digital copies of all payslips in case originals are requested.
- If your CoS reference is from an older visa, check that your employer can still provide it.
- Ensure your salary on payslips matches or exceeds the threshold for your occupation.
- If you were on Tier 2 before it became Skilled Worker, include those grant letters too.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to provide payslips for the entire 5-year qualifying period?
You should provide payslips covering the most recent period (typically the last 6-12 months) as evidence of ongoing employment. However, you may be asked to provide evidence covering the full qualifying period if there are gaps or changes in employment. Keep all payslips and P60s as a matter of course.
What is a CoS reference and why do I need it for ILR?
A Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) reference number is the unique code assigned to your sponsorship by your employer. You need it because the Home Office uses it to verify your lawful employment history. Include CoS references for each employer that sponsored you during the qualifying period.
Does my employer letter need to be on company letterhead?
Yes. The employer letter should be on official company letterhead, signed by an authorised person (HR manager, director, or similar), and confirm your continuous employment, job title, salary, and the dates of your employment.
What if I changed employers during my qualifying period?
If you changed Skilled Worker sponsors during your qualifying period, you must provide evidence for each employer: CoS references, payslips, and employer letters from each. Continuous employment must be maintained — gaps between sponsors can break continuous residence.
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