Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR)

• Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) Overview
• Categories for Application

• • As a Partner (Family Visa)
  • As a Parent (Family Visa)
  • As a Child (Family Visa)
  • As an Adult Dependent Relative
• Financial Requirements for ILR as a Partner (Family Visa)
• Knowledge of Life in the UK and Language Requirements
• ILR for Dependents
• Fees and Processing Time
• How to Apply
• Common FAQs
• Contact Us

Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) Overview

Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR), also known as “settlement,” allows individuals to live, work, and study in the UK indefinitely. It also provides eligibility to apply for British citizenship. Applicants can apply based on family connections, such as being a partner, child, or parent of someone already settled in the UK.

Categories for Application

1. As a Partner (Family Visa)

• You may apply if you hold a family visa as a partner and your spouse or partner is settled in the UK, either as a British citizen or with ILR.
• Eligibility depends on the route (5-year, 2-year, or 10-year), your relationship status, time spent in the UK, and financial requirements.
• The financial requirements differ depending on whether your partner receives benefits or when you applied for your family visa.

Route	Time in the UK
5-year route	At least 5 years
2-year route	At least 2 years
10-year route	At least 10 years

2. As a Parent (Family Visa)

• Apply if your child is settled in the UK. The route (5-year or 10-year) determines specific eligibility requirements, including financial conditions, English language knowledge, and the Life in the UK Test.

3. As a Child (Family Visa)

• Eligible if you hold a family visa as a dependent child and one of your parents is settled in the UK.
• If over 18, you must meet extra requirements such as the Life in the UK Test and English language standards.

4. As an Adult Dependent Relative

• This category is for adult dependent relatives being cared for by a family member settled in the UK.

Financial Requirements for ILR as a Partner (Family Visa)

• Adequate Maintenance Requirement applies if the partner receives certain disability or carer benefits.
• Minimum Income Requirement:
  • £18,600 per year (before 11 April 2024).
  • £29,000 per year (after 11 April 2024).
  • Additional funds for dependent children: £3,800 for the first child, £2,400 for each subsequent child.

Knowledge of Life in the UK and Language Requirements

Applicants aged 18-64 must:

• Pass the Life in the UK Test.
• Prove English proficiency (CEFR level B1).

ILR for Dependents

Dependents, including children and adult relatives, can apply under specific eligibility rules. Financial and residence requirements differ depending on the type of visa the family member holds.

Dependent	Requirements
Child (under 18)	Must continue living with and be supported by the parent.
Child (over 18)	Must have been a dependent on the parent before 18, continue living with the parent, and meet language and Life in the UK Test requirements.
Adult Dependent Relative	The sponsor must be settled in the UK and financially capable of supporting the relative without public funds.

Fees and Processing Time

• Application Fee: £2,885 per applicant.
• Biometric Information: No additional fee.
• Decision Timeline: Usually within 6 months (standard service).
• Faster Decision: Available for an additional fee.

How to Apply

Applications for ILR must be submitted online. The application form will vary depending on the visa route. Applicants must provide supporting documentation, including proof of income, residence, relationship, and English language ability.

Required Documents:

• Proof of relationship (marriage certificate, civil partnership, etc.).
• Evidence of income (pay slips, bank statements).
• Confirmation of residence in the UK.
• English language qualifications.