Apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) in the UK

To apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) in the UK, you can usually submit your online application up to 28 days before completing your required qualifying period, provided you meet all other settlement requirements.

This guide explains how to apply for ILR in 2026, including application forms, documents, fees, biometrics, processing times and the application process.

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How To Apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR)?

You must apply online for ILR through GOV.UK using the correct application form, pay the fee, submit your documents and complete the required biometric checks.

The exact application process and form depend on the route you are using to qualify for settlement.

Before applying, check that you:

• Meet the required qualifying period
• Meet the continuous residence requirements
• Meet the English language requirement, if applicable
• Have passed the Life in the UK Test, if required
• Meet any route-specific financial or employment requirements
• Have the required supporting documents
• Are applying at the correct time

Which ILR Application Form Do I Need?

The correct Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) application form depends on your immigration route. Common routes include SET(O) for certain work and other routes, SET(M) for eligible family applications, and SET(LR) for 10-year long residence.

Common ILR Application Forms

• SET(O): for certain work and other settlement routes
• SET(M): for certain partners and spouses
• SET(LR): for long residence
• SET(P): for certain private-life applications

The correct application route depends on your circumstances, so check the current GOV.UK guidance before applying.

When Can I Apply for ILR?

You can usually apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) up to 28 days before completing the qualifying period for your immigration route, which is typically 5 years, although some routes have 2, 3 or 10-year qualifying periods.

Applying too early can result in your ILR application being refused, so it is important to calculate your qualifying date carefully.

Step-by-Step ILR Application Process

Step 1: Check Your ILR Eligibility

Before submitting an ILR application, make sure you meet the qualifying period, continuous residence, English language, Life in the UK and any route-specific requirements.

Check your immigration history and calculate your earliest eligible application date.

Step 2: Choose the Correct ILR Application Form

Select the application form that corresponds to your immigration route and circumstances.

Using the wrong form or applying under the wrong settlement route can cause serious problems with your application.

Step 3: Complete the Online ILR Application

Complete the ILR application form online and provide accurate information about your immigration history, residence, employment, finances and personal circumstances.

Review every answer carefully before submitting the application.

Step 4: Pay the ILR Application Fee

You must pay the required ILR application fee when submitting your application. The current fee is £3,226 per applicant.

If offered and eligible, you can also select a priority or super priority service.

Step 5: Prove Your Identity

After submitting your application, you will need to prove your identity using the method provided during the application process.

Depending on your circumstances, you may use the UK Immigration: ID Check app or attend a UKVCAS service appointment to provide your fingerprints and photograph.

Step 6: Upload Your Supporting Documents

You must provide the supporting documents required for your particular ILR application.

Make sure documents are clear, complete and consistent with the information provided in your application.

Step 7: Attend Your Biometrics Appointment if Required

If you are asked to attend a UKVCAS appointment, you will provide your fingerprints and photograph and may also submit or confirm your supporting documents.

Follow the instructions given after submitting your application.

Step 8: Wait for the ILR Decision

UKVI will assess your application and normally aims to make a standard ILR decision within 6 months. More complex applications can take longer.

UKVI may contact you if additional information or documents are required.

Step 9: Receive Your ILR Decision

If your ILR application is approved, you will receive confirmation of your settlement status and information about your UK immigration status.

Your ILR status allows you to remain in the UK without a time limit, subject to the rules governing settlement.

What Documents Do I Need for an ILR Application?

When applying for ILR, you'll usually need your passport, eVisa share code or BRP card, proof of continuous residence, Life in the UK Test evidence and English language evidence, where required.

The documents you need for an ILR application depend on your immigration route and circumstances.

See our ILR Documents Checklist for the full list of documents and supporting evidence.

Do I Need to Pass the Life in the UK Test for ILR?

Most ILR applicants aged 18 to 64 must pass the Life in the UK Test before applying for ILR unless they qualify for an exemption or have already passed it.

The test costs £50 and consists of 24 multiple-choice questions. You need to score at least 75% to pass.

Read our detailed ILR Life in the UK Test Requirement guide for the test, booking process, exemptions and preparation.

Do I Need to Prove My English for ILR?

Many ILR applicants must prove their knowledge of English at the required level, although you may not need to take a new test if you have already met the requirement or qualify for an exemption.

For routes where the English requirement applies, the required level may be CEFR B1 or above, depending on the route and circumstances.

Read our ILR English Language Requirement guide for the requirements, exemptions and accepted evidence.

How Much Does an ILR Application Cost in 2026?

The Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) application fee is currently £3,226 per person. The fee increased from £3,029 to £3,226 on 8 April 2026.

In addition to the application fee, you may have other costs depending on your circumstances.

Typical ILR costs include:

• ILR application fee: £3,226 per applicant
• Life in the UK Test: £50
• English language test: if required
• Priority service: £500, if available
• Super priority service: £1,000, if available
• Document translation: if required
• Immigration solicitor's fees: if you choose professional legal assistance

The exact amount you pay will depend on your immigration route, circumstances and the services you use.

For more details, read our detailed ILR Application Costs and Fees 2026 guide.

How Long Does an ILR Application Take?

A standard UK Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) application usually takes up to 6 months to receive a decision. If you use an eligible faster service, priority processing usually takes 5 working days, while super priority usually provides a decision by the end of the next working day.

ILR applications are generally expected to be decided within 3 to 6 months, but this is not guaranteed. UKVI may take longer if additional checks or information are required.

If you are eligible, you may be able to pay for a faster decision:

• Priority service: £500 additional fee, usually a decision within 5 working days
• Super priority service: £1,000 additional fee, usually a decision by the end of the next working day

Availability depends on your application and the service offered when you apply.

For more information, see our ILR Processing Time 2026 guide.

Can I Travel Outside the UK After Applying for ILR?

You should not travel outside the UK, Ireland, the Channel Islands or the Isle of Man while your ILR application is pending, as your application may be treated as withdrawn.

If you need to travel urgently while your application is pending, obtain specialist advice before making travel arrangements.

What Happens If My ILR Application Is Refused?

If your ILR application is refused, the decision letter will explain the reasons for refusal and whether you have any right to administrative review, appeal or another application.

The appropriate next step depends on the reason for refusal and the immigration route involved.

If your application has been refused, seek specialist immigration advice before submitting another application.

What Happens After ILR Is Granted?

Once ILR is granted, you can normally live and work in the UK without immigration time restrictions.

ILR can also provide a route towards British citizenship, provided you meet the separate naturalisation requirements.

ILR is not the same as British citizenship and does not automatically make you a British citizen.

ILR Application Checklist

Before submitting your application, make sure you have:

• Checked that you meet the qualifying residence period
• Calculated your UK absences
• Checked the continuous residence requirements
• Confirmed your English language requirement
• Passed the Life in the UK Test if required
• Selected the correct ILR application form
• Gathered your supporting documents
• Checked your immigration history
• Completed the online application accurately
• Paid the application fee
• Completed your identity and biometric requirements
• Submitted all required supporting evidence

Need Help with Your ILR Application?

Applying for ILR is an important step towards permanent settlement in the UK. If you are unsure which application form to use, whether you meet the requirements or what evidence you need, specialist advice can help you avoid costly mistakes.

To get specialist advice about your Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) application, speak to a specialist ILR solicitor at Wembley Solicitors by calling 020 3417 3700 or completing our online enquiry form.