UK Visa Guide · 2026
How do I apply for UK Indefinite Leave to Remain (settlement)?
Who it's for
Long-term UK visa holders who have completed continuous residence requirements on settlement-eligible routes. Most common: Skilled Worker holders after 5 years; Global Talent after 3-5 years; Health and Care after 5 years; Innovator Founder after 3 years; spouses of British/settled persons after 5 years.
Eligibility requirements
1) Continuous residence on settlement-eligible route (typically 5 years; some routes 3 years). 2) No more than 180 days outside UK in any 12-month rolling period during qualifying period. 3) Pass Life in the UK Test (£50, multiple choice 24 questions). 4) English language at B1 (CEFR) — passed approved test or English degree from UK university. 5) No serious criminal convictions. 6) Continued meeting of original visa criteria (e.g., still in same role meeting salary for Skilled Worker route).
Application process
1) Confirm 5 years (or 3 for accelerated routes) continuous UK residence. 2) Pass Life in the UK Test (book at gov.uk, £50). 3) Provide English language evidence. 4) Apply online at gov.uk; choose ILR. 5) Pay £2,885 application fee. 6) Biometrics at IDV centre. 7) Provide supporting documents: visa history, payslips for Skilled Worker, evidence of absences within 180-day rule, accommodation. 8) Decision typically 6 months (priority service: 5 working days, +£500). 9) On approval: receive ILR confirmation; eVisa or BRP. 10) Eligible for British citizenship 1 year after ILR (or 3 years if not married to British citizen).
Costs and timings
Application fee: £2,885. Life in the UK Test: £50. English test (if required): £150-£200. Priority service: £500. Total: ~£3,000-£3,500. Decision time: 6 months standard, 5 working days priority. Biometric Residence Permit: £19.20 if needed separately.
Common reasons for refusal
1) More than 180 days outside UK in any 12-month period during qualifying years. 2) Failed Life in the UK Test. 3) English language test issues. 4) Significant criminal convictions. 5) Discrepancies in continuous residence (employment gaps, sponsor changes not properly recorded). 6) Salary fallen below threshold during qualifying period. 7) Sponsor licence revoked during route.
Worked example
Maria, who arrived as a Skilled Worker nurse in 2021, applied for ILR in 2026 after exactly 5 years. She had taken 145 days total absence over the 5 years (annual home visits, wedding, family illness) — under the 180/12-months rule. Passed Life in UK Test on second attempt. English from her UK-recognised qualifications. Application + Life in UK + priority = £3,500. ILR granted in 6 working days (priority). She applied for British citizenship 14 months later.
Recruiter pro tip
The 180-days-in-12-months rolling absences rule trips up many ILR applicants. It's not 180 days/year averaged — it's 180 in ANY rolling 12-month period across the entire 5-year qualifying period. Track absences carefully from day one of your visa. Once you exceed 180 in any 12-month window, you've broken continuous residence and your settlement clock resets. Use a spreadsheet from arrival; review every quarter.
Important: UK immigration rules and salary thresholds change frequently. Always verify current rates and rules at gov.uk before applying. For complex cases, consult a qualified UK immigration solicitor (regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority or OISC). This guide is for general information only, not legal advice.
Related visa guides
How does the UK Skilled Worker Visa work in 2026?
The UK Skilled Worker Visa is the main work route for non-UK nationals. To qualify in 2026: (1) you need a job…
How do I extend my UK work visa?
Most UK work visas can be extended if you continue to meet eligibility criteria. For Skilled Worker: continue …
How do dependents come to the UK on a spouse visa or dependent visa?
Spouses, partners, and dependent children of UK work visa holders can apply for dependent visas. From April 20…
Related across UK Rights & Guides