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Routes to ILR

Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) is settlement — the right to live in the UK permanently. Different visa routes have different qualifying periods, requirements and costs. Find the route that applies to you.

5 main routes: Skilled Worker, Family, Student, Long Residence, Ancestry
Usually 5 years qualifying residence (3 years if married to a British citizen)
ILR application fee: £3,226 per person (April 2026 rate)
You must pass the Life in the UK Test and meet the English language requirement
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When can you apply for ILR?

Use our free calculator to find your earliest eligibility date based on your visa route.

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