Application planning · reviewed 17 August 2026
How to apply for ILR in the UK
An ILR application is an online immigration application, not a single universal form. Choose the route that matches your current permission and history, apply only within the permitted time window, and retain evidence that maps to each requirement. This is a planning tool, not a legal assessment.
Application journey
- Confirm your route and date. Identify the qualifying route, qualifying period and earliest date. Re-check route changes and absences.
- Read the current GOV.UK form page. It tells you where to apply, what the service includes and what evidence is requested.
- Prepare evidence. Scan legibly, name files clearly and keep originals. Use our documents checklist as an organiser, then follow the route guidance.
- Complete and pay. Answer history questions accurately. A representative can help, but you remain responsible for the declaration.
- Prove identity and give biometrics. Follow the instruction issued with your application; the process may use an app or an appointment.
- Respond to requests. The Home Office can ask for further information. Keep contact details current and meet any deadline.
- Read the decision. Check the decision notice and digital status details carefully. If refused, seek tailored advice promptly because options and deadlines vary.
Timing: why “five years” is not enough
For many routes you may apply shortly before the qualifying period completes, but the precise rule is route-specific. A grant date, entry date, route switch and an absence can all matter. Use the site calculator as a reminder to verify dates, then compare with the official Rules. Do not submit simply because your calendar says five years.
What the form and evidence need to tell a consistent story
| Area | Examples to reconcile |
|---|---|
| Identity | Current and previous passports, name changes and eVisa details. |
| Residence | Grant dates, UK addresses and all travel, including business trips. |
| Route conditions | Sponsor confirmation and pay for work routes; relationship and financial evidence for partner routes. |
| Tests | Life in the UK and English evidence, or a stated exemption. |
| Suitability | Immigration history and any criminal or civil matters answered honestly. |
After submission
Keep a copy of the submitted answers, payment receipt, document-upload list and identity appointment confirmation. Processing targets are not promises: a request for further checks, a complex immigration history or missing evidence can change timing. See ILR processing times for a cautious explanation of standard and priority services.
Costs and services
The application fee is normally charged per applicant and can change. Priority availability and price are not guaranteed and some applications are unsuitable or unavailable for an expedited service. Use the official fee table on the day you apply and our fee planner to budget separate costs such as tests and optional professional help.
Worked application timetable
Eight to twelve weeks before the earliest date, identify the route, obtain grant evidence and prepare a travel chronology. Six weeks before, arrange outstanding test evidence, request sponsor or route-specific documents and identify translations. Two weeks before, reconcile answers with documents and check the live fee. On submission, retain answers, receipt and upload list. This is cautious planning, not permission to apply early.
Decisions and next steps
| Outcome | Action |
|---|---|
| Granted | Read the notice, check digital status and retain it. |
| Further evidence requested | Answer the precise request by its deadline. |
| Refused or invalid | Read immediately; remedies and timescales depend on the notice. |
| Delayed | Use the authorised contact route where appropriate. |
Avoidable errors
- Choosing a form from a visa nickname rather than the settlement category.
- Using dates from memory instead of grants and travel records.
- Omitting an old passport or previous application because it is inconvenient.
- Paying for a fast service before checking availability and suitability.
- Making irrevocable travel plans while an in-country case is pending.
Frequently asked questions
Can my family apply with me?
Each person needs the appropriate application and evidence. A child or dependant may have a different qualifying period or requirement.
Can I upload more documents after submitting?
Follow the service instructions and any Home Office request. Do not assume an upload after a deadline will be considered.
Is a priority decision guaranteed?
No. It is a service target where available, not an outcome guarantee and not a waiver of eligibility checks.
Can I correct a mistake after submission?
Use the official contact or evidence instructions supplied for your application and keep a record of any correction.
Official starting point: apply for indefinite leave to remain on GOV.UK. Also read the applicable Immigration Rules.
Last reviewed: 17 August 2026. This page is general information, not legal advice.