ILR: Dependent Children

Indefinite leave to remain for children applying with a parent or after a qualifying period as dependants.

Reviewed by Border & Boundaries Immigration Team·Last updated 30 Aug 2026

Overview

Children in the UK as dependants may be eligible for ILR with a parent or separately once they meet the qualifying criteria. Rules depend on the parent’s route and the child’s age.

Overview & Eligibility

When can a child get ILR?

Children often apply for ILR alongside a parent on a partner or other settlement route, or once they meet child-specific residence rules. Timing should match the parent’s application where possible.

Who may qualify

Dependent children who meet age, dependency, and residence tests for the relevant route may qualify. Young adults who have started an independent life need careful analysis.

Applying with a parent

Filing parent and child applications together reduces gaps in permission. We coordinate evidence and submission dates.

Requirements & Evidence

Dependency and living arrangements

Show the child lives with the parent and is not leading an independent life. School records and shared address evidence help.

Age 18 and over

Older children may need Life in the UK and English tests. Turning 18 during the route does not automatically remove eligibility, but independence can.

Parent’s ILR grant

Many child applications depend on the parent holding or being granted settlement. Plan both applications together.

Applying, Costs & Refusals

How to apply

Children usually need their own application even when applying with a parent. Upload relationship, residence, and test evidence as required.

Costs & processing time

Each ILR application attracts a Home Office fee. Confirm current fees for the household. Processing runs in parallel with the parent’s case where filed together.

Common reasons applications are refused

Unclear dependency or independent living arrangements
Missing relationship or residence evidence
Parent’s ILR not granted or incorrectly timed
Missing Life in the UK or English certificates for older children

Key Requirements

Dependency	Child must usually be a dependant of a parent who holds or is applying for ILR
Age	Usually under 18, or turned 18 during the period without leading an independent life
Residence	Child must meet the residence requirements of the parent’s route
Life in the UK Test	Usually required for applicants aged 18–64; under-18s are often exempt
English language	Usually B1 for applicants aged 18–64; exemptions may apply for younger children

Typical Supporting Documents

Child's passport and BRP or eVisa evidence
Birth certificate showing relationship to parent
Evidence child lives with parent and is financially dependent
Parent's ILR application or grant letter
School records and evidence of residence in the UK
Life in the UK test certificate (if the child is 18 or over)

Frequently Asked Questions

Can my child apply for ILR with me?

Often yes, if they are your dependants and meet the rules for your route. Each child usually needs a separate application. We coordinate timing with your ILR filing.

Does my child need the Life in the UK test?

Children under 18 are often exempt. Applicants aged 18–64 usually need the test unless another exemption applies. We confirm the position for each child.

What if my child turns 18 before ILR?

Turning 18 does not always end eligibility, but leading an independent life can. We review living arrangements and study or work patterns before you apply.

Send an enquiry

A qualified immigration lawyer will handle your consultation.

Settling Your Children in the UK?

We prepare parent and child ILR applications together — book a free consultation.

Book Free Consultation