ILR: Spouse / Partner Route

What is indefinite leave to remain?

ILR (settlement) means you can live in the UK without a time limit on your permission, subject to the Rules. On the partner route it usually follows five years of qualifying leave. Fees and tests are set by the Home Office and may change.

Who may qualify on the partner route

Partners who have completed the qualifying period, remain in a genuine relationship, and meet English, Life in the UK, financial, and absence rules may qualify. Each case is assessed on its facts.

Path to British citizenship

After ILR, many people may apply for British citizenship once residence and good-character requirements are met. Timing depends on your route and absences.

Relationship and cohabitation

Show the relationship continues — shared address history, finances, and correspondence. Gaps need a clear explanation.

Financial requirement

The income threshold that applies to partner ILR is set in the Rules (commonly discussed as £29,000 as of 2026). Evidence formats matter as much as the figure.

Life in the UK and English

Most applicants need a Life in the UK pass and B1 English unless an exemption applies. Book tests early so certificates are valid at submission.

How to apply

Apply online before your leave expires, upload evidence, and give biometrics. Timing and continuous residence calculations should be checked first.

Costs & processing time

The ILR fee is substantial and changes over time. Priority options may be available. We confirm the current total before you apply.

Common reasons applications are refused

• Applying too early or with broken continuous residence

• Financial evidence that fails format or threshold tests

• Missing Life in the UK or English certificates

• Weak evidence the relationship is still genuine and subsisting

• Excessive absences without a clear explanation

Related guidance: ILR Spouse / Partner, ILR Long Residence, ILR Dependent Children, ILR Adult Dependent Relatives, British Citizenship, and EU Settlement Scheme.