Life in the UK Prep ILR requirements: are you eligible for Indefinite Leave to Remain?
Last updated
To get ILR you usually need to have spent the qualifying period on an eligible visa, stayed within the absence limits, passed the Life in the UK test, met the English language requirement and have no serious immigration or criminal issues.
Every ILR route has its own detailed rules, but almost all of them share the same core requirements. Use this checklist to see what you’ll need before you apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain.
1. The qualifying period
You must have lived in the UK for a set time on an eligible visa. Typical qualifying periods have been:
| Route | Typical qualifying period |
|---|---|
| Skilled Worker and most work routes | 5 years |
| Partner of a British citizen or settled person | 5 years |
| Long residence (any mix of lawful visas) | 10 years |
| Some Global Talent and Innovator Founder routes | 3 years |
In 2025 the government announced plans for an “earned settlement” system that would make 10 years the standard qualifying period for many people, with reductions for contributions such as higher earnings or volunteering. Rules are changing, so check the version that applies to you on GOV.UK before you rely on any of these figures.
2. Continuous residence and absences
Your time in the UK must be continuous. On most work routes this means you must not have spent more than 180 days outside the UK in any 12-month period during the qualifying period. Family and long-residence routes have their own rules. Keep a record of every trip abroad, with dates, because you’ll list them in your application.
3. The Life in the UK test
Most applicants aged 18 to 65 must pass the Life in the UK test before applying. It’s 24 questions in 45 minutes, and you need 18 correct to pass. Read our ILR test guide, or jump straight to a sample mock test.
4. English language
You must usually show English at CEFR level B1 in speaking and listening, unless you’re exempt. See our guide to the English language requirement for ILR.
5. Good character and immigration history
The Home Office will look at your criminal record and immigration history. Serious or recent convictions, overstaying, breaches of visa conditions and unpaid NHS debts can all lead to refusal. Be honest: deception is itself a reason to refuse.
6. Route-specific requirements
On top of the core requirements, each route adds its own. For example:
- Skilled Worker: you usually need a job with a licensed sponsor that still meets the salary rules at the time of applying.
- Partner route: your relationship must be genuine and continuing, and you must meet the financial requirement.
- Long residence: your 10 years must be lawful and continuous, with limits on total time abroad.
Documents to gather
- Passport or travel document
- Life in the UK test unique reference number
- English test certificate or degree evidence
- Proof of residence and a list of absences
- Route-specific evidence, such as payslips, a sponsor letter or relationship evidence
Start with the test
The Life in the UK test is the one requirement you can tick off well in advance, and a pass never expires. Practise with free practice questions and our complete guide to the test.
Frequently asked questions
How many years do you need for ILR?
It depends on your route. Many work and family routes have historically required 5 years, and long residence requires 10 years. The government has proposed longer qualifying periods for many people, so check the current rules for your route on GOV.UK.
How many days can I be outside the UK for ILR?
On most work routes you must not have spent more than 180 days outside the UK in any rolling 12-month period during the qualifying period. Other routes, such as long residence, use different limits.
Is the Life in the UK test required for ILR?
Yes, for most applicants aged 18 to 65. You must pass it before you apply, and include your unique reference number in the application.
What English level do I need for ILR?
Usually CEFR level B1 in speaking and listening, shown with an approved English test, an English-taught degree or nationality of a majority English-speaking country. Proposals to raise the level have been announced, so check GOV.UK.
This is general information, not immigration or legal advice. For advice about your own situation, speak to a regulated immigration adviser. Immigration rules change, so always check GOV.UK before you apply.