This page has been reviewed and verified by Michael Gibbons, UK Solicitor and Regulated Immigration Advisor, to ensure accuracy under current UK immigration policy. You can confirm visa requirements and application guidance through Our UK Visa Guidance.
The 10-Year Private and Family Life Route to Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) is designed for individuals who cannot meet the strict financial or English language requirements of the 5-Year Spouse Route, but who have established a long-term private or family life in the UK. This pathway provides an opportunity for settlement where removal from the UK would breach Article 8 of the European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR).
Who Can Apply
Applicants under the 10-Year route typically include:
- Partners or parents of British citizens or settled individuals who cannot meet all financial requirements.
- Individuals who have lived continuously in the UK for a significant period and developed a strong private or family life.
- Those who have held successive limited leave under the Family or Private Life categories for a combined period of 10 years.
Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for ILR under the 10-Year Private or Family Life Route in 2026, applicants must meet the following conditions:
- Have completed 10 continuous years of lawful residence in the UK under Appendix FM or Paragraph 276ADE of the Immigration Rules.
- Maintain a genuine and subsisting relationship with a qualifying partner, child, or family member.
- Demonstrate continuous residence without exceeding 540 days of absence over 10 years.
- Pass the Life in the UK Test and meet the English language requirement (unless exempt).
- Show proof of compliance with UK immigration laws during the qualifying period.
Required Documents
Applicants must submit evidence supporting both their immigration history and private/family life in the UK. This typically includes:
- Valid passport and biometric residence permit (BRP).
- Proof of residence covering the 10-year qualifying period (bills, tenancy agreements, correspondence).
- Evidence of relationship with spouse, partner, or dependants (e.g., birth or marriage certificates).
- Proof of income, housing, and ongoing family connections in the UK.
- Life in the UK Test pass certificate and English qualification at level B1 or above.
Application Process
Applications for ILR under the 10-Year route are submitted online via the GOV.UK portal. Applicants must:
- Complete the ILR (LR) form online.
- Pay the Home Office application fee and book a biometric appointment.
- Submit evidence using the digital document upload service.
- Attend a biometric appointment at a UKVCAS centre.
Standard processing times range from 8 to 12 weeks, with the option of Priority or Super Priority services where available.
Fees and Processing Times
As of November 2025, the ILR fee for the 10-Year route is approximately £2,885. Applicants may pay an additional £500 for Priority or £1,000 for Super Priority service, depending on location and eligibility.
After You Obtain ILR
Once ILR is granted under the 10-Year Route, individuals can live, work, and study in the UK without restriction. After holding ILR for 12 months, applicants may become eligible to apply for British citizenship through naturalisation, provided they continue to meet good character and residence requirements.
If Refused
If an application is refused, the decision letter will outline the reasons. Applicants may be able to:
- Request an Administrative Review or appeal.
- Submit a new application once the issue is resolved or further residence is accrued.
- Seek legal advice from Michael Gibbons or another regulated solicitor.
Related Guidance
- ILR (5-Year Spouse Route 2026)
- Extending a UK Spouse Visa (2026)
- Appeal and Administrative Review (2026)
- Financial Requirement (2026)
About This Page
Author: UK Visa Applications Editorial Team
Reviewed by: Michael Gibbons, UK Solicitor and Regulated Immigration Advisor
Last Updated: 8 January 2026.