The Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) under the 5-Year Spouse Route is the standard pathway to permanent settlement in the UK for individuals who have held a UK Spouse Visa for five continuous years. This route allows foreign partners of British citizens or settled residents to remain in the UK without immigration time restrictions once all eligibility criteria are met.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for ILR under the 5-Year Spouse Route, applicants must demonstrate full compliance with the requirements of Appendix FM of the UK Immigration Rules. This includes:
- Having completed 5 continuous years in the UK on a valid Spouse Visa.
- Remaining in a genuine and subsisting relationship with a British citizen or settled partner.
- Meeting the financial requirement at the time of application.
- Meeting the English language requirement at level B1 or above.
- Passing the Life in the UK Test before applying for ILR.
- Maintaining continuous residence without exceeding 180 days outside the UK in any 12-month period.
Documents Required
Applicants should ensure all evidence complies with Home Office standards under Appendix FM-SE. The following documents are typically required:
- Valid passport and biometric residence permit (BRP).
- Marriage or civil partnership certificate.
- Proof of cohabitation covering the last 2 years.
- Evidence of income and financial support (e.g., payslips, bank statements).
- Proof of accommodation in the UK.
- Life in the UK Test pass certificate.
- Approved English language qualification at B1 or higher.
See our Documents Checklist (2026) for guidance on evidence standards.
Application Process
Applications for ILR under the Spouse Route must be made online through the GOV.UK ILR application portal. Applicants must:
- Complete the ILR (M) form online.
- Pay the required fee and book a biometric appointment.
- Upload supporting documents via the digital upload service or at a UKVCAS centre.
- Await a decision—processing typically takes 8–12 weeks.
Fees and Processing Times
As of November 2026, the Home Office fee for ILR (5-Year Route) applications is approximately £2,885. Applicants may choose optional Priority or Super Priority services for faster processing at additional cost.
After You Are Granted ILR
Once granted, ILR allows you to live, work, and study in the UK without restriction. After holding ILR for 12 months, you may become eligible to apply for British citizenship if you meet the naturalisation requirements.
If Your Application Is Refused
If your ILR application is refused, you will receive a decision letter explaining why. Depending on the reason, you may:
- Submit an Administrative Review or Appeal (2026).
- Correct the issue and reapply once eligible.
- Seek advice from a regulated immigration solicitor such as Michael Gibbons.
Related Guidance
- Extending a UK Spouse Visa (2026)
- ILR (10-Year Private/Family Life Route 2026)
- Financial Requirement (2026)
- English Language 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.