UK ILR for Dependants: Complete Document Checklist & Requirements Guide 2026

Understanding ILR for Dependants

If you've been living in the UK as a dependant on a work visa (such as Skilled Worker, formerly Tier 2), you may be eligible to apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) — also known as settlement. This grants you the right to live and work in the UK permanently without immigration restrictions.

Many dependants wonder: "Do I need to submit the same extensive documentation as my main applicant, or can I rely on their already-approved ILR?" This guide answers that question and provides a complete breakdown of what you actually need.

When Can Dependants Apply for ILR?

As a dependant, you can apply for ILR when:

• You've completed 5 continuous years in the UK on an eligible visa route
• Your main applicant (spouse/partner/parent) has been granted ILR or is applying at the same time
• You meet the English language requirement
• You haven't spent too much time outside the UK (usually no more than 180 days in any 12-month period)

Important: If your spouse/partner received their ILR recently, you don't need to wait — you can apply for your own ILR immediately, as long as you've also completed your 5-year qualifying period.

Note: Not all UK visas count toward the 5-year requirement. If you've switched visa types during your time in the UK, read our guide on which visa types count toward ILR to understand when your qualifying period started.

Mandatory Documents for ILR Dependant Applications

These are the essential documents you must submit:

1. Passport & Travel Documents

• Current valid passport — must have at least one blank page
• Previous passports covering your entire stay in the UK (all 5 years)
• If passports are lost, provide a police report and letter explaining the circumstances

2. Current Immigration Status

• Current BRP (Biometric Residence Permit)
• Previous BRPs or visa vignettes if applicable
• Proof of your main applicant's ILR — their BRP or Home Office decision letter

3. Relationship Evidence

• Marriage certificate or civil partnership certificate (original or certified copy)
• If unmarried partners: evidence of 2+ years cohabitation

4. English Language Requirement

You must prove English proficiency through ONE of these:

• Life in the UK test pass certificate (most common for ILR)
• CEFR B1 level English test from an approved provider (IELTS SELT, Trinity, etc.)
• Degree taught in English (from a majority English-speaking country or ECCTIS-verified)
• Exemption: nationals from majority English-speaking countries, or if over 65

5. Consent Letter from Main Applicant

• A signed letter from your spouse/partner confirming they consent to your ILR application
• Should include their full name, date of birth, and reference to their own immigration status

Supporting Documents: What's Actually Required?

Here's where many applicants get confused. Unlike some visa categories, ILR dependant applications typically do NOT require:

• ❌ Bank statements (unless specifically requested)
• ❌ Payslips or employment letters (these are for the main applicant)
• ❌ Utility bills for address proof (your BRP shows your address)
• ❌ Tenancy agreements

However, you may want to include these in specific situations:

When to Include Additional Documents

If your address differs from main applicant: Include utility bills and bank statements showing the same address.

If recently married (less than 2 years): Include photos together, joint accounts, and correspondence to the same address.

If there are gaps in immigration history: Provide a letter explaining gaps and travel history evidence.

If you've had name changes: Include deed poll or marriage certificate showing the name change.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Over-documenting Your Application

Submitting mountains of unnecessary documents can actually slow down your application. Caseworkers need to review everything you send. Stick to the requirements unless you have a specific reason to include more.

2. Missing the Life in the UK Test

This catches many applicants off guard. Unlike initial visa applications, ILR requires the Life in the UK test — not just an English language test. Book it early as slots fill up quickly.

3. Expired Passports Not Included

Even if your old passports have expired, you must include them. The Home Office needs to verify your entire 5-year stay in the UK.

4. Wrong Application Form

Dependants use different forms depending on their route. For Skilled Worker dependants, ensure you're using the correct SET(O) form for settlement.

5. Not Checking Absences

Calculate your absences carefully. More than 180 days outside the UK in any 12-month period could invalidate your continuous residence. Use the Home Office's online tool to check.

Step-by-Step Application Process

1. Check eligibility — Use the Home Office online checker
2. Pass the Life in the UK test — Book at the official website
3. Gather documents — Use our checklist above
4. Apply online — Through the UK Visas & Immigration portal
5. Pay the fee — Currently £2,885 per person + £19.20 biometric fee
6. Book biometric appointment — At a UKVCAS centre
7. Wait for decision — Standard processing is 6 months, priority services available

Timeline & Fees (2026)

• Application fee: £2,885
• Biometric enrolment: £19.20
• Priority service (optional): £500-£1,000
• Super priority (optional): £800-£1,500
• Standard processing time: Up to 6 months
• Priority processing: 5 working days

Final Checklist for ILR Dependant Applications

Use this checklist before submitting:

• ☐ Current passport with blank page
• ☐ All previous passports covering 5-year period
• ☐ Current BRP
• ☐ Main applicant's ILR proof (BRP or decision letter)
• ☐ Marriage/civil partnership certificate
• ☐ Life in the UK test pass certificate
• ☐ Consent letter from main applicant
• ☐ Completed online application form
• ☐ Payment confirmation
• ☐ Biometric appointment booked

Official Government Resources

For official guidance on dependant ILR applications, refer to these UK government pages:

• 🔗 Indefinite Leave to Remain Overview — gov.uk
• 🔗 Skilled Worker Dependants — gov.uk
• 🔗 Skilled Worker Settlement — gov.uk
• 🔗 Life in the UK Test — gov.uk
• 🔗 English Language Requirements — gov.uk
• 🔗 Continuous Residence Calculator — gov.uk
• 🔗 Get Your Documents Back — gov.uk

Need Help With Your Documents?

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Or choose our Expert Review (£49) for a thorough check by experienced immigration consultants who can provide personalised advice for your specific situation.

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