Ancestry Visa to ILR: Settlement Guide 2026

What Is ILR?

Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) is permanent residence in the UK. Once granted, you can live and work in the UK without any visa restrictions, access public funds, and apply for British citizenship after 12 months.

For Ancestry visa holders, ILR is the natural next step after completing 5 years of residence. It removes the conditions attached to your visa and gives you the security of permanent status.

When to Apply

You can apply for ILR once you have completed 5 continuous years on the Ancestry visa. The Home Office allows you to submit your application up to 28 days before you reach the 5-year mark.

Your qualifying period starts from the date you entered the UK on your Ancestry visa (or the date your visa was granted if you were already in the UK when you extended). Check the dates on your visa or BRP.

ILR Requirements for Ancestry Visa Holders

1. Continuous Residence

You must have lived in the UK continuously for 5 years. The continuous residence requirement means:

• You must not have been absent from the UK for more than 180 days in any single 12-month period
• You must not have spent a single continuous period of more than 6 months outside the UK

Absences are calculated on a rolling 12-month basis, not per calendar year. Keep records of your travel dates. The Home Office may check your travel history using passport stamps and airline records.

If you have exceeded the absence limits, you may need to "reset the clock" and spend additional time in the UK before qualifying. See our absence rules guide for detailed guidance.

2. Life in the UK Test

You must pass the Life in the UK test. This is a computer-based test with 24 questions about British history, culture, and values. You need to answer at least 18 correctly (75%) to pass.

• Cost: £50 per attempt
• Book at: GOV.UK Life in the UK test
• You can take the test multiple times if you do not pass on your first attempt

See our study guide for preparation tips.

3. English Language Requirement

You must demonstrate English language ability at CEFR B1 level or above. You can meet this requirement by:

• Being a national of a majority English-speaking country (including Australia, New Zealand, Canada, Jamaica, and others)
• Having a degree taught in English
• Passing an approved English language test at B1 level or above

Most Ancestry visa applicants from Australia, New Zealand, and some other countries are exempt from the English language test. Applicants from South Africa may also qualify for exemption.