Can my dependants apply for ILR at the same time as me?

Yes, if your dependants have been in the UK for the same qualifying period and meet the requirements. Each dependant must submit their own application and pay the application fee. They must also individually meet the continuous residence, English language, and Life in the UK test requirements (where applicable).

Do children need to pass the Life in the UK test for ILR?

Children under 18 are exempt from both the Life in the UK test and the English language requirement. They must still meet the continuous residence requirement and pay the application fee.

How much does ILR cost for a family?

Each family member pays the same ILR application fee. For a family of four, the total fee is four times the individual fee. There is no family discount. See our ILR cost guide for current figures.

ILR for Dependants: How Your Family Can Settle

Updated 27 March 20269 min read

What you need to know

•Each dependant must submit a separate ILR application and pay the full fee.
•Children under 18 are exempt from the Life in the UK test and English requirement.
•Dependants must meet continuous residence requirements individually.
•Applications can be submitted together for the whole family.

Dependants (spouse, partner, and children) can apply for ILR alongside the main applicant, provided they have been in the UK for the qualifying period and meet the requirements individually. Each person pays their own application fee. Children under 18 are exempt from the English language and Life in the UK test requirements.

Preparing a UK visa application?

Get a personalised document checklist and eligibility check — free.

Check your eligibility

Who Counts as a Dependant

For ILR purposes, dependants typically include:

Your spouse or civil partner who entered the UK as your dependant.
Your unmarried partner (if they entered as your dependant).
Your children under 18 who are in the UK as your dependants.

Each dependant must have maintained their own continuous residence and meet the good character requirement (for adults).

Requirements for Adult Dependants

Continuous residence: Must have been in the UK for the qualifying period.
English language: B1 in speaking and listening. See our English for ILR guide.
Life in the UK test: Must be passed. See our test guide.
Good character.

Requirements for Children

Under 18: Exempt from English language and Life in the UK test.
Continuous residence: Must still be met.
Application signed by parent/guardian.

Preparing a UK visa application?

Get a personalised document checklist and eligibility check — free.

Check your eligibility

Costs

Each dependant pays the full ILR application fee. There is no discount for families. For a family of four, budget for four times the individual fee plus any test costs for adults. See our ILR cost guide.

Applying Together

You can submit all family applications at the same time. This is generally recommended as it keeps the family's immigration status aligned. See our family ILR application guide for practical tips.

If a Dependant Does Not Qualify

If a dependant does not meet the requirements (for example, they joined you later and have not completed 5 years), they can extend their dependant visa and apply for ILR when eligible. One family member's ILR refusal does not affect other family members' applications.

For official guidance, visit GOV.UK: indefinite leave to remain.

This guide is general information, not immigration advice. Immigration rules change frequently. For advice on your specific situation, consult an OISC-registered adviser or immigration solicitor. Always check GOV.UK for the latest rules.

Preparing a UK visa application?

Get a personalised document checklist and eligibility check — free.

Check your eligibility