ILR for Dependants: How Your Family Can Settle
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.
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Who Counts as a Dependant
For ILR purposes, dependants typically include:
- Your spouse or civil partner who entered the UK as your dependant (for example, on a spouse visa).
- 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
Budget for the application fees for each family member.
- 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 the exact document list and step-by-step timeline — £149, paid once.
Costs
Each dependant pays the full ILR application fee. There is no discount for families. You will also need to budget for the Immigration Health Surcharge. 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. If an application is refused, 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 immigration information, not immigration advice under s.82 Immigration and Asylum Act 1999. Immigration rules change frequently. For advice on your specific situation, consult an IAA-authorised adviser or an SRA-regulated immigration solicitor. Always check GOV.UK for the authoritative current rules.
Related guides
Preparing a UK visa application?
Get the exact document list and step-by-step timeline — £149, paid once.