Family ILR Application: Applying for the Whole Family
What you need to know
- •Each family member needs a separate application and pays their own fee.
- •Children under 18 are exempt from the English and Life in the UK test requirements.
- •Apply together to keep the family's status aligned.
- •Budget carefully as costs multiply for each person.
Families can apply for ILR together, with each person submitting their own application. Children under 18 have reduced requirements. Costs multiply for each family member. Careful coordination ensures all applications are submitted correctly and at the right time.
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Planning the Family Application
Start planning at least 6 months before your qualifying date. Our ILR requirements guide covers the core eligibility criteria. Key steps:
- Check each family member's individual qualifying date. They may differ if dependants joined at different times.
- Ensure all adult family members have passed the Life in the UK test and English language test.
- Gather documents for each person. See our documents checklist.
- Budget for the total cost. See our ILR cost guide.
Costs for a Family
Each family member pays the full ILR application fee. For a typical family:
- 2 adults + 2 children: Four times the individual ILR fee plus test costs for adults.
- Biometrics: Each person attends their own appointment. See our biometrics guide.
- Tests: Only adults need the Life in the UK test (£50 each) and English test.
Consider whether to apply for all family members at once or stagger applications if budget is tight. See our dependants guide.
Preparing a UK visa application?
Get the exact document list and step-by-step timeline — £149, paid once.
Documents for Each Family Member
- Main applicant: Full evidence package including employment, residence, and test certificates.
- Spouse/partner: Similar evidence plus proof of relationship and their own continuous residence.
- Children: Birth certificates, passport, proof of residence (school records are helpful), and the application signed by a parent.
Submitting Together
You can submit all family applications through the online system. Book biometrics appointments at the same UKVCAS centre on the same day if possible. Some centres allow family appointments.
After ILR for the Family
Once all family members have ILR, the whole family gains permanent status. See our benefits after ILR guide. The family can then plan for British citizenship together.
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.