Indefinite Leave to Remain Fee UK (2026): Full Cost, Eligibility & Application Guide
What is Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR)?
Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) allows you to live, work, and stay in the UK without any time restrictions. It is often referred to as permanent residency and is the final step before applying for British citizenship.
According to official UK guidance, once you have ILR, you can:
- Live in the UK without visa renewals
- Work or study freely
- Access public services and healthcare
- Apply for citizenship after 12 months (if eligible)
You can read the official overview here:
https://www.gov.uk/indefinite-leave-to-remain
Indefinite Leave to Remain Fee UK (2026)
As of 2026, the standard ILR application fee is:
👉 £3,029 per person
This fee applies to most routes, including:
- Skilled Worker visa
- Spouse or partner visa
- Long residence (10-year route)
- Dependants (same fee per person)
For the latest official fee updates, check:
https://www.gov.uk/indefinite-leave-to-remain-family
Additional ILR Costs You Should Budget For
In addition to the main ILR fee, there are a few extra costs to consider:
Priority Processing Services
If you want a faster decision:
- Priority service: around £500 (within 5 working days)
- Super priority service: around £1,000 (next working day)
Life in the UK Test
- £50 per attempt
- Required for most applicants
English Language Test
- Usually costs between £150 and £200
Biometrics Appointment
- Standard appointments are usually free, but premium slots may cost extra
👉 Important: ILR applicants do not pay the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS).
ILR Eligibility Requirements (2026)
To qualify for ILR, you must meet several requirements set by the UK Government.
1. Residency Requirement
- Most visa routes require 5 years of continuous residence
- Global Talent route: 3 years
- Long residence route: 10 years
Full details are available here:
https://www.gov.uk/indefinite-leave-to-remain
2. Continuous Residence Rules
You must not have spent more than 180 days outside the UK in any 12-month period during your qualifying time.
3. Life in the UK Test
You must pass the official Life in the UK Test unless exempt.
https://www.gov.uk/life-in-the-uk-test
4. English Language Requirement
Most applicants must prove English knowledge at B1 level or higher.
5. Good Character Requirement
Your application may be refused if you:
- Have serious criminal convictions
- Breached immigration rules
ILR Cost Example (2026)
Here’s an estimate of total ILR fees:
| Applicants | Total Cost |
|---|---|
| 1 person | £3,029 |
| Couple | £6,058 |
| Family of 4 | £12,116 |
👉 Each applicant must pay the full fee individually.
How to Apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain
You can apply online through the official UK Government website.
Step-by-step process:
- Choose the correct ILR route
- Complete the online application form
- Pay the application fee
- Upload supporting documents
- Book and attend biometrics appointment
- Wait for a decision
Start your application here:
https://www.gov.uk/indefinite-leave-to-remain/apply
ILR Processing Time (2026)
- Standard processing: up to 6 months
- Priority service: 5 working days
- Super priority: next working day
Why ILR is Worth the Cost
Although the ILR fee is significant, it provides long-term benefits:
- No more visa renewals
- No Immigration Health Surcharge
- Permanent right to live and work in the UK
- Pathway to British citizenship
FAQs
How much is ILR in the UK in 2026?
👉 The standard fee is £3,029 per person.
Is the ILR fee refundable?
❌ No, the application fee is non-refundable in most cases.
Do children pay ILR fees?
✔️ Yes, the same fee applies to each applicant.
Is there an NHS surcharge for ILR?
❌ No, ILR applicants do not pay the Immigration Health Surcharge.
Conclusion
Understanding the Indefinite Leave to Remain fee in the UK for 2026 is essential if you’re planning to settle permanently. With fees currently at £3,029 per person, it’s important to budget carefully and prepare your application in advance.
Meeting the eligibility criteria — including residency requirements, English language ability, and passing the Life in the UK Test — is just as important as paying the fee. You can always verify the latest rules and updates directly from the official UK Government pages:
https://www.gov.uk/indefinite-leave-to-remain
