ILR (settlement) requirements

Indefinite leave to remain ends your visa cycle. For most routes the checklist includes the Knowledge of Language and Life requirement — which is where the test comes in.

Última verificación: 15 July 2026

The standard checklist

Qualifying period: usually 5 continuous years on an eligible route (2–3 years on some routes, 10 on long residence), within absence limits.
Knowledge of Language and Life (KoLL): for applicants aged 18–64 — English at CEFR B1+ and a Life in the UK Test pass.
No general grounds for refusal: criminality, deception, NHS or tax debts can block an application.
Route-specific rules: salary thresholds (work routes), relationship evidence (family routes), etc.

Upcoming changes to watch

B2 English from 26 March 2027 — the language bar for settlement rises from B1. Details and who's affected.
Earned settlement consultation — proposals to vary qualifying periods. Not law yet.

Sensible sequencing

The test pass never expires, so take it early — months before your ILR window — and remove the one requirement that depends on exam performance from your critical path. Build your plan around your ILR date.

ILR FAQ

When should I take the Life in the UK Test for ILR?

Any time before you apply — the pass never expires. Most people take it 2–6 months before their ILR date so it's done and can't delay the application.

What is KoLL?

'Knowledge of Language and Life' — the combined requirement of an English qualification (currently B1) plus a Life in the UK Test pass. Both are needed for most ILR routes for applicants aged 18–64.

Is the ILR qualifying period changing?

A government consultation on 'earned settlement' has proposed changes to qualifying periods. Nothing is law until legislation lands — our alerts email fires when something is confirmed.