Life in the UK Test Practice

Spouse Visa ILR Guide UK: Partner Settlement Requirements

✓ Last verified: 2026-07-20

The spouse visa route allows eligible partners of British citizens or people settled in the UK to live together in the UK.

People on the family visa route may be able to apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) after meeting the relevant requirements.

The requirements depend on the specific family visa route and the applicant's circumstances.

1What is spouse visa ILR?

Spouse visa ILR is settlement status granted to eligible applicants who meet the requirements of the family visa route.

After obtaining ILR, a person is no longer subject to the time restrictions of their temporary visa.

2How long does spouse visa ILR take?

Many spouse and partner visa applicants follow a route requiring a qualifying period before applying for settlement.

Applicants should check whether they are on the correct route and have completed the required qualifying period.

3Relationship requirement

Applicants must continue to meet the relationship requirements.

This normally involves showing that:

  • the relationship continues to exist
  • the couple meet the relevant family visa requirements
  • the circumstances have not changed in a way that affects eligibility

Evidence requirements depend on individual circumstances.

4Financial requirement

Applicants may need to demonstrate that they meet the financial requirements applicable to their route.

The requirements can depend on:

  • application date
  • family circumstances
  • immigration rules in force

Applicants should check the latest GOV.UK guidance before applying.

5Residence requirement

Applicants must complete the required qualifying period and meet residence requirements.

Applicants should review:

  • time spent outside the UK
  • immigration permission history
  • qualifying periods

6English language requirement

Applicants normally need to meet the English language requirement unless they qualify for an exemption.

Accepted evidence depends on individual circumstances.

7Life in the UK Test

Most applicants need to pass the Life in the UK Test before applying for ILR.

The test covers British:

  • history
  • government
  • law
  • traditions
  • society

8Application process

The general process includes:

1. Checking eligibility 2. Completing the online application 3. Providing supporting documents 4. Providing biometrics if required 5. Receiving a Home Office decision

9Documents commonly required

Applicants may need:

  • passport or identity documents
  • evidence of relationship
  • financial evidence
  • English language evidence
  • Life in the UK Test result
  • residence evidence

The exact documents depend on individual circumstances.

✅ Checklist

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❓ Frequently Asked Questions

Can spouse visa holders apply for ILR?▾
Eligible spouse visa holders may apply for ILR after meeting the relevant settlement requirements.
Do I need the Life in the UK Test for spouse visa ILR?▾
Most applicants need to pass the Life in the UK Test unless exempt.
Do I need English for spouse visa ILR?▾
Many applicants need to meet English language requirements unless an exemption applies.
Does my relationship need to continue for ILR?▾
Applicants normally need to continue meeting relationship requirements for the family route.

Suggested next step

ILR Guide→

Last updated: 2026-07-20 • Category: Immigration Guides

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