A Skilled Worker indefinite leave to remain application depends on continuous residence, salary, sponsorship, the Life in the UK Test and accurate evidence. The five-year settlement route remains in force, although the government is considering an earned-settlement model. The official criteria appear on the GOV.UK settle in the UK pages.
Check your absences
You must normally have spent no more than 180 days outside the UK in any rolling 12-month period. This is not calculated by calendar year. Some absences may be disregarded in compelling, humanitarian or research-related circumstances, but evidence is required.
Create a travel schedule using passports, tickets and immigration records. Record each departure and return date.
Check your salary and sponsorship
The usual settlement salary requirement is the higher of £41,700 a year or the standard going rate for your occupation code. Different thresholds apply to some healthcare and education roles, jobs on the Immigration Salary List and workers continuously sponsored since before 4 April 2024.
The salary test applies at settlement. It is not correct to assume every applicant must have earned £41,700 throughout all five years. Your sponsor must confirm that you remain required for the foreseeable future and that your pay will continue to meet the applicable requirement.
ILR readiness checklist
| Item | What to check | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|
| Residence | Five years on qualifying routes | Time as a dependant does not count towards a main Skilled Worker application |
| Absences | No more than 180 days in any rolling 12 months, unless an exception applies | Excess absences can break continuous residence |
| Salary | Current pay meets the relevant threshold and going rate | Requirements vary by role and immigration history |
| Sponsorship | Employer confirms the job remains required | A sponsor document is needed |
| Life in the UK | Test passed before applying, unless exempt | The test costs £50 |
| Timing | Apply no earlier than 28 days before eligibility | An early application may be refused |
Fees and evidence
The ILR fee is £3,226 per person from 8 April 2026. The Immigration Health Surcharge is not payable. A couple and one child applying together would pay £9,678 before tests, translations or optional priority services.
Evidence commonly includes passports, an absence record, salary documents and the sponsor’s confirmation. Check names, dates and pay figures.
Frequently asked questions
Can I still apply after five years?
Yes, provided you meet the rules in force when you apply. Earned-settlement proposals are not yet law.
When should I start preparing?
Begin six to 12 months before eligibility, especially if you have extensive travel or previous visa switches.
Does self-sponsorship shorten the route?
No. The self sponsorship visa route uses the Skilled Worker system through your own UK business. It does not create a faster settlement category.
What happens after ILR?
British citizenship by naturalisation may usually be available after 12 months, or sooner if you are married to a British citizen and meet all requirements.
For UK immigration advice in Bromley, book an assessment before submitting.