ILR as an Unmarried Partner on the 5-Year Route
For unmarried partners who have completed five continuous years in the UK on the partner visa route and are ready to apply for permanent residence.
A route to permanent residence for unmarried partners
Indefinite Leave to Remain as an unmarried partner allows a person who has been living in the UK with their British or settled partner to apply for permanent residence after five continuous years on the partner visa route.
This route is designed for couples in a long-term relationship similar to marriage or civil partnership, but who are not legally married. Once ILR is granted, the applicant can usually live, work and study in the UK permanently without needing further visas.
What you usually need to show
01
Relationship requirement
You must remain in a genuine and ongoing relationship with your British or settled partner, with evidence of living together and shared life in the UK.
01
Relationship requirement
You must show that there is adequate accommodation available in the UK, without overcrowding and without relying on public funds.
Applicants must continue to meet the core partner route requirements at the point of applying for ILR.
02
Residency requirement
You must have completed five continuous years in the UK on the partner visa route. Absences must not suggest that you are living elsewhere.
02
Residency requirement
You must usually prove English language ability at B1 level or higher unless an exemption applies.
03
Financial requirement
You must continue to meet the relevant minimum income or savings requirement. Income may come from permitted sources such as employment, self-employment, pensions or savings.
03
Financial requirement
You must pass the Life in the UK Test to demonstrate knowledge of British history, culture, laws and everyday life.