Who is applying?
Main applicant
Before you start
Upload colour copies in .pdf or .jpg only. Payslips and bank statements must not be more than 28 days old on the day you submit. Original documents may be requested later, so keep them to hand. Items marked gov.uk are named in the official guidance; the rest are what advisers commonly ask for.
Husband, wife or partner
Your partner can also apply separately later. Time they spent as your dependant counts. Time on their own visa doesn't.
Children
English language requirement
Applies to each applicant aged 18 to 64. Choose how each person will meet it to see exactly what to gather.
Nationals of majority English-speaking countries
Nationals of these countries who give the Home Office a valid passport showing their nationality need no further English evidence:
Antigua and Barbuda, Australia, The Bahamas, Barbados, Belize, the British Overseas Territories, Canada, Dominica, Grenada, Guyana, Jamaica, Malta, New Zealand, St Kitts and Nevis, St Lucia, St Vincent and the Grenadines, Trinidad and Tobago, and the USA.
Approved English language tests (SELT)
The test must be a Home Office approved secure English language test covering reading, writing, speaking and listening. Two out of four skills is not enough. Which provider suits you depends on where you are:
- IELTS for UKVI (General Training or Academic), UK or overseas. Similar-sounding IELTS tests that are not designated for UKVI cannot be used.
- LanguageCert International ESOL SELT, UK or overseas.
- PTE Academic UKVI (Pearson), UK or overseas.
- Skills for English (UKVI) from PSI Services, overseas only.
- Trinity College London ISE, UK only.
Some advisers ask you to send a screenshot of the test you plan to book before you pay, to confirm it is an approved one.
Life in the UK test
Everyone aged 18 to 64 in the application must pass before it is submitted. The test has no expiry date, and passing gives you an online reference number (URN) to quote. It is based on the official handbook.
Not sure you'll pass first time? Practise with our 48 free mock exams, then book the real test on gov.uk. Bring the same photo ID you used to book. People with a long-term physical or mental condition can apply for an exemption.
Rules to keep in mind
- Qualifying period. Five years, counted from your first entry clearance vignette or first BRP as a Skilled Worker. You can apply up to 28 days before the five years are complete.
- Absences. No more than 180 days outside the UK in any rolling 12 months in the five years, for you and your partner. Use the ILR date checker to test your travel log.
- Travel after you apply. Don't travel outside the UK, Ireland, the Channel Islands or the Isle of Man until you get a decision. Keep plans flexible and avoid non-refundable bookings.
- Your job. You must still be needed for your job and meet the salary requirements. Your sponsor provides a document to confirm this.
- Translations. Anything not in English needs a professional translation that states the translator's credentials, confirms it is accurate, and is dated and signed by the translator.
- Dependants. Partners must show a genuine relationship, an intention to live together and no use of public funds.
How the application usually runs
- Prepare. Gather documents from yourself, your employer and any dependants.
- Draft. Complete the online form and review every answer.
- File online. Submit and pay the fee. You can see appointment availability once you file.
- Biometrics. Give your fingerprints and photo at an appointment. Some applicants use the Home Office ID Check app instead.
- Wait for a decision. Advisers who use the priority service quote around 5 to 7 working days from the appointment. Standard processing takes longer, so check gov.uk for current times.
- Decision email. You get the outcome by email.
Your ticks and answers are saved in this browser only. They are never uploaded. We don't ask for passport, visa or reference numbers here.
Changes to watch
From 26 March 2027 the English requirement for settlement on many routes rises from B1 to B2, and some advisers already recommend a B2 certificate to be safe. The government has also proposed “earned settlement” (a 10-year baseline), but as of October 2026 it is not law. Check gov.uk for the latest.
Sources
ILR for Skilled Worker visa holders · Your family members · How to apply · Prove your knowledge of English · Life in the UK Test