ILR Calculator — Spouse & Partner Visa Route to Settlement

Partner route basics

Most partner/spouse routes lead to settlement after five years of lawful residence if relationship, financial and suitability requirements are met. The application pathway usually involves an initial entry visa, visa extension(s) and a final ILR application. If you are relying on financial evidence, the income rules and savings tests are central to success.

Income requirement (short summary)

The usual minimum income threshold for spouse/partner route applicants is £18,600 (higher where there are dependent children). Exact figures and evidence rules are set out in official guidance; if you need detailed calculations, see our Income & Financial Requirements guide.

Typical timeline — high level

1. Initial visa — typically granted for 30 months (or 33 months if switching inside the UK in some cases).
2. Extension — apply to extend before expiry; extensions usually grant a further 30 months and may be repeated.
3. Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) — after completing the qualifying period (usually 5 years), and meeting all evidence and absence rules, apply for ILR.

Evidence checklist

• Valid passport(s) and current Biometric Residence Permits (BRPs).
• Relationship evidence (marriage certificate, joint household bills, photos, correspondence).
• Financial evidence (payslips, P60s, bank statements or approved savings evidence).
• Proof of English language competence where required.
• Records of absences from the UK to demonstrate continuous residence.

One authoritative reference

For the official, up-to-date position on partner and spouse visas, consult the GOV.UK guidance for family visas. That page explains eligibility, evidence requirements and fee details. GOV.UK — partner and spouse visa guidance

Common issues and how to avoid them

• Insufficient financial evidence: confirm employer letters include job title, salary and hours; reconcile payslips with bank credits.
• Relationship proof gaps: keep a running file of joint tenancy agreements, utility bills and dated photos.
• Excessive absences: track travel and use the Absence Calculator Guide to confirm you meet continuous residence rules.

Application tips

1. Apply for extensions well before expiry to avoid lapses in leave.
2. Prepare a clear document index and highlight key documents (Cohabitation letters, payslips, P60s).
3. If switching from a different route, check continuity of lawful residence — guidance on continuous residence is available in our Continuous Residence Guide.

FAQs

How long before I can apply for ILR on a partner route?

Typically five years of qualifying residence, provided you meet relationship, financial and absence requirements. Check your precise timeline using the ILR calculator.

What counts as an acceptable relationship proof?

Marriage or civil partnership certificates are primary evidence. For unmarried partners, consistent documentary proof of cohabitation and shared responsibilities is required.

Will time on other visas count towards the five years?

Some previous lawful residence may count in special circumstances, but this is case-specific — consult the Continuous Residence Guide and official GOV.UK rules.

Related guides (one link each)

• Income & Financial Requirements guide
• Absence Calculator Guide — counting absences & the 180-day test
• Continuous Residence Guide — 5 and 10 year rules explained

Published: September 15, 2025 — use this guide to prepare your evidence and test timelines with the ILR calculator.