Choosing the correct ILR application forms is essential for a successful settlement application in the UK. This comprehensive guide explains each form type—SET(O), SET(M), SET(LR), SET(F), and others—helping you understand which applies to your circumstances, what documents to prepare, and how to avoid common mistakes that lead to refusal.
Understanding ILR Application Forms in 2026
Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) represents the final step before British citizenship for many migrants. The Home Office requires different ILR application forms depending on your immigration route, and selecting the wrong form is one of the most common reasons for application rejection. Each form—SET(O), SET(M), SET(LR), SET(F), and others—corresponds to specific visa categories and eligibility requirements.
All ILR applications are now submitted online through the UK Visas and Immigration portal. The system guides applicants through the relevant questions, but understanding which form applies to your situation before starting helps ensure you provide accurate information and gather the correct supporting documents.
SET(O) Form: ILR for Work and Talent Visa Holders
The SET(O) application form is used by work visa holders, including those on Skilled Worker, Global Talent, Innovator Founder, and other employment-based visas. It is the most commonly used ILR form and requires evidence of continuous employment, residence, and meeting the knowledge of English and Life in the UK requirements.
The SET(O) form covers the broadest range of applicants, including Skilled Worker visa holders, Global Talent visa recipients, Innovator Founder visa holders, and those previously on Tier 2 work permits. Most work-based ILR applicants will use this form after completing their qualifying period of continuous residence.
Who Uses the SET(O) Application Form?
- Skilled Worker visa holders: After 5 years continuous residence in the same occupation code
- Global Talent visa holders: After 3 or 5 years depending on endorsement category
- Innovator Founder visa holders: After 3 years with endorsing body confirmation
- Scale-up visa holders: After 5 years continuous residence
- Representative of Overseas Business: After 5 years continuous residence
- Former Tier 1 and Tier 2 visa holders: Those who started under the previous points-based system
SET(O) Key Requirements
To qualify for ILR through the SET(O) route, applicants must demonstrate they meet the continuous residence requirement and satisfy knowledge of language and life requirements:
- Continuous residence: No more than 180 days outside the UK in any 12-month period
- English language: B1 level certificate (speaking and listening) from an approved provider
- Life in the UK test: Pass certificate required
- Ongoing employment: Evidence of current employment in qualifying occupation
- No criminal convictions: Clean record or disclosed convictions assessed under suitability rules
SET(M) Form: ILR for Partners and Spouses
The SET(M) application form is for partners, spouses, and civil partners of British citizens or settled persons applying for ILR. Applicants must demonstrate a genuine and subsisting relationship, meet English language requirements at A2 level (or B1 for ILR stage), and satisfy the minimum income requirement.
The SET(M) form applies to those on the spouse visa ILR route, typically after completing a 5-year probationary period (or 2 years and 9 months on each visa grant, totalling 5 years). This form requires extensive evidence of the genuine and subsisting relationship.
SET(M) Eligibility Categories
- Spouses: Legally married partners of British citizens or persons with ILR
- Civil partners: Those in registered civil partnerships
- Unmarried partners: Those in relationships akin to marriage for at least 2 years
- Same-sex partners: Married, civil partnership, or unmarried cohabiting couples
SET(M) Application Requirements
The SET(M) form requires applicants to provide comprehensive evidence across several categories:
- Relationship evidence: Marriage certificate, cohabitation proof, joint finances (see spouse visa supporting documents)
- Financial requirement: Meeting the minimum income requirement of £29,000 (2026 threshold)
- English language: B1 level for ILR (higher than A1 required for initial visa)
- Life in the UK test: Pass certificate required
- Continuous cohabitation: Living together throughout the probationary period
SET(LR) Form: ILR Through Long Residence
The SET(LR) application form is for individuals who have lived continuously and lawfully in the UK for at least 10 years. This route is available regardless of visa category, provided the applicant has maintained lawful immigration status throughout the qualifying period without breaching visa conditions.
The 10-year long residence route provides an alternative path to ILR for those who may not qualify through other routes. This form requires meticulous documentation spanning the entire decade of residence.
SET(LR) Specific Requirements
- 10 years lawful residence: Continuous presence with valid immigration status throughout
- Absence limits: Maximum 540 days total absences, with no single absence exceeding 180 days
- No visa breaches: No history of overstaying or immigration violations
- Documentation: Bank statements, tax records, employment history for entire 10-year period
- Knowledge requirements: English B1 level and Life in the UK test pass
Other ILR Application Forms: SET(F), SET(DV), SET(AF)
Additional ILR application forms serve specific categories: SET(F) for children under 18, SET(DV) for domestic violence victims seeking settlement, and SET(AF) for Armed Forces members and their families. Each has unique eligibility criteria and documentation requirements tailored to those circumstances.
SET(F) Form: Children Under 18
The SET(F) form is for children under 18 applying for ILR, either as dependants of parents who have ILR or based on their own qualifying residence. The form must be completed by a parent or legal guardian and includes sections on the child's education, health, and guardian details.
- Eligibility: Children with a parent who has or is being granted ILR
- Documentation: Birth certificate, guardian's ILR evidence, school records
- Exemptions: Children under 18 are exempt from Life in the UK test and English language requirements
SET(DV) Form: Domestic Violence Victims
The SET(DV) form provides an accelerated route to settlement for victims of domestic abuse whose relationship with their British or settled partner has broken down due to violence or abuse. This is a sensitive process handled with appropriate care by the Home Office.
- Evidence required: Police reports, medical records, refuge confirmations, court orders
- Support available: Destitution Domestic Violence Concession (DDVC) for immediate financial support
- Processing: Applications are prioritised and handled sensitively
SET(AF) Form: Armed Forces
The SET(AF) form is for members of the British Armed Forces, their partners, and children. This route recognises the unique service of military personnel and provides a dedicated pathway to settlement.
- Service requirement: Minimum 4 years in HM Forces
- Documentation: Military service records, discharge papers, family certificates
- Family members: Spouses, civil partners, and children can apply as dependants
ILR Documents Checklist: What You Need to Prepare
Essential ILR documents include your current and previous passports, BRP, Life in the UK test certificate, English language certificate, bank statements, employment evidence, residence proof, and any category-specific documents. Missing or incomplete documentation is a leading cause of ILR application delays and refusals.
Regardless of which ILR application form you use, certain core documents are required for all settlement applications. Additional documents vary by category and individual circumstances. Use the checklist below to ensure you have gathered everything needed before submitting your application.
- Current valid passport
- Previous passports covering the qualifying period
- Biometric Residence Permit (BRP)
- Life in the UK test pass certificate
- English language certificate (B1 level)
- Bank statements (6 months minimum)
- Employment letter and payslips
- Proof of UK address (utility bills, council tax)
- Absence records with travel history
- Criminal record certificate (if applicable)
Category-Specific Documents
Common Mistakes When Completing ILR Application Forms
The most common ILR application mistakes include selecting the wrong form, failing to accurately record UK absences, submitting incomplete documentation, missing the Life in the UK test requirement, and applying before meeting the continuous residence threshold. Each of these errors can result in refusal or significant delays.
Understanding common mistakes helps you avoid them. ILR applications are complex, and the Home Office applies strict criteria when assessing eligibility. Current ILR processing times mean any errors can result in months of additional waiting.
Mistakes That Lead to ILR Refusal
- Wrong form selection: Using SET(O) when SET(M) applies, or vice versa, leads to automatic refusal
- Inaccurate absence records: Under-reporting time spent outside the UK is detected through entry/exit stamps
- Exceeding absence limits: More than 180 days outside UK in any 12-month period breaks continuous residence
- Missing Life in the UK test: Applications without a valid pass certificate are refused
- Expired English certificate: Some certificates have validity periods that must be checked
- Applying too early: Submitting before completing the qualifying period results in refusal
- Incomplete employment evidence: Gaps in employment history without explanation raise concerns
- SET(O) is for work visa holders, SET(M) for partners, SET(LR) for 10-year residence
- All ILR applicants must pass the Life in the UK test and meet English language requirements
- Continuous residence means no more than 180 days outside the UK in any 12-month period
- Using the wrong form is a common and avoidable reason for refusal
- Gather all documents before starting your application to avoid delays
Frequently Asked Questions About ILR Application Forms
What is the difference between SET(O) and SET(M)?
SET(O) is used by work visa holders (Skilled Worker, Global Talent, Innovator) applying for ILR based on employment. SET(M) is specifically for partners, spouses, and civil partners of British citizens or settled persons applying through the family route. Using the wrong form will result in your application being refused.
What is the SET(LR) application form used for?
The SET(LR) form is for the long residence route to ILR. It applies to individuals who have lived continuously and lawfully in the UK for at least 10 years, regardless of their visa category. Applicants must demonstrate they have not spent more than 540 days outside the UK during this period, with no single absence exceeding 180 days.
What documents are required for ILR SET(O) application?
SET(O) applications require your current and previous passports, BRP, Life in the UK test certificate, English language certificate at B1 level, employment evidence (letter, payslips, P60s), bank statements, proof of UK address, and a detailed record of all absences from the UK during your qualifying period. Additional documents may be needed based on your specific visa category.
How much does an ILR application cost in 2026?
As of 2026, the ILR application fee is £2,885 per person, including main applicants and dependants. This applies to all SET forms. Priority service costs an additional £500 for a 5-working-day decision, while super priority (next working day) costs £1,000 extra. Check the Home Office website for the most current fees before applying.
What happens if I use the wrong ILR application form?
Using the wrong ILR form will result in your application being refused. The Home Office does not transfer applications between form types. You would need to submit a fresh application using the correct form and pay the fee again. This is why it is essential to confirm which form applies to your visa category before starting the application process.
Can I apply for ILR before my 5-year qualifying period ends?
You can apply for ILR up to 28 days before completing your qualifying period (usually 5 years for most routes, or 3 years for some Global Talent and Innovator categories). Applying earlier than this will result in refusal. The qualifying period is calculated from the date your first relevant visa was granted, not when you entered the UK.
How long does ILR application processing take?
Standard ILR applications are typically decided within 6 months, though processing times vary based on complexity and current Home Office workload. Priority service reduces this to 5 working days, and super priority provides a next-working-day decision. Complex cases or those requiring additional verification may take longer.
Which ILR form do children use?
Children under 18 applying for ILR use the SET(F) form. This must be completed by a parent or legal guardian on behalf of the child. Children are exempt from the Life in the UK test and English language requirements. The form includes sections on the child's education, health, and details of their UK guardian or parent who has or is being granted ILR.
For official ILR application guidance and forms, visit the GOV.UK Indefinite Leave to Remain page.