This comprehensive guide covers the Skilled Worker Visa ILR requirements for 2026, including eligibility criteria, the £3,029 application fee, salary thresholds, and the SET(O) application process. Whether you're approaching your 5-year qualifying period or planning ahead, understanding the settlement requirements is essential for a successful application for Indefinite Leave to Remain in the UK.
Understanding Skilled Worker Visa ILR Requirements in 2026
The Skilled Worker Visa ILR requirements allow visa holders to apply for permanent settlement in the UK after completing 5 years of continuous residence. Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) grants the right to live and work in the UK without immigration restrictions, access public funds, and serves as a stepping stone toward British citizenship.
Time spent on the former Tier 2 (General) visa counts toward the qualifying period, meaning many workers sponsored before December 2020 are now eligible to apply. The Skilled Worker visa replaced Tier 2 and maintains the same 5-year route to settlement.
What Are the ILR Eligibility Requirements for Skilled Workers?
To qualify for ILR as a Skilled Worker, you must have completed 5 years of continuous residence in the UK, not have been absent for more than 180 days in any 12-month period, meet the salary threshold (£41,700 or going rate), pass the Life in the UK test, demonstrate B1 English proficiency, and meet the good character requirement.
The ILR eligibility requirements for Skilled Worker visa holders are designed to ensure applicants have established genuine ties to the UK and can support themselves financially. Each requirement must be satisfied at the date of your application.
1. Continuous Residence Requirement
You must have lived in the UK for at least 5 continuous years under the Skilled Worker visa (or combination of Skilled Worker and Tier 2 General). The continuous residence requirement is strictly enforced, with specific rules about absences:
- 180-day rule: Absences must not exceed 180 days in any 12-month period during your qualifying period
- Serious breach: A single absence of more than 6 continuous months will reset your qualifying period
- Work-related absences: Count toward the 180-day limit (no exemptions for business travel)
- Documentation: Keep detailed records of all travel dates for your ILR application
2. Salary Requirement at ILR Stage
You must be earning at least £41,700 per year or the going rate for your occupation (whichever is higher) at the time of your ILR application. This represents a significant increase from the previous £25,600 threshold. For detailed information on salary calculations, see our Skilled Worker salary requirements guide.
3. Knowledge of English Language
Applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency at CEFR Level B1 or above. This can be proven through a SELT test, a degree taught in English, or being a national of a majority English-speaking country.
4. Life in the UK Test
You must pass the Life in the UK test, a computer-based examination covering British customs, traditions, history, and everyday life. The test fee is £50 and must be passed before submitting your ILR application.
5. Good Character Requirement
The Home Office will assess your character, including criminal history, immigration compliance, and any deception in previous applications. A previous immigration breach or criminal conviction can result in refusal.
- 5 years continuous residence on Skilled Worker/Tier 2 visa
- No more than 180 days absence in any 12-month period
- Earning £41,700+ or the going rate for your occupation
- B1 English proficiency (or exempt)
- Life in the UK test passed
- Good character (no criminal record or immigration breaches)
- Still employed by a licensed sponsor
SET(O) ILR Application Process: Step-by-Step Guide
The SET(O) is the online settlement application form for Skilled Worker visa holders applying for ILR. The process involves completing the online form, paying the £3,029 fee, booking a UKVCAS biometric appointment, uploading supporting documents, and waiting up to 6 months for a decision.
How to Apply for ILR Using SET(O)
The ILR application for Skilled Workers is submitted entirely online through the gov.uk settlement portal. Follow these steps:
- Step 1: Verify you meet all eligibility requirements before starting
- Step 2: Complete the SET(O) application form online
- Step 3: Pay the £3,029 application fee (per applicant)
- Step 4: Book a UKVCAS appointment for biometrics
- Step 5: Upload supporting documents as requested
- Step 6: Attend your biometric appointment with original documents
- Step 7: Wait for decision (up to 6 months standard processing)
Documents Required for Skilled Worker ILR
Prepare the following documents before starting your SET(O) application:
Skilled Worker ILR Salary Requirements 2026
For ILR applications made from 22 July 2025 onwards, you must earn at least £41,700 per year or 100% of the going rate for your occupation, whichever is higher. This is the "settlement pay test" and applies at the date of your ILR application, regardless of your original visa salary.
The salary requirement for ILR is distinct from the salary at which you were originally sponsored. Even if you were sponsored at a lower threshold (such as £26,200 before April 2024), you must meet the current threshold when applying for settlement. This is a common reason for ILR refusals.
What If My Salary Is Below £41,700?
If your current salary doesn't meet the £41,700 threshold, you have several options:
- Negotiate a pay rise: Request a salary increase to meet the threshold before applying
- Change employers: Find a new sponsor offering the required salary (new CoS needed)
- Extend your visa: Extend your Skilled Worker visa and wait until you earn enough
- Check going rate: Some occupations have going rates below £41,700
For information on occupation-specific going rates and skill level requirements, see the RQF Level 6 jobs guide and Appendix Skilled Occupations.
ILR Costs and Processing Times 2026
The ILR application fee is £3,029 per person (from April 2025). Standard processing takes up to 6 months. Priority service (£500 extra) aims for 5 working days, and Super Priority (£1,000 extra) aims for next working day. The Immigration Health Surcharge is NOT payable for ILR applications.
How Much Does Skilled Worker ILR Cost?
For a family of four (2 adults, 2 children), the total ILR cost would be approximately £12,116 (£3,029 × 4) plus test fees. All Home Office ILR fees are non-refundable, even if your application is refused.
How Long Does ILR Processing Take?
The ILR processing time for standard applications is up to 6 months from your biometric appointment. Processing may take longer for complex cases involving criminal history, immigration breaches, or those requiring additional verification. If your application is experiencing delays, you can track status through the Home Office.
- ILR fee is £3,029 per person (April 2025), non-refundable
- Salary must be £41,700+ or going rate at ILR application date
- 5 years continuous residence with max 180 days absence per year
- B1 English and Life in the UK test required
- Processing takes up to 6 months (priority options available)
- No Immigration Health Surcharge for ILR applications
For official guidance on settlement requirements, visit the Immigration Rules Appendix Skilled Worker.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the ILR requirements for Skilled Worker visa holders in 2026?
The main ILR requirements for Skilled Workers include: 5 years continuous residence in the UK, earning at least £41,700 (or the going rate), no more than 180 days absence in any 12-month period, passing the Life in the UK test, B1 English proficiency, meeting the good character requirement, and still being employed by a licensed sponsor at the time of application.
How much does Skilled Worker ILR cost in 2026?
The ILR application fee is £3,029 per person (from April 2025). This applies to each applicant including dependants. Additional costs include the Life in the UK test (£50) and English test if required (£150-£250). Priority processing costs an extra £500 (5 days) or £1,000 (next day). The Immigration Health Surcharge is NOT payable for ILR applications.
What is the SET(O) form for ILR?
SET(O) is the online settlement application form used by Skilled Worker visa holders (and other work routes) to apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain. The "O" stands for "Other" routes. The form is completed entirely online through gov.uk, and you can add dependant family members to the same application.
What salary do I need for Skilled Worker ILR?
For ILR applications made from 22 July 2025, you must earn at least £41,700 per year or 100% of the going rate for your occupation, whichever is higher. This applies at the date of your ILR application, regardless of your original visa salary. Some health and education roles may qualify for lower thresholds based on national pay scales.
How long does Skilled Worker ILR processing take?
Standard ILR processing takes up to 6 months from your biometric appointment. Priority service (£500 extra) aims for a decision within 5 working days, and Super Priority (£1,000 extra) aims for the next working day. Complex cases involving criminal records or immigration history may take longer.
Does time on Tier 2 visa count towards ILR?
Yes, time spent in the UK on the former Tier 2 (General) visa counts toward the 5-year qualifying period for ILR. The Skilled Worker visa replaced Tier 2 in December 2020, and the settlement pathway remains unchanged. You can combine time on both visa types to meet the continuous residence requirement.
Can my dependants apply for ILR at the same time?
Yes, your dependant partner and children can apply for ILR if they have also been in the UK for 5 continuous years as dependants. Each family member must pay the full £3,029 fee. Dependants must meet their own continuous residence requirements, relationship requirements, and the Life in the UK test (if over 18 and under 65).
What happens after I get ILR?
With ILR, you can live and work in the UK without restrictions, change employers freely without visa sponsorship, access public funds, and spend up to 2 years outside the UK without losing your status. After 12 months with ILR, you may be eligible to apply for British citizenship through naturalisation.