1. Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) Fee for a Child in the UK
As of 2024, the ILR application fee for a child is £2,404. This fee is the same for adults and children, and it is non-refundable, even if the application is denied. The fee covers the cost of processing and decision-making for the child’s ILR status, allowing them to live in the UK without time restrictions once approved.
2. Additional Costs When Applying for ILR for a Child
In addition to the ILR application fee, you may need to pay for:
- Biometric Enrollment: A fee of £19.20 for submitting the child’s fingerprints and photograph at a UK Visa and Citizenship Application Services (UKVCAS) center.
- Priority Service (optional): For faster processing, the Super Priority Service costs £800 in addition to the application fee, providing a decision within 24 hours.
- Document Translation: Any non-English documents must be officially translated, which may incur additional costs.
These costs are separate from the ILR application fee and should be considered when budgeting for the application.
3. Eligibility Requirements for a Child’s ILR Application
Children may be eligible for ILR if:
- Born in the UK: Children born in the UK to parents who have acquired ILR may apply.
- Dependent on ILR-Holding Parents: Children outside the UK or born abroad may qualify for ILR as dependents if they are under 18 years old and both parents have ILR.
- Residency Requirements: Generally, there is no residency requirement for children applying as dependents, although children over 10 years old may need to meet additional requirements regarding residence and good character.
These eligibility requirements ensure that children’s ILR applications align with their parents’ immigration status.
4. Application Process for a Child’s ILR
The steps for applying for ILR for a child are as follows:
- Complete the Application Form: Use Form SET(O) or Form SET(F), depending on the specific circumstances and the parent’s visa status.
- Provide Supporting Documents: This includes the child’s passport, birth certificate, proof of residence, and parents’ ILR status documents.
- Biometric Appointment: Schedule an appointment at a UKVCAS center for the child’s biometrics.
- Pay the Fee: The £2,404 ILR fee is paid during the online application process.
It’s essential to check all document requirements and submit a complete application to avoid delays.
5. Required Documents for a Child’s ILR Application
Commonly required documents include:
- Child’s Passport: Valid travel document or proof of identity.
- Birth Certificate: Proof of relationship to the ILR-holding parent(s).
- Parents’ ILR Documentation: Proof of the parents’ ILR or settled status.
- Proof of Residence: School records, medical documents, or other evidence confirming the child’s presence in the UK (if applicable).
These documents help verify the child’s eligibility for ILR and relationship to the parents.
6. Timeline for Processing a Child’s ILR Application
The standard processing time for a child’s ILR application is approximately 6 months. However, the Super Priority Service is available, which can provide a decision within 24 hours for an additional £800 fee.
Applying in advance and ensuring all documents are complete can help avoid delays in processing.
7. Benefits of ILR for a Child
Once a child is granted ILR, they gain numerous rights, including:
- Permanent Residency: The child can live, study, and work in the UK without immigration restrictions.
- Access to Public Services: Eligibility for public services such as healthcare and education.
- Pathway to Citizenship: After holding ILR for 12 months, children may be eligible to apply for British citizenship.
These benefits ensure that children have a stable residency status, which can lead to full citizenship if desired.
8. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Is the ILR fee refundable if my child’s application is refused?
A: No, the ILR fee is non-refundable, even if the application is denied.
Q2: Do children need to pass the Life in the UK Test for ILR?
A: No, children under 18 are exempt from the Life in the UK Test and English language requirements.
Q3: Can I apply for ILR for my child if only one parent has ILR?
A: Generally, both parents must have ILR or be applying at the same time. Exceptions may apply in certain cases.
Q4: Can my child apply for citizenship directly instead of ILR?
A: Yes, if the child was born in the UK and at least one parent has ILR, they may be eligible to register as a British citizen instead.
Q5: How long can my child stay outside the UK with ILR?
A: ILR allows absences of up to 2 years without losing residency status. Longer absences may require a Returning Resident visa.
Q6: Is there a discount for multiple children applying for ILR?
A: No, each child must pay the full £2,404 ILR application fee individually.