What is the ILR 2-Year Route for Spouses?
The Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) 2-Year Route allows foreign spouses of British citizens or settled residents to apply for permanent residency in the UK after just two years of lawful residence — instead of the standard five years.
This route applies only to individuals who entered the UK before 9 April 2012 under the old Immigration Rules. After that date, the Home Office introduced the 5-year route, which is now the standard pathway.
Key Benefits of the ILR 2-Year Route
- Grants permanent residency after two years of continuous lawful residence.
- Removes the need for future visa extensions.
- Allows unrestricted work, study, and access to public funds.
- Provides a pathway to British citizenship.
If you were issued your original spouse visa before the 2012 rule change and have maintained lawful status, you may still qualify under this transitional route.
Eligibility Requirements for the ILR 2-Year Route
To apply successfully for ILR under the 2-year spouse route, you must meet the following criteria:
1. Pre-2012 Visa Entry
You must have entered the UK as a spouse or partner before 9 April 2012 and continued to extend your visa under the old rules.
2. Continuous Residence
You must have lived in the UK continuously for at least two years, without extended absences.
3. Genuine and Subsisting Relationship
You must prove your relationship with your British or settled partner is genuine, ongoing, and legally valid (marriage or civil partnership).
4. Good Character Requirement
You must have no criminal convictions, immigration breaches, or history of deception.
This route is not available for applicants whose first spouse or partner visa was granted after 9 April 2012 — those applicants must follow the 5-year or 10-year route to ILR.
Required Documents for the ILR 2-Year Route Application
Supporting evidence plays a crucial role in the success of your ILR application. You must provide original or certified copies of the following:
Personal and Identity Documents
- Valid passport(s): Showing your entry and visa history.
- Biometric Residence Permit (BRP): If issued previously.
- Marriage or Civil Partnership Certificate: To prove your legal relationship.
Proof of Cohabitation and Relationship
Provide evidence showing you and your spouse/partner have lived together during your qualifying period:
- Joint utility bills (gas, water, electricity, internet)
- Council tax bills or tenancy/mortgage agreements
- Bank statements in joint names
- Official correspondence from HMRC, NHS, or financial institutions
These documents should cover the last two years and be evenly spread across the period.
Financial Evidence
Even though the pre-2012 route does not require a fixed income threshold (like the £18,600 rule), you must show financial stability:
- Recent bank statements
- Payslips or proof of employment/self-employment
- Evidence you can live without public funds
Additional Supporting Documents
- Life in the UK Test certificate
- English Language proficiency at B1 CEFR level or equivalent (or proof of exemption)
These confirm that you meet integration and language requirements for settlement.
How to Apply for ILR on the 2-Year Route
Follow these steps to submit your application correctly and avoid delays or refusals.
Step 1: Complete Form SET(M)
Apply online using Form SET(M), which is specifically for spouses or partners of British citizens or settled persons.
You can find the form and instructions on the UK Government website: gov.uk/indefinite-leave-to-remain-spouse.
Step 2: Pay the Application Fee
- ILR Application Fee (2024): £2,404
- Biometric Enrolment Fee: £19.20
Additional costs may apply if you use priority services for faster processing.
Step 3: Book Your Biometric Appointment
After submitting your application, you’ll receive instructions to book a biometric appointment at a UK Visa and Citizenship Application Services (UKVCAS) centre.
You must attend in person to provide your fingerprints, photograph, and signature.
Step 4: Upload and Submit Documents
Upload all supporting documents online before your appointment. Ensure scans are clear and readable.
Step 5: Attend Your Appointment
Attend your biometric appointment as scheduled. Bring your passport, appointment confirmation, and any supporting documents not uploaded online.
Step 6: Wait for a Decision
Processing usually takes 6–8 weeks, but complex cases may take longer. If approved, you’ll receive:
- A Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) confirming ILR status.
You can then live, work, and study in the UK without any immigration restrictions.
English Language and Life in the UK Test Requirements
All ILR applicants must meet integration requirements.
English Language Requirement
You must demonstrate English proficiency at CEFR Level B1 or above. You can prove this by:
- Passing a UKVI-approved English test (e.g., IELTS Life Skills).
- Holding a degree taught in English (UK NARIC verification may be needed).
- Being a citizen of a majority English-speaking country.
Life in the UK Test
This test assesses knowledge of British history, culture, and values.
- Fee: £50
- Booking: gov.uk/life-in-the-uk-test
- You must bring valid ID and your test booking confirmation.
Passing both tests demonstrates readiness for permanent residence in the UK.
Financial Requirements for the ILR 2-Year Route
While there’s no formal income threshold under the old rules, you must still prove you can support yourself without accessing public funds.
Accepted Financial Evidence
- Recent payslips or tax returns (if self-employed)
- Bank statements showing stable income or savings
- Employment letter confirming your job and salary
You may also include a sponsor letter from your British or settled spouse confirming they support you financially.
Pathway to British Citizenship
Once you’ve held ILR, you may be eligible to apply for British citizenship immediately if you’re married to a British citizen.
Eligibility Criteria
- Must have been living in the UK for at least 3 years before applying.
- Must hold ILR status at the time of application.
- Must meet the good character and residency requirements.
Fees and Process
- Citizenship Application Fee: £1,330
- Additional costs: £19.20 biometric fee + £80 citizenship ceremony fee.
Upon approval, you’ll receive a British passport and full rights as a UK national.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Who qualifies for the ILR 2-Year Route?
Applicants who entered the UK on a spouse visa before 9 April 2012 and have continuously maintained lawful residence.
2. Do I need to take the Life in the UK Test?
Yes, all ILR applicants must pass the Life in the UK Test.
3. How long does ILR processing take?
Typically 6–8 weeks, depending on case complexity and document completeness.
4. Can I work in the UK after ILR?
Yes. ILR gives you unrestricted permission to work, study, or conduct business in the UK.
5. What happens if my ILR is refused?
You may be able to appeal the decision or reapply if you meet the requirements. Seek legal advice immediately.
6. Can I apply for citizenship immediately after ILR?
If you are married to a British citizen and have lived in the UK for three years, you may apply for citizenship immediately after receiving ILR.
Conclusion
The ILR 2-Year Spouse Route offers a valuable opportunity for long-term residents who entered the UK before April 2012 to obtain permanent settlement more quickly than under current rules.
By ensuring your relationship is genuine, your residence continuous, and your documentation complete, you can secure your ILR and lay the foundation for British citizenship and a permanent future in the UK.
For fixed-fee legal help with your case,
contact Martin Taggart — your trusted UK legal partner.