Section A: ILR Fees in 2026
Applying for UK Indefinite Leave to Remain can involve a number of costs, some of which are mandatory, such as the Home Office processing fee, while some relate to optional services, such as the priority processing fee.
1. How much is the UK Indefinite Leave to Remain Fee?
The fee for applying for Indefinite Leave to Remain is £3,226 per applicant for applications made on or after 8 April 2026.
The fee applies to each applicant, including partners and children who are applying for settlement in their own right.
The total fee is payable before applications will be processed.
The Home Office reviews and updates its fees periodically. Applicants must ensure they pay the correct amount to avoid issues with their application processing.
The ILR application fee is not refunded where an application is refused, subject to limited exceptions such as invalid applications, withdrawal before processing or overpayment.
2. How much does ILR cost in total?
While the headline ILR application fee is currently £3,029 per person (rising to £3,226 from 8 April 2026), the total cost of applying for settlement is often higher once mandatory and optional charges are factored in.
Applicants may also opt for priority or super priority processing if available. Where professional support is used, legal fees add a further layer of cost.
For families applying at the same time, these amounts multiply quickly because each applicant pays separately.
| Cost item | Mandatory or optional | Amount (per applicant) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| ILR application fee | Mandatory | £3,226 | Payable on online submission for each applicant for applications made on or after 8 April 2026. |
| Priority processing | Optional | £500 | Availability depends on the application type and service capacity. |
| Super priority processing | Optional | £1,000 | Availability depends on the application type and service capacity. |
| Legal fees | Optional | Varies | Depends on scope of support and case complexity. |
3. ILR Priority Processing (Optional)
For applicants requiring a faster decision on their Indefinite Leave to Remain application, the Home Office offers priority and super priority processing services. These expedited services come at an additional cost but significantly reduce the waiting time for a decision.
Importantly, not all ILR application types are eligible for priority or super-priority processing. You will find out if priority services are available to you when you complete your application form. If you wish to use one of these services, select the relevant option on the form and pay the additional fee.
a. ILR Priority Processing
Priority processing is designed for those who need a quicker response but do not require the fastest possible service. With priority processing, the Home Office aims to provide a decision within five working days, although this is a target rather than a guarantee. This service is ideal for applicants who have urgent travel plans, employment needs, or other time-sensitive commitments.
The cost for priority processing is currently £500 in addition to the standard ILR application fee.
b. Super Priority Processing
Super priority processing offers the fastest available service for ILR applications. With this option, the Home Office aims to provide a decision by the end of the next working day, subject to service availability.
The cost for super-priority processing is £1,000 on top of the standard ILR application fee.
Read our detailed guide to ILR priority processing services >
| Example scenario | Number of applicants | Service used | Typical application total cost before 8 April 2026 | Typical application total cost from 8 April 2026 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single applicant | 1 | Standard | £3,029 | £3,226 |
| Single applicant | 1 | Priority | £3,529 | £3,726 |
| Single applicant | 1 | Super priority | £4,029 | £4,226 |
| Couple applying together | 2 | Standard | £6,058 | £6,452 |
| Family (2 adults, 1 child) | 3 | Standard | £9,087 | £9,678 |
| Family (2 adults, 2 children) | 4 | Standard | £12,116 | £12,904 |
4. Legal Fees
Many applicants choose to seek the assistance of an immigration solicitor to increase the likelihood of a successful application. Legal fees cover services such as application preparation, document review, and representation in case of any issues or appeals and can vary widely depending on factors such as the complexity of your case, the reputation and experience of the advisor, and the level of service provided.
5. Changes to ILR Fees
The ILR application fee is subject to periodic changes as determined by the UK government. Accordingly, a higher rate has been confirmed for applications made on or after 8 April 2026.
Any change to the ILR application fee applies from the date it comes into force. Draft or partially completed applications do not lock in earlier fee levels, and applicants who submit after a fee increase takes effect are required to pay the new amount, even if the form was started before the change.
Applicants should always confirm the current ILR fee immediately before submission, as paying the wrong fee can result in the application being rejected as invalid. Check the official UK government website or consult with an immigration adviser to get the most current information on fees.
DavidsonMorris Strategic Insight
Planning solely around the headline Home Office application fee risks unexpected cost exposure. Fees can escalate quickly where dependants are applying at the same time or where priority or super priority processing is used. Where affordability becomes an issue, delays often follow, and settlement plans can stall while funding gaps are addressed.
Organisations that handle settlement well tend to factor ILR costs into long-term sponsorship and workforce planning at an early stage, rather than leaving ILR to be treated as a last-minute personal expense for the employee.
Section B: Payment Methods for ILR Fees
Payment of the ILR application fee is not a procedural formality. It is a core validity requirement under the Immigration Rules, and errors at this stage can prevent an application from being considered at all. Understanding how and when the fee is paid, who can pay it and what happens if payment fails is therefore central to managing application risk.
1. When the ILR fee is paid
The ILR application fee is paid at the point the online application is submitted. It is not possible to submit an application and pay later, and an application is not treated as valid unless the correct fee has been paid in full. Where the fee is underpaid, the application will be rejected as invalid rather than refused. An invalid application is not considered on its merits and does not provide any protection for the applicant’s immigration status while the error is corrected.
2. Accepted payment methods and third-party payment
Online card payment is the standard and expected method for paying ILR fees. Other payment methods such as cash, cheque or bank transfer are not accepted through the application system. The fee does not need to be paid using a card in the applicant’s own name. Payment by a third party is permitted, including payment by an employer, partner or family member, provided the transaction is authorised and completed successfully.
In practice, payment problems most often arise where card limits are exceeded or bank fraud checks block the transaction.
3. Employer Payment & reimbursement
Employers are permitted to pay or reimburse the cost of an ILR application on behalf of an employee. Unlike certain sponsorship-related costs, ILR fees are not treated as restricted or prohibited payments under sponsor licence guidance. From a practical perspective, many employers cover settlement costs as part of retention or workforce planning policies, particularly where the employee has been sponsored over a number of years.
| Cost category | One-off or recurring | Employer permitted to pay | Practical employer notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| ILR application fee | One-off | Yes | Not a restricted cost under sponsor licence guidance and commonly covered as part of retention planning. |
| Priority processing | One-off | Yes | Optional service used where business continuity or travel timelines are tight. |
| Super priority processing | One-off | Yes | Higher cost option typically reserved for urgent commercial or operational deadlines. |
| Legal fees | One-off | Yes | Scope and cost vary depending on level of support and internal HR capability. |
4. Failed payments, system errors and confirmation of submission
A payment attempt does not in itself mean that an application has been submitted. A valid submission is confirmed only once payment has cleared and the system issues a submission confirmation. Where a payment fails, times out or is interrupted, applicants should not assume the application has gone through. Resubmitting without checking payment status can lead to duplicate payments or uncertainty over which application is valid, both of which can complicate follow-up with the Home Office.
Applicants and employers should therefore treat payment confirmation as a critical checkpoint in the ILR process, particularly where deadlines or immigration status continuity are in issue.
| Situation | ILR fee refunded | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Application withdrawn before processing | Usually yes | Refund depends on whether the Home Office has started processing the application. |
| Application rejected as invalid | Usually yes | Invalidity relates to failure to meet validity requirements, although an administrative charge may apply. |
| Overpayment | Yes | Only the overpaid amount is refunded. |
| Duplicate applications | Sometimes | May be refunded at the Home Office’s discretion, depending on whether processing has begun. |
| Application refused after processing | No | Fees are not refunded where an application is refused following consideration. |
DavidsonMorris Strategic Insight
Fee payment is one of the most common reasons technically strong ILR applications fail without ever being considered. If the application fee is underpaid, the application will be treated as invalid and will not be processed or progressed. This can create serious risk where an applicant’s current immigration permission is close to expiry and continuity of lawful status depends on a valid in-time application.
Once payment is made, the transaction confirmation should be retained and kept with the wider application evidence. Payment records are often needed to resolve disputes, clarify submission status or evidence that a valid application was made if issues arise later in the process.
Section C: ILR Fee Exemptions and Reductions
The Home Office does not offer fee waivers for indefinite leave to remain applications and there is no general discretion for the Home Office to waive or reduce the ILR application fee on grounds of financial hardship or exceptional circumstances. This means all applicants are expected to pay the full application fee set by the Home Office.
For employers, misunderstanding this point often leads to delayed settlement and extended sponsorship costs that could have been avoided with earlier planning.
DavidsonMorris Strategic Insight
Something ILR applicants need to be clear about from the outset of their immigration planning is that there are no waivers or reductions available for settlement applications. Hardship, long residence or family life arguments do not factor into ILR fee assessment, and there is no mechanism within the system to reduce the Home Office processing fee.
In practice, this can push some visa holders into repeated limited leave applications instead of settlement, increasing long-term cost and uncertainty for both the individual and the employer.
From a workforce perspective, employers should have clear oversight of ILR application funding to avoid this type of extension creep developing through sponsorship and retention planning.
Section D: ILR Fee Refunds
While the ILR fee is generally non-refundable, there are specific circumstances where a refund may be granted.
1. When is the ILR Fee Refundable?
The ILR application fee may be refunded under the following conditions:
a. Application Withdrawal Before Processing: If you withdraw your application before the Home Office has started processing it, you may be eligible for a full refund. It is crucial to submit the withdrawal request as soon as possible to maximise the chance of receiving a refund.
b. Application Rejected as Invalid: If your application is rejected as invalid because it does not meet the validity requirements set out in the Immigration Rules, you may receive a refund, although an administrative charge may apply under the Home Office refunds policy.
c. Overpayment: If you accidentally pay more than the required fee, the excess amount will be refunded. This often happens if multiple payments are made in error or if there is a discrepancy in the amount submitted.
d. Duplicate Applications: If you submit multiple ILR applications and fees, the fees for duplicate applications may be refunded at the Home Office’s discretion, depending on whether processing has begun.
It is important to note that if your application is refused after processing has begun, the fee will not be refunded.
2. How to Request an ILR Refund
Refund requests are dealt with under the Home Office refunds policy. Applicants should keep their application reference number, payment confirmation and any relevant Home Office correspondence. Where a refund is due, the Home Office will normally process it using the original payment route where possible.
Summary
Applying for Indefinite Leave to Remain is a significant milestone for many individuals seeking to secure their future in the UK. Given the process involves substantial fees and potential additional costs, taking professional advice can help ensure you prepare a fully comprehensive and compelling application, to avoid delays or issues.
Need Assistance?
DavidsonMorris are recognised experts in UK immigration and settlement applications. We help individuals with all aspects of applications for Indefinite Leave to Remain, including guidance on the ILR application fee and using priority and super priority services. For specialist advice, book a fixed-fee telephone consultation with one of our experts to discuss your application.
ILR Fees FAQs
What is Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR)?
Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) is a type of immigration status granted to individuals who have lived in the UK for a certain period. It allows them to stay in the UK indefinitely without a time limit on residence, subject to compliance with UK law and residence requirements. It is a key step towards obtaining British citizenship.
How much is the ILR application fee?
The ILR application fee is £3,226 per applicant. This fee is payable at the time of application and is non-refundable if the application is unsuccessful.
Are there additional costs associated with the ILR application?
Additional costs may include optional priority or super priority processing and legal fees if you use a professional adviser.
Can I get a refund for the ILR application fee?
Refunds are generally not available for ILR applications, but exceptions include withdrawal before processing starts, where the application is rejected as invalid, due to overpayment or duplicate applications.
What happens if my ILR application is refused?
If your ILR application is refused, take professional advice on your options, which may include submitting a fresh application that resolves the initial grounds for refusal, requesting an administrative review where available, or appealing the decision where a statutory right of appeal exists, usually where a human rights claim has been refused
How long does the ILR application process take?
The processing time for ILR applications can vary, but it typically takes around six months under standard processing. Priority and super-priority services may be available for faster processing at an additional cost.
Glossary
| Term | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) | An immigration status allowing a person to live and work in the UK without a time limit, subject to compliance with residence and conduct rules. |
| ILR application fee | The Home Office fee payable by each individual applying for settlement, currently £3,226 per applicant. |
| Biometric enrolment | The process of providing fingerprints and a digital photograph as part of an immigration application. |
| UKVCAS | UK Visa and Citizenship Application Services, the service used for biometric appointments and document submission in UK-based applications. |
| Priority processing | An optional paid service aiming to deliver a faster decision on an application, subject to availability and service targets. |
| Super priority processing | An optional expedited service aiming to provide a decision by the end of the next working day, subject to availability. |
| Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) | A charge payable on certain temporary immigration applications to access NHS services, not payable where ILR is granted. |
| Invalid application | An application rejected without consideration because it does not meet the validity requirements set out in the Immigration Rules. |
| Refund | The return of an application fee in limited circumstances, such as overpayment, invalidity or withdrawal before processing. |
| Third-party payment | Payment of an application fee by someone other than the applicant, such as an employer or family member, which is permitted for ILR applications. |
Additional Resources & Links
| Resource | Link |
|---|---|
| UK Government – Indefinite leave to remain | https://www.gov.uk/indefinite-leave-to-remain |
| UK Government – Immigration and nationality fees | https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/visa-fees-table |
| UKVCAS | https://www.ukvcas.co.uk |
| UK Government – Immigration Health Surcharge | https://www.gov.uk/healthcare-immigration-application |
| Law Centres Network | https://www.lawcentres.org.uk/i-am-looking-for-advice |
