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 £3,029 per applicant. 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 £3,029 per person, the total cost of applying for settlement is often higher once mandatory and optional charges are factored in. In most cases, applicants will also need to budget for the biometric enrolment fee and, where time pressures apply, optional priority or super-priority processing. 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 | £3,029 | Payable on online submission for each applicant. |
| Biometric enrolment | Mandatory | £19.20 | Each applicant provides biometrics as part of the application process. |
| 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. Biometric Enrolment Fee
As part of the ILR application process, you are required to provide biometric information, which includes fingerprints and a digital photograph. This is a mandatory step for each applicant, including children.
The current biometric enrolment fee is £19.20 per applicant. This fee is payable as part of the application process and may be charged at the point of application submission or when booking a biometric appointment, depending on the UKVCAS process in use. You should book this appointment promptly after submitting your application to avoid delays.
4. 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 total cost inc biometrics |
|---|---|---|---|
| Single applicant | 1 | Standard | £3,048.20 |
| Single applicant | 1 | Priority | £3,548.20 |
| Single applicant | 1 | Super priority | £4,048.20 |
| Couple applying together | 2 | Standard | £6,096.40 |
| Family (2 adults, 1 child) | 3 | Standard | £9,144.60 |
| Family (2 adults, 2 children) | 4 | Standard | £12,192.80 |
5. Immigration Health Surcharge following refusal
The Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) is levied on temporary visa applications and is not payable where indefinite leave to remain is granted. A refusal of an ILR application does not, in itself, give rise to any IHS liability. An applicant becomes liable to pay the healthcare surcharge only where, following an ILR refusal, the Home Office grants a period of limited leave to remain instead.
Where limited leave is granted following an ILR refusal, the surcharge is payable at a rate of £1,035 per year for most adult applicants and £776 per year for children under 18 at the date of application. The amount payable is calculated by reference to the length of the period of limited leave granted.
Any IHS due is required to be paid before the grant of limited leave to remain takes effect.
6. 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.
7. Changes to ILR Fees
The ILR application fee is subject to periodic changes as determined by the UK government. In recent years, there have been incremental increases to the ILR fee as part of broader adjustments to immigration application costs.
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 an outdated amount will 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, currently £3,029, 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. Biometric enrolment also carries a separate charge. 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, bank fraud checks block the transaction or the payer attempts to split the fee across multiple cards, which the system does not allow. These issues tend to surface only at submission stage, when time pressure is already high.
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. |
| Biometric enrolment fee | One-off | Yes | Low-value cost but mandatory for each applicant and often overlooked in budgeting. |
| 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 under the Immigration Rules. |
| 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. However, fees for any services already rendered, such as biometric enrolment, will not be refunded.
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
If you believe you are eligible for a refund based on the conditions above, you need to follow these steps to request a refund:
a. Prepare Documentation: Gather all relevant documentation, including your application reference number, payment receipts, and any correspondence from the Home Office regarding your application.
b. Complete the Refund Request Form: The Home Office provides a specific form for requesting refunds. Ensure that you complete this form accurately, providing all necessary details to support your refund claim.
c. Submit the Request: Submit the completed refund request form along with your supporting documents. This can typically be done via email or post, depending on the instructions provided by the Home Office.
d. Contact the Home Office: If you have any questions or need assistance with the refund process, you can contact the Home Office through their helpline or customer service email. Provide them with your application reference number and details of your refund request.
e. Follow Up: After submitting your request, follow up with the Home Office if you do not receive a response within a reasonable timeframe. Keep records of all correspondence and any reference numbers provided.
Section E: 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.
Section F: 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.
Section G: 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 £3,029 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 the biometric enrolment fee of £19.20 per applicant, the cost for optional priority processing and the fees for legal advice if you engage 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.
Section H: 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 £3,029 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. |
Section I: Additional Resources & Links
| Resource | What it covers | Link |
|---|---|---|
| UK Government – Indefinite leave to remain | Official Home Office guidance on ILR eligibility, application routes and current fees. | https://www.gov.uk/indefinite-leave-to-remain |
| UK Government – Immigration and nationality fees | Current Home Office fee tables for ILR and other immigration and nationality applications. | https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/visa-fees-table |
| UKVCAS | Information on biometric enrolment appointments, document upload and submission process. | https://www.ukvcas.co.uk |
| UK Government – Immigration Health Surcharge | Guidance on when the Immigration Health Surcharge applies and how it is calculated. | https://www.gov.uk/healthcare-immigration-application |
| Law Centres Network | Free and low-cost legal advice for individuals who cannot afford private representation. | https://www.lawcentres.org.uk/i-am-looking-for-advice |
