Applying for indefinite leave to remain (ILR), also known as permanent residency in the UK, is a life-changing milestone for many migrants in the United Kingdom. It provides not only stability and security but also paves the way to eventual British citizenship. However, alongside strict eligibility requirements and documentation, the ILR application fee remains one of the most crucial aspects of the process.

With government charges increasing steadily over the years, understanding the exact ILR fees in 2025 and any potential additional costs is essential for proper planning. Applicants often underestimate the full financial impact, which can include solicitor’s fees, biometric enrolment charges, and even translation services for supporting documents.

This article provides a comprehensive breakdown of the ILR application fee, explores how it has changed over time, explains why the Home Office continues to increase immigration charges, and offers guidance on planning financially for your application.

The Importance of the ILR Application Fee

For many migrants, the ILR application fee is not just a payment — it represents years of effort, investment, and commitment to building a life in the UK. A successful application allows individuals to live and work in the UK without immigration restrictions, access certain benefits, and eventually apply for British citizenship.

However, the Home Office ILR charges are among the highest immigration fees globally, which can be a significant burden for families applying together. Each family member, including children, must pay the full ILR application fee when applying for indefinite leave to remain from inside the UK. Knowing the exact amount of the indefinite leave to remain cost can help applicants prepare in advance and avoid financial obstacles during submission.

Current ILR Application Fee (2025)

The ILR application fee in 2025 is a critical factor for anyone applying for settlement in the UK. While eligibility requirements determine who can apply, the financial requirement determines whether you can afford to apply. The ILR application fee applies to both the main applicant and any dependants included in the application.

Official Home Office Fee

As of 2025, the Home Office ILR application fee is set at £2,885 per applicant for standard processing. This fee must be paid at the time of application submission, and the application will not be considered valid without successful payment.

Applicants should note:

• This fee applies to both main applicants and dependants.
• Each dependant (spouse, partner, child under 18) incurs the same charge.
• The fee is generally non refundable, even if your application is refused or withdrawn.

Biometric Enrolment

In addition to the ILR application fee, applicants are required to provide biometric information (fingerprints and photographs). This process currently costs £19.20 per applicant, which is usually added automatically during the payment stage.

Priority and Super Priority Services

For applicants who require faster decisions, the Home Office offers optional expedited services known as priority processing:

• Priority Service – This is a form of priority processing, with an additional £500 priority processing fee, providing a decision within 5 working days.
• Super Priority Service – This is known as super priority processing, with an additional £1,000 fee, providing a decision by the end of the next working day (within 24 hours after biometrics submission).

These costs are added on top of the standard ILR application fee, meaning that a single super priority ILR application can exceed £3,885 per applicant.

Additional Costs Beyond the Application Fee

While the Home Office sets the official ILR application fee, applicants should also prepare for additional fees and optional services, such as:

• Solicitor fees (which can range from £1,000 to £3,000+ depending on case complexity).
• Translation and certification of documents.
• Travel costs to biometric appointment centres.
• Document courier charges and other additional fees if using premium or optional services, such as priority processing or extra support options.

Breakdown of Costs: What Applicants Really Pay

When preparing an application, many migrants focus only on the official ILR application fee charged by the Home Office. However, in practice, the total cost of applying for Indefinite Leave to Remain can be significantly higher once all related expenses are factored in. For a comprehensive overview of all costs, including payment procedures, possible refunds, and reductions, applicants should consult a fee guide.

1. Government Fees

The official Home Office application fee for ILR is the baseline cost:

• Standard Home Office application fee (2025): £2,885 per applicant
• Biometric enrolment: £19.20 per applicant
• Optional priority services:
• Priority (5 working days): +£500
• Super Priority (24 hours): +£1,000

These fees apply to all applicants, regardless of age or category.

If a family of four applies together using the super priority service, the government charges alone could exceed £15,600.

2. Legal Representation Fees

While it is possible to submit an ILR application without professional help, many applicants seek assistance from immigration solicitors due to the complexity and high stakes involved.

Typical solicitor fees for ILR applications range from:

• £1,200 – £2,500 for straightforward cases.
• £2,500 – £4,000+ for complex applications (such as those involving refusals, long residence, or human rights claims).

These fees are separate from the ILR application fee and are non-refundable once legal work has started.

3. Document Preparation Costs

Applicants may need to spend additional money to prepare their documents properly:

• Translations: Any document not in English or Welsh must be translated by a certified translator (approx. £50 – £100 per page).
• Notarisation/Certification: Some documents may need certification (£10 – £50 per document).
• Travel to appointment centres: Depending on location, costs for travel, accommodation, or courier services may apply.

4. Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) Considerations

Although the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) (also known as the immigration healthcare surcharge or healthcare surcharge) does not apply to ILR applicants, it is worth noting that many people applying for ILR have previously paid thousands in IHS fees during their limited leave visas. By securing ILR, applicants remove this future financial burden.

5. Indirect Costs

Other costs often overlooked include:

• Time off work to prepare and attend appointments.
• Potential loss of income if applications are delayed.
• Costs of replacing lost or expired documents (e.g., passports, birth certificates).

Example Scenario

A married couple with two children applying for ILR with super priority service could face:

• ILR fees (4 × £2,885) = £11,540
• Biometric fees (4 × £19.20) = £76.80
• Super priority (4 × £1,000) = £4,000
• Solicitor fees (approx.) = £3,000
• Document translation/certification = £500

The total remain fees for the family include all application, biometric, and priority service charges.

Total estimated cost: £19,116.80

Changes to the ILR Application Fee Over Time

The ILR fee has not remained static. In fact, over the past decade, the remain fee—the cost of securing settlement in the UK—has increased significantly, reflecting broader government policies on immigration funding.

Historical Trends

• 2014: The ILR application fees were around £1,093.
• 2017: The ILR application fees rose to £2,297, marking one of the steepest increases in recent years.
• 2019: The ILR application fees reached £2,389.
• 2021–2023: ILR application fees continued to climb, eventually reaching £2,404.
• 2024: The ILR application fees increased further to £2,885 per applicant.

This upward trajectory shows a consistent pattern: the government regularly increases ILR application fees, often above inflation.

Why Fees Have Increased

Several factors explain why the ILR application fee has risen so sharply:

• Cost Recovery: The Home Office states that fees help cover the cost of administering immigration applications. One of the Home Office aims is to process applications efficiently and recover costs through these fees.
• Policy Strategy: Higher fees may act as a deterrent for non-serious applications and raise revenue for wider government spending.
• Public Funding Shift: Immigration services are increasingly funded by applicants themselves rather than taxpayers.

Future Outlook

Given this history, it is reasonable to expect further increases in the ILR application fee over the next few years. Applicants should:

• Budget early: Anticipate that fees may be higher by the time of application. Any future increases in the ILR application fee will still need to be paid upfront at the time of application.
• Apply promptly: If eligible now, delaying an ILR application could mean paying a higher fee later.
• Seek advice: Immigration solicitors can help identify the earliest date of eligibility to avoid unnecessary extra costs.

Payment Options and Financial Support for ILR Applicants

The ILR application fee is one of the largest financial hurdles faced by migrants in the UK. Applicants must apply online using the official Home Office online application system, as most applications are now submitted through this process. Given the significant cost, applicants must plan carefully to avoid delays, rejections, or unnecessary stress.

Accepted Payment Methods

When submitting your application online, payment of the ILR application fee is required as part of completing the online application form. The Home Office allows payment of the fee through several channels:

• Debit or Credit Card: Visa, Mastercard, and American Express are commonly accepted.
• Online Bank Transfer: Some applicants may choose a bank transfer directly via the Home Office system.
• Google Pay or Apple Pay: Limited to certain regions and devices but increasingly available.

It is vital to ensure that your payment method has sufficient funds available before submission, as failed transactions can invalidate your application.

No Instalment Payments

A common misconception is that the ILR application fee can be paid in instalments. Unfortunately, the Home Office requires full payment upfront at the time of submission. There is currently no government instalment or deferred payment scheme for settlement applications.

Financial Support Options

Although the Home Office does not offer direct financial aid, applicants can consider:

• Employer Sponsorship: Some employers may assist long-term employees with ILR costs, particularly in highly skilled industries.
• Family Contributions: Pooling resources with family members is a common approach when applying as a household. Families applying for ILR after holding a family visa must budget for each member’s application fee.
• Savings and Budgeting: Planning ahead by setting aside funds over several years before eligibility arises.

Legal Aid and Fee Waivers

Unlike some immigration applications, there are no fee waivers available for ILR applications, with only limited ILR fee exemptions in exceptional cases, such as those involving private life or human rights claims. Legal aid is also extremely limited, reserved only for very exceptional circumstances, usually involving human rights grounds. Applicants should assume they must fully cover their own costs.

Importance of Early Financial Planning

Since the ILR application fee has consistently increased over time, financial planning is just as important as meeting immigration requirements. A delayed application due to lack of funds may result in higher costs and potential immigration risks if your visa expires.

The Role of Solicitors and Professional Fees

While the ILR application fee is set by the Home Office, the real cost of applying often goes beyond government charges. Many applicants choose to work with immigration solicitors to maximise their chances of success, and this introduces an additional layer of expenses.

Why Applicants Use Solicitors

Applying for Indefinite Leave to Remain is not simply about filling in a form. It requires a detailed understanding of:

• Complex immigration rules and eligibility criteria.
• The correct supporting evidence (financial records, residence documents, life in the UK test pass certificate).
• Avoiding errors that could lead to refusal and the loss of the ILR application fee.

Solicitors play a key role in reducing risks, ensuring compliance, and presenting the application in the strongest possible way.

Typical Solicitor Fees

Solicitor fees for ILR applications in 2025 can vary depending on the complexity of the case:

• Straightforward cases: £1,200 – £2,000.
• Complex cases (immigration history issues, absences, criminal records): £2,000 – £4,000.
• Premium legal packages (priority submissions, document handling, same-day consultations): £4,000+.

These fees are separate from the official ILR application fee and are payable directly to the solicitor or law firm.

Value vs. Cost

It may seem expensive to add solicitor fees on top of the ILR application fee, but applicants should weigh the potential consequences of refusal. If an application is rejected due to missing evidence or incorrect information, the Home Office does not refund the fee. This means that investing in professional help could save thousands of pounds in the long run.

Do You Need a Solicitor?

While it is not legally required to use a solicitor for ILR, those with any of the following should strongly consider professional advice:

• Long absences from the UK during the qualifying period.
• Past immigration breaches or overstays.
• Criminal convictions or cautions.
• Applications involving multiple dependants.

In short, solicitors increase upfront costs but reduce long-term risks.

Hidden Costs in the ILR Application Process

When considering the ILR application fee, many applicants focus solely on the Home Office charge. However, the true cost of securing Indefinite Leave to Remain often includes several additional expenses that are essential for a complete and successful application. Additional fees may apply depending on the applicant’s visa category and specific circumstances, as different visa categories can have varying associated costs throughout the ILR process.

English Language Test

Unless exempt, most applicants must prove their knowledge of English. The approved English language test typically costs between £150 and £200, depending on the test centre. This cost is separate from the ILR application fee and must be factored into financial planning.

Life in the UK Test

All ILR applicants (unless exempt) must pass the Life in the UK Test, which costs £50. While the test itself is relatively inexpensive, preparation materials and resits can add to the total cost.

Translation and Certification of Documents

Applicants whose documents are not in English (or Welsh) must provide certified translations. Professional translation services can cost:

• £30–£50 per page for straightforward documents.
• £100+ for complex or lengthy documents such as legal or academic transcripts.

Document Copying and Certification

If a solicitor certifies copies of documents, this may cost £10–£30 per document, adding significantly when multiple records are required.

Biometric Appointment Travel Costs

Although biometric enrolment is mandatory and the fee is included in the application, applicants may need to travel to a UKVCAS centre. Travel expenses can range from small local journeys to significant costs if an applicant lives far from the nearest centre.

Courier and Scanning Services

Applicants who wish to use premium scanning or courier services at UKVCAS centres may face extra charges. While optional, these services provide additional security for sensitive documents.

Resubmission or Appeal Costs

If an application is refused, reapplying means paying the full ILR application fee again, plus any associated costs. Appeals or judicial reviews may involve thousands of pounds in solicitor and court fees.

The Bigger Picture

While the official ILR application fee in 2025 is £2,885, the true total cost of applying for settlement can often be £4,000–£6,000 per person once hidden costs, solicitor fees, and tests are factored in. For families, this figure multiplies significantly. Securing ILR allows you to live, work, and study in the UK indefinitely, free from visa renewals.

Refunds, Refusals, and Reapplications

The ILR application fee is one of the most significant financial commitments migrants face when applying for settlement. Unfortunately, many applicants misunderstand how refunds work and what options are available if their application is unsuccessful. If your application is rejected, the fee is generally not refunded, and you will need to submit a new remain application with full payment. For professional support, consider consulting the expert team at Axis Solicitors Limited.

Is the ILR Application Fee Refundable?

In most cases, the ILR application fee is generally non-refundable once the application has been submitted and considered by the Home Office. This applies even if:

• The application is refused.
• The applicant withdraws after the Home Office begins processing.
• The application is rejected due to missing documents or ineligibility.

The only circumstances where a refund may be issued are if the Home Office does not begin processing your application — for example, if you withdraw almost immediately after submission and before biometrics are enrolled.

What Happens if My Application is Refused?

If your ILR application is refused, the Home Office keeps the ILR application fee, and you may need to consider:

• • Reapplying: Paying the full fee again with corrected or additional evidence.
  • Administrative Review: Challenging the decision if you believe an error was made. This involves an additional fee of £80.

• Appealing: If you have a right of appeal, legal costs can be extensive, often exceeding several thousand pounds.

The Cost of Reapplications

For those who reapply after refusal, the financial burden can be immense. Each new remain application requires full payment of the ILR application fee. Not only must you pay the full ILR application fee again, but also:

• Solicitor fees (often higher the second time due to increased complexity).
• Test and translation costs if documents have expired or need redoing.
• Potential priority service fees if urgent processing is required.

Risk of Multiple Applications

Some applicants underestimate the seriousness of a refusal and assume they can simply “try again.” However, each reapplication involves starting from scratch financially. For families, this could mean spending tens of thousands of pounds across multiple attempts.

Importance of Getting It Right First Time

Given the non-refundable nature of the ILR application fee, it is essential that applicants ensure:

• All eligibility requirements are met before applying.
• Documentation is complete, accurate, and properly certified.
• Professional advice is sought where there is any doubt.

How the ILR Application Fee Compares to Other Immigration Fees

Understanding the ILR application fee in context is crucial for migrants planning their long-term stay in the UK. The ILR application fee is one of the highest among all UK visas and visa categories, making it a significant consideration for those navigating the immigration process. Many applicants are surprised to learn that ILR is not the final financial step in their immigration journey, and comparisons with other fees highlight the overall burden. Different UK visa categories have varying costs and eligibility requirements, so understanding the fees associated with each UK visa is essential for effective planning.

ILR vs. Visa Renewal Fees

Before applying for ILR, many migrants must extend their visas, often multiple times. Remain fees for visa extensions can add up significantly before applicants become eligible for ILR. For example:

• Spouse/Partner Visa Extension: £1,048 (plus the Immigration Health Surcharge).
• Skilled Worker Visa Extension: £719 – £1,500, depending on duration and type.

While these fees are lower than the ILR application fee, the recurring nature of visa extensions often means migrants spend several thousand pounds before becoming eligible for settlement.

ILR vs. British Citizenship

Many migrants assume that once they pay the ILR application fee, they are finished with Home Office payments. However, those seeking to become British citizens must pay additional costs, collectively known as naturalisation fees. These naturalisation fees include:

• Naturalisation Application: £1,500+ (as of 2025).
• Citizenship Ceremony: £80.

This means that for applicants who wish to progress beyond ILR, the total naturalisation fees increase significantly.

ILR vs. Other Immigration Applications

When compared to other immigration routes, the Home Office application fee for ILR is one of the highest single application fees charged by the Home Office. For instance:

• Home Office application fee for Student Visa: Around £490.
• Home Office application fee for Visitor Visa: £115 for a 6-month stay.
• Home Office application fee for EEA Family Permit (prior to Brexit changes): Free.
• Interested in the process beyond visas, such as the transition from ILR to British citizenship? Find a comprehensive guide to ILR to citizenship, including requirements and processes.

The contrast shows how settlement routes are heavily monetised compared to temporary migration categories.

Long-Term Financial Burden

For many migrants, the cumulative financial outlay is substantial:

1. Multiple visa applications and extensions.
2. The ILR application fee (£2,885 per person in 2025).
3. Legal representation, tests, and translation costs.
4. Citizenship fees, if pursued.

For a family of four, the entire immigration journey from entry clearance to citizenship could cost upwards of £30,000.

Why the Comparison Matters

By comparing the ILR application fee with other immigration costs, applicants can better prepare financially and avoid being caught off guard by the overall expense of settlement and naturalisation.

Financial Planning Tips for ILR Applicants

Given the steep ILR application fee and the additional expenses tied to the process, careful financial planning is essential. Applicants who prepare early are better positioned to submit a strong application without facing unnecessary financial strain.

Start Saving Early

The best strategy for handling the ILR application fee is to plan several years in advance. Since ILR eligibility often arises after 5 or 10 years in the UK, applicants—including those applying from UK Spouse Visas and wondering about the impact of criminal records—have time to:

• Put aside a small fixed amount each month.
• Build an emergency buffer to cover unexpected additional costs (e.g., translations or solicitor advice).
• Save collectively as a family if multiple applications are required.

For example, saving £50–£100 per month over 5 years could fully cover the application fee for one person.

Factor in Dependants

Families often underestimate the cost of ILR because they calculate only the main applicant’s fee. In reality, every dependant must pay the same ILR application fee, and each family member, including children, must pay the full fee when applying together. This means:

• A couple will pay £5,770 in 2025.
• A family of four will face £11,540 just for Home Office charges, excluding other costs.

Budgeting as a family rather than as individuals avoids last-minute financial pressure.

Avoid Last-Minute Applications

Applicants who delay their ILR application risk:

• Higher costs due to annual fee increases.
• Additional visa extension fees if they cannot apply before their current leave expires.
• Urgent solicitor fees for last-minute legal help.

Applying at the earliest date of eligibility reduces the overall financial burden.

Use Solicitors Strategically

Not every applicant needs full legal representation. To manage costs, some applicants:

• Use a solicitor for document checking services only (often £500–£1,000), rather than full representation.
• Seek one-off consultations for specific concerns.
• Reserve full legal assistance for complex cases, such as absences, criminal history, or refused visas.

This approach can significantly reduce the additional financial burden while still ensuring compliance.

Plan Beyond ILR

The ILR application fee is not the final cost in many cases. After obtaining ILR, applicants may choose to become a British citizen by applying for naturalisation. If you plan to apply for British citizenship, you should also budget for the £1,500+ naturalisation fee and related costs. Applicants who ignore these future expenses may struggle financially later on.

Keep Evidence Ready

Refusals lead to the loss of the ILR application fee, so financial planning also includes preparing a strong application. Keep track of:

• Residence documents (e.g., utility bills, tenancy agreements). Accurate records are essential for proving your immigration status during the ILR application process.
• Employment or financial evidence.
• Absences from the UK, recorded year by year.

Good record-keeping saves time, solicitor fees, and reduces the risk of costly refusals.

Common Mistakes That Can Waste the ILR Application Fee

The ILR application fee is non-refundable, meaning applicants who make mistakes lose the entire amount even if their application is refused. Understanding the ILR process is crucial to avoid costly mistakes and wasted fees. Some of the most common errors include:

1. Miscalculating Residency Requirements

Applicants must meet strict continuous residence rules (e.g., 5 years on a skilled worker visa). Submitting an application too early, or without properly calculating absences, can result in automatic refusal.

2. Missing Supporting Evidence

Incomplete documentation — such as missing payslips, incorrect bank statements, or incomplete employer letters — is a common reason for refusals. Every document must meet Home Office requirements.

3. Incorrect Application Category

Applying under the wrong ILR route (e.g., using the 10-year route when you qualify under the 5-year route) can lead to rejection. The rules differ depending on visa type, and choosing incorrectly risks both time and money.

4. Overlooking Criminal or Immigration History

Convictions, overstays, or breaches of immigration conditions can affect eligibility. Any issues with your immigration status, such as breaches or overstays, can impact your eligibility for ILR. Failing to disclose them or misunderstanding their impact can result in wasted fees.

5. Not Meeting Financial or Language Requirements

Applicants may forget to take the Life in the UK Test or an approved English test before applying. Others may miscalculate financial evidence, especially when self-employed. Both lead to refusals and lost fees.

6. Relying on Outdated Guidance

UK immigration rules change frequently. Applicants who use old information from forums or blogs may submit an application that no longer aligns with current requirements.

Important Note on Fees

The ILR application fee and associated costs mentioned above are correct as of 2025. However, Home Office fees are subject to change without prior notice. For this reason, it is strongly advised that you confirm the latest fees with our solicitors before making any decision.

Contact our Solicitors today at AXIS Solicitors to get accurate fee updates and personalised advice tailored to your case.

Frequently Asked Questions About the ILR Application Fee

1. Is the ILR application fee refundable?

No. The ILR application fee is generally non refundable, regardless of the outcome. If your application is refused or withdrawn after submission, you will not receive your fee back. This is why it is crucial to ensure your application is accurate and complete before submission.

2. Can I pay the ILR application fee in instalments?

No, the ILR application fee must be paid in full at the time of submitting the application. The fee must be paid upfront before the application can be processed. The Home Office does not currently allow instalment payments. Applicants must ensure they have sufficient funds ready before starting the application.

3. What happens if my ILR application is refused?

If your application is refused, you lose the ILR application fee paid. Depending on the reason for refusal, you may have the right to appeal, seek an administrative review, or reapply. However, each new application requires payment of the full fee again.

4. Are dependants charged the same ILR application fee?

Yes. Each dependant applying for ILR pays the same ILR application fee of £2,885 (as of 2025). Each family member, including children, must pay the full fee when applying together. Families applying together must budget for multiple applications, which can significantly increase total costs.

5. Are there fee waivers available for ILR?

No. Unlike some temporary visa applications, there are no fee waivers for the ILR application fee. All applicants must pay the required fee, regardless of financial circumstances.

6. Can the ILR application fee change without notice?

Yes. The UK government reviews immigration fees annually and sometimes introduces mid-year changes. This means the ILR application fee can increase with little or no prior warning. It is always best to confirm the latest fees with a solicitor before submitting your application.

7. What if I cannot afford the ILR application fee?

If the ILR application fee is unaffordable, you may consider extending your current visa until you are financially ready to apply. However, this strategy must be carefully managed to avoid overstaying. Consulting a solicitor is the best way to explore your options.

8. Do solicitor fees cover the Home Office ILR application fee?

No. Solicitor fees are separate from the Home Office application fee. While a solicitor can assist with preparing your application, reviewing documents, and ensuring compliance with rules, their charges are in addition to the Home Office application fee.

9. Does paying more guarantee a faster decision?

Yes and no. The Home Office offers priority and super priority services for an additional cost, which provide faster processing of your application. However, paying more does not guarantee approval. The application must still meet all requirements.

10. Can my ILR application be refused even if I pay the full fee?

Yes. Paying the ILR application fee does not guarantee success. Refusals occur if applicants fail to meet residency, financial, or character requirements. The fee only covers the processing of your application.

The ILR application fee represents a significant financial commitment for migrants seeking stability in the UK. Beyond the headline fee of £2,885 (as of 2025), applicants must also budget for dependants, solicitor services, biometric fees, and possible translation costs. With the application being both complex and high-stakes, even small mistakes can result in wasted fees.

Effective financial planning, careful documentation, and timely preparation are the best ways to protect your investment. While the cost may seem daunting, securing Indefinite Leave to Remain opens the door to a secure future, free from visa renewals, and with a pathway to British citizenship.