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🇬🇧 United Kingdom

SET(M) Settlement as Partner (UK)

Indefinite Leave to Remain on Partner Route

Hard ~45 min SettlementILRSpouseUKImmigration

/ What is this form?

SET(M) is the application for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR/settlement) in the UK on the basis of your relationship with a British citizen or settled person. Filed after completing 5 years on the partner route (initial visa + FLR(M) extension). One of the few UK immigration forms still available as a PDF.

/ Who needs this form?

  • Partners and spouses who have completed 5 years on the partner route
  • Must still be in the qualifying relationship at the time of application
  • Must meet the English language requirement (B1 level)
  • Must have passed the Life in the UK test

/ What you need before you start

Valid passport and travel history
Evidence of continuous qualifying relationship over 5 years
Life in the UK test pass certificate
English language B1 certificate from an approved provider
Financial requirement evidence: £18,600/year
Fee: £1,846 application + £1,035 IHS

/ Step-by-step guide

1 Pass the Life in the UK Test
Book and pass the Life in the UK test before applying. It's a 24-question multiple-choice test on British history, culture, and values. Costs £50. Your pass certificate is required with the application.
2 Meet the English Language Requirement
Demonstrate B1 level English through an approved qualification (e.g., Trinity, Cambridge, or an approved SELT provider). A UK GCSE or degree in English also qualifies.
3 Gather Relationship Evidence
Collect evidence of your continuous qualifying relationship: joint finances, shared tenancy, correspondence addressed to both at the same address, and photos together over the 5-year period.
4 Check Continuous Residence
Confirm you haven't been absent for more than 180 days in any rolling 12-month period during the 5-year qualifying period. Excessive absences can invalidate your application.
5 Complete and Submit SET(M)
Complete the form, pay the £1,846 fee plus £1,035 IHS, gather all supporting documents, and submit. You can apply online (preferred) or use the PDF form. Biometric appointment required.

/ Key fields explained

Field What to enter Common mistake
Knowledge of Language and Life in the UK Life in the UK test pass certificate and B1 English language certificate Both are mandatory — you cannot substitute one for the other or use lower-level qualifications

/ Common mistakes to avoid

Not passing the Life in the UK test before submitting the application
English certificate at the wrong level (B1 is required for ILR — earlier stages required A1/A2)
Gaps in continuous residence (180+ days absent in any 12-month period invalidates the qualifying period)

/ Frequently asked questions

Can I apply for citizenship after ILR?

Yes. After 12 months with ILR, you can apply for British citizenship by naturalisation. The same Life in the UK test pass certificate and B1 English certificate count for both applications.

What is the financial requirement?

The sponsoring British or settled partner must earn at least £18,600/year (higher if there are dependent children). Evidence includes payslips, P60, and employment letter.