Are you interested in calculating your immigration settlement status? If so, understanding your Indefinite Leave to Remain status is crucial. However, various ILR calculators are available online that can help make the process easier and less stressful. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explain how an ILR calculator works. Besides will provide helpful information about applying for Indefinite Leave to Remain in the UK. So, keep reading to find out more.
What is ILR Calculator?
A calculator for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) is a tool that can help individuals calculate their chances of being eligible for ILR in the UK. It assesses data such as the person’s current immigration status, time spent residing in the UK, visa classification, and other relevant factors. Then it produces a result that gives an idea of the probability of being successful in obtaining ILR.
Things You Need to Understand Before Using ILR Calculator
Before you apply for ILR and use a calculator, it’s crucial to understand the following points.
1. Please note that the official government guidance may refer to a specific period in various ways, such as the
- Qualifying period
- Continuous lawful period
- Continuous period
- Continuous qualifying period
- Continuous residence period
However, all these terms mean the same thing for your Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) application.
2. To accurately determine your eligibility date using the ILR calculator, you will need to consider the following:
- Determine the ILR route you are applying for.
- Understand the detailed requirements for a specific route.
- Confirm if your route has the same requirement or if it differs. Most routes require you to reside in the UK for five years continuously. You can refer to the “Categories where the continuous period is not 5 years” section in the official UK Government guidance for Indefinite Leave to Remain: calculating continuous period in the UK.
- Notably, most people have a single grant of leave that covers their entire continuous period. However, if you have multiple grants of leave that make up the continuous period, ensure you have the start and end dates for each.
- Know your actual date of entry into the UK.
3. Further, keep in mind that the ILR calculator assumes your application is straightforward and that you meet certain criteria, such as:
- Not being away from the UK for more than 180 full days in any 12 months
- Not applying for other routes like the 10-year Private Life or Long Residence route.
- Besides, not applying for asylum
- Additionally, suppose you have multiple leave grants in a continuous period. In that case, they should be “compatible” with the ILR route you are applying for. Also, should not reset the clock for your ILR application.
4. It’s important to note that ILR routes have different requirements for counting visas towards the qualifying period. For example:
- The ILR route for partners of British Citizens or those already settled in the UK only considers grants of leave obtained through a Family Visa as a partner or spouse.
- The ILR route for people on Tier 2 (General) visas only counts grants of leave obtained while on that visa or a specific list of other work-related visas.
5. Many people make the mistake of changing between different visa types without realizing the impact on their ILR eligibility.
For instance, if someone started on a Tier 2 (General) visa and stayed for four years. And then switched to a Family Visa due to marriage to a British citizen and resignation from their original Tier 2 sponsor, the following would occur:
- The four years spent in the UK under the Tier 2 (General) visa will not count towards the ILR route for partners of British citizens.
- The ILR clock will reset and start from zero when switching from a Tier 2 (General) visa to a Family Visa.
So, knowing these implications and avoiding potential mistakes in understanding the requirements is crucial. If you believe your case is complex, it’s recommended to seek guidance from an immigration adviser for personalized assistance.
How to Use an ILR Calculator: Easy Guide
Here’s an easy guide for using an ILR calculator:
Step 1: Access a Reliable ILR Calculator
Access a reliable and up-to-date calculator from a reputable source such as a government website or trusted immigration advisory service.
Step 2: Input Relevant Information
Follow the instructions on the ILR calculator. Then input accurate information such as your immigration category, length of residency in the UK, and other criteria.
Step 3: Review Results
The calculator will generate results based on the eligibility criteria. That may include options such as eligible for ILR, not eligible for ILR or conditional eligibility. Carefully review the results and understand their implications.
Understanding ILR Calculator Results
The results of an ILR calculator can provide useful information about a person’s settlement status. It is important to know the implications of each result and what they mean for your situation. So, here are what the result means:
Eligible for ILR
If the ILR calculator indicates that you are eligible for ILR, you meet the residency requirements. Besides, you also comply with the immigration rules and fulfil other criteria. That includes English language proficiency and passing the Knowledge of Life in the UK test. This is a positive result, indicating that you may be able to apply for ILR and settle in the UK.
Not Eligible for ILR
Suppose the ILR calculator indicates that you are not eligible for ILR. In that case, you do not meet the residency requirements. Also, you may fail to comply with other criteria necessary for ILR. This may be due to not completing the minimum continuous residency period. Further may not fulfilling the financial requirements or not pass the English language proficiency. This result may require further action. That includes continuing to stay in the UK and meeting the eligibility criteria in the future or exploring other immigration options.
Conditional Eligibility
In some cases, the ILR calculator may indicate conditional eligibility, meaning you may be eligible for ILR under certain conditions. It’s important to carefully review the conditions and take appropriate actions to fulfil them to become eligible for ILR. For example, you may need to meet additional criteria or provide further evidence to support your eligibility.
Benefits of Using an ILR Calculator
An ILR calculator is a great way to start your journey toward achieving ILR in the UK. Here are a few benefits of the ILR calculator:
- It can save you time and energy. It makes it simple to determine your eligibility without the need for manual calculations or extensive research.
- An ILR calculator can also provide accurate results based on the latest immigration rules and policies. Besides, it also minimizes the risk of errors or miscalculations.
- Furthermore, an ILR calculator can simplify the complex process of determining eligibility. It makes it accessible to individuals with limited knowledge of immigration laws or those not fluent in English.
- Lastly, an ILR calculator can empower you to take proactive steps toward achieving ILR.
Stats About Refusals of Citizenship Applications
Following is the official data about the refusals of citizenship applications according to the UK government:

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How do you calculate days for ILR?
To calculate an applicant’s qualifying period, count back from the most beneficial of three dates: the date of application, the date of the decision, or up to 28 days after the date of application. This will help you determine your eligibility for a particular program.
What is the qualifying period for ILR in the UK?
Under the Immigration Rules, the qualifying period for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) in the UK is 5 years. To qualify for ILR, applicants must meet certain criteria.
What is the total cost of ILR UK?
The total cost of ILR UK is £2,404.
Can I apply for ILR after 4 years?
You must typically have resided and worked in the UK for at least 5 years. If you possess a tier 1 visa, this can be reduced to two or three years. Possessing an Innovator or Global Talent visa also entitles you to reduce that period to three years. Additionally, meeting certain salary or financial requirements may also be necessary, depending on your visa type.
How long is the processing time for ILR?
The processing time for ILR is 6 months. But it can be longer depending on your application.
How accurate is an ILR calculator?
An ILR calculator generates an initial assessment. At the same time, it can provide a reasonable indication of eligibility. However, notably it is not an alternative to professional immigration advice. The ILR calculator’s accuracy is determined by the accuracy and completeness of the information entered by the user.
Can I rely solely on an ILR calculator for my ILR application?
No, an ILR calculator should not be solely relied upon for your ILR application. It is a tool that provides an initial assessment. But the final decision on your ILR application lies with the relevant immigration authorities. It is always advisable to seek professional immigration advice and ensure compliance with the latest immigration laws and policies.
What are the common criteria considered by an ILR calculator?
An ILR calculator usually considers factors such as minimum continuous residency period, compliance with immigration rules, meeting financial requirements, and English language proficiency. These criteria may vary depending on the immigration category and individual circumstances.
Is the ILR calculator free to use?
Many ILR calculators available online are free to use. However, using reliable and reputable sources for accurate results is important. Some immigration law firms or organizations may charge a fee for using their ILR calculator.
Can I use an ILR calculator for all immigration categories?
Yes, you can use an ILR calculator for all immigration categories. It includes Tier 1, Tier 2, Tier 4, etc. It’s important to use an ILR calculator that is specific to your immigration category to get accurate results. Using an incorrect calculator may provide inaccurate results and lead to incorrect decisions.
Can an ILR calculator guarantee my ILR application will be approved?
No, an ILR calculator can’t guarantee the approval of your ILR application. It provides an initial assessment based on the information provided. But the final decision lies with the relevant immigration authorities.
Can I use the ILR calculator to apply for ILR directly?
No, you can’t use a calculator to apply for ILR directly. It is a tool that provides an initial assessment of eligibility. To apply for ILR, you must formally apply to the relevant immigration authorities.
Can I use the ILR calculator for my family members’ ILR applications?
Yes, you can use the ILR calculator to assess the eligibility of your family members’ ILR applications.
Conclusion
So, an ILR calculator is a smart way to assess your eligibility for ILR in the UK. You will get access to accurate information regarding the latest immigration regulations. It can help you save time and effort while simplifying complex processes. With an ILR calculator, you can take proactive steps toward achieving your settlement goals in the UK.
Moreover, it also provides a great way to access relevant information and resources. That is necessary for understanding and navigating the application process for ILR. With this information, you will be better prepared and empowered to pursue your dream of settling in the United Kingdom.