Partners who arrive together
A partner who arrives in the UK with the main visa holder can settle at the same time, provided they meet the requirements that apply to them. Your partner follows the same pathway as the main visa holder.
Partners who join later
A partner who joins after the main visa holder completes the same qualifying period, counted from when they arrived. For example, if the main visa holder is on the 5-year pathway and the partner joined 2 years later, the partner can settle 5 years after their own arrival.
See which pathway applies to you, and your earliest estimated date.
Check my pathwayCombining income
Partners can combine their earnings to meet the minimum contribution. A household earning £25,142 or more between you meets the threshold, even if one partner earns little or nothing.
What each partner needs
- no criminal record in the UK as an adult
- no Government debt
- B2 English and the Life in the UK test, unless exempt
- no adult immigration breaches
Children
See children and ILR for how children and young adults are treated.
Questions and answers
My partner does not work. Can they still settle?
Yes, if your household income is £25,142 or more, or your partner is otherwise exempt, and they meet the other requirements.
Can my partner settle before me?
Partners follow the main visa holder’s pathway. A partner who joined later normally settles after the main visa holder.
This is not legal advice. This guide explains the Government’s published proposals for Earned Settlement, which are not yet in force and may change. For advice on your own situation, speak to a regulated immigration adviser or solicitor, or check GOV.UK. Read our full disclaimer.