Partners of British citizens
A partnership with a British citizen counts as a British connection under Earned Settlement. Partners of British citizens therefore keep a 5-year pathway, provided they meet the mandatory requirements.
Partners of settled people
If your partner has ILR but is not a British citizen, this does not count as a British connection. You are likely to follow the 10-year default. The family partner route is not one of the high-talent routes, so higher earnings do not shorten it. Holding your own Skilled Worker visa would be a separate route with its own pathways.
See which pathway applies to you, and your earliest estimated date.
Check my pathwayFamily and Private Life permission
People on Family and Private Life permission, including the current 10-year partner and parent route, follow the 10-year or 20-year pathways and cannot use the 3 or 5-year pathways. See Family and Private Life.
Parents of British children
Parents of British children also have a British connection and can be on the 5-year pathway.
Combining income
Couples can combine their earnings to meet the £25,142 household threshold for the minimum contribution.
Bereavement and domestic abuse
If your partner dies, or the relationship breaks down because of domestic abuse, you may be able to apply for settlement under existing arrangements. See routes outside Earned Settlement.
Questions and answers
My partner is applying for British citizenship. Does that help?
Your pathway is assessed when you apply. If your partner has become British by then, you may have a British connection.
Do I still need B2 English on a spouse visa?
Yes. B2 English applies on the family routes too, unless you are exempt.
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.