The 5-year partner route has two paid stages: a 30-month extension (FLR(M)) at the halfway point, then settlement (ILR, form SET(M)) at the end. This 2026 guide walks through both — the requirements, English levels, evidence and the latest fees.
Stage 1 — the extension (FLR(M))
Your first spouse visa lasts 30–33 months. Before it expires you apply from inside the UK for FLR(M), which grants a further 30 months. At this stage you must show:
- your relationship is still genuine and subsisting, with evidence of living together (typically 6 joint documents, or 12 individual ones, from at least 3 sources);
- you meet the £29,000 financial requirement;
- English at CEFR A2.
Budget roughly £1,321 for the application plus the Immigration Health Surcharge (about £2,587.50 for 30 months).
Stage 2 — settlement (ILR, SET(M))
After 5 years on the partner route you can apply for indefinite leave to remain using form SET(M) — no earlier than 28 days before you complete 5 years. You’ll need:
- the relationship and financial requirement still met;
- English at B1 and a passed Life in the UK Test;
- absences of no more than 180 days in any 12-month period.
The ILR fee rose to £3,226 from 8 April 2026 (no IHS on ILR). Standard processing is up to 6 months; priority adds £500.
After settlement
Once you hold ILR you can usually apply for British citizenship — immediately if you’re married to a British citizen and meet the rules, otherwise 12 months after ILR.
Frequently asked questions
What is FLR(M)?
The 30-month spouse visa extension — the halfway point of the 5-year route to settlement.
What do I need for the spouse visa extension?
A genuine ongoing relationship with proof of living together, the £29,000 financial requirement, and English at A2 — applied from inside the UK before your visa expires.
When can I apply for ILR on a spouse visa?
After 5 years on the partner route, using SET(M); you can apply up to 28 days before completing 5 years.
What are the ILR requirements?
The relationship and financial requirement still met, English at B1, a passed Life in the UK Test, and absences of no more than 180 days in any 12 months.
How much do the extension and ILR cost?
The extension is about £1,321 plus the IHS; ILR is £3,226 from 8 April 2026, with no IHS.
Can I get citizenship after ILR?
Usually 12 months after ILR — or straight away if you’re married to a British citizen and meet the requirements.
