Work out your earliest Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) and British citizenship dates, and check your trips abroad against the 180-day absence rule. Your dates stay on your device: nothing is sent to us.
For information only, not immigration advice. Rules from Appendix Continuous Residence and GOV.UK citizenship guidance. In 2026 the Skilled Worker route still leads to settlement after 5 years. The government consulted on a 10-year "earned settlement" model (Nov 2025 – Feb 2026), but it has not been brought in yet. From 26 March 2027 settlement applications need English at B2 level. Fees from 8 April 2026: ILR £3,226 per person; citizenship £1,709 plus a £130 ceremony. Check your own route's rules before you apply.
Frequently asked questions
How long until I can get ILR on a Skilled Worker visa?
In October 2026 it is still 5 years of continuous residence. You can apply up to 28 days before you reach 5 years. A 10-year earned settlement model has been proposed but not yet brought in.
What is the 180-day rule?
You must not spend more than 180 days outside the UK in any 12-month period during your qualifying period (rolling, for permission granted from 11 January 2018). Only whole days count, so the days you leave and return are not counted as absences.
When can I apply for British citizenship?
Usually 12 months after getting ILR, if you were in the UK exactly 5 years before applying, spent no more than 450 days outside the UK in those 5 years and no more than 90 days in the last 12 months. Spouses of British citizens can apply as soon as they have ILR, with a 3-year residence period.
How much does ILR cost in 2026?
£3,226 per person from 8 April 2026. Naturalisation as a British citizen costs £1,709 plus a £130 citizenship ceremony fee.