Ancestry visas, EU Settlement Scheme status, long residence and the final step to permanent settlement (ILR).
Settlement, Nationality & Special Routes
Ancestry visas, EU Settlement Scheme status, long residence and the final step to permanent settlement (ILR).
Visa Types in This Category
UK Ancestry Visa
For Commonwealth citizens aged 17+ who can prove a grandparent born in the UK, and who intend to work in the UK.
EU Settlement Scheme (EUSS)
For eligible EU, EEA or Swiss citizens and their family members to secure pre-settled or settled status.
Private Life / Long Residence Route
For people who have built a genuine private life in the UK based on continuous lawful residence — commonly the 10-year long residence route.
Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR)
The final settlement step for eligible visa holders who complete the qualifying period on a work, family or other eligible route.
Eligibility Requirements
- Completion of the relevant continuous qualifying period with no excess absences
- Meet the English language and Life in the UK Test requirements, where applicable
- No unspent convictions or adverse immigration history affecting suitability
- (Ancestry) a UK-born grandparent and a genuine intention to work in the UK
- (EUSS) resident in the UK before the scheme's relevant deadline
Document Checklist
- Valid passport and full history of current/previous UK visas
- Birth and marriage certificates proving the UK-born grandparent link (Ancestry route)
- Evidence of continuous lawful residence for the qualifying period, including travel history
- Life in the UK Test pass certificate, in most cases
- English language qualification at the required level
- Proof of intention and ability to work in the UK (Ancestry route)
- Criminal record and immigration history declarations
- Supporting evidence for any absences from the UK during the qualifying period
Government Fees for This Category
| Visa Type | Home Office Fee |
|---|---|
| UK Ancestry Visa | £694 |
| EU Settlement Scheme (EUSS) | Free |
| Private Life / 10-Year Long Residence Route | £3,226 |
| Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR / Settlement) | £3,226 |
Most work, study, family and settlement routes also require the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS): approximately £1,035 per year for adults and £776 per year for children/students, paid upfront for the full length of the visa. Visitor and transit visas are IHS-exempt. Fees change periodically — confirm the exact current figure using the official Home Office fee calculator.