Standard route (5 years)
- Live in the UK for at least 5 years before the application date.
- Be in the UK exactly 5 years before the application date.
- Normally no more than 450 days away in the 5-year period.
- Normally no more than 90 days away in the last 12 months.
- Hold ILR or settled status for 12 months before you apply (unless you apply as a spouse or partner).
Spouse or partner route (3 years)
- Be married to or in a civil partnership with a British citizen.
- Live in the UK for at least 3 years before the application date.
- Be in the UK exactly 3 years before the application date.
- Normally no more than 270 days away in the 3-year period.
- Normally no more than 90 days away in the last 12 months.
- You can apply as soon as you hold ILR or settled status (no 12-month wait).
How to count days away
- Only whole days outside the UK count.
- The day you leave and the day you return do not count as absences.
- Use the exact application date to calculate the 3- or 5-year window.
Evidence to keep
- Current and previous passports or travel documents.
- Your own travel records (tickets, boarding passes, booking emails).
- Any residence or employment records that support your travel history.
Officials will check their records and may correct or fill gaps.
If you are over the absence limits or were not in the UK on the exact start date,
there is limited discretion in some cases. Read the official guidance before you apply.
