Do I need to retranslate documents from my original visa application?
No. If you already have certified translations from your original visa application, you can resubmit those. Keep copies of all translations for future applications.
ILR / Settlement Guide
ILR & Settlement Translation Guide
Last updated: March 2026
ILR — Indefinite Leave to Remain — is the UK's permanent residency status. Applications cover years of evidence, not a snapshot. That changes the translation mix. An initial visa application focuses on current circumstances. An ILR file pulls in 3 to 5+ years of built-up documentation. That includes previous visa documents, employment history, accommodation evidence, and financial records. Anything in a foreign language gets a certified translation.
What documents need translation for ILR?
ILR applications may need certified translations of identity documents, previous visa documents, financial evidence, employment records, and Life in the UK test evidence. The exact documents depend on your ILR route.
ILR runs through several qualifying paths. Spouse or partner (5 or 10 years, depending on the financial route). Skilled Worker (5 years). Refugee status. Long residence. The documentation needs shift by route. But all of them need evidence stretching across the qualifying period.
What makes ILR different from initial visa applications is the breadth of evidence. You're proving more than current circumstances. You're proving continuity — that you've been here lawfully and meaningfully across the period. Foreign-language documents picked up across that span all need certified translation. A bank account opened during a year in Dubai. A marriage registered abroad. The lot.
- Passport and previous visa documents
- Birth and marriage certificates
- Financial evidence spanning multiple years
- Employment letters and payslips
- Council tax bills or tenancy agreements
- Life in the UK test certificate
- English language qualification
- Police clearance certificates
How is ILR translation different from initial visa translation?
ILR applications often involve more documents than initial visa applications because they cover a longer period. You may need translations of documents built up over 3–5+ years. That can include correspondence and financial records.
Initial visa applications focus on current circumstances. ILR applications need evidence of your entire period of lawful residence. That means translating documents from several years. It can include correspondence with employers, landlords, and banks.
How much does ILR translation cost?
ILR translation costs vary based on the volume of documents. Typical costs run from £50 for simple applications to £300+ for complex cases with extensive documentation. Every document is £12.99 per page.
The cost depends on how many documents need translation. If your previous visa applications already included translated documents, you may only need to translate new documents. Keep copies of all previous translations to avoid paying for them again.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does ILR processing take?
ILR applications usually take 6 months for a decision. Super priority (next working day) and priority (5 working days) services are available for an extra fee.
Do I need translations for the Life in the UK test?
The Life in the UK test certificate is issued in English. It does not need translation. But any supporting documents in other languages do need translation.
Can I apply for ILR while waiting for translations?
We recommend having all translations ready before applying. Submitting an incomplete application can lead to delays or refusal.
Do I need new police clearance translations for ILR?
If your previous police clearance was translated for an earlier application, you may need a new one if UKVI asks for a more recent clearance.
Get Your Certified Translation Today
UKVI-accepted certified translations from £12.99 per page. Statement of accuracy included. 24-hour delivery.