At Whytecroft Ford, we support clients through every stage of their UK immigration journey, including the final step to settlement, Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR). One recent case demonstrates how a significant change in the financial requirement at the ILR stage can make this process more accessible for applicants relying on cash savings.
Background
Our client, a Hong Kong national and British National (Overseas) passport holder, had been residing in the UK as the spouse of a British citizen since 2018. The couple, who legally married in 2017, live together in London and now raise their British-born son in a family home they rent together.
After completing five continuous years on the 5-year partner route under Appendix FM, the client became eligible to apply for settlement in the UK. While her relationship and residence history satisfied the suitability and eligibility criteria, the key element of this application was how she would meet the financial requirement through cash savings.
Using Cash Savings at the ILR Stage
At earlier stages of the partner route (entry clearance or extension), an applicant relying solely on cash savings would need to show a minimum of £62,500, calculated as 2.5 times the £18,600 income threshold, plus a £16,000 base level. The This threshold increases with each child dependent.
However, at the Indefinite Leave to Remain stage, Appendix FM allows applicants to rely on the entire amount above £16,000 to meet the £18,600 threshold, without applying the 2.5 multiplier.
In our client’s case, she had maintained well over £50,000 in a UK savings account for at least six months before her application, well over the required £34,600 (£18,600 + £16,000). We submitted a full financial portfolio, including official bank letters, a detailed savings declaration, and bank statements showing the lowest balance over the qualifying period.
Other ILR Requirements Met
- English Language & Life in the UK: The client met the KoLL (Knowledge of Language and Life in the UK) requirement by passing the Life in the UK Test and presenting her UK-taught Master’s degree.
- Relationship & Cohabitation: The couple’s ongoing relationship was well documented through tenancy agreements, joint financial correspondence, and their son’s birth certificate.
- Accommodation: The family resided in a five-bedroom rental property in London, with a tenancy agreement and a letter from the estate agent confirming the adequacy of the accommodation.
The evidence required for an Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) application in the UK varies depending on the immigration route and the applicant’s individual circumstances. We recommend obtaining professional advice tailored to your specific situation to ensure compliance with all relevant requirements.
How We Can Help
At Whytecroft Ford, we specialise in preparing ILR applications under Appendix FM, offering expert guidance on how to meet the financial requirement, particularly when using cash savings. We carefully assess each client’s circumstances, prepare fully compliant evidence portfolios, and ensure that every aspect of the application is presented clearly and accurately.
In this case, our client shared that our team was “absolutely brilliant” and expressed that they would be “forever thankful” for our support. We take great pride in delivering not only successful outcomes, but also peace of mind at this important stage in our clients’ lives.
If you’re preparing to apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain and want to explore your options for meeting the financial requirement, our team is here to help every step of the way.
Contact our team on 0208 757 5751 or use our contact form to get in touch.
