Apply for ILR as a Bereaved Partner - ILR after Partner's Death

: Written by: Arshad Mahmood; Last Updated: 30 August 2025

If your British or settled partner has sadly passed away, you may still be able to apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) as a bereaved partner. The UK immigration rules recognise the devastating impact of losing a spouse, civil partner, unmarried or same-sex partner, and allow you to settle permanently in the UK if you were in a genuine and subsisting relationship at the time of their death. To qualify for ILR as a bereaved partner or spouse, the applicant must meet the eligibility requirements as set out in Appendix Bereaved Partner of the Immigration Rules. You should apply for ILR as a bereaved partner by completing the online application form SET (O).

At Premium Solicitors, our specialist immigration lawyers can help you with your ILR application as a bereaved partner, ensuring your case is presented with sensitivity, compassion, and legal expertise.

Page Contents
Ask a Question for Free Immigration Advice
Eligibility Requirements
Application Process
Documents Required
Our Team of Immigration Solicitors
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Frequently Asked Questions

Ask a Question for Free Advice

Our dedicated team of UK immigration solicitors and lawyers in London specialises in ILR applications for bereaved partners. We offer one-time free immigration advice online to address your specific enquiries about your application for ILR as a bereaved partner. You can either call our free immigration advice helpline, 0044 20 3930 3900, to simply ask a question to our specialist UK immigration solicitors in London for fast and friendly free immigration advice and consultation, or you can schedule an appointment online for comprehensive and detailed immigration advice & consultation with one of our top-rated UK immigration solicitors and lawyers.

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Eligibility Requirements for ILR as a Bereaved Partner

To qualify for ILR as a bereaved partner or spouse, you must show that:

You are in the UK with leave to remain as the spouse, civil partner, unmarried or same-sex partner of a British citizen or a person with settled status, refugee status or humanitarian protection.
Your relationship was genuine and subsisting at the time of your partner’s death.
You were living together in the UK at the time of death (unless exceptional circumstances apply).
You hold valid leave as a partner or spouse at the time of application.

Unlike other partner ILR routes, there is no minimum residence requirement (e.g., 5 years). You can apply immediately after your partner’s death.

Application Process

To apply for ILR as a bereaved partner or spouse, you should complete the online application form SET(O). After submitting your application online, you should book an appointment for biometric enrolment. Before attending your biometrics appointment, you should upload all supporting documents to the TLSContact online portal. Once you have attended your biometrics appointment at the TLSContact centre, your application will usually be processed within 3 to 6 months.

Documents Required

The documents required for the ILR application as a bereaved partner may vary from case to case depending on the individual circumstances of the applicant. Generally, the following documents may be required for the ILR application:

Marriage/civil partnership/unmarried partner evidence.
Proof of cohabitation.
Your partner’s death certificate.
Evidence of your partner’s British citizenship, ILR, or refugee status.
Proof of your identity and immigration status.

Our Team of Leading Immigration Solicitors in London

Premium Solicitors Ltd is a London-based law firm specialising in providing high-quality legal services to individuals seeking to apply for ILR as bereaved partners. Their expertise in immigration law ensures that clients receive personalised and thorough assistance throughout the immigration application process. The firm is particularly skilled in handling complex immigration cases. Their in-depth knowledge of UK immigration law allows them to navigate these challenges effectively, increasing the likelihood of a successful outcome.

Premium Solicitors Ltd is renowned for its client-focused approach, providing clear communication and support throughout the entire process. They understand the emotional and financial stress involved in UK immigration matters and work diligently to alleviate these concerns by providing transparent and reliable legal services. By choosing Premium Solicitors Ltd, clients benefit from a high level of expertise and a commitment to achieving the best possible results for their UK immigration applications. The firm’s reputation for thoroughness, professionalism, and success makes it a top choice for individuals seeking to apply for ILR as bereaved partners.

The exceptional quality of our UK visa and immigration services is reflected in our 5-star Google Reviews rating, with 99% of our clients expressing their satisfaction. Our dedicated team of London-based UK immigration solicitors is available 7 days a week, 365 days a year, providing unwavering dedication and outstanding legal support for an application for ILR as a bereaved partner or spouse.

At Premium Solicitors, located in the heart of London, we pride ourselves on offering unparalleled UK immigration services through our team of dedicated and specialist immigration solicitors. Our team comprises experienced professionals with a deep understanding of the complexities involved in UK immigration laws. This expertise allows us to provide bespoke solutions tailored to each client's unique circumstances.

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