ILR vs Citizenship: which UK visa is right for you?
Indefinite Leave to Remain is permanent settlement; naturalisation is becoming a British citizen. ILR usually comes first, then citizenship after meeting the residence rules.
Side-by-side comparison
| Feature | Indefinite Leave to Remain (Settlement) (ILR) | Naturalisation as a British citizen (Citizenship) |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Permanent / PR | Permanent / PR |
| Who it's for | For people who have completed the qualifying period on an eligible route and want to settle permanently in the UK. | For settled residents who meet the residence and good character requirements to become British citizens. |
| Government cost | ~£3,029 per person | ~£1,605 application + ~£130 ceremony (~£1,735 total) |
| Processing time | ~8 weeks (priority options available) | ~6 months |
| Length of stay | Indefinite (permanent) | Permanent (citizenship) |
| Where to apply | Inside the UK | Inside the UK |
| Work rights | Work freely with no restrictions | Work freely as a citizen |
| Pathway to PR | Is permanent residence; opens the path to naturalisation as a British citizen. | Grants full British citizenship, including a British passport and the right to vote. |
Which is right for you?
Indefinite Leave to Remain (Settlement) (ILR)
For people who have completed the qualifying period on an eligible route and want to settle permanently in the UK.
Full ILR guide →Naturalisation as a British citizen (Citizenship)
For settled residents who meet the residence and good character requirements to become British citizens.
Full Citizenship guide →Frequently asked questions
Which is cheaper, ILR or Citizenship?
On indicative 2025-26 government costs, Naturalisation as a British citizen (Citizenship) is the lowest at ~£1,605 application + ~£130 ceremony (~£1,735 total). Government fees change periodically - confirm before applying.
Which is processed faster, ILR or Citizenship?
Indicatively Naturalisation as a British citizen (Citizenship) is the quickest at ~6 months. Actual timeframes depend on caseload and how complete your application is.
Do all of these lead to permanent residence?
Yes. ILR: Is permanent residence; opens the path to naturalisation as a British citizen. Citizenship: Grants full British citizenship, including a British passport and the right to vote.
What's the main difference between ILR and Citizenship?
Indefinite Leave to Remain (Settlement) (ILR) is for for people who have completed the qualifying period on an eligible route and want to settle permanently in the UK. Naturalisation as a British citizen (Citizenship) is for for settled residents who meet the residence and good character requirements to become British citizens.