[woudlg]

Hi all,

My understanding is that indefinite leave to remain is granted subject to the person passing the ridiculous 'Life in the UK' test (there's a book you need to buy - more money for the government!! - outlining what the person needs to know) or undertaking an ESOL/citizenship course which local FE colleges often offer (but you have to pay). Also, you can't apply more than 28 days before the settlement visa is due to expire - they need the applicant to have lived with the partner in the UK for the whole 2 years (give or take short breaks away) as evidence that the relationship has been sustained and that you intend to remain together. Large periods of absence for the UK may be problematic I would imagine because the 2 year settlement period is effectively a 'probationary' period in preparation for ILR. You nevre know, everything changes year by year, and what applies now maybe entirely different in a year's time (and I'll eat my hat if the already extortionate fees don't rise again!!!).