How the calculator works
- Choose your route. It sets your starting point: 10 years on most routes, 15 for a sponsored job below degree level, 20 for refugees.
- Add your start date. Enter when your qualifying period began to see the date you could apply, not just the years.
- Answer the questions. Your income, English level and anything that could shorten your wait or add time to it.
- Read your result. Your qualifying period, the reduction and extension that count, and how it compares with today’s rules.
What moves your wait
Only your largest reduction and your largest extension count. They never stack, but one of each combines.
Shortens it
| Circumstance | Adjustment |
|---|---|
| Income above £125,140 for 3 years | −7 years |
| 3+ years as Global Talent or Innovator Founder | −7 years |
| Income above £50,270 for 3 years | −5 years |
| 5+ years in a specified public-service role | −5 years |
| Partner, parent or child of a British citizen | −5 years |
| Hong Kong BN(O) status | −5 years |
| Community or voluntary work | −3 to −5 years |
| Advanced English at C1 | −1 year |
Adds time
| Circumstance | Adjustment |
|---|---|
| Public funds claimed for under 12 months | +5 years |
| Public funds claimed for 12 months or more | +10 years |
| Entered the UK illegally | up to +20 years |
| Entered on a visit visa and stayed | up to +20 years |
| Overstayed by 6 months or more | up to +20 years |