What is Further Leave to Remain?

Further Leave to Remain (FLR) is an immigration application that allows individuals already in the UK on a temporary visa to extend their stay. It is not permanent settlement but an extension of your current visa conditions.

The specific FLR form and requirements depend on your visa category (e.g., partner, parent, work, or other routes). Successful applicants are usually granted an additional period of stay, typically 2.5 years, with the possibility of applying for settlement (Indefinite Leave to Remain – ILR) after completing the required residence period.

Who Can Apply for Further Leave to Remain?

You can apply for FLR if you are already in the UK and want to extend your stay in the same or an eligible immigration category. Common categories include:

• FLR(M): For partners and children of British citizens or settled persons.
• FLR(FP): For family and private life applications where you do not qualify under FLR(M) but wish to remain based on family life (Article 8 ECHR).
• FLR(IR): For individuals extending leave outside the Immigration Rules (discretionary leave, compassionate grounds).
• FLR(HRO): For those applying on human rights grounds, including protection against removal.
• FLR(LR): For long residence applications, if you have been in the UK lawfully for 10 years or more.

Eligibility Requirements

The requirements vary depending on which FLR route you apply under, but the general criteria include:

1. Immigration Status

• You must currently hold valid leave to remain in the UK.
• You must apply before your current visa expires.

2. Relationship and Family Life (for FLR(M) & FLR(FP))

• You must prove your relationship with a British/settled partner or parent is genuine and subsisting.
• You must intend to live together permanently.

3. Financial Requirement (FLR(M))

• Your sponsoring partner must usually meet the minimum income threshold of £18,600 per year (higher if dependent children are included).
• Savings, pensions, or self-employment income may also count.

4. Accommodation Requirement

• You must show that you have adequate accommodation without relying on public funds.

5. English Language Requirement

Applicants aged 18–64 must meet the English language requirement, usually by:

• Passing an approved English language test at A1 CEFR or higher (for first extension).
• Passing an A2 CEFR level test for subsequent extensions.
• Holding a degree taught in English or being from a majority English-speaking country.

6. Good Character & Suitability

• You must not fall foul of the suitability requirements (e.g., criminal convictions, breaches of immigration law, or unpaid NHS debts).

Application Process

• Determine the correct FLR form (FLR(M), FLR(FP), FLR(IR), FLR(HRO), FLR(LR)).
• Complete the online application on the Home Office website.
• Pay the application fee and Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS).
• Book and attend a UKVCAS biometric appointment to provide fingerprints and a photograph.
• Upload supporting documents to the online system or bring them to your appointment.
• Wait for a decision – usually within 8 weeks under standard service, or faster if using priority.

Supporting Documents Checklist

Supporting evidence varies depending on the FLR route but typically includes:

• Current passport and BRP.
• Proof of relationship (marriage certificate, birth certificates of children, photographs, joint bills).
• Evidence of finances (payslips, bank statements, employment contracts).
• Proof of accommodation (tenancy agreement, mortgage documents).
• Evidence of English language ability (test certificate or degree).
• Any additional evidence relevant to your application category (e.g., medical documents for compassionate grounds).

Fees and Costs (as of 2025)

• Application fee: £1,048 (standard application inside the UK).
• Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS): £1,035 per year per applicant.
• Biometric enrolment fee: £19.20.
• Priority service (optional): £500 extra (decision within 5 working days, where available).
• Super priority service (optional): £1,000 extra (decision by next working day, where available).

Processing Times

• Standard applications: Around 8 weeks.
• Priority applications: Around 5 working days.
• Super priority applications: Next working day after biometric enrolment.

What Happens After FLR is Granted?

• You will receive a new Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) confirming your extended leave.
• Your new leave will normally be valid for 2 years and 6 months (for FLR(M) and FLR(FP)).
• During this time, you will be allowed to live, work, and study in the UK, subject to your visa conditions.
• After completing the required qualifying period (usually 5 or 10 years depending on your route), you may be eligible to apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR).

Key Points to Remember

• Always apply before your visa expires to avoid becoming an overstayer.
• The type of FLR you apply for depends on your visa category and personal circumstances.
• Strong supporting evidence is essential, especially for relationship-based applications.
• Fees and the Immigration Health Surcharge can be costly, particularly for families.
• FLR is often a stepping stone to settlement and eventually British citizenship.