What is Further Leave To Remain – FLR (M)?
Further, Leave to Remain allows you to extend your stay in the UK as the partner of someone who is a British citizen or has settled status (holds ILR), after an initial period of entry clearance. FLR M stands for Further Leave to Remain in the Marriage category. A partner can be
- Spouse
- Fiancé
- Unmarried partner
This application is also used for someone who has entered as a fiancé and requires a switching visa to a spouse visa. A dependent child can also be included in this application.
Who is Eligible for FLR(M)?
Further Leave to Remain (FLR) is a UK visa that allows individuals already in the country to extend their stay. This extension may be granted based on family ties, employment, or studies. Different FLR categories exist, including those for work, private life, and marriage. This visa category is commonly used by those on a spouse or partner visa, work permit, or study visa, who wish to continue their lives in the UK without disruption.
Eligibility for FLR(M) extends to those who initially entered the UK on family visas such as the spouse visa. This includes spouses, civil partners, unmarried partners, and dependent children. It is important to ensure that your status aligns with the requirements to apply for FLR(M) without unnecessary complications.
What are the FLR Categories in the UK?
Depending on your specific circumstances and the visa you currently hold, there are three main types of FLR applications you may need to consider.
- FLR(M):
FLR(M) is intended for family members of British or Irish citizens, or those with settled status in the UK. This category is commonly used by individuals on Family visas, such as the Spouse visa, to extend their stay for an additional 30 months. - FLR(IR):
FLR(IR) applies to individuals needing to extend their stay in the UK for various specific reasons. This form is typically used by those on an Ancestry visa, parents of child students, or domestic workers in private households, among others. - FLR(FP):
FLR(FP) is designed for individuals who wish to extend their stay based on their family or private life. This category often includes those who were originally granted visas under human rights grounds.
Can You Apply for Visa Extension Under FLR (M)?
To apply for a visa extension under the FLR (M) category as a spouse or partner, you must meet specific eligibility criteria. You should be the spouse, civil partner, or unmarried partner (for a minimum of two years) of an individual who falls into one of the following categories:
- A British or Irish citizen
- A person with settled status in the UK, including those with indefinite leave to remain, settled or pre-settled status under the EU Settlement Scheme, or permanent residence
- A holder of a Turkish Businessperson or Turkish Worker visa
- A person with refugee status or humanitarian protection in the UK
These requirements should have been satisfied when you initially applied for your Spouse visa from outside the UK.
Additionally, you must continue to meet all the original eligibility conditions, such as demonstrating the genuineness of your relationship (e.g., providing a marriage certificate) and fulfilling the financial requirements.
When applying for FLR (M), you may also be required to prove your English language proficiency again.
What are the Requirements for Children Applying in FLR(M)?
Children seeking to apply for FLR (M) must satisfy one of the following conditions:
- Your parent has been granted leave to enter or remain as a partner or parent of a person who is:
- Present and settled in the UK
- Holding pre-settled status under the EU Settlement Scheme
- In possession of a Turkish Businessperson or Turkish Worker visa
- You are applying to remain in the UK with a person granted leave to remain based on their family or private life in the UK
- There are compelling reasons for you to stay in the UK, and appropriate care arrangements have been made
- Our experienced team can guide you through the FLR (M) application process, ensuring all requirements are met to secure your visa extension.
What are the English Language Requirements for FLR(M)?
When applying for an FLR (M) visa extension, the majority of the requirements remain consistent with those you met when your visa was initially granted. However, one important aspect you may need to revisit is the English language requirement.
If you were originally granted a Spouse visa, you might need to provide updated evidence of your English language proficiency to extend your stay in the UK beyond 2.5 years. This is because the FLR (M) visa extension requires you to demonstrate at least an A2 level on the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR). This is a higher threshold compared to the A1 level required for your initial Spouse visa.
If you previously passed an approved English language test at A2 level or higher for your initial visa, you may be able to use the same test result in your FLR (M) application, provided your test certificate remains valid and has not been withdrawn by the issuing body.
If your test result does not meet the A2 level requirement or your certificate is no longer valid, you will need to take a new English language test at A2 level or higher to qualify for the FLR (M) visa extension.
At Axis Solicitors, we can assist you in navigating these requirements, ensuring that your application is complete and successful.
What are the Financial Requirements under FLR (M) Rules?
To meet the financial requirements for an FLR (M) application under Appendix FM, applicants must satisfy a minimum income threshold.
The specifics are as follows:
- Minimum Income Threshold:
- For applications submitted before 11 April 2024, the minimum income requirement is £18,600 per year.
- From 11 April 2024, this threshold has increased to £29,000 annually.
- Additional Income for Dependent Children:
- If you have dependent children who are not British or Irish citizens or are not permanently settled in the UK, you must demonstrate additional income.
- This includes £3,800 for the first child and £2,400 for each subsequent child.
- However, if the total required income exceeds £29,000, you only need to meet the £29,000 threshold.
- Minimum Income Threshold:
- Income Sources:
- The financial requirement can be met through income from the employment or self-employment of your spouse/partner, or your own income if you have permission to work in the UK.
- Other permissible sources include pensions, maternity allowances, bereavement benefits, and cash savings exceeding £16,000.
- Exemptions:
- You are exempt from meeting the minimum income threshold if your spouse/partner receives certain benefits, such as Disability Living Allowance or Personal Independence Payment.
- In such cases, you must provide evidence that you can adequately maintain yourselves and any dependents without relying on public funds.
- Accommodation Requirement:
- You must also demonstrate that you have adequate accommodation for yourself and any dependents residing with you.
At Axis Solicitors, we are here to help you navigate these financial requirements, ensuring your application meets all the necessary criteria.
When Should You Apply for FLR (M)?
You must complete the application online through the Government website. You need to be physically present in the UK with a valid Spouse or Family visa. The application requires detailed information about yourself, any dependent children, and your sponsor (spouse, civil partner, or unmarried partner).
Accurate and complete information is crucial. Make sure to use the most up-to-date form, and ensure that both you and your sponsor sign the required declarations. Proper completion of these steps is essential to avoid delays or complications.
Can You Extend Your Visa Outside of the UK?
No, you must be physically present in the UK to apply for an FLR (M) extension. The application, including document submission and biometric appointments, must be completed within the UK.
How Long Will You Be Granted Once Application Is Successful?
If your FLR (M) application is successful, you will be granted an additional 2.5 years of leave to remain. A new biometric residence permit (BRP) will be issued, reflecting the updated validity dates.
Can You Travel While the Application Is Pending?
You cannot travel outside the UK while your FLR (M) application is pending. Leaving the country will result in your application being treated as withdrawn.
What Is the Processing Time for FLR (M)?
The standard processing time for an FLR (M) application is approximately 8 weeks. If you opt for the priority service, you can receive a decision the next working day after attending your biometric appointment.
UK Visa Fees / Costs for Further Leave to Remain
These fees are subject to change. We provide full cost breakdowns before you apply. For updated rates visit GOV.UK
Why Should You Apply for FLR(M) – Further Leave to Remain?
FLR(M) allows family members to continue living together in the UK legally, providing stability and supporting long-term plans. It is an essential step for those aiming for eventual settlement.
- Extended stay: Grants up to 30 more months in the UK.
- Right to work: You can work without restrictions.
- Right to study: You can enroll in courses or education programs.
- Access to NHS: Health services are available via the Immigration Health Surcharge.
- Family unity: Keeps partners and children together under one legal status.
- Path to settlement: Counts toward the 5-year requirement for ILR.
Securing FLR(M) ensures families can live, work, and plan their future together in the UK.
How Much Cost is Required for Applying FLR(M) Visa?
1. Application Fee
- The Home Office fee for FLR(M) extension is £1,258 as of 24 July 2024.
- Payment must be made when submitting your application.
- Fees are non-refundable, even if the application is refused.
2. Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS)
- The IHS fee is £1,035 per year of leave requested.
- Multiply the number of years (rounding up to nearest half-year) to calculate total IHS.
- Online calculators are available to simplify IHS calculations.
3. English Language Test
- Retaking the English test costs approximately £150 per attempt.
- Required if your initial test is no longer valid or does not meet criteria.
- Test fees are separate from visa and IHS charges.
4. Document Translation
- Non-English/Welsh documents must be professionally translated.
- Typical cost is £60–85 per page, depending on complexity.
- Accurate translation is critical to avoid application delays.
5. Additional Considerations
- The FLR(M) extension process can be complex and time-sensitive.
- Professional guidance from immigration solicitors can help prevent mistakes.
- Ensuring funds are ready for all fees reduces stress and application issues.
Which Documents are Required for FLR (M) Application?
When submitting your FLR (M) form, you will need to provide the following supporting documents. If any of the following documents are not in English or Welsh, provide a certified translation.
- Current passport or valid travel ID
- Copies of previous passports including photo page and visa stamps.
- Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) if applicable.
- Proof of sponsor’s immigration status in the UK.
- Proof of relationship with your spouse, partner, or parent.
- Details of criminal convictions.
- National insurance number.
- Language requirement evidence, like a valid test certificate.
- Financial requirement evidence such as bank statements or payslips.
If you need further assistance, Axis Solicitors can guide you through the documentation process, ensuring that your application is comprehensive and accurate.
How Expert Solicitors Can Assist you in FLR(M) Visa Application?
Document Preparation
- Identify and gather all documents required for your FLR (M) application
- Ensure evidence is accurate, complete, and meets UKVI requirements
- Strengthen your application through careful review and expert guidance
Application Submission
- Manage the full submission process on your behalf
- Ensure accuracy, compliance, and timely filing
- Present your application clearly and professionally to UKVI
Ongoing Communication
- Provide regular updates throughout the UKVI review process
- Remain available to answer questions and address concerns
- Offer clarity and reassurance while your application is under consideration
Securing Your Future in the UK
- Enable you to continue living, working, or studying in the UK
- Support stability and long-term planning for you and your family
- Open pathways to future immigration opportunities
Why Choose Axis Solicitors?
- Deliver personalised, client-focused legal support
- Provide expert immigration advice at every stage
- Minimise stress through clear guidance and proactive service
The Next Step
- Schedule a consultation with an experienced immigration solicitor
- Receive tailored advice for your FLR (M) application
- Take confident steps toward extending your stay in the UK
