If you are a Nigerian residing in the UK, you may be on a visa or have limited leave to remain. Both options are temporary, and you must take steps to extend your stay before your permitted time ends. Applying for Further Leave to Remain (FLR) is the process that allows you to extend your lawful stay in the UK via the Home Office.
What is Further Leave to Remain?
FLR is a UK immigration process that enables non-British nationals to extend their stay beyond the validity of their initial visa or limited leave. It is particularly useful for individuals whose existing leave is about to expire. The FLR process provides two key categories:
- FLR (M): Extensions based on marriage or family life.
- FLR (FP): Extensions based on private or family life.
Since the process can be complex, it is advisable to seek legal advice from immigration experts if you’re unsure about the requirements.
Types of FLR Applications
1. FLR (M): Marriage or Family-Based Applications
FLR (M) applies to individuals seeking to extend their stay as:
- Spouses, civil partners, or unmarried partners of a British citizen or settled individual.
- Parents of a British child or a child with settled status.
- Dependent children of a British parent or someone with permanent residency.
Key Requirements for FLR (M):
- Proof of Identity: Valid passport or travel document.
- Relationship Evidence: Marriage or civil partnership certificate.
- Financial Evidence: Meet financial thresholds set by the Home Office.
- Accommodation Proof: Demonstrate suitable living arrangements in the UK.
- English Proficiency: Evidence of English language skills.
FLR (M) grants a 2.5-year extension. After five continuous years on FLR (M), you can apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR).
2. FLR (FP): Private or Family Life Applications
FLR (FP) is for individuals who:
- Do not meet the criteria for FLR (M).
- Are overstayers or do not have a valid visa.
- Have a private or family life in the UK that warrants an extension.
Examples of FLR (FP) Applications:
- A non-British parent of a British child.
- A person who has lived in the UK for an extended period under private life provisions (e.g., 20 years of continuous stay).
Key Requirements for FLR (FP):
- Private Life: Meet criteria under immigration rules, such as 20 years of residence or half your life spent in the UK if aged 18-24.
- Family Life: Evidence of dependency or relationships with British citizens.
- Human Rights Grounds: Demonstrate why leaving the UK would violate your family or private life under Article 8 of the European Convention on Human Rights.
FLR (FP) also grants a 2.5-year extension. However, this route leads to ILR after 10 years of continuous stay.
Key Differences Between FLR (M) and FLR (FP)
- FLR (M): Granted under standard immigration rules; leads to ILR after 5 years.
- FLR (FP): Based on human rights considerations; leads to ILR after 10 years.
How to Apply for FLR
General Requirements:
- Valid Passport: Proof of identity and nationality.
- Current Visa: Evidence of valid leave to remain.
- Timely Application: Submit your application before your current leave expires.
- Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS): Pay the required fees.
Documents Checklist:
- Personal Identification: Passport, biometric residence permit.
- Relationship Evidence: Marriage certificate, birth certificates of children.
- Financial Proof: Bank statements, payslips.
- Accommodation Evidence: Tenancy agreements, utility bills.
- English Proficiency: English language test results.
- Supporting Letters: From employers, schools, or community leaders.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How long does it take to process an FLR application? Typically, it takes up to 8 weeks for a decision. Delays can occur if the application is incomplete or complex.
2. What is the difference between FLR and ILR? FLR provides a temporary extension, while ILR grants permanent residency, allowing you to stay indefinitely and apply for British citizenship.
3. When should I apply for FLR? You should apply no earlier than 28 days before your current visa or leave expires.
4. How much does FLR cost? The standard fee is £1048, plus an annual Immigration Health Surcharge of £624.
5. Can I work or study on FLR? Yes, FLR holders can work and study in the UK during their leave.
Need Help? If you’re unsure about your application, Naija UK Connect is here to guide you. We work with experienced immigration lawyers to ensure your FLR application is smooth and successful. Contact us today for expert advice tailored to Nigerians in the UK.
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