A Guide to UK Further Leave to Remain (FLR): See Which One is Right for You

If you're in the UK and need to extend your stay, Further Leave to Remain (FLR) is the way to do it. But with different types of applications, it can be tricky to figure out which one applies to you. Whether it's for family, work, or personal circumstances, here's a simple breakdown of your options.

1. FLR(M) – For Families & Partners

If you're here as a spouse, civil partner, or unmarried partner of a British citizen or someone with settled status, this one's for you. It also applies to parents of British or settled children.

✔️ You’ll need to meet the financial requirement (currently £18,600, higher if you have kids).

✔️ You’ll need to prove your English skills (unless exempt).

✔️ Show proof of a genuine relationship (joint finances, living together, or children together).

This route usually leads to Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) after five years.

2. FLR(FP) – Based on Family or Private Life

If you have strong family ties in the UK or have lived here for a long time, this could be your route.

🔹 Family life – If you have a British child or partner, and leaving the UK would be unreasonable.

🔹 Private life – If you’ve been here long-term:

• Kids who’ve lived in the UK for 7+ years.

• Adults who’ve been here for 20+ years.

• Young adults (18-25) who have spent half their life here.

This route may take 10 years before you can apply for ILR.

3. FLR(HRO) – Human Rights & Special Cases

If you’re applying based on human rights or exceptional circumstances, this could apply to you.

⚖️ If leaving the UK would breach your human rights (e.g., Article 8 - Right to Family Life).

⚖️ If you’ve been granted Discretionary Leave to Remain (DLR) before and need to extend it.

4. FLR(DL) – Discretionary Leave Extensions

If you previously received Discretionary Leave to Remain (DLR) instead of refugee status, you may need to apply for an extension.

🔹 This applies to cases where someone doesn’t fit into standard immigration rules but has compelling reasons to stay.

🔹 It usually leads to ILR after 10 years.

5. FLR(BUS) – For Business & Work Visas

If you’re staying in the UK for business or work under a visa that needs extending, this is for you.

💼 Innovators, Startups, and Entrepreneurs looking for more time to develop their business.

💼 Global Talent Visa holders extending their stay based on continued contributions to their field.

💼 Investor Visa holders meeting the required investment threshold.

6. FLR(IR) – Other Reasons

If none of the above categories apply to you, you might need to apply under FLR(IR). This covers:

🔹 Medical reasons preventing travel.

🔹 Special circumstances not covered under standard visa extensions.

Things to Keep in Mind When Applying

📝 Application Fees & NHS Surcharge – Most applications require a Home Office fee plus the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS).

⏳ Processing Time – Standard applications can take months, but priority services may be available.

📑 Documents Matter – Submit all required paperwork to avoid delays or refusals.

Final Thoughts

Figuring out which FLR route is right for you can be confusing, but knowing the basics makes it easier. Whether you’re extending your stay for family, business, or personal reasons, staying informed helps. If you're unsure, it's always best to speak to an immigration specialist at Hextons to make sure everything goes smoothly.

Need more guidance? Check the official UK Home Office website for the latest updates before applying.