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What is a UK FLR visa?
A UK FLR visa is the short form for Further Leave to Remain. It is a temporary visa extension that serves as a crucial step towards settlement.
ILR stands for Indefinite Leave to Remain, granting you permanent immigration status in the UK without time restrictions, and is the final goal before British citizenship.
Our advice-first process helps reduce the risk of refusal for your FLR or ILR visa application.
Eligibility
Eligibility depends on whether you are applying for Further Leave to Remain or Indefinite Leave to Remain:
- FLR: Extending your stay if you hold a valid UK visa (spouse, work, or study)
- ILR: Usually after 5 years of continuous residence on a qualifying visa
- No serious criminal convictions or immigration breaches
- Ability to meet financial, relationship, and English requirements (where relevant)
How much does FLR/ILR cost?
Fees vary depending on whether you are applying for FLR or ILR:
- FLR application: £1,321
- ILR application: £3,029
- IHS surcharge (for FLR): £1,035 per year
Priority services are available at an additional cost.
Processing time
- FLR: Around 8 weeks (standard)
- ILR: Around 6 months (standard)
- Priority FLR/ILR: 5–10 working days
- Super-priority: 24 hours (subject to availability)
Conditions of stay
FLR: Extends your existing visa, allowing you to remain in the UK with the same conditions as before.
ILR: Grants permanent residence in the UK, allowing you to live, work, and study without restrictions.
Ready to apply?
Secure your FLR or ILR visa with Visa Positive. Start with a £99 consultation to confirm eligibility and get advice. Then, choose between self-application or our end-to-end support for just £599, covering everything from eligbility and douments, to final submission.
Frequently asked questions
FLR (Further Leave to Remain) allows non-British citizens to extend their stay beyond their initial visa period. Common categories include spouse visas, dependent visas, and work or study routes.
Anyone on a valid UK visa who wishes to remain after their current permission expires—for example, spouses, students, or workers.
ILR (Indefinite Leave to Remain) grants permanent residency. It allows you to live in the UK indefinitely without renewing your visa.
Eligibility usually requires 5 years of continuous residence on a qualifying visa, proof of financial stability, and meeting the English and Life in the UK requirements.
ILR removes visa restrictions, gives access to public funds, and is a key step towards British citizenship.