UK Visa Extension - Further Leave to Remain

Apply for Further Leave to Remain UK Visa Extension from UK Solicitors in India at a Lower Cost

UK visas are typically granted for a specific period of stay in the UK. An individual with a limited leave to remain visa must either leave the UK before the visa expires or apply for an extension of the visa, known as 'leave to remain'. It is essential to make an application to the UK Home Office (UKVI) well in advance of the expiry of the existing visa. With a leave to remain, as opposed to an entry visa, you are allowed to stay for an additional period in the UK. This process is known as applying for further leave to remain or a visa extension.

All UK visa types offer the option for an extension. However, you must ensure that you comply with specific conditions and requirements. The rule excludes the Tier 5 Youth Mobility Scheme visa, as this visa type cannot be extended. If you hold an entry visa under this category, you can stay in the UK for up to 2 years. If you wish to stay longer, you must return to your home country and reapply.

Spouse & Other Family Routes

Under the UK Family Route, you can apply for an extension of your existing visa, known as further leave to remain, if you are already in the UK on the basis of your family or private life. You can also apply for a biometric residence permit, based on the following grounds:

• Family life as a partner (5-year and 10-year routes)
• Family life as a parent (5-year and 10-year routes)
• Dependent child of a person who has, or is simultaneously applying for, limited leave to enter or remain in the UK (other than under the points-based system or UK Ancestry route) (5-year and 10-year routes)
• Private life in the UK (10-year route)
• Leave outside the rules on the basis of family or private life

Requirements for Extension of Leave to Remain

As part of the application process, you will also be required to apply for a biometric immigration document, commonly known as the biometric residence permit (BRP).

When you decide to apply for an extension, make sure you comply with the following conditions:

• You must apply for an extension in the same visa category you currently hold.
• You should apply for an extension at least 8 weeks before your existing visa expires.
• You must not have been involved in any criminal activity, nor have you violated any UK laws or immigration laws during your stay in the UK.
• You must provide biometric information, such as fingerprints and recent photographs, for yourself and any dependents applying for an extension.
• You must not have breached immigration laws while holding a valid UK visa.

You may remain in the UK while the decision regarding your extension is pending, provided you have applied within the valid period of your visa.

Biometric Information

As part of the application process, you are required to provide biometric information for the biometric residence permit (BRP). This document is crucial for verifying your identity and immigration status.

Applications for further leave to remain must be made on the correct application form. If the form is incorrect, it will be returned as invalid and will not be processed by the Home Office. Most applications involve a significant processing fee that is non-refundable in the event of refusal. There may also be an Immigration Health Surcharge fee, which needs to be paid in advance. Certain individuals may be exempt from paying these fees and should seek advice. If your application is refused, you may have the right to appeal before an Immigration Judge.

Many applications for further leave can be submitted either by post or using the UKVI Same Day Premium Service. We can assist you with your application, regardless of the application process you choose.

This area of law is particularly complex, as the application process varies depending on your specific circumstances and the reason for requesting an extension.

If you have further questions or need advice or legal assistance, feel free to Contact Us or reach out by Email Us. Alternatively, you are welcome to book an Appointment or send us an online Legal Query.