FLR (FP) Visa UK – Requirements, Processing Times
The FLR (FP) visa allows individuals to extend their stay in the UK based on family life or private life grounds under UK immigration and human rights law. This route is often used by people who cannot meet the strict requirements of other visa categories but have strong ties to the UK.
At Deluxe Law Chambers, our specialist immigration solicitors provide expert legal support for complex FLR(FP) applications, including cases involving partners, parents, children, long residence, and Article 8 human rights claims.
Table of Contents
What is an FLR (FP) Visa?
FLR (FP) stands for Further Leave to Remain (Family and Private Life). It is a human rights–based immigration route allowing individuals to remain in the UK where removal would breach their right to family or private life under Article 8 of the European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR).
This route commonly applies where:
- A person has a partner or children in the UK
- A parent has an ongoing relationship with a child
- An individual has built a long-standing private life in the UK
- Exceptional or compassionate circumstances exist
For best UK visa and immigration advice in Manchester & London, speak to our experienced immigration solicitors. We offer expert help with visa applications, extensions, refusals, appeals, judicial reviews, ILR, and British nationality matters. Call 01614644140 or email info@deluxelawchambers.co.uk to book your consultation.
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Who Should Apply for an FLR (FP) Visa?
You may be eligible if you fall into one of these categories:
1. Partners
- Married or unmarried partners of British citizens or settled persons
- Relationships must be genuine and subsisting
2. Parents
- Parents with an active role in a child’s life in the UK
- Particularly where the child is British or has lived in the UK for 7+ years
3. Children
- Children applying based on family life or long residence
4. Private Life Applicants
- Individuals who have lived in the UK for a significant period (including long residence or 10-year private life claims)
FLR (FP) Visa Eligibility Requirements
Eligibility depends on whether the application is based on family life or private life.
A. Family Life Route
Applicants must show:
- A genuine and subsisting relationship
- That separation would cause unjustifiably harsh consequences
- Ongoing contact and emotional or financial support
- That removal would breach Article 8 rights
B. Private Life Route
This applies to individuals who have:
- Lived in the UK for a long period
- Established deep social, cultural, and personal ties
- Limited or no meaningful ties to their country of origin
Human Rights Basis of FLR (FP)
FLR (FP) applications rely heavily on Article 8 ECHR, which protects:
- Family life
- Private life
- Relationships with children
- Established social identity in the UK
A successful application must demonstrate that removal would be disproportionate and breach human rights.
FLR (FP) Visa Requirements
Relationship Evidence (Family Applications)
- Marriage or civil partnership certificate
- Evidence of cohabitation
- Birth certificates (for children)
- Photos, messages, joint financial commitments
Private Life Evidence
- School records
- Medical records
- Employment history
- Community involvement
Financial Evidence
While strict income thresholds often do not apply, applicants must show:
- Ability to maintain themselves
- Employment or support evidence
- Bank statements and payslips
English Language Requirement
Applicants may need:
- An approved English test, or
- A degree taught in English
Some human rights cases may qualify for exemptions.
FLR (FP) Documents Checklist
- Proof of identity and immigration history
- Relationship documents
- Residence evidence
- Financial evidence
- English language proof
- Detailed personal statement
- Evidence of claim under FLR (FP)
How to Apply for an FLR (FP) Visa Step-by-Step?
- Complete the FLR (FP) online application
- Pay the application fee and Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS)
- Upload supporting documents
- Attend a biometric appointment
- Await Home Office decision
FLR (FP) Visa Processing Times 2026
| Service Type | Processing Time |
|---|---|
| Standard | Around 12 weeks |
| Super Priority (if available) | Decision in 24 hours |
FLR (FP) Application Fees (2026)
- Application fee: £1,321
- Immigration Health Surcharge: £1,035 per year
- Our Legal fees: Vary depending on complexity
Common Reasons for FLR (FP) Refusals
- Insufficient relationship evidence
- Weak Article 8 arguments
- Poor documentation
- Inconsistencies in statements
A refusal may carry a right of appeal, or a fresh application may be more appropriate.
FLR (FP) Visa Duration & Settlement
Most applicants are placed on the 10-year route to settlement, meaning:
- Leave granted for 2.5 years
- Multiple extensions required
- Eligibility for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) after 10 years
In some cases, switching to the 5-year route may be possible with proper legal advice.
Speak to an FLR (FP) Immigration Solicitor
If you are applying for leave to remain based on family or private life, professional legal advice can significantly improve your chances of success.
Contact Deluxe Law Chambers today for expert assistance with your FLR (FP) visa application, appeal, or renewal.
Why Clients Choose Deluxe Law Chambers?
With offices in Manchester and London, Deluxe Law Chambers provides expert legal advice for all UK visa and immigration matters. Our experienced immigration lawyers are committed to making the visa process clear, efficient, and stress-free from start to finish.
- Our team has over 11 years of practical experience of working in UK immigration law firms and stays fully up to date with the latest Home Office rules and guidance, ensuring accurate and reliable legal advice.
- Every immigration case is different. Our immigration solicitors take the time to understand your circumstances and provide tailored legal solutions that meet your specific needs.
- Where eligible, we offer Priority and Super Priority UK visa services to help you obtain faster immigration decisions.
- We offer flexible video, telephone, and in-person appointments from our Manchester office, assisting clients across the UK and overseas.
- Our immigration lawyers are available seven days a week, including weekends, for urgent and time-sensitive immigration matters.
- We provide clear fixed-fee pricing, with instalment options available and no hidden costs.
At Deluxe Law Chambers, our SRA-regulated immigration solicitors are committed to delivering professional, honest, and results-driven UK immigration advice you can trust.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does FLR(FP) take?
Usually around 8 weeks, but complex cases may take longer.
Can I switch from FLR(FP) to another visa?
In some circumstances, yes — legal advice is essential.
Does FLR(FP) lead to ILR?
Yes, usually after 10 years of lawful residence on this route.