Further Leave to Remain (FLR) as a child allows non-EEA children to extend their stay in the UK if they have a parent who is a British citizen, settled in the UK, or on a route to settlement.
Eligibility Criteria
- Parental Status: At least one parent must be a British citizen, have settled status, or be on a route to settlement in the UK.
- Age: The child must be under 18 years old at the time of application.
- Living Arrangements: The child must be living with the parent or be planning to join the parent in the UK.
- Genuine Relationship: Must have a genuine and subsisting relationship with the parent.
- Child’s Best Interests: It must be in the child’s best interests to remain in the UK.
Application Process
- Gather Documentation: Proof of parental status, child’s age, living arrangements, and relationship.
- Submit Application: Apply online for FLR as a child.
- Biometrics: Provide biometric information at a UK Visa and Citizenship Application Services (UKVCAS) center.
- Decision: Await a decision from UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI).
Key Points
- Duration: Usually granted for 30 months (about 2 and a half years), after which the application can be renewed.
- Path to ILR: After 5 years on this route, the child may be eligible for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR).
FAQ (Frequently asked questions):
FLR as a child allows non-UK citizens who are under 18 to extend their stay in the UK, often because their parent(s) are living in the UK.
You are eligible if:
- You are under 18.
- You have a parent or parents in the UK who are either British citizens, settled, or have permission to stay in the UK.
It is not reasonable to expect you to leave the UK.
You must demonstrate:
- A genuine and subsisting relationship with your parent(s) or guardian(s) in the UK.
- That your parent(s) or guardian(s) can adequately care for you in the UK.
Generally, your parent(s) or guardian(s) must show they can adequately maintain and accommodate you without recourse to public funds. This requirement is assessed on a case-by-case basis.
Yes, you must show that you have been living in the UK continuously and that it would not be reasonable to expect you to leave the UK.
: Complete the application form FLR(FP), pay the fee, submit biometric data, and provide supporting documents such as proof of your relationship with your parent(s) or guardian(s), financial evidence, and proof of residence in the UK.
You will need:
- Your birth certificate or other proof of relationship with your parent(s) or guardian(s).
- Evidence of your parent(s) or guardian(s) status in the UK (e.g., their passport or BRP).
- Financial documents (e.g., payslips, bank statements) showing they can support you.
Proof of your residence in the UK (e.g., school records, medical records).
The standard processing time is around 8 weeks (about 2 months). Priority and super priority services are available for faster processing.
You can appeal against the decision or request an administrative review. It is advisable to seek legal advice to explore your options.
As a child, you would typically be in school. However, older children (16-17) may be allowed to work part-time, subject to child employment laws.
Yes, after living in the UK for a continuous period and meeting all requirements, you may be eligible to apply for ILR.
Yes, your parent(s) or guardian(s) can include you as a dependent child in their own FLR application.
For Expert legal advice and assistance, reach out to Imran & Co Solicitors today.
Immigration
Services
Personalized Legal Assistance
Experienced Legal Team
02078715365
Book Now
info@imransolicitors.co.uk
