Further Leave to Remain as a Parent (UK)

FLR as a parent allows non-UK citizens who have a child living in the UK to extend their stay in the UK to maintain a relationship with their child.

You are eligible if you:

• Have a child who is a British citizen or has settled status in the UK.
• Have sole or shared parental responsibility for the child.
• Are taking an active role in the child’s upbringing.
• Are in the UK on a valid visa.

You must demonstrate:

• You have a genuine and subsisting parental relationship with the child.
• The child is under 18 or was under 18 when you were first granted leave.
• You have access rights to the child and are involved in their life.

You must demonstrate that you can adequately maintain and accommodate yourself and any dependants without recourse to public funds. This is usually assessed on a case-by-case basis.

You must demonstrate English language proficiency by:

• Passing an approved English language test at A1 level or higher.
• Having an academic qualification taught in English.
• Being a national of a majority English-speaking country.

Complete the application form FLR(FP), pay the fee, submit biometric data, and provide supporting documents such as proof of your relationship with the child, financial evidence, and proof of English language proficiency.

You will need:

• Proof of your relationship with the child (e.g., birth certificate, court orders).
• Evidence of your role in the child’s life (e.g., letters from the school, photos).
• Financial documents (e.g., payslips, bank statements).
• Evidence of English language proficiency.
• Proof of accommodation in the UK.

The standard processing time is around 8 weeks. Priority and super priority services are available for faster processing

You can appeal against the decision or request an administrative review. It’s advisable to seek legal advice to explore your options.

Yes, FLR as a parent allows you to work and study in the UK without restrictions.

Yes, after holding FLR as a parent and living in the UK continuously for 5 or 10 years (depending on your circumstances), you can apply for ILR, provided you meet all the requirements.

Yes, you can include other dependent children in your application, and additional financial requirements will apply.