Are you wondering about the FLR visa fee? If you’re in the UK on a temporary visa and want to extend your stay, you will likely need to apply for a FLR (Further Leave to Remain) visa. One of the important aspects to consider when applying for the FLR visa is the visa fee. At Primus Solicitors Manchester, we specialize in helping individuals understand the visa fee structure and guide them through the application process.
If you need help with your FLR visa application or have questions about the visa fee, contact Primus Solicitors Manchester today:
📍 First Floor, 402 Palatine Road, Northenden, Manchester M22 4FZ
📞 0161 222 5860
📧 info@ansarhabib.com
🕘 Monday–Friday: 09:30 AM – 05:30 PM
What is the FLR Visa?
The FLR (Further Leave to Remain) visa is designed for individuals who are already in the UK on a temporary visa and want to extend their stay. The FLR visa is required for various visa categories, including Spouse Visas, Tier 2 Work Visas, and Student Visas. If you want to remain in the UK beyond the initial period of your visa, you must apply for Further Leave to Remain before your current visa expires.
FLR Visa Fee – What Does It Cost?
The FLR visa fee varies depending on the type of visa you are applying for. The UK Home Office sets the visa fee based on the type of application you are making and the applicant’s situation. Below are the general FLR visa fees based on different visa types:
1. FLR (M) Visa Fee (Spouse or Partner Visa)
If you’re applying for the FLR(M) visa as a spouse or partner, the fee is £1,033 for the main applicant. This fee applies if you’re seeking to extend your stay in the UK under the Spouse Visa or Partner Visa categories. If you are applying with dependents, each dependent will also need to pay a separate fee. Additional fees may apply for biometric appointments.
Do Children Pay the Same FLR Visa Fee as Adults?
When applying for the FLR visa, it’s important to note that children are generally subject to the same application fee as adults. Each child included in your application will need to pay the full FLR visa fee, just as an adult applicant would.
In addition to the main application fee, children must also pay the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS), which covers access to the UK’s National Health Service during their stay. The IHS for children is set at the standard per-person rate and is calculated based on the duration of the visa.
Example Breakdown for a Child Applicant
- FLR visa application fee (per child): £1,033
- IHS surcharge (per year): £624
- Total IHS for a 2.5-year visa: £1,560
So, for a single child applicant, the combined cost of the FLR application and IHS typically comes to £2,593 (for a 2.5-year visa).
Some families may be eligible for a fee waiver or reduction, particularly in cases involving financial hardship or where a child’s application is based on human rights grounds. If you believe your circumstances may qualify you for a waiver, be sure to check the current Home Office guidance or seek professional advice.
Additional Fees:
- Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS): If you apply for FLR(M), you will also be required to pay the Immigration Health Surcharge as part of your application. The IHS helps cover the costs of healthcare services in the UK and is typically £624 per year per applicant.
Additional Fees:
Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS): If you apply for FLR(M), you will also be required to pay the Immigration Health Surcharge as part of your application. The IHS helps cover the costs of healthcare services in the UK and is typically £624 per year per applicant.
2. FLR (Tier 2) Visa Fee (Work Visa)
If you are applying for the FLR (Tier 2) visa to extend your stay as a skilled worker, the visa fee can range from £1,220 to £1,408, depending on your specific circumstances, including the job type, whether you’re in a shortage occupation, and your salary. There may also be additional fees for dependents and biometric appointments.
Additional Fees:
Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS): For the FLR (Tier 2) application, the IHS is also applicable, typically £624 per year per applicant.
3. FLR (Student) Visa Fee
If you’re applying for an extension on a Student Visa (under the FLR (Student) category), the fee is typically £490 for the main applicant. The FLR (Student) visa allows you to extend your stay while you continue your studies in the UK.
Additional Fees:
Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS): Similar to other visa types, you must also pay the Immigration Health Surcharge, which is £470 per year for Student applicants.
4. FLR (Other Visa Types)
For other visa types, such as FLR (O), which covers other categories like refugees or individuals seeking asylum, the fee can vary. The FLR (O) category applies to individuals who are in the UK on temporary protection status and wish to extend their stay. The visa fee for FLR (O) applications is typically £1,033.
Additional Fees:
Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS): An additional IHS fee is applicable depending on your specific visa and duration of stay.
Can You Get a Waiver for the FLR Visa Fee?
If you’re concerned about the cost of the FLR visa fee, you may be able to request a fee waiver in exceptional circumstances. The UK Home Office considers applications for fee waivers from individuals who can demonstrate financial hardship and inability to pay the required fee.
Who May Qualify for a Fee Waiver?
Generally, you could be eligible for a fee waiver if:
- You have limited or no income, and paying the fee would prevent you from meeting basic living needs (like housing, food, or utilities).
- You are applying under certain categories, such as FLR(FP) (based on family or private life) or FLR(HRO) (based on human rights considerations).
- You are receiving financial support from a UK local authority or government welfare benefit programs.
What Evidence Should Be Submitted?
To support your application for a fee waiver, you should gather documents such as:
- Recent bank statements (usually covering the past six months)
- Details of your rent or mortgage payments
- Utility bills or council tax statements
- Proof of any benefits, support, or public assistance you receive
If approved, both the FLR visa fee and the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) will be waived. Keep in mind that a decision on the waiver must be made before your FLR application can move forward, so this may extend the processing time.
How to Pay the FLR Visa Fee
Paying the FLR visa fee is a straightforward process, but it is essential to follow the steps correctly to ensure that your application is not delayed. Here’s how to pay your FLR fee:
1. Online Payment
You must pay the visa fee online via the UK Home Office’s official website during the application process. You will be required to make the payment before submitting your FLR application. The payment is processed through a secure online payment system, and you will receive a payment confirmation receipt.
2. Payment Method
The FLR visa fee can be paid using:
Credit or debit card (Visa, MasterCard, or other supported cards)
UK-based bank transfer (if applicable)
Ensure that you have sufficient funds in your account to cover the fee, and keep the payment receipt as proof of payment.
Additional Costs to Consider
When applying for your FLR visa, there may be other additional costs to consider, including:
1. Biometric Appointment Fee
As part of your FLR application, you will be required to attend a biometric appointment to provide your fingerprints and photograph. The biometric fee is usually £19.20 and can be paid online when you complete your FLR visa application.
2. Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS)
The Immigration Health Surcharge is an additional cost that applies to most UK visas, including FLR applications. The cost of the IHS depends on the length of your visa and your visa category:
For Spouse Visas and Tier 2 work visas, the cost is typically £624 per year.
For Student Visas, the cost is £470 per year.
The IHS allows you to access the National Health Service (NHS) during your stay in the UK.
Documents Required for an FLR Fee Waiver Application
If you’re seeking a fee waiver for your FLR application, you’ll need to supply detailed documents to prove your financial situation. The Home Office uses this information to determine whether you qualify for a waiver based on your inability to pay the visa fee.
Key documents to include:
- Recent bank statements: Typically, you should provide at least six months’ worth of bank statements for all account holders in your household. These statements help demonstrate your regular income and expenditure.
- Housing information: Evidence of your current accommodation, such as a tenancy agreement, rent book, or mortgage statements, showing your monthly housing costs.
- Utility bills: Recent statements for utilities like gas, electricity, water, and council tax to help show your ongoing household expenses.
- Proof of income and benefits: Letters or statements confirming any benefits, tax credits, or other public funds you receive from UK government bodies (e.g., Universal Credit, Child Benefit, or Working Tax Credit).
- Payslips and employment letters: If you or any household member are employed, include recent payslips and a letter from your employer verifying your work status and income.
- Any additional supporting evidence: This might include debt letters, medical evidence if illness affects your finances, or correspondence from support organizations.
Providing thorough and clear documentation will support your case and reduce the likelihood of delays or requests for additional information.
How Primus Solicitors Manchester Can Help
At Primus Solicitors Manchester, we specialize in guiding clients through the FLR visa application process. Our experienced team can help you understand the FLR visa fee structure and ensure that you meet all the requirements for a successful application.
Our Services Include:
Eligibility assessment: We help you assess whether you qualify for an FLR application and explain the specific requirements for your visa category.
Application support: We assist with completing your FLR application form and submitting the necessary supporting documentation.
Fee guidance: We provide clear guidance on the FLR visa fee and other associated costs, helping you budget for your application.
Legal representation: If necessary, we represent you in legal proceedings related to your FLR application.
If you need help with the FLR visa application or have questions about the visa fees, book a consultation with Primus Solicitors Manchester today.
FAQs
1. What is the cost of the FLR visa?
The FLR visa fee varies depending on your visa type. The fee for a Spouse Visa or Tier 2 Visa is generally £1,033, while the Student Visa application fee is typically £490.
2. Do I need to pay the Immigration Health Surcharge for an FLR application?
Yes, the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) is a requirement for most FLR applications and will need to be paid in addition to the visa fee. The IHS amount varies depending on your visa type and length of stay.
3. How do I pay the FLR fee?
The FLR visa fee can be paid online through the UK Home Office website using a credit or debit card. You’ll also pay the Immigration Health Surcharge at the same time.
4. Can I apply for FLR if I’m currently on a different visa?
Yes, you can apply for FLR if you’re currently in the UK on a temporary visa and wish to extend your stay. The FLR application allows you to extend your visa in most cases.
5. What happens if I don’t pay the FLR visa fee?
Failure to pay the FLR visa fee will result in your application being rejected. You must ensure that the fee is paid in full and that all other requirements are met before submitting your application.
Legal Disclaimer
This article provides general information about the FLR visa fee and the FLR visa application process. It does not constitute legal advice. For personalized assistance with your FLR visa application, please contact Primus Solicitors Manchester.
Contact Primus Solicitors Manchester
If you need help with your FLR visa application or have questions about the visa fee, contact Primus Solicitors Manchester today:
📍 First Floor, 402 Palatine Road, Northenden, Manchester M22 4FZ
📞 0161 222 5860
📧 info@ansarhabib.com
🕘 Monday–Friday: 09:30 AM – 05:30 PM
