If you are already living in the UK on a valid visa and wish to remain with your British, settled, or refugee-status partner, you must apply for a UK Spouse Visa (Further Leave to Remain – FLR(M)). This process allows you to extend your stay without leaving the UK and forms part of the five-year route to settlement under Appendix FM of the Immigration Rules.
Who Can Apply Inside the UK
You may apply for Further Leave to Remain (FLR(M)) if you meet the following conditions:
- You are legally married to or in a civil partnership with a British citizen, settled person, or refugee/humanitarian protection holder.
- You are currently in the UK on a visa that allows you to switch to the family route (not a visit visa).
- You have a genuine and subsisting relationship with your partner.
- You meet the financial requirement and English language requirement.
- You have adequate accommodation and are living together in the UK.
How to Apply for FLR(M)
Applications for Further Leave to Remain are completed online via the official GOV.UK portal. You will need to complete the form, pay your fees, book a biometric appointment, and upload supporting evidence.
Step-by-Step Application Process
- Complete the FLR(M) online form on GOV.UK.
- Pay the application fee and Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS).
- Book a biometric appointment through UKVCAS (UK Visa and Citizenship Application Services).
- Upload your supporting documents online or have them scanned at your appointment.
- Attend your biometric appointment with your passport and confirmation documents.
- Wait for a decision from UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI).
Supporting Documents
You must provide up-to-date documentation to show that your relationship and financial situation remain genuine and compliant with Home Office standards.
See the Spouse Visa Documents Checklist (2026) for full details.
Typical Evidence Includes:
- Current passports and BRPs for both partners.
- Marriage or civil partnership certificate.
- Proof of cohabitation: utility bills, tenancy, joint correspondence.
- Financial evidence: payslips, bank statements, employment letters.
- English language certificate (CEFR A2 or higher for FLR(M)).
- Accommodation documents: tenancy agreement or property deeds.
Switching from a Fiancé(e) Visa to a Spouse Visa
If you are currently in the UK on a Fiancé(e) Visa, you may switch to a Spouse Visa after your marriage or civil partnership has been legally registered. You must submit your application before your Fiancé(e) Visa expires and include your marriage certificate and updated relationship evidence. This switch allows you to remain in the UK legally and continue toward Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) without leaving the country.
Processing Time and Priority Options
Standard FLR(M) applications are processed within approximately 8–12 weeks. If available, you can upgrade to a Priority or Super Priority service for a faster decision — typically within 5 working days or 24 hours. Processing times may vary depending on document verification and demand.
After Submission
Once your biometrics have been completed, your application will be reviewed by UKVI. You will receive updates via email, and your passport will be returned once a decision is made. If approved, your new Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) will reflect your extended stay under the FLR(M) route.
Validity and Next Steps
An approved FLR(M) visa is valid for 30 months (2.5 years). Before it expires, you may apply for a further extension if you continue to meet the eligibility criteria. After five years of continuous residence on the Spouse Visa route, you can apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR).
About This Page
Author: UK Visa Applications Editorial Team
Reviewed by: Michael Gibbons, UK Solicitor and Regulated Immigration Advisor
Last Updated: 9 January 2026.