1. What is a 30-Month Limited Leave to Remain Extension?
The 30-month Limited Leave to Remain is a temporary residency permission in the UK, often granted to individuals on family visas such as spouse, partner, or dependent child visas. If you’re on a 30-month limited leave and approaching the end of your term, you can apply for an extension to remain in the UK legally, usually for an additional 30 months.
2. Eligibility for a 30-Month Extension
To be eligible for a 30-month limited leave to remain extension, you generally need to:
- Continue to Meet Visa Requirements: Show that you still qualify for the original visa, such as proving your relationship with a UK citizen or resident for a spouse or partner visa.
- Meet Financial and Accommodation Requirements: Prove you can support yourself (and any dependents) without relying on public funds.
- Pass the English Language Requirement: If required for your visa type, demonstrate English proficiency at the required level (usually A1 for initial applications and A2 for extensions).
3. Application Process for Extending a 30-Month Limited Leave to Remain
Step 1: Gather Required Documents
You’ll need several documents to support your extension application, including:
- Valid Passport: Proof of your identity.
- Proof of Relationship: For partner visas, this includes joint bills, bank statements, or rental agreements showing shared address history.
- Financial Evidence: Payslips, bank statements, and tax documents proving you meet the minimum income threshold (usually £18,600 for a couple, with additional amounts for dependents).
- Accommodation Proof: Evidence that you have suitable housing.
- English Language Certificate: A valid test certificate if required.
- Biometric Residence Permit: Your current biometric residence card, if applicable.
Step 2: Complete the Online Application Form
Apply online through the UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) website. Choose the correct form for your visa type (typically Form FLR (M) for family members of UK citizens or settled persons).
Step 3: Pay Application Fees and Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS)
- Application Fee: £1,033 for a standard application.
- Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS): £624 per year per applicant (typically £1,560 for a 2.5-year extension).
Step 4: Book and Attend a Biometric Appointment
After submitting the application, schedule a biometric appointment at a UK Visa and Citizenship Application Services (UKVCAS) center to submit your fingerprints and photo.
Step 5: Wait for Processing
Standard processing times range from 8 to 12 weeks, but priority options are available for faster decisions (24 hours for super priority or 5 working days for priority).
4. Required Documents Checklist
| Document | Description |
|---|---|
| Valid Passport | Proof of identity |
| Proof of Relationship | Marriage certificate, joint bills, photos, etc. |
| Financial Evidence | Payslips, bank statements, P60, or employer letter |
| Accommodation Proof | Rental agreement or ownership documents |
| English Language Certificate | IELTS, CEFR, or other approved test results |
| Biometric Residence Permit | Current biometric card if applicable |
| Completed Form FLR (M) | Completed extension application form |
5. Financial Requirement for 30-Month Extension
To qualify for the extension, you must meet the minimum income threshold:
- £18,600 for yourself if you are applying as a partner/spouse.
- Additional £3,800 for the first dependent child and £2,400 for each additional child.
If you’re unable to meet this requirement, other financial support methods, like savings of at least £62,500, may be accepted as proof of income.
6. English Language Requirement for Extension
The A2 level English test is required if you’re extending your visa after 30 months. Approved tests include IELTS and other tests listed on the UKVI’s Secure English Language Test (SELT) list. Some applicants may be exempt based on nationality or age.
7. Application Fees for a 30-Month Extension
| Fee Type | Amount |
|---|---|
| Application Fee | £1,033 |
| Immigration Health Surcharge | £624 per year |
| Priority Service (optional) | £500 |
| Super Priority Service (optional) | £800 |
8. What Happens After Your 30-Month Extension?
After two consecutive 30-month limited leave to remain periods (5 years total), you may be eligible to apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR), which allows you to stay in the UK permanently.
9. Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I work in the UK on a 30-month limited leave to remain?
Yes, this visa type allows you to work and study in the UK. - Can I include my children in the extension application?
Yes, dependent children can be included, but additional financial requirements apply. - What if I can’t meet the financial requirements?
You may be able to use savings or combine income with your spouse/partner to meet the requirement. - How long does it take to receive a decision?
Standard applications take around 8–12 weeks, while priority services are faster. - Can I travel outside the UK while my extension application is processing?
No, you must remain in the UK until you receive a decision on your application.
10. Conclusion
Extending your 30-month limited leave to remain is crucial for staying legally in the UK as a family member. By following the application steps carefully, meeting financial and language requirements, and ensuring all documents are in order, you can improve your chances of a successful extension and eventually achieve long-term residency in the UK.