long stays out the UK

[ghm2dnpmg]

Background: I am waiting for my residence card.
I used the FLR (FP) application for the 10-yr visa.
Also, I am an American married to a British Subject;
we've been married 22 years.

We have family in Spain and Cyprus.
I'm retired and would like to visit both places,
when my new visa comes back.

Question: How long can I stay out of the UK without
affecting my visa and residence status?

Many Regards, in advance, for answering my question.

[CR001]

There is no absence limit and you are free to go on holiday.

Why did you apply on FLR(FP)??

[ghm2dnpmg]

I had applied under FLR (O), previously.
Applied, in time, but wrongly, under EEA (PR).
Home Office told me so, but about 4 months after the fact.
I, then, had to apply, outside the normal circumstances.
And, was advised to file FLR (FP).

I'm still waiting for the decision.

Are you sure about the stay?
I'm wondering if it is up to 6 months?
I don't know, but hoped someone would know the exact time...

[CR001]

There is NO absence limit. However, you cannot hold a visa and then live abroad and come back only to renew and then again to apply for ILR, you require residence and proof of residence so plan accordingly.

[4redhead]

The UK is not a Schengen country and therefore you can only stay in any of the Schengen countries (which is nearly all of Europe, (France, Spain, Italy, Germany, Austria, The Netherlands, etc) for 90 days in any 180 day period. So - you can leave the UK for 90 days, come back to the UK for 90 days and then return to Europe for 90 days. This is the law - but not many people abide by it and many UK residents spend 5 or 6 months in the Southern European sunshine without any problems.