Difference between 10 year and 5 year route?

[lolabird97]

Hi, I got a quick question.

Would it be easier to start off with the 10-year FLR route then switch to 5 years when there is more than enough income to meet the 18,600 after 2.5 years? What are the other differences other than married couples not being able to meet the financial requirements? Also, do bank statements/income/addresses have to be tracked over the course of the 2.5 year periods upon applying for extension?

Thanks

[jane2018]

5 y route you meet the requirements of Appendix FM EXACTLY as they are; 10 y route - if don't AND it would unjustifiably harsh to refuse you visa.
It is VERY difficult to get application/visa on 10 y route granted because it requires the Home Office to exercise the discretion which they try NOT to exercise often in the very compassionate cases, many 10 y route cases end up at the Tribunal hearing.
Basically 10 y route are for those with VERY compassionaye circumstances typically involving minor children and health issues and not for those who do not want to bother themselves to put papers together.