Exceptional leave to remain -leave to remain in the UK for a limited period, usually between one and four years.Asylum seekers who are refused refugee status may be given "exceptional leave to remain" if it would be unsafe for them to return to their home country but their application for asylum is not based on a "convention reason".People given exceptional leave to remain can work, claim benefits and access social housing like any other member of the indigenous population.They cannot however bring dependants to join them.Before their leave to remain expires they can apply for Indefinite leave to remain.