It is important to note that the extension of a UK Skilled Worker visa, for individuals currently residing in the UK, is indeed possible before the visa’s expiration date. However, it should be emphasized that applying for this extension while being outside the UK is not a feasible option.
The decision regarding the extension of the visa grant is contingent upon the applicant’s continued eligibility under the Skilled Worker visa category. This includes meeting the requirement of being gainfully employed in an eligible role, earning the necessary salary, and working under a sponsoring employer.
For the extension application to be successful, it is mandatory to provide proof of retaining these conditions. This makes sure that the applicant always meets the criteria and shows their steadfast dedication to fulfilling the responsibilities of the visa.
A new certificate of sponsorship is also a prerequisite for the extension application, and all application criteria should be met. In the event of an impending visa expiration during the employment period, it’s the individual’s duty to seek an extension or apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) from the UKVI. The applicant can also add any dependents included in their current visa in their extension application. This encompasses children who have turned 18 during their stay, and they’ll need to apply separately.
Our visa extension services are top-notch, offering extensive support in preparing your application for submission to the Home Office. Rest assured, we’ll be there to guide you every step of the way. Our team of dedicated immigration lawyers is renowned for their proficiency in managing and processing all UK visa applications and extensions. They also offer advice on UK settlement options, and they are celebrated for their effectiveness and efficiency.
How to Apply for an Extension of UK Skilled Worker Visa
According to the UK government’s official website, you can usually apply to extend a Skilled Worker visa or a Tier 2 (General) work visa if all of the following are true:
- You have the same job as when you were given your previous permission to enter or stay in the UK.
- Your job is in the same occupation code as when you were given your previous permission to enter or stay in the UK.
- You’re still working for the employer who gave you your current certificate of sponsorship.
The Skilled Worker visa (previously the Tier 2 general visa) can be further extended or renewed before it expires as long as you still meet the UK Skilled Worker visa requirements. The minimum salary requirement for the Skilled Worker visa is scheduled to increase to £29,000 in Spring 2024. However, as per the latest Home Office announcement, individuals who already hold a Skilled Worker visa before the Immigration Rules changes will be exempt from meeting this new salary threshold when changing sponsors, extending visa, or applying for settlement.
With respect to when you can apply for tier 2 visa / skilled worker visa extension, you have the flexibility to submit your extension application at any time before your current visa expires. The 28-day rule no longer applies to tier 2 visa or skilled worker visa extensions under the updated immigration rules, except for ILR applications. However, it’s advisable to consider the time needed to meet the 5-year ILR application requirement before submitting your extension application to avoid unnecessary additional applications.
The 6-year maximum stay rule, which applied to the old Tier 2 (General) visa, no longer exists, meaning there is no limit to the number of times you can renew your Skilled Worker visa. If you have already spent 5 continuous years in the UK on a Skilled Worker visa, you may have the option to apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR).
Skilled Work visas granted have seen a significant increase of 19%.
As for the statistics, according to the UK government’s official website, there were 172,045 work-related visas granted in the year ending June 2021 (including dependants). This was a 19% increase on the year ending June 2020, but 7% fewer than in the preceding year ending June 2019. Skilled work, which accounts for 60% of work-related visas granted, saw the largest increase in visa numbers, up 16,775 or 19%. High value, Skilled worker, Temporary worker and Other work visas and exemptions routes all increased compared to the previous year. These increases will in part reflect recovery from the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.
To support your UK Skilled Worker or UK Tier 2 visa extension, you may need to provide some of the following documents:
- A new Certificate of Sponsorship reference number
- Current passport
- Updated photo and fingerprints (biometrics)
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Visaavail offers comprehensive support to customers seeking a job visa, guiding them through the entire process from application to job placement. Additionally, our services extend to assisting with job transitions and resolving any challenges that may arise while working in the UK. With Visaavail, you can trust that your visa journey will be seamless and hassle-free.
In conclusion, the UK Skilled Worker visa can be extended as long as you meet the requirements. You can apply for the extension at any time before your current visa expires. The 6-year maximum stay rule no longer exists, meaning there is no limit to the number of times you can renew your Skilled Worker visa. Visaavail can assist you in obtaining a job visa end to end, providing support from the visa application process to securing a job. We hope this blog post has been helpful to you. Good luck with your visa extension application!
