Skilled Worker Visa Extension

As a Skilled Worker visa holder, you can apply for a Skilled Worker visa extension to extend your stay and continue your employment with the same sponsor.

At Moeen & Co. Solicitors, we understand the importance of extending your Skilled Worker visa in the United Kingdom. Our team of expert immigration solicitors is here to guide you through the process and ensure a smooth and successful visa renewal.

To get legal help with your UK Skilled Worker visa extension application, call our immigration solicitors at 0203 959 7755 or send an email to info@moeenco.com.

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What is a Skilled Worker visa extension?

You can usually extend a Skilled Worker visa if you continue in the same job and occupation code and remain employed by the same sponsor who issued your current Certificate of Sponsorship.

It can lead to settlement (indefinite leave to remain) after five years of continuous lawful residence, subject to meeting salary and residency requirements.

The validity period of a Skilled Worker visa

The Skilled Worker visa is typically valid for up to five years, depending on your job offer, sponsorship, and immigration criteria. It's important to track your visa's expiry and apply for an extension 2-3 months in advance to maintain legal status and avoid employment disruptions.

The exact validity may vary, so consulting an immigration solicitor can help ensure a smooth extension process.

How early can I apply to extend my UK Skilled Worker visa?

You should apply to extend your Skilled Worker visa from inside the UK up to 3 months (or 60 days) before it expires. Applying on time lets you continue working while your application is processed and helps avoid overstaying.

The Home Office will typically notify you well in advance about the upcoming expiry of your visa, but it is your responsibility to ensure a timely application for an extension.

What are the requirements for a Skilled Worker visa extension?

To extend a UK Skilled Worker visa, you must meet the following requirements:

• Be currently in the UK on a Skilled Worker visa.
• Continue working for the same employer who sponsored your original visa.
• Hold the same occupation code as on your previous visa.
• Obtain a new Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) from your employer.
• Meet the minimum salary threshold required for your role.
• Continue to satisfy the English language requirement.
• Have sufficient maintenance funds, unless your employer certifies maintenance.
• Fulfil the points-based eligibility criteria for the visa extension.

Documents required for a Skilled Worker visa extension

For a Skilled Worker visa extension, you’ll typically need your valid passport, BRP (if issued), proof of employment, Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS), job details, employer name and licence number, English proficiency evidence, and proof of maintenance funds.

Skilled Worker visa document checklist

You will need to provide:

• Your valid passport
• Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) (if issued)
• Proof of employment
• Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) reference number
• Your job title, occupation code and annual salary
• The name of your employer and their sponsor licence number
• Proof of English language proficiency
• Evidence that you have enough to support yourself

Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS)

Obtain a new Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) from your employer, confirming that they still require your skills and services. The CoS should include details such as your job title, salary, and start and end dates of your employment.

Financial Documentation

Provide evidence of your financial capacity to support yourself and any dependents during your extended stay in the UK. This can include bank statements, employment contracts, or proof of other sources of income.

Biometric Residence Permit (BRP)

If you currently hold a Biometric Residence Permit (BRP), include it in your application. This helps confirm your legal presence in the UK.

Collecting and organising these documents in preparation for your Skilled Worker visa extension is vital to ensure a smooth and successful application process. Failure to provide any of the required documents may lead to delays or rejection of your application. If you need assistance with gathering and submitting the necessary documents, don't hesitate to contact us at Moeen & Co. Solicitors on 0203 959 7755.

How to apply for a Skilled Worker visa extension in the UK?

You must apply online for your Skilled Worker visa extension before your current work visa expires to continue with the same job for the same employer.

To successfully navigate the Skilled Worker visa extension process, it is crucial to understand the steps involved.

Follow these step-by-step instructions to apply for your Skilled Worker visa extension:

1. Determine your eligibility
2. Compile supporting documents
3. Complete the application form online
4. Pay the visa application fee
5. Schedule a biometric appointment
6. Attend the biometric appointment
7. Wait for a decision
8. Receive your extension approval

Step 1: Determine your eligibility

Before starting the Skilled Worker visa extension process, it's important to ensure that you meet the eligibility requirements. This includes valid reasons to extend your stay, such as continued employment, and meeting any financial, language, or other requirements specified by the UK government.

Step 2: Compile supporting documents

After the eligibility assessment, gather all the necessary documents for your Skilled Worker visa extension application. This typically includes your current passport, proof of employment, evidence of salary, and any supporting documents related to your specific circumstances. It's important to have these documents prepared in advance to avoid delays in the application process.

Step 3: Complete the application form online

Once you have gathered all the required documents, visit the official UK government website to fill out the Skilled Worker visa application form online. Ensure that all the information you provide is accurate and complete to increase your chances of a successful application.

Step 4: Pay the visa application fee

As part of the Skilled Work visa extension process, you will be required to pay a visa application fee. This fee varies depending on the length of the extension and the specific visa category.

Make sure to pay the correct visa application fee as specified by the Home Office. Payment is usually made online, and you will receive a payment confirmation once it's processed.

Step 5: Schedule a biometric appointment

After submitting your application, you will be required to schedule a biometric appointment to provide your fingerprints and take a photograph. This appointment is usually scheduled at a visa application centre.

Step 6: Attend the biometric appointment

On the scheduled date, attend your biometric appointment and provide the necessary biometric data. Bring along your passport and appointment confirmation letter. During this appointment, your fingerprints and photographs will be taken for identity verification.

Step 7: Wait for a decision

After submitting your application, you will need to wait for a decision on your skilled worker visa extension. The processing time can vary, so be patient while the Home Office reviews your application.

Step 8: Receive your extension approval

If your application is successful, you will receive a decision letter granting your skilled worker visa extension. Keep this letter safe as it will serve as proof of your extended visa.

Applying for a skilled worker visa extension requires attention to detail and adherence to the requirements set by the UK government. By following these steps and seeking guidance from Moeen & Co. Solicitors, you can increase the likelihood of a successful skilled worker visa extension. For further assistance or if you have any questions, please don't hesitate to contact our dedicated team at 0203 959 7755.

What is the processing time for a Skilled Worker visa extension?

The processing time for a UK Skilled Worker visa extension is typically around 8 weeks when applying from inside the UK. Applications submitted on time allow you to continue working while awaiting a decision.

How much does it cost to extend a Skilled Worker visa?

When applying for a Skilled Worker visa extension from inside the UK, you must pay the visa fee of £885 and the healthcare surcharge of £1,035 per year. For a 2-year visa, this totals £2,955, and you may also need to show £1,270 in savings if your employer does not cover your maintenance.

How Our Immigration Solicitors Can Help With Your UK Visa Application

Why choose Moeen & Co. Solicitors for your UK Skilled Worker visa?

Need assistance with your UK Skilled Worker visa extension application?

For legal advice and assistance with your UK Skilled Worker visa extension, call Moeen & Co. Solicitors today at 0203 959 7755 or fill out our online contact form.

Frequently asked questions about the UK Skilled Worker visa extension