• UK Immigration Services

How to extend a UK Standard Visitor Visa

A Standard Visitor visa is available to foreigners looking to visit the UK for the purpose of work, tourism, and for other short-term reasons. The following will provide a quick overview of this specific visa category, before exploring how to extend a visitor visa for longer than 6 months. Learn how long it takes to extend a UK Standard Visitor visa, the cost of extending a UK Standard Visitor visa, and visa decision waiting times (among other essential information). 

What is a Standard Visitor Visa?

  • Study (including academic research). 
  • Work (excluding self-employment/ any work performed for British companies). 
  • Health (such as to have surgery). 
  • Not attempt to fully reside in the country (unofficially) or establish any form of official residency. 
  • Exit the country before their Standard Visitor visa has expired. 
  • Financially cover their cost of living while in the country.
  • Financially afford their cost of exiting the country at the end of their visa period. 
  • Attempting to reside in the country by virtue of traveling there so frequently. 
  • Being employed by a British company or working for oneself. 
  • Receive UK welfare. 
  • Pursuing marriage/ a civil partnership in the country. 
  • Attending school for a period that is greater than half a year. 
  • The price of a Standard Visitor visa is £95.
  • Foreigners who receive a Standard Visitor visa may remain in the country for a period not exceeding six months. However, that six-month period may be extended for individuals who meet certain criteria (see following section). 
  • Those who establish their intention to make frequent future trips to the UK can pursue a Standard Visitor visa with a long-term validity period of either two, five, and ten years, at a cost of £361, £655, and £822, respectively 
  • You can apply for a Standard Visitor visa online, from abroad (if you are already in the country when you seek the visa, you will have to exit it in order to lodge your application). In addition to the online component of the application, you will also have to attend an in-person appointment at a visa application center to submit your biometric information (photos and fingerprints). When you are ready to apply for a Standard Visitor visa, contact us here . 
  • The majority of applicants will typically experience visa decision waiting times of up to 21 days. 

Extend a UK Standard Visitor Visa

  • As mentioned above, the basic Standard Visitor visa allows holders to remain in the UK for a period not exceeding six months. Individuals who have spent fewer than six months in the country typically are granted permission to extend their time in the country (provided the theoretical extension would not amount to a stay exceeding six months). 
  • Of having an advanced degrees (bachelor’s/master’s does not count). 
  • Of being previously employed at a university/institute abroad. 
  • That they will not take up a long-term academic position in the UK. 
  • That they are in the country for research purposes or on an official exchange program. 
  • Academics who fulfill the above requirements may remain in the country for a period not exceeding one year .
  • Have already covered the financial costs of procedures they have undergone in the country. 
  • Provide evidence of their ability and intention to cover the financial costs of future treatment. 
  • Present the following from an authorized UK medical figure: written confirmation of the anticipated duration of their future intended procedure/care, information on their current medical condition in the context of any care they have received, evidence of the private medical care they are receiving. 
  • Patients who fulfill the above requirements may remain in the country for an additional six-month period . 
  • PLAB test retakers who fulfill the above requirements may remain in the country for an additional six-month period .
  • PLAB test passers who seek to perform a clinical attachment who fulfill the above requirements may remain in the country for 18 months (a period inclusive of the six months already spent on a Standard Visitor visa) .
  • The price of extending a UK Standard Visitor visa is £993

How long it takes

  • The processing time for extending a Standard Visitor visa is eight weeks for the majority of applicants (individuals who submit incomplete applications or whose applications require a more in-depth assessment, those who are asked to interview, and anyone with a criminal history might instead receive a decision after eight weeks). 
  • However, applicants who are in a rush to extend a Standard Visitor visa may be able to take advantage of an expediated service option (at an additional cost of £800 on top of the standard extension fee). The processing time for extensions via the expedited option is either one or two business days after the date of an applicant’s UKVCAS appointment, depending on whether they attended their appointment on a weekday or weekend, respectively. 

How to apply

  • Apply to extend a UK Standard Visitor Visa for specific reasons online, from within the country, prior to the expiration of your current Standard Visitor visa, by contacting us here .
  • Please note that while the majority of the extension process is online, you will also have to fulfil the in-person requirement relating to biometric data collection (the submission of your photos and fingerprints), which will take place via appointment at the UK Visa and Citizenship Application Services (UKVCAS) center. At your appointment, you will have the opportunity to submit any required supplemental documents that you did not already submit online. 
  • Find out more information about how to extend a UK Standard Visitor Visa and the cost of doing so by contacting us here .

FAQs about how to extend a UK Standard Visitor Visa

  • Foreigners who came to the United Kingdom on a Visitor’s visa who are able to prove that they are staying for one of the stated justifications for an extension are eligible to apply for one. A Visitor’s visa allows you to be in the country for six months. If you would like to stay longer, you can do so, provided you intend to remain in the country in order to undertake one of the following purposes: 1) You came to the UK for scholastic purposes and you need to stay longer in order to pursue further academic research pertaining to your original eligibility as a scholar on a Visitor’s visa for academic purposes 2)You are experiencing significant health issues and need to have a procedure/undertake some other type of medical care 3) You have a university degree and need to remain in the country in order to sit for the PLAB test (Professional and Linguistic Assessment Board)—provided that this is your second time sitting for the test. 
  • Yes. What many would consider the UK Tourist Visa is officially known as the UK Visitor’s visa (specifically the UK Standard Visitor’s visa). If you are looking to come to England, Scotland, Wales, and/or Northern Ireland for the main purpose of tourism, you should apply for a Standard Visitor’s visa to the UK. If you successfully receive a Visitor’s visa to the UK, and you wish to extend your stay beyond the standard six-month Visitor’s Visa validity period, you may do so—provided you meet the requirements. In this sense you can apply your Tourist visa/Visitor’s visa in the UK. 
  • If you have determined that you meet the one of the three specific requirements for extending a visitor’s visa beyond the traditional six-month period, you must submit an application, pay your application fees, and submit (or resubmit) you fingerprints and photos (biometric information). The main extension fee is 1000 GBP. Applicants can remain in the country while they submit an application for extension. Applications are submitted electronically, online. Your reason for extension (academic, medical, PLAB test taking) will determine the specific documents you must submit as part of your extension application, as well as how long you may ultimately remain in the UK should you be granted an extension. Once you’ve submitted an application, you should receive a decision in fewer than eight weeks (please note that an expedited service is available for applicants in need of faster application processing times who are willing to pay more for expediated service).

extend visit visa uk

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  • Immigration

UK Visa Extension: How to Extend Your Stay & Application Advice

Looking to extend your stay in the uk you can apply for a uk visa extension through the official application process. for expert uk immigration advice, consult with professionals who can guide you through the process..

UK Visa Extension: How to Extend Your Stay & Application Advice

Key Takeaways:

  • Learn how to extend your UK visa and stay longer in the country with a step-by-step guide .
  • Understand the eligibility criteria, application process, and common reasons for extension refusal.
  • Seek professional UK immigration advice to navigate the complex rules and ensure a successful extension.

Understanding UK Visa Extensions

Are you currently enjoying the rich culture and the bustling life in the United Kingdom but worried as your visa expiration date draws near? Wondering “How can I extend my stay in the UK?” You’re not alone. Many people find themselves in the same situation, and the good news is that there is a well-established process for applying for a UK visa extension.

Eligibility Criteria for a Visa Extension

Before looking into how to extend your stay, it’s essential to understand if you’re eligible. Generally, eligibility is based on your current visa type and reasons for wanting to stay longer. Visitor visas, for example, tend to have stricter limitations on extensions.

Extend UK Stay Application: Step-by-Step Guide

The process to extend UK stay for various types of visas often involves the following steps:

  • Check Eligibility : Make sure you meet the requirements for your specific visa category.
  • Prepare Documentation : Gather necessary supporting documents that justify your extension request.
  • Apply Online : Most UK visa extensions require you to fill out an application form online before your current visa expires.
  • Pay the Appropriate Fee : An extension comes with a fee, which varies depending on visa type.
  • Attend an Appointment : You may be required to attend an appointment at a UK Visa and Citizenship Application Services (UKVCAS) service point.
  • Wait for a Decision : After submitting your application, you’ll need to wait for a decision from the Home Office.

Image

How Long Does the Extension Process Take?

The time frame for a UK visa extension can vary based on the type of visa and your circumstances. It’s best to apply well in advance of your visa expiry date to avoid any complications.

Also of Interest:

Home office issues 275 care worker visas on ‘forged’ applications, low immigration satisfaction: only 9% of brits approve government’s approach, get professional uk immigration advice.

The rules surrounding UK immigration can be complex, and sometimes personal situations require professional advice. Seeking UK immigration advice from an experienced advisor or solicitor is often a wise decision, especially if your case isn’t straightforward.

“They say a stitch in time saves nine, and this is especially true when dealing with immigration matters,” shares a seasoned UK immigration solicitor.

Common Reasons for Extension Refusal

Understanding why applications get refused can help you avoid these pitfalls:

  • Incomplete Applications : Ensure no missing information or documents.
  • Overstaying : Be aware that remaining in the UK beyond your visa can impact future applications.
  • Incorrect Fee : Paying the wrong fee can lead to refusal, so double-check the amount required for your application.

Where to Find Reliable Information

For the most accurate and up-to-date information on extending your stay in the UK, visit the UK Government’s official website . Here you can find specific details tailored to your visa type and situation.

Final Thoughts on Extending Your Stay in the UK

Whether you’re in the UK for work, study, or pleasure, knowing how to navigate the visa extension process is crucial. By understanding the requirements, preparing your application properly, and seeking expert UK immigration advice when necessary, you’ll enhance your chances of a successful UK visa extension. Remember to stay informed and proactive throughout this process to enjoy your extended time in the UK without any legal hiccups.

Expert Insights

Did You Know?

  • The UK has a long history of immigration : The United Kingdom has a rich history of immigration, dating back centuries. People from all over the world have come to the UK seeking new opportunities, such as economic prosperity or to escape persecution. This diverse wave of immigration has significantly shaped the culture and society of the UK.

Immigrants contribute to the UK economy : Immigrants make significant contributions to the UK economy. According to recent studies, immigrants are more likely to start their own businesses, creating jobs and boosting economic growth. They also help to fill labor market gaps, particularly in sectors such as healthcare, hospitality, and construction.

The UK offers various visa options : The UK offers a range of visa options for individuals seeking to live, work, or study in the country. From work visas to student visas to family visas, there are different pathways for individuals with different needs and circumstances. It’s important to explore the options available and find the one that best suits your situation.

Language requirements for visa applicants : In some cases, individuals applying for a UK visa may need to meet specific language requirements. For example, non-English speakers may be required to demonstrate their proficiency in the English language through tests like the IELTS or other approved language exams. These language requirements aim to ensure that individuals can effectively communicate and integrate into the UK society.

Changes in UK immigration policies : UK immigration policies have undergone significant changes in recent years. The UK’s decision to leave the European Union has resulted in Brexit-related immigration reforms, including the introduction of a points-based immigration system. It’s crucial for individuals planning to migrate to the UK to stay informed about these policy changes and their potential implications.

UK immigration detention : The UK has a system of immigration detention, where certain individuals may be held in detention centers while their immigration cases are being processed. Detention can be a difficult and uncertain experience for those involved, highlighting the challenges and complexities of immigration processes.

Cultural diversity in the UK : The UK is known for its cultural diversity, with people from various backgrounds and ethnicities living together. This diversity is reflected in the vibrant food, art, music, and celebrations, creating a multicultural society that embraces different traditions and customs.

The impact of immigration on healthcare : Immigrants play a crucial role in the UK’s healthcare system, with many working in the National Health Service (NHS). In fact, a significant proportion of doctors and nurses in the UK are immigrants, helping to ensure access to quality healthcare for all.

Migration patterns in the UK : Migration patterns in the UK have changed over time. While London remains a major destination for immigrants, other cities like Birmingham, Manchester, and Glasgow have also experienced significant levels of immigration. This redistribution of immigrants across the country has contributed to the cultural and economic growth of these cities.

The UK’s refugee resettlement program : The UK has a refugee resettlement program that provides a safe haven for refugees fleeing conflict and persecution. This program aims to help vulnerable individuals and families rebuild their lives in the UK, offering them a fresh start and a chance for a brighter future.

Remember, these ‘Did You Know?’ facts are designed to provide additional insights and spark curiosity about various aspects of UK immigration. It is crucial to conduct further research or consult with immigration professionals for detailed and specific information related to your own unique circumstances.

Learn today

Glossary or Definitions:

  • Visa Extension : The process of applying for permission to extend one’s stay beyond the expiration date of a current visa. This allows individuals to legally remain in a foreign country for an extended period.
  • Eligibility Criteria : The specific requirements that an individual must meet in order to qualify for a visa extension. These criteria may include factors such as visa type and reasons for wanting to stay longer.
  • Visitor Visa : A type of visa that allows individuals to enter a foreign country temporarily for tourism, leisure, or other non-work-related purposes.
  • Supporting Documents : Documents that provide evidence or support for the reasons given in an application for a visa extension. These may include financial records, employment letters, or proof of enrollment in a course of study.
  • Home Office : The government department responsible for immigration and citizenship matters in the United Kingdom.
  • UKVCAS : UK Visa and Citizenship Application Services. It is a service point where applicants may be required to attend an appointment as part of the visa extension process.
  • Appropriate Fee : The fee that must be paid when applying for a visa extension. The amount varies depending on the type of visa.
  • Overstaying : Remaining in a foreign country beyond the authorized period of stay granted by a visa. Overstaying can have negative consequences, such as future visa application refusals or potential legal implications.
  • Refusal : The rejection or denial of a visa extension application by the immigration authorities due to various reasons, such as incomplete applications or non-compliance with visa regulations.
  • Immigration Advice : Professional guidance or assistance provided by experienced advisors or solicitors who specialize in immigration matters. Immigration advice may help individuals navigate complex immigration processes, understand legal requirements, and increase their chances of a successful visa extension.
  • Official Website : The website of a government authority or agency that provides accurate and up-to-date information on visa extension processes, requirements, and other immigration-related matters.
  • Legal Hiccups : Problems or complications that can arise when dealing with immigration matters, potentially resulting in legal consequences or difficulties extending one’s stay in a foreign country.

So there you have it, folks! Now you know how to extend your stay in the UK without pulling your hair out. Check out visaverge.com for more detailed info on UK visa extensions. Trust me, it’s a game-changer! Happy exploring and here’s to many more exciting adventures in the land of tea and crumpets! Cheers! 🇬🇧🎉

FAQ’s to know:

FAQ 1: What are the steps to extend my stay in the UK? Answer: The process to extend your stay in the UK generally involves the following steps: 1. Check your eligibility based on your current visa type. 2. Gather the necessary supporting documents. 3. Fill out an online application form before your current visa expires. 4. Pay the appropriate fee for your visa extension. 5. Attend an appointment at a UK Visa and Citizenship Application Services (UKVCAS) service point if required. 6. Wait for a decision from the Home Office after submitting your application.

FAQ 2: How long does it take to extend a UK visa? Answer: The processing time for a UK visa extension varies depending on the type of visa and individual circumstances. It’s advisable to apply well in advance of your visa expiry date to avoid complications. For the most accurate and up-to-date information on processing times, it is recommended to visit the UK Government’s official website or consult an immigration solicitor.

FAQ 3: What are common reasons for UK visa extension refusal? Answer: Some common reasons for UK visa extension refusal include: 1. Incomplete applications with missing information or documents. 2. Overstaying in the UK beyond your visa expiration date, which can impact future applications. 3. Incorrect payment of the application fee. It is crucial to double-check the required fee amount for your specific application to avoid refusal.

Remember to stay informed, follow the correct procedures, and seek professional advice when necessary to increase the chances of a successful UK visa extension. For reliable and detailed information, it is recommended to visit the UK Government’s official website to find specific details tailored to your visa type and situation.

What did you learn? Answer below to know:

  • True/False: The eligibility criteria for a UK visa extension depend on the current visa type and reasons for wanting to stay longer in the UK.
  • What is the recommended timeframe for applying for a UK visa extension?
  • What are some common reasons for extension refusal when applying for a UK visa extension?

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Everything you need to know about extending your UK visa

John Dunn: Citizenship and Immigration Manager

  • Citizenship
  • Immigration
  • Study Abroad

You need to know when your visa expires and whether you want to extend your stay well ahead of your visa’s expiration date. This guide will help you understand the extension process.

Hand holding a passport

Feb 28, 2018 by Telerik.Sitefinity.DynamicTypes.Model.SableTeamMembers.Member

The more laws change, the more nothing stays the same

As someone who is living in the UK, you probably are now aware that it’s not unusual for governments to amend their travel and immigration laws. Over the years we’ve been in business we have seen countless revisions and changes.

One of the biggest we’ve seen came in 2016, when the UK government wanted to clamp down on people who stayed until their visa expired and then used the 28-day grace period to apply for an extension. This grace period was reduced to 14 days and, in line with government’s harder stance on the matter, you are only able to make use of the 14-day grace period if you can provide a good reason as to why you could not make your extension application on time.

This means that the moment your visa expires, and you remain in the UK without a valid reason, you are assumed to be illegally overstaying your visa. Overstaying your visa is criminal offence which could end up getting you deported, fined and in jeopardy of not being able to apply for another UK visa.

Sooner is always better than later

We recommend that you contact us in preparation of your visa extension at least three months before your current visa expires. Approving your application can take up to eight weeks, so you’ll want to ensure that you are still eligible to remain in the country while you wait for your application to be reviewed and processed.

Get your information right the first time

Thousands of applications are denied annually simply because people fail to provide the correct information or forms required to process their applications. This includes not filling out all the forms you’re meant to, spelling your name incorrectly (yes, that happens) and not answering every question on the form. Even the smallest omission can result in your visa extension application being denied, or in extreme circumstances, you could be banned from applying for a UK visa entirely.

If you’re feeling nervous about filling out your form, or are unsure about what information is required, it’s best to speak to an experienced immigration consultant. They will guide you on your next steps, check that you’ve included all the necessary information and will even remind you if you’re able to renew your visa again.

Unsure about your application?

Make sure you’re eligible for a visa extension.

Before submitting your application, you’ll need to ensure that you still meet the conditions of your current visa. Some of the criteria across the visa classes are similar, but never make the mistake of assuming that they are the same. Some of the visa categories that have an extension option are the Tier 2 (General) visa, Ancestry visa, Tier 4 (General) student visa and spouse or partner visa.

Some good news: You can fast-track your application

You don’t have to wait eight weeks for a decision to be made on your application.  You can use the premium service, where you’ll receive a response within a day.

It’s important to note that the premium service come at a cost and with special requirements, and not everyone may be eligible to use them. It’s a good idea to speak to a consultant first should you wish to make use of these services.

When the time comes to extend your UK visa, our specialists will take the stress and hassle out of your application. Contact our visas team on [email protected] or give us a call on +44 (0) 20 7759 5330 .

We are a professional services company that specialises in cross-border financial and immigration advice and solutions.

Our teams in the UK, South Africa and Australia can ensure that when you decide to move overseas, invest offshore or expand your business internationally, you'll do so with the backing of experienced local experts.

Can You Renew Your UK Visa Before It Expires?

  • Anne Morris
  • 8 December 2022

IN THIS SECTION

As a foreign national living and working in the UK under a points-based system visa, you will need to renew your permission before your previous period of leave ends if you plan to extend your stay.

Often, you can renew your visa from within the UK, as long as this is done prior to expiry of your existing visa. In other cases, for example, where you are looking to switch your visa category, you may need to make an application for a different visa category, which could mean you have to leave the UK to apply.

The following guide looks at the visa renewal application process and considers the important question of timing and whether you can renew your UK visa before it expires?

When can I apply to extend my visa?

If you’re making an application to renew your visa from within the UK, you should always apply before your existing visa expires.

Special requirements and conditions included in certain visa categories can affect when you should apply.

For example, a Skilled Worker visa extension must be applied for within 3 months of your new CoS being assigned, or 60 days before any current leave expires, whichever is sooner. You also cannot apply to extend your leave more than 3 months before the start date on your new CoS, which is the day after your current leave expires.

When you are applying for any visa change, whether it is an extension within the same visa category or switching to a different route, it’s always best to prepare well in advance. In this way, you will be ready to submit your application at the right time, and without any unnecessary added complications.

Once you have submitted your application you can stay in the UK until you’ve been given a decision, as long as you applied before your previous visa expired and your application is valid.

Can I renew my visa from within the UK?

The eligibility requirements for a visa renewal application will depend on the category of visa that you currently hold under the UK points-based system, and whether or not you continue to fulfil the requirements of that visa category.

For example, to qualify for an extension of a Skilled Worker visa, you must have permission to enter or stay on a Skilled Worker visa and still be present in the UK.

You must also meet the following requirements:

  • Have the same job as when you were issued your previous leave to enter or stay in the UK
  • Be working for the same employer who assigned your original Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS), and
  • Still be earning an appropriate salary for your particular visa category, where the salary must be at least the same, or higher, than that shown on your CoS for your previous grant of leave

  For applicants that have previously been granted leave under the Skilled Worker category, you will not need to prove the maintenance or English language requirement where evidence of this has already been provided to the UK Home Office. You will, however, need to be issued with a new CoS by your UK sponsor .

Can I apply from within the UK?

If your circumstances have changed since the last grant of leave, you may be eligible to switch to a different type of visa from within the UK. This could be, for example, where you came to the UK as a student and have subsequently secured a skilled job offer from a Skilled Worker sponsor.

Not all visa categories allow in-country switching, such as the visitor visa. In such cases, you would need to leave the UK before your current visa’s expiry and make a new application for permission to enter and remain in the UK under a different category.

What is the renewal application process?

When you apply to renew your visa from within the UK, you need to do so online, including within your application any dependants who are on your current visa.

You will need to pay a fee to renew your visa, and for any dependants. These fees can vary depending on the category of visa. You may also need to pay the Immigration Health Surcharge .

You will be asked to make an appointment at a UK Visa and Citizenship Application Services ( UKVCAS) service point to provide your biometric information, ie; a scan of your fingerprints and a digital photo of your face.

You will need to submit certain documentation in support of your application. This can either be done by uploading the documents into the online service or by having them scanned at your UKVCAS appointment.

During your visa renewal application process, you must remain in the UK. If you travel outside of the UK, Ireland or the Channel Islands prior to receiving your decision from the Home Office, you risk your application being withdrawn.

How long do extension applications take?

The processing times of visa renewal applications can vary depending on the category of visas s well as UKVI’s caseload and service standards. Backlogs remain following the pandemic and prioritisation of Ukraine visa schemes, as such applicants are advised to check processing times when making their application.

For an additional charge you may be able to use the priority service, where a decision will usually be made within 5 working days of your UKVCAS appointment, or by the end of the next working day if you use the super priority service.

There is, however, no guarantee that the application for an extension will be processed within this timeframe. If your circumstances are complicated, this could delay your application, for example, if your supporting documents need to be verified, you need to attend an interview or you have a criminal conviction.

Having received your decision letter, your biometric residence permit will take up to 10 working days to arrive.

What if my visa has expired?

If you fail to make a renewal application prior to the expiry of your existing visa, or an application to switch visa category, you will be classed as overstaying . This means that you will be living and working in the UK illegally.

Ensuring you renew your UK visa before the previous period of leave ends is important if you want to avoid any later problems with the Home Office. In particular, it is a criminal offence to overstay your visa without reasonable cause. Overstaying will also be taken into consideration in any future UK immigration applications that you make.

As an overstayer, you will have 30 days to voluntarily leave the country from the date your permission to be in the UK expired, before you risk being deported. You could also face a ban on re-entering the UK for between 1-10 years.

You will be allowed to submit a visa application up to 14 days after the expiry date of your previous visa, but only if can show a good reason, beyond your control, why the application could not be made in time.

Examples of good reasons to overstay include where you were receiving emergency medical treatment or you were affected by a close family bereavement. In other words, the 14-day rule for renewals or extensions can only be used in unavoidable and fairly rare situations.

It is also worth noting that the Home Office won’t remind you when your visa or leave expires. You will need to check your biometric residence permit, or any stamp or sticker in your passport. It is therefore always best to seek expert advice from an immigration law specialist in the event of any uncertainty.

Your expert legal advisor can guide you through the process of applying for a visa renewal, or what to do if you have missed the deadline. In this way, you can maximise the prospects of being granted leave to remain in the UK. You may even be eligible for indefinite leave to remain, allowing you to settle in the UK on a permanent basis without the worry of further applications in the future.

Need assistance? 

DavidsonMorris are UK immigration specialists. Our experienced lawyers are on hand to advise on your UK visa options and to guide you through the Home Office application process. For support with your UK visa extension application, contact us .

Extending your UK visa FAQs 

How soon can i renew my visa before it expires.

How soon you can renew your visa before it expires will depend on the type of visa you are looking to extend. A Tier 2 (General) visa extension must be applied for within three months of the new Certificate of Sponsorship being assigned or 60 days before any current leave expires, whichever is sooner.

Can I renew my UK visa before it expires?

If you are looking to extend your stay from within the UK, you must apply prior to expiry of your existing visa. Making sure that you renew your UK visa before the previous period of leave ends is really important if you want to avoid being classed as an ‘overstayer’, with a risk of being deported.

How many months before UK visa expires can you travel?

If you leave the UK shortly before your visa is due to expire, the decision as to whether to grant re-entry will be made by Border Force staff based at ports of entry. If you’ve already submitted an application to renew your UK visa you must remain in the UK. If you travel outside of the UK, Ireland or the Channel Islands prior to receiving your decision, you risk your application being withdrawn.

What happens if my visa expires in UK?

If your visa expires in the UK, you will be classed as an’ overstayer’. This means that you are in the UK without permission and risk being deported. You could also face a ban on re-entry to the UK, depending on when you leave and whether you do so voluntarily.

  Last updated: 8 December 2022

About DavidsonMorris

As employer solutions lawyers, DavidsonMorris offers a complete and cost-effective capability to meet employers’ needs across UK immigration and employment law, HR and global mobility .

Led by Anne Morris, one of the UK’s preeminent immigration lawyers, and with rankings in The Legal 500 and Chambers & Partners , we’re a multi-disciplinary team helping organisations to meet their people objectives, while reducing legal risk and nurturing workforce relations.

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Applying for family visas or indefinite leave

This advice applies to England. See advice for See advice for Northern Ireland , See advice for Scotland , See advice for Wales

You or your family member will need to apply online if they want to get a family visa - or to extend it. Family visas include partner, child, parent and dependent adult visas.

You or your family member will also need to apply online if they want to get a permanent right to live in the UK for them - this is called ‘indefinite leave’.

If you haven’t already, you need to check if your family member can get the visa or indefinite leave. You can:

check if your partner and children can get visas

check if your adult family member can get an adult dependent relative visa

check if you can get a visa as the parent of a child living in the UK

check if you can extend your family visa

check if you can get indefinite leave as a family member

check if your child can get a permanent right to live in the UK

Check how much a visa costs

Your family member will need to pay a fee when they apply. They’ll have to pay it for each person applying with them - for example your partner will also have to pay for their children. There are different fees depending on whether your family member is applying from inside or outside the UK. 

You’ll also need to check if your family member has to pay an immigration health surcharge.

If you apply for a family member, you can pay the fees for them.

If your family member is applying from outside the UK

You can check how much the visa fees are on GOV.UK . You’ll need to check the fees in the ‘Route to Settlement’ visa categories:

‘Route to Settlement’ - you can find the fees for most applications

‘Route to Settlement - other dependent relative’ - you can find the fees if an adult family member who isn’t your partner is applying for a visa

‘Route to Settlement - refugee dependent relative’ - you can find the fees if you’re a refugee or have humanitarian protection and your partner or child is applying for a visa

You can also check how much the visa will cost in another currency using the tool on GOV.UK .

If your family member is applying from inside the UK

You can check how much the immigration fees are on GOV.UK . You’ll need to check the fees for the following visa categories:

‘Leave to remain - Other’ - you can find the fees if your family member is applying for their first visa or to extend their visa

‘Indefinite leave to remain - main applicants and dependants’ - you can find the fees if your family member is applying for indefinite leave

Check the amount of the immigration health surcharge

Your family member will usually have to pay to use the NHS as part of their visa application. This is known as the ‘immigration health surcharge’. They won’t have to pay the surcharge if they’re applying for indefinite leave.

Your family member will have to pay the surcharge for each person applying with them - for example your partner will also have to pay for their children. You can check how much the immigration health surcharge is on GOV.UK .

If you and your family member can’t afford the fees or immigration health surcharge

In some cases your family member can apply for a ‘fee waiver’ - this means they will not have to pay. They can’t get a fee waiver if they’re applying for indefinite leave.

If your partner is applying for a partner visa, they can only apply for a fee waiver for themselves and their children if either:

they’re applying for a visa based on exceptional circumstances or private and family life

they only have to satisfy the adequate maintenance test

To apply for a fee waiver, they have to show they don’t have enough income and savings to pay for both the fee and essential costs like food and rent - even with your help. If they have a child, they can apply for a fee waiver if paying the fee would affect the child’s welfare.

You’ll need to send documents showing your income and spending for the last 6 months, for example your:

bank statements for all your accounts

tenancy agreement

utility bills

You can apply for a fee waiver on GOV.UK .

Check if your family member needs a medical test

If your family member is moving to the UK, they might need to do a tuberculosis (TB) test before they apply. It depends on where they’ve been living.

Check if your family member needs a TB test and how to get one on GOV.UK .

Starting the application

Your family member can apply online - or you can apply for them.

If you apply for a family member, you must apply in their name. If they’re at least 16 years old, you should get them to check the application before you submit it - they will be responsible if it’s wrong.

You can print a copy of the application for your family member to check. You can also save the application and they can log in separately to check it.

What you or your family member need to do depends on whether they’re outside or inside the UK. They can:

apply from outside the UK on GOV.UK

apply from inside the UK on GOV.UK

Your family member will need to give the Home Office their email address when they apply. When they start their application, they’ll get an email from the Home Office - they’ll need to click a link in the email when they get it.

It’s important for your family member to check their emails often after they apply - the Home Office might send them important information.

If you need help applying online, check how to get help with your application on GOV.UK .

Booking an appointment

When your family member makes the application, they’ll usually need to book an appointment to have their photograph and fingerprints taken - these are called their ‘biometric information’.

If your family member is outside the UK, they’ll need to book an appointment at a visa application centre - find a visa application centre on GOV.UK .

If your family member is inside the UK, they’ll need to book an appointment on the UK Visa and Citizenship Application Service website . 

Uploading evidence

After your family member has applied, they'll need to upload scans or photos of their evidence. If you’re applying for them, you can also upload the evidence.

Your family member will be told:

how to upload their evidence

what evidence they need - they usually need to upload evidence to prove each thing they say in the application

If they don’t upload the right evidence, the Home Office will usually tell them what they need and give them one more chance to upload the right evidence before they refuse the application.

Check what evidence you need to upload on GOV.UK .

Proving your relationship

If your partner is applying, they'll need to upload evidence that you’re in a real and continuing relationship. For example, this could include documents that show that you:

have lived together

have children together

have a shared bank account or savings

have spent time together and are in frequent contact

If they need to prove another type of relationship, they can upload copies of birth certificates or adoption certificates. They'll need to include a translation if the documents aren't in English.

Proving you meet a financial requirement

Your family member will need to prove how much income and savings you have. For example, if you get benefits or a pension, they'll need to upload:

a letter from your benefits or pension provider that shows how you much you get

a bank statement from the last year for the account they’re paid into

If you’re employed, they'll need to upload payslips and bank statements for the account your wages are paid into. If you’ve been employed by the same employer for at least 6 months, your family member will need to upload documents for the last 6 months. If your employment started in the last 6 months they'll need to upload documents for the last 12 months.

If you’re self-employed, they'll need to upload the following documents showing your income for the last 2 years:

bank statements for your business bank account

audited accounts

tax returns

If you earned less money between 1 March 2020 and 31 October 2021 because of coronavirus, they should explain this in their application. The Home Office will usually ignore the income you lost - your family member might have to upload documents from before 1 March 2020.

Proving you have somewhere suitable to live

Your family member will need to upload a document that shows you have somewhere to live - for example:

a tenancy agreement

a mortgage statement

a letter from the owner - for example if you’re staying with your parents

They'll usually need to upload a report or document to prove that where they'll live is safe, suitable and large enough. They will not need this if you live in council housing or your landlord is a housing association.

You can get a report from a surveyor or an environmental health officer. Start by asking your local council if they can do a report. Find your local council on GOV.UK .

Your family member won’t usually need a report if they've already got a visa and they're applying to extend it or get indefinite leave.

If the application is rejected

Your family member can either:

appeal the decision - they’ll need to show the decision affects their ‘right to private or family life’

make a new visa application - they’ll have to pay the full application fee again

The rules are complicated. Get help from a specialist immigration adviser to check what your family member should do.

The decision letter from the Home Office should say what the time limit is for your family member to appeal. They need to appeal within 14 days if they’re in the UK or 28 days if they’re outside the UK.

If you can’t see an immigration adviser before the end of the time limit, your family member can start an appeal and then get advice. They will have to pay a fee of £80 or £120.

If your family member is outside the UK, you can find the appeal form and guidance on GOV.UK .

If your family member is inside the UK, you can find the appeal form and guidance on GOV.UK .

If the application is accepted

If your family member applied within the UK, they’ll receive:

a biometric residence permit (BRP) - this is proof of their right to stay in the UK

an email or letter asking them to set up an account for their online immigration status

Online immigration statuses are replacing BRPs. Your family member’s BRP will only be valid until October 2024. After this date, they’ll need to use their online account to prove their immigration status. Your family member can get help setting up an online status .

If your family member applied outside the UK

They’ll get entry clearance that gives them 30 days to come to the UK. If they don’t arrive in the UK within the 30-day period, they’ll need to apply for another entry permit and pay a fee.

Once your family member arrives in the UK they’ll have to collect a BRP within 10 days. They’ll have to:

set up an online account for their online immigration status

collect a biometric residence permit (BRP) within 10 days

They'll have to collect the BRP from a post office - they’ll have selected a post office as part of the application process. It’s important to collect the BRP within 10 days - they might be fined or have their visa cancelled if they don’t.

Apply for the visa or indefinite leave

What you or your family member needs to do depends on whether they’re outside or inside the UK. They can:

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extend visit visa uk

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Can I extend my Visit visa once in the UK?

extend visit visa uk

A common query that individuals on a UK Visit visa have concerns the possibility of extending their Visit visa once they are already in the UK. This blog delves into this matter.

Typically, a UK Visit visa grants you a 6-month stay. However, circumstances may arise where extending your visit becomes a necessity. If your initial visa permits less than six months of stay, you can apply to extend it for a cumulative period of up to six months, covering the time you have already spent in the UK.

Medical treatment or academic pursuits could be compelling reasons for an extension. If you are a patient seeking further medical attention, or an academic engaged in research, you might be eligible for an extension of your visa. The process involves submitting supporting documents such as medical records or academic qualifications and paying a £1,000 fee (additionally, you can pay an extra £1,000 if you wish to use the super priority service).

Academic endeavours offer a broader window, allowing extensions of up to twelve months. Requirements include demonstrating high qualifications in your field, prior overseas academic employment and a commitment not to fill a permanent teaching post in the UK.

For those re-taking the Professional and Linguistic Assessment Board test, extension is possible; however, providing meticulous documentation, including a letter from the General Medical Council, is crucial.

While navigating the extension process, it is crucial to adhere to the guidelines laid out by the UK immigration authorities.

How Gherson can assist

Gherson’s Immigration Team are highly experienced in advising on UK visa matters. If you have any questions arising from this blog, please do not hesitate to  contact us  for advice, send us an  e-mail , or, alternatively, follow us on  X ,  Facebook ,  Instagram , or  LinkedIn  to stay-up-to-date.

The information in this blog is for general information purposes only and does not purport to be comprehensive or to provide legal advice. Whilst every effort is made to ensure the information and law is current as of the date of publication it should be stressed that, due to the passage of time, this does not necessarily reflect the present legal position. Gherson accepts no responsibility for loss which may arise from accessing or reliance on information contained in this blog. For formal advice on the current law please do not hesitate to contact Gherson. Legal advice is only provided pursuant to a written agreement, identified as such, and signed by the client and by or on behalf of Gherson.

© Gherson  2024

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How to Extend/Renew Your Visa in the UK

How to Extend/Renew Your Visa in the UK

Amar Ali Immigration Solicitors

By Amar Ali, Immigration Solicitor

If you currently hold a UK visa, it is important to be aware that not all visas can be extended or renewed. Some notable visas that cannot be renewed include the UK graduate visa, the youth mobility visa, and the start-up visa. In addition, if you hold a visa that is now closed to new applicants (e.g. the UK investor visa), you can still either apply for an extension or indefinite leave to remain (ILR) if you meet the eligibility criteria.

While certain visas cannot be extended, you can consider switching to a different type of visa in the UK . For example, if you hold a graduate visa that is due to extend, you may be able to consider applying for a Skilled Worker visa if you have a job offer from an approved employer. That said, if you hold a UK visitor visa , you will not be able to switch to a different visa from within the UK. However, you can return to your home country from where you can submit a new visa application.

For specific guidance on extending some of the most popular UK visa types , please see the following:

  • Tier 2 / Skilled Worker Visa extension
  • Spouse Visa extension
  • UK Healthcare Worker Visa extension
  • ICT Visa extension
  • Tier 1 Entrepreneur visa extension
  • Standard Visitor visa extension
  • Extend student visa

Please note this guidance is by no means exhaustive. If you need any assistance with applying for an extension of your visa, speak to one of our immigration lawyers who will be pleased to assist you on 020 3744 2797 or by emailing [email protected] .

When can you apply for a visa extension?

You must apply for your UK visa extension before your current visa expires. This is also referred to as further leave to remain application. The UK visa expiry rules state that your application must have been received by UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) before your visa expires. This is essential as if you apply after your visa expires, you may be treated by the Home Office as an overstayer.

As an overstayer, you are technically in the UK unlawfully. As such, your visa extension UK application may be refused because you have breached the immigration rule on leaving the UK before your visa expires. However, depending on your situation, some rules for overstaying UK visa may apply to you.

The earliest that you can apply for a UK visa extension depends on the type of visa you hold. For example, if you have a Skilled Worker visa, you can apply up to 60 days before your visa expires. If you have a Student visa, the earliest you can apply to extend your visa (i.e. if you have been accepted on a new course of study) is 3 months. As such, it is important to check the rules that apply to your specific visa type.

How to extend/renew your visa in the UK

To extend or renew your visa in the UK, you will need to complete the following general steps (please note the exact process, forms, and fees you will need to pay depend on the type of visa you hold):

  • Ensure any preparation is complete before you apply. For example, if you have a work visa, you will need to secure a new Certificate of Sponsorship showing your new duration of employment in the UK. Likewise, if you have a student visa, you will need to get a new Certificate of Acceptance for Studies for your new course. It is also important to check that you meet all of the eligibility criteria for the visa you are extending. You should not assume that because you were granted your visa initially, you will automatically be eligible.
  • Complete the online UK visa renewal form (the form you need to complete depends on the type of visa you hold).
  • Pay any fees – this includes the UK visa extension fee and healthcare surcharge
  • Book and attend an appointment at your nearest UKVCAS office to have your identity checked and provide your biometrics (i.e. your fingerprints and photo).
  • Provide any documents requested by UKVI to support your application – e.g. your new Certificate of Sponsorship, Certificate of Acceptance for Studies, or letter confirming your ongoing business endorsement etc.

You can expect to receive a decision on your extension application within 8 weeks, however, this may be much sooner if you have a straightforward case and you have provided all of the necessary information and evidence. You can remain in the UK while you are waiting for a decision on your application, even if the expiry date of your visa has passed (assuming your application was received by UKVI before your visa expired).

Can you apply to extend your visa after its expiry?

If you find yourself in a position whereby you have not submitted your visa extension application in time, it may be possible in very limited circumstances to apply after your visa expiry date.

Under the ‘14-day good reason rule’, you may be able to make a successful visa renewal UK application as long as it is submitted no more than 14 days after your visa expires if you have a valid reason. You will need to prove that there were exceptional circumstances which prevented you from being able to apply in time. Such exceptional circumstances may include if you were receiving emergency medical treatment in a hospital or a close family member died.

It is important to provide strong evidence within 14 days of your visa’s expiry date proving why you could not make the deadline (e.g. a letter from your doctor explaining the circumstances and your dates of hospital admission). Telling UKVI that you simply forgot or were too busy will most likely result in your application being refused.

What if your visa extension is refused?

Visa extension applications may be refused for a wide range of reasons, including because

  • you no longer meet the eligibility requirements,
  • you do not meet the suitability requirements or,
  • your application was invalid – i.e. it was late, not complete, or you have not paid the required fees.

Regardless of the reason for the refusal of your visa renewal, you may have several options available to resolve the matter, including:

  • Submitting a fresh application
  • Applying for a different type of visa
  • Appealing – this option is only available in very limited cases where your human rights, protection or humanitarian rights are affected
  • Administrative review – if UKVI made a mistake when they refused your application, or
  • Judicial review – if the refusal of your visa extension application is unlawful.

It is important to seek expert legal advice from an immigration lawyer if your visa renewal application has been refused to ensure that you understand your options and the best route forward in your circumstances.

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  • February 16, 2024

If you intend to apply for a family visa UK you have come to the right place. In this guide, we’ll discuss how to apply for a family visa UK. Also, what are the basic family visa UK requirements you’ve to fulfil to obtain one? Let’s get started!

What is a family visa?

Your situation will determine the type of visa that is best suited for you. If you want to stay in the UK for more than six months with your family, you’ll require a family visa. It lets family members join their loved ones who already live there. It’s for spouses, partners, children, and other eligible relatives to be together in the UK.

Apply for a family visa UK from outside the UK

Families can apply for visas so you can reside with:

  • partner or spouse
  • fiance, prospective civil partner, or fiancee
  • friend or family member who can take care of you in the future

Ways to Extend family visitor visa uk

Those currently in the UK on family visas have the option to request an extension of stay to be with a family member. Before your present stay in the UK expires, you have the option to extend it at any moment.

If you want to stay longer with the same family member, your new permit will only add up to 28 days to the end of your existing stay. 

Before you can get a settlement (also called “indefinite leave to remain”), you have to live in the UK for a certain amount of time. Moreover, w ith proof of your private life, you might be able to stay if you’ve lived in the UK for a long time.

UK Family Visa Types

In the UK, there are various types of family visas available for people who want to join their settled family members in the UK. Some common types are:

  • Sponsor visa UK for Family
  • Parents visa UK
  • Child dependent visa UK
  • Adult Dependent Visa
  • UK Ancestry visa

Can I switch to a Family Visa?

While you are in the UK on another type of visa, you may be eligible to switch to a family visa so you can continue to live with your partner, spouse, kid, or parent. Before the end of your current permission to remain in the United Kingdom, you can switch at any moment.

What is the Cost of applying for this Visa?

The cost of getting a UK family visitor visa depends on who you want to join and where you apply from.

If you’re joining your partner, parent, or child and you apply from outside the UK, it costs £1,846. Further, if you apply from within the UK, it costs £1,048.

Additionally, if you’re adding any other dependents to your application, it costs £1,846 for each person if you apply from outside the UK. But, if you apply from within the UK, it’s £1,048 for each person.

If you’re an adult who needs to be taken care of by a relative, how much it costs depends on your relative’s permission to stay in the UK.

In addition, if your relative has temporary ‘protection status’ (like being a refugee or having humanitarian protection), it costs:

  • £404 if you apply from outside the UK
  • £1,048 if you apply from within the UK

If not, the cost is:

  • £3,250 for non-UK applicants
  • £1,048 if the applicant is a British. 

If you can’t afford to pay the fee, you might be able to get it waived in certain situations. For example, if you can’t afford a place to live or other important things you need to live.

Healthcare Surcharge

Some applications require you to pay for health care as well. If you’re 18 or older and staying for:

  • 2 years and 6 months, it costs £2,587.50
  • 2 years and 9 months, it costs £3,105
  • 5 years, it costs £5,175

Additionally, for each child under 18 and staying for:

  • 2 years and 6 months, it costs £1,940
  • 2 years and 9 months, it costs £2,328
  • 5 years, it costs £3,880

Quickly get a response to your application

To speed up the decision-making process, applicants from the UK may have the option to pay an additional £1,000 for the super-priority service. Moreover, if you are an adult requesting care from a relative, you do not qualify for the super-priority service.

When you cannot get a Family Visa UK?

There are particular circumstances in which you are not eligible to apply for a family visitor visa UK.

Someone in your family holds a valid visa, either to work or study.

Anyone in your immediate family who is currently in the United Kingdom on a student visa or work visa cannot apply for a family visa during your application process.

Instead, you can ask to be considered as a dependent and stay with them.

  • If your visa is valid for a period of six months or less, you normally have to go back to your home country to apply for a family visa. But there are exceptions:
  • Moreover, if you are a fiancé, proposing civil partner, or in possession of a 6-month family visa.
  • One possible option is to apply for this while still in the UK if you have been granted permission to live there as a result of a divorce or family court case.
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The contents of this website are intended to be used as general free information only and do not constitute legal advice. Legal advice can only be provided by a suitably qualified professional following a detailed consideration of your circumstances. UK Immigration Solicitors is an approved trading style of SABZ Solicitors LLP which is a private Law firm registered in England and Wales. This website is operated under license and design, content, and functionality are handled via independent third-party LAMPDO. In the event of media query etc, please request details from the webmaster. This website contains public sector information licensed under the Open Government Licence v3.0. and provided by gov.uk. We a private. funded Law Firm and we are not affiliated with or endorsed by any third party unless you are specifically advised to the contrary in writing. By using this website or interacting with UK immigration Solicitors and/or its authorised agents, you confirm that you have read and agree to our terms and policies which are listed below and together collectively form our terms of business .

Can you extend a UK Standard Visitor Visa?

  • Can you extend a UK Standard Visitor Visa?

Yes, you can extend a UK Standard Visitor Visa if you meet certain eligibility requirements. You can extend your stay for a maximum of 6 months, but you must apply before your current visa expires.

Eligibility requirements

In order to be eligible to extend your visa, you must already be on a valid UK Standard Visitor Visa, you must not have been in the UK for any longer than 6 months in the past year, you must be able to show you have strong ties to you home country you can do this by presenting information such as a job, property, or family in you home country. Finally you must be able to demonstrate that you can support yourself financially during your time in the UK.

How long can I extend my UK Standard Visitor Visa?

You are able to extend your visa up to a total of 6 months, a standard visitor visa only allows for a maximum of 6 months stay in the UK over any period of 12 months. You can extend past 6 months if you are: a patient receiving medical treatment, an academic who has met all eligibility criteria or a graduate who is retaking the Professional and Linguistic Assessment Board ( PLAB ) test or doing a clinical attachment.

If you are a patient you can apply to stay for a further 6 months if you: have paid for any treatment you’ve already had in the UK, can and will pay the further costs of your treatment and you continue to meet the   medical treatment eligibility requirements. There is no limit on how many times you can extend your stay for medical reasons as long as you are receiving treatment, however you can only extend in 6 month blocks and must pay the extension fee each time.

How much does it cost to extend my UK Standard Visitor Visa?

It will cost £1000 to extend your stay as a Standard Visitor with an additional  £800 if you use the priority service. You will also need to have your biometric information (fingerprints and a photo) taken.

How to apply?

You can apply to extend your UK Standard Visitor Visa online

To apply online, you will need to:

  • Create an account on the UK Visas and Immigration website
  • Complete the online application form
  • Upload supporting documents, such as your passport, travel itinerary, and financial evidence.

Once submitted the UK Standard Visitor Visa extension will typically 8 weeks to be approved or denied. However, it can take longer during busy periods, there is a premium fast track option for an additional £800.

For assistance with this process, you can submit an application via our secure online form.

What happens next?

If your application is successful, you will be granted a new visa that will allow you to stay in the UK for the requested period. Your new visa will be stamped in your passport. If your application is unsuccessful you will be notified by email or letter. You will have the right to appeal the decision.

People also asked

What happens if i stay more than 6 months inside uk.

If you stay in the UK for more than 6 months on a Standard Visitor Visa, you will be considered an overstayer. This means that you will be breaking the terms of your visa and could be deported. You could also be banned from entering the UK for a period of time.

Can I convert my visitor visa to work visa in UK?

No. Unfortunately,  you cannot switch from a Visitor Visa to any other visa in the UK.

Can I marry in UK on visitor visa?

The Immigration Rules state that someone who enters the UK as a visitor must not intend to marry, form a civil partnership or give notice to marry or form a civil partnership, unless they have entered in a specific Marriage Visitor category.

Can I apply for a job while on a visitor visa UK?

A visitor visa is a short stay visa that allows you to engage in recreational activities in the UK and  does not permit you to work.

  • Posted 7th September 2023

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Updates, commentary, training and advice on immigration and asylum law

  • 25th March 2024
  • BY Ross Kennedy

extend visit visa uk

Changes to work visa routes from 4 April 2024 and what it means for employers

Page contents

New Skilled Workers sponsored after 4 April 2024

Health and care visas – new and old, what if i assign a certificate of sponsorship (cos) before 4 april 2024, what about existing skilled workers applying to extend or change employers, what if a person is currently sponsored in a shortage occupation, changes to global business mobility routes, changes to the scale-up route, mac recommendations – accepted or not, the effect of these changes on those in the asylum system, what does this all mean for employers.

On 14 March 2024 the government published its latest statement of changes to the immigration rules, which included changes to a number of UK immigration categories.  The most significant changes were to implement the plans laid out by the Home Secretary in December .  These include raising the minimum income requirements for work visas, removing the reduced rate of pay for shortage occupations and replacing the shortage list with a new Immigration Salary List.

While the policy changes themselves are relatively concise, the implementation of these changes takes up about 180 pages of the statement of changes and the detail of the changes can be difficult to follow.  They deal not only with the new rules for future sponsored workers but also transitional arrangements for existing sponsored workers as well as the re-alignment of the Standard Occupational Classification (SOC) codes from the 2010 versions to the 2020 versions.

The headline change for employers seeking to sponsor new Skilled Workers in the UK is that the minimum salaries are rising significantly. 

As is already the case, employers will need to pay the higher of the general threshold or the going rate for the job in question.  However both of these figures are seeing huge increases as part of the government’s decision to raise them from the 25 th percentile to the median. This means that instead of being paid more than a quarter of people in similar jobs, they need to be paid more than half of people in similar jobs.

The highlights are:

  • Option A (most applications): from £26,200 to £38,700. Option B (relevant PhD): from £23,800 to £34,830. Option C (relevant STEM PhD): from £20,960 to £30,960. Option D (shortage occupation/Immigration Salary List): from £20,960 to £30,960. 
  • Option E (new entrants): from £20,960 to £30,960. 
  • The appropriate rates detailed in individual SOC codes will also be increasing so that sponsored workers will be paid at least the median salary for that role.  These rates are set out in the new Table 1 of Appendix Skilled Occupations from 4 April 2024. 
  • The 20% discount to the going rate for shortage occupations (Option D) will be removed, although the 10% discount for relevant PhDs (Option B), the 20% discount for STEM PhDs (Option C) and the 30% discount for new entrants (Option E) will be retained.  These discounts are included as separate columns in the new Table 1.
  • The current Shortage Occupation List under Option D will be replaced with an Immigration Salary List, which contains fewer eligible SOC codes .
  • Where an individual is applying to work in a role that is subject to a national pay scale, the minimum salary threshold will be £23,200 (Option K) but they must also be paid at least the appropriate rate set by the national pay scale for that role or salary band.  The eligible roles for national pay scales are set out in the new Table 3, with the updated going rates for NHS bands in Table 4 and educational roles in Table 5.

Although these changes mean significant increases in the costs of sponsoring Skilled Workers in most roles, the greatest impact will be felt by those roles which were previously on the Shortage Occupation List.  While the rise in the general threshold is a large additional cost, the loss of the 20% discount to the going rate combined with the increase to the median rate means that formerly shortage roles will see particularly large jumps in pay. 

For example, a software programmer who might be paid £27,200 under the current rules would be looking at rates of £49,400 from 4 April 2024 (an 82% increase).

The definition of who can qualify for a Health and Care visa is now being added to the rules.  This is welcome as the old guidance document on the government website had significant formatting issues that made it hard to follow.  However, the actual definition of the sponsorship that falls into the Health and Care route does not appear to have changed.

Applicants in the Health and Care route will be protected from the worst of the changes in salary requirements.  Where the role is not subject to a national pay scale (see above), there will be smaller increases in the thresholds and going rates to keep place with the market but these will still be based on the 25 th percentile instead of the median rate.  The adjusted general thresholds that will apply to Health and Care visas from 4 April 2024 are:

  • Option F (most applications): from £26,200 to £29,000. 
  • Option G (relevant PhD): from £23,800 to £26,100. 
  • Option H (relevant STEM PhD): from £20,960 to £23,200. 
  • Option I (shortage occupation/Immigration Salary List): from £20,960 to £23,200. 
  • Option J (new entrants): from £20,960 to £23,200. 

The going rates for Health and Care visas are set out in the new Table 2 of Appendix Skilled Occupations from 4 April 2024.

If an applicant has been assigned a CoS before 4 April 2024 and it has not expired when they submit their application, the application will be decided in line with the rules in force before 4 April 2024.  Therefore any employers who are seeking to sponsor Skilled Workers in the near future would be advised to assign the relevant CoS before this date if at all possible to avoid having to meet the higher thresholds. 

It is worth remembering that the application must be submitted within three months of the CoS being assigned and up to three months before the start date on the CoS, so it could be possible to assign a CoS now for someone to apply in nearly six months’ time.  However the difficulty at the moment may be in securing the CoS allocation from UKVI in the first place as they appear to be overwhelmed by applications trying to get in under the line, with Defined CoS applications proceeding at a crawl and the priority service for Undefined CoS applications experiencing over 1,000 requests for 60 slots daily.

To add to the difficulty of getting a CoS assigned before the deadline, the government has announced that the sponsorship management system will be down for maintenance between 7pm on 2 April to 9am on 4 April in order to update the system to the new 2020 SOC codes.  This means that sponsors actually have two fewer days to assign the CoS than they might think and the fact this runs on directly from the Easter long weekend further impacts sponsors’ ability to get this done before the changes.

Sponsors should note that if a Defined CoS allocation is granted before 4 April 2024 but is not assigned by this date, the allocation will be cancelled and a new request must be submitted via the sponsorship management system (in accordance with the rules after 4 April).  Any Undefined CoS allocation unused on 4 April will remain valid but when a sponsor assigns it they must follow the rules from 4 April.

If someone has held continuous permission as a Skilled Worker that was originally granted before 4 April 2024, they will be partially protected from the increased salary rules in the same way as Health and Care visas.  The same adjusted thresholds above will apply to extension applications or applications to change employers and the 25 th percentile going rates set out in Table 2 will apply.

Some SOC codes which are eligible for sponsorship under the current rules will no longer be eligible after 4 April 2024 because they are now deemed to be skilled below RQF Level 3 – these are listed in the new Table 2a of Appendix Skilled Occupations and include examples such as nannies, concierges, fashion stylists and car salesmen. 

If an individual has continuously held permission as a Skilled Worker since before the new rules come in and the SOC code of the role is in Table 2a, the individual can only apply for an extension to continue working for the same employer.  It will not be possible to apply to change employers if the SOC code is in Table 2a.

The Home Secretary announced in December that the government would be removing the 20% discount to the going rate for roles on the Shortage Occupation List and would also be replacing the current list with a new Immigration Salary List.  He later asked the Migration Advisory Committee (MAC) to carry out a rapid review to see which jobs would be included on the new list. 

The committee recommended that the current list of 55 roles be cut back to just 21 roles on the new list.  The biggest set of cuts were based on the committee’s reasoning that, whether a recognisable shortage or not, there was no tangible benefit to be had by them being on the list.  This was because the primary benefit to being on the list was a reduction in the general threshold but, as a result of the decision to raise going rates for new visas to the median, in many cases the going rate would outstrip the new threshold and a reduction here would have no impact.

As a result of this change, many roles which were on the Shortage Occupation List were not transferred to the Immigration Salary List.  If a Skilled Worker is currently sponsored in a role which was included on either list but is no longer on the list when they make their next application, they will still be able score points for the lower threshold and for the 20% discount to the going rate, but only if they will be extending their visa to continue working in the same role for the same sponsor. Otherwise they will need to meet the higher threshold and the 25 th percentile going rate in Table 2 for Option F.

In line with previous the Migration Advisory Committee’s recommendations, the government has increased the threshold salaries for other sponsored work routes where these apply.  For the Global Business Mobility routes, most thresholds are being raised from £45,800 to £48,500 while the Graduate Trainee route threshold is being raised from £24,220 to £25,410. 

Going rates for the Global Business Mobility routes will continue to be based on the 25 th percentile of roles within the relevant SOC code and so can be found in the new Table 2 of Appendix Skilled Occupations, with Graduate Trainee continuing to benefit from the 30% discount to the going rate.

The senior or specialist worker route within this category has seen much less use by sponsors since the Skilled Worker rules were introduced in December 2020 and negated the greatest benefits of the Intra-Company Transfer route, as it then was (namely the lack of a resident labour market test and annual quota). 

However, the increases to the threshold and going rate for Skilled Workers may mean that senior and specialist workers becomes comparably more attractive.  While the £48,500 threshold is still higher than even the new Skilled Worker threshold, the median rate for many SOC codes is likely to be higher still. 

For example, the median rate for a business development manager is £52,500 so this is the amount a sponsor would need to pay a new Skilled Worker.  However, the 25 th percentile rate for a senior or specialist worker in the same role is below the new Global Business Mobility threshold of £48,500 so it would cost a sponsor less to use this route.  It may also be easier for sponsor to meet this level of salary as they would be able to include some allowances which are prohibited under the Skilled Worker route. 

On the downside, the route still requires the applicant to meet the requirement for employment by an overseas business and would not be eligible for settlement on this route.  It may however become a more attractive route for sponsors seeking to fill short term positions where Skilled Worker may previously have been the default.

Some SOC codes which are eligible for sponsorship under the current Global Business Mobility rules will no longer be eligible after 4 April 2024 because they are now deemed to be below RQF Level 6 – these are listed in the new Table 2b of Appendix Skilled Occupations and include examples such as CAD technicians, interior designers and care home managers. 

If an individual has continuously held permission as a Global Business Mobility migrant since before the new rules come in and the SOC code of the role is in Table 2b, the individual can apply for an extension to continue working in that role.  If they have not held continuous permission in this route, they will not be able to apply under the Global Business Mobility route in this code but such a role should still meet the required skill level for sponsorship under the full new Skilled Worker codes (using the £38,700 threshold and the median rates of pay).

The government has also increased the threshold salary for the scale-up route, raising this from £34,600 to £36,300.  The going rate for this route continues to be set at the 25 th percentile as set out in Table 2.  Both the threshold and the going rate are now set lower than for Skilled Workers, despite the scale-up visa technically being a more skilled route (RQF Level 6). 

Combined with the lower licence fee, CoS fee and lack of Immigration Skills Charge, this will be a very attractive alternative for eligible sponsors going forward.  However, it continues to be a niche route with difficult growth criteria to qualify for the licence.

Unlike the other sponsored work routes, the scale-up route will enjoy full protection from salary increases where a visa holder already has permission on the route.  This is a logical decision since the salary requirements to be met for the other routes are based on future pay, while the salary requirements a scale-up worker needs to meet for extension and settlement are based on earnings in the preceding two or three years.  Therefore scale-up workers who originally applied on or before 11 April 2023 will still need to show qualifying PAYE earnings of £33,000 and those who applied between 12 April 2023 and the new rules coming in on 4 April 2024 will need to show qualifying PAYE earnings of £34,600.

During its rapid review of the Immigration Salary List, the Migration Advisory Committee noted that the government had accepted its recommendation in the autumn to remove the 20% discount to the going rate for shortage occupation roles on the grounds that it risked undercutting resident workers’ salaries. 

However, it also noted that this recommendation had been in the context of salaries being based on the 25 th percentile, and that with the increase of salaries to the median rate there was much less chance of resident workers’ salaries being undercut (as the starting point would be that pay must be higher than half of workers in such a job). 

The committee therefore recommended that the government reconsider its decision to implement both changes at the same time.  The Home Secretary did not address this recommendation in his response to the committee but there was no change in direction when the statement of changes was published and both policies are being implemented simultaneously.

The government accepted the majority of the committee’s other recommendations with regard to the Immigration Salary List.  However, they did decide to retain two fishing occupations on the list despite the concerns over exploitation in the sector. 

The government determined that the sector needed more time and support to resolve its problems. It was noted that the rise for even jobs that are on the Immigration Salary List to £30,960 would constitute a significant rise that might wean the sector off its reliance on immigration to fill vacancies. This would then mean that only well-paying employers would be able to use the route. 

The two fishing roles are therefore being included on the route “temporarily”, pending the committee’s full review of the list later this year, which the government will commission shortly and will allow full public consultation and engagement.

The government has also accepted the committee’s recommendation to change the rules for creative workers so that sponsors can no longer rely on the resident labour market test exemption due to a job being on the Shortage Occupation List (or on the new Immigration Salary List).  The new requirement is that, where there isn’t an established code of practice for the occupation, the sponsor must be able to demonstrate that the worker can make a unique contribution to creative life in the UK. 

A recommendation that was not accepted was to implement a minimum salary threshold for the creative worker route.  The committee was concerned that the lack of a minimum salary already led to undercutting the salaries of resident workers and this would be exacerbated by the new Skilled Worker rates, leading to more sponsors using the creative worker route when it may be less appropriate.  However the government concluded that this would be incompatible with the diverse and often short-term nature of roles within the creative industries.

At present the only jobs asylum seekers are allowed to do (and only if they have been waiting over 12 months for a decision through no fault of their own) are roles on the Shortage Occupation List.  With this list replaced by the Immigration Salary List on 4 April, the government has ignored the Migration Advisory Committee’s recommendation that those asylum seekers who are permitted to work should be allowed to contribute in any occupation, or at the very least all skilled occupations.  

With tens of thousands of asylum seekers and dependants stuck in limbo (at the expense of the public purse rather than able to support themselves and contribute to the economy), the statement of changes instead restricts permitted jobs even further to the very few shortage occupations which make it onto the new Immigration Salary List.  This contrasts starkly with the decision to allow Skilled Workers to undertake broader supplementary employment than before.  

Currently, Skilled Workers can only undertake supplementary work up to 20 hours a week in the same profession and professional level as their sponsored work, unless that additional work is in a shortage occupation.  From 4 April, Skilled Workers will be able to undertake supplementary work in any role that would meet the skill level for sponsorship – exactly what the committee had recommended should be allowed for asylum seekers, but isn’t.

Employers who already pay well and who would already be paying a prospective Skilled Worker above the median rate are likely to be unaffected by these changes.  However this is more likely to apply to professions that are already traditionally high-paying, such as senior roles with large companies or roles in certain sectors such as finance. 

Smaller companies and start-ups are more likely to struggle to pay higher salaries, while sectors that are skilled but tend to be lower paid are likely to only be able to pay higher salaries for the most experienced people and will struggle to recruit entry level roles or new graduates.  In the latter case, awareness and best-use of the new entrant rules for student and graduate visa holders will be key.

The healthcare sector will benefit from lower requirements where the role meets the Health and Care route rules. In addition the committee noted that, by preserving the low threshold and national rates for public sector health and educational roles on national pay scales, the government had effectively insulated themselves from the changes – this will facilitate sponsorship in those roles but also lead to larger discrepancies between public and private sector pay in similar jobs.

In general, the massive increases to the qualifying salaries for sponsored work visas are likely to cause significant problems for employers in the UK to recruit skilled workers.  Where possible, employers can still turn to unsponsored routes, such as family visas, ancestry, youth mobility or graduate/high potential routes. But this will diminish the pool of available candidates and, in the latter cases, are short-term routes that the employer may be forced to fill again if they are then unable to sponsor the person under Skilled Worker. 

The changes could also lead to more uptake in other sponsored routes, due to the fact that Global Business Mobility and scale-up salaries are not being raised to the median rate. But these categories have their own difficulties in terms of eligibility and in terms of long-term retention of staff, as the former has an upper time limit while the latter does not tie the employee to the sponsor beyond the first six months.  As the committee itself noted, the creative worker route is also available to sponsors in the creative sector and has no government-imposed salary thresholds, but is also a temporary route.

Employers would be best advised to consider the whole range of visa routes which allow holders to work in the UK and weigh up the short and long-term advantages and disadvantages when considering the best options for both the employer and the candidate.

However, some employers will simply find themselves unable to fill vacancies due to a lack of candidates with the right to work in the UK, together with being priced out of sponsoring new arrivals. Faced with the combined growth barriers of escalating business costs, sponsorship costs and the inability to recruit in the UK, some employers may inevitably decide that operating in the UK is no longer economically viable.

  • Immigration rules , Shortage Occupation List , skilled workers

Ross Kennedy

Ross Kennedy

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extend visit visa uk

  • Going and being abroad

Update on passport application fees

The government will introduce new passport fees for all applications on 11 April 2024.

extend visit visa uk

The proposals, which are subject to parliamentary approval, will include the following:

  • a standard online application made from within the UK will rise to £88.50 for adults and £57.50 for children
  • a standard postal application will increase to £100.00 for adults and £69.00 for children
  • a standard online application when applying from overseas will rise to £101.00 for adults and £65.50 for children
  • a standard paper application when applying from overseas will increase to £112.50 for adults and £77.00 for children

The new fees will help ensure that income from these applications better meets the cost of delivering passport and associated operations, reducing reliance on funding from general taxation. The government does not make any profit from the cost of passport applications.

The fees contribute to the cost of processing passport applications, consular support overseas, including for lost or stolen passports, and the cost of processing British citizens at UK borders. The increase will also help enable the government to continue improving its services.

The new fees include those newly applying or renewing their passport.

Passports will usually be issued within 3 weeks if they are applying from within the UK but customers are advised that they should apply in good time before travelling  Apply online for a UK passport .

Passport fees are reviewed in line with His Majesty’s Treasury guidance  Managing public money .

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