The UK Skilled Worker Visa is a popular way for overseas nationals to live and work in the UK. By working for an approved employer in an eligible role, it is possible to use this visa to enjoy a long-term career, family life, and eventually settlement in the UK.
The Skilled Worker Visa only lasts for 5 years, though, so what happens when it is due to expire? In this article, we will learn about the Skilled Worker Visa extension and how this approach can allow you to stay in the UK for longer. We will answer questions like the eligibility requirements, costs and how our team at Elite Law Solicitors can make the process seamless.
If you are considering applying for Skilled Worker Visa extension, get in touch with our specialist Immigration Lawyers by calling 0800 086 2929, emailing info@elitelawsolicitors.co.uk or by completing our Free Online Enquiry Form.
This article has been prepared by Neveen Galal, an experienced SRA regulated Immigration Solicitor with over 20 years’ experience of advising individuals and families on UK immigration matters, including spouse visas, partner applications, and complex settlement cases. Neveen’s insights are based on real case experience, ensuring that the information she provides is accurate, up to date, and based on UK immigration law and practice.
What is the Skilled Worker Visa?
The Skilled Worker Visa is the primary work route for non-UK nationals who want to work for an approved UK employer. It replaced the Tier 2 (General) visa in December 2020.
To qualify, applicants must have a job offer from a UK-based employer that holds a sponsor licence and be paid a minimum salary (subject to certain exceptions, such as shortage occupations or new entrants).
The initial Skilled Worker Visa is typically granted for up to 5 years, depending on the duration stated on your Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS). If you wish to stay longer, you will need to apply for an extension before your current visa expires.
Can I get a Skilled Worker Visa extension?
As the Skilled Worker Visa typically lasts 5 years, many individuals who want to continue their lives in the UK consider extending it. This is a possibility, but you need to meet the eligibility requirements. This normally means that:
- You are still working for the same employer who sponsored your initial application.
- You remain in the same occupation or job code.
- Your employer is still approved by the Home Office as a licensed sponsor.
- You meet the salary threshold requirements.
- You are in the UK at the time of applying.
Importantly, if you change employer or occupation, you will need to apply for a new Skilled Worker Visa rather than an extension.
When should I apply for a Skilled Worker Visa extension?
It is strongly recommended that you apply for a Skilled Worker Visa extension before your current visa expires. You can usually apply up to 60 days before the expiry date, although some applicants choose to apply earlier if their circumstances change (such as an updated salary, role, or sponsor details).
If your visa expires before you apply, you may lose your legal right to remain in the UK, which can impact your immigration record and future applications.
How long can I extend my Skilled Worker Visa for?
You can extend your Skilled Worker Visa for up to 5 years at a time, provided you continue to meet the eligibility requirements.
There is no limit to the number of Skilled Worker Visa extensions you can apply for. However, most Skilled Worker Visa holders will apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) after 5 years of continuous residence in the UK, which removes the need for further extensions.
What are the eligibility requirements for a Skilled Worker Visa extension?
Extending your Skilled Worker Visa can be a useful way to stay in the UK for longer. However, you will need to qualify for the extension by meeting various eligibility requirements. These include:
Sponsorship
You must have a valid Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) from your employer. The CoS must confirm your job title and occupation code, salary, and evidence that the role of genuine and ongoing.
Approved employer
Your employer must still hold a valid sponsor licence and be on the Home Office list of approved sponsors. If they lose this status, they can no longer sponsor you.
Appropriate salary
You must be paid at least the minimum salary threshold. As of 2024, this is generally £41,700 per year or what is considered the ‘going rate’ for your occupation. These rules are slightly different if you work in healthcare or education.
There are instances where you can still extend your Skilled Worker Visa if you do not meet the appropriate salary requirements. You can be paid anywhere from 70 % to 90 % of the standard going rate if your salary is at least £33,400 per year and you meet the following requirements:
- You are under 26, currently studying, recently graduated or in professional training.
- You hold a science, technology, engineering or mathematics (STEM) PhD level qualification that is related to your job.
- You hold a postdoctoral position in science or higher education.
English language requirement
You will usually already have demonstrated English language proficiency in your initial application. You do not need to prove it again when applying for an extension, unless requested.
Financial requirement
If you have already lived in the UK on a Skilled Worker Visa for more than 12 months, you will not need to demonstrate a minimum level of savings.
What documents are required for a Skilled Worker Visa extension?
When applying for an extension, you will typically need to provide several documents for evidence. This is quite similar to your initial application for a Skilled Worker Visa. Some of the documents you may need to provide include:
- A valid passport or travel document.
- Your biometric residence permit (BRP), if you were issued one.
- Your Certificate of Sponsorship reference number.
- Evidence of salary (e.g. employment contract, payslips, or employer confirmation).
- Proof of maintenance funds (if required).
- Evidence of English language proficiency (if not already satisfied).
- Tuberculosis (TB) test results (if applicable to your nationality).
Your employer may also be asked to provide additional supporting evidence to confirm your role and salary.
How do I apply for a Skilled Worker Visa extension?
The Skilled Worker Visa extension process is completed online through the official UK Government website. While it may seem straightforward, it involves several important steps, and you will need to get everything right to avoid delays or refusal.
At Elite Law Solicitors, we are here to help you prepare your application for a Skilled Worker Visa extension. We have helped countless individuals successfully extend their visa with our tried and tested approach. Here is what the process looks like:
- Confirm eligibility
- Complete the online application form for a Skilled Worker Visa
- Pay the required fees
- Submit supporting documents
- Attend a biometric appointment
- Wait for a decision
- Receive your decision
Can my family extend their visas with me?
If you have dependants (spouse/partner and children), then they can also apply to extend their visas at the same time as you. They will need to complete their own applications, pay the relevant fees, and provide biometric information.
Dependants must also continue to meet eligibility requirements (such as proving genuine relationship for partners, age and dependency for children).
Can I change jobs and extend my visa?
If you are staying with the same employer and in the same job role, you can extend your visa without issue. If you want to change employer, occupation or job code, though, then you must apply for a new Skilled Worker Visa rather than an extension.
This process is slightly different and requires your new employer to issue a new Certificate of Sponsorship.
What happens if my Skilled Worker Visa extension is refused?
If your extension application is refused, the Home Office will explain the reasons in writing. Common reasons for refusal include:
- Not meeting the salary threshold.
- Employer no longer holding a valid sponsor licence.
- Incorrect or missing documents.
- Mistakes on the application form.
You may have the option to request an administrative review if you believe the decision was incorrect. Otherwise, you would need to reapply or seek alternative immigration routes.
It is strongly advised to seek legal advice if your application is refused. Our team at Elite Law Solicitors can help you in circumstances such as this. Get in touch with our specialist UK immigration lawyers by calling 0800 086 2929, emailing info@elitelawsolicitors.co.uk or by completing our Free Online Enquiry Form.
What if my employer loses their sponsor licence before my Skilled Worker Visa extension?
If your employer loses their sponsor licence while you are still on a Skilled Worker Visa, the Home Office may curtail your visa. You will usually be given 60 days to find a new sponsor and apply for a new visa.
If you cannot secure a new sponsorship within this timeframe, you may have to leave the UK.
Skilled Worker Visa Extensions: How we can help
Skilled Worker Visa Extensions: How we can helpExtending a Skilled Worker Visa can be an intimidating process, particularly with the ever-changing immigration rules and strict Home Office requirements. Even small errors on your application or missing documents can lead to delays or refusal, putting your ability to remain in the UK at risk.
At Elite Law Solicitors, our dedicated immigration team provides expert guidance tailored to your circumstances. We can:
- Assess your eligibility and advise on the best approach for your extension.
- Liaise with your sponsoring employer to ensure all documentation is accurate and compliant.
- Prepare and submit your application with careful attention to detail.
- Assist with dependants’ applications to keep your family together in the UK.
- Advise on your future options, including settlement (Indefinite Leave to Remain) and British citizenship.
Whether you are extending your Skilled Worker Visa for the first time or preparing for settlement, we are here to support you every step of the way.
To discuss your Skilled Worker Visa extension with one of our experienced immigration solicitors, contact Elite Law Solicitors today by calling 0800 086 2929, emailing info@elitelawsolicitors.co.uk or by completing our Free Online Enquiry Form.
Specialist Immigration Lawyers
In addition to Skilled Worker Visas, our team of Immigration Lawyers can also assist with:
- EEA Nationals and the EU Settlement Scheme
- Innovator Founder Visas
- Representative of an Overseas Business Visas
- Senior or Specialist Worker Visas
- Sponsor Licences
- Sponsor Licence Compliance and Audits
- Family and Spouse Visas
- Student Visas
- Turkish Businessperson Visas
- Worker Visas
Our professional legal team possess the qualifications to help out with even the toughest of immigration cases.
- We have years of passionate experience in helping individuals acquire UK Immigration Visas
- We are committed to excellence, and going above the bar for every client
- We offer affordable services that are accessible for everyone
- We have a professional team of legal experts ready to help with everything from A-Z
Contact us today and book a free UK Immigration consultation to discuss your specific situation. Simply call 0800 086 2929, email info@elitelawsolicitors.co.uk or complete our Free Online Enquiry Form.
