Tier 2 Work Visa Extension
Navigating Your Tier 2 Work Visa Extension with UK Immigration Advisor
The Skilled Worker Visa, formerly the Tier 2 (General) Visa, offers an extension or renewal option, provided you continue to meet the UK Skilled Worker Visa criteria. After a continuous 5-year stay in the UK under this visa, you may be eligible for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR).
At UK Immigration Advisors, we advise initiating your Skilled Worker Visa extension application well before its expiration. The earliest application window is 60 days before your current visa expires. If you apply before the expiration date, you can lawfully remain in the UK while your application is processed.
A key advantage of the current Skilled Worker Visa over the previous Tier 2 (General) Visa is the absence of a 6-year maximum stay limit, allowing for indefinite renewals as needed.
Essential Criteria for Skilled Worker Visa Extension
To qualify for an extension, you must satisfy several conditions:
- Continued employment in the same job with your original employer
- Unchanged occupation code
- A new Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) for the extension period
- Your employer’s valid UK sponsorship license
- Earning at least £25,600 (£10.10 per hour) or the ‘going rate’ for your job.
Note that salary requirements are reduced for those with a Ph.D. in STEM, working in a shortage occupation, or for individuals under 26, students, recent graduates, or those in professional training.
Tier 2 General Visa Extension Rules
While the Tier 2 General Visa is no longer issued, extensions are possible under the Skilled Worker Visa with similar criteria:
- CoS issued before 24th November 2016: Extend by 23rd May 2023, with a minimum annual salary of £20,800.
- CoS issued on/after 24th November 2016: Renewals before 1st December 2026 must adhere to new Skilled Worker Visa salary requirements, including guaranteed allowances like London weighting. The minimum salary is set at £25,600, lower than the previous £30,000 requirement.
UK Immigration Advisor is committed to providing detailed guidance for your Tier 2 Work Visa Extension, ensuring a smooth and successful continuation of your professional journey in the UK.
Understanding the Costs of Skilled Worker Visa Extension
Extending your Skilled Worker Visa comes with specific fees, ensuring your continued eligibility to work and reside in the UK. The extension costs are structured as follows:
- For extensions up to 3 years: £719 per person
- For extensions exceeding 3 years: £1,423 per person
- Immigration healthcare surcharge: Annually £624 per person, or £470 for individuals under 18. This surcharge grants comprehensive access to UK healthcare services.
Next Steps After Your Skilled Worker Visa Extension
Once your Skilled Worker Visa is extended, you have the option to further extend your stay or apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) after residing in the UK for 5 continuous years. Obtaining ILR releases you from many immigration restrictions, allowing you to switch jobs without needing UKVI approval and to apply for UK citizenship after an additional 12 months.
At UK Immigration Advisor, we are dedicated to assisting you through every step of your Skilled Worker Visa extension process. Should you have any inquiries or require assistance, please feel free to reach out to us for expert guidance and support.