Skilled Worker Visa Extension UK

If you're currently working in the UK under a Skilled Worker visa and want to continue your job, you'll need to apply to extend your Skilled Worker visa before your current one expires. This process enables you to remain legally in the UK and continue working for your sponsoring employer.

The extension must be completed online through the official GOV.UK website, using your new Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) from your employer. You can apply up to 60 days before your visa expires, giving you plenty of time to prepare your documents and avoid last-minute stress.

If you need legal assistance with your Skilled Worker visa extension application, call Wembley Solicitors on 0203 417 3700 or fill out our enquiry form.

Table of Contents

What is a Skilled Worker Visa Extension?

If you hold a valid UK Skilled Worker visa and want to continue working with your current employer, you must apply for an extension before your visa expires.

A Skilled Worker visa extension allows you to continue living and working in the UK beyond your current visa if you and your sponsor meet the requirements.

To extend your Skilled Worker visa in the UK, you must apply before your current visa expires, typically at least 60 days in advance. The extension allows you to continue working legally for your sponsoring employer while keeping your immigration status intact.

Who Is Eligible to Extend a Skilled Worker Visa?

To be eligible for a Skilled Worker visa extension, you must hold a valid Skilled Worker visa and remain employed by the same UK sponsor in the same job role. The job you hold must still qualify as an eligible occupation and meet the required minimum salary. Your employer must provide a new Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS), and you must continue to satisfy the visa's maintenance and English language requirements.

Key Requirements for a Skilled Worker Visa Extension in 2025

To extend your visa successfully, you need to fulfil all the key requirements for a Skilled Worker visa, including:

• Must already have a valid UK Skilled Worker visa.
• Continue working for the same employer in the same job and occupation code.
• Obtain a new Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) from your employer.
• Meet the minimum salary requirement for your job.
• Show you have enough funds to support yourself in the UK.
• Have suitable accommodation available.
• Provide evidence of English language proficiency, if required.
• Additional requirements depending on your job role and circumstances.

What Documents Are Required for a Skilled Worker Visa Extension?

The documents for a Skilled Worker visa extension typically include:

• Your current Passport
• Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) or eVisa
• New Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS)
• Employment details, including job title, annual salary, and occupation code
• A letter from your employer verifying your job or employment contract
• Last three months' payslips
• Last three months' bank statements
• Evidence of personal savings, typically £1,270 held for 28 consecutive days
• Proof of English Language Proficiency, if required
• Proof of Relationship for dependants (if applicable)
• Additional documents, depending on your job role and circumstances

What Is the Salary Requirement for a Skilled Worker Visa Extension?

To extend your Skilled Worker visa UK, you must meet the current minimum salary threshold. The general requirement is £41,700 per year or the "going rate" for your specific job. Transitional rules allow a lower threshold of £31,300 per year if extending before December 1, 2026. Health and care workers have a lower threshold, typically £25,000 per year, with some exceptions for roles on the Immigration Salary List, new entrants, or PhD holders.

How to Apply for a Skilled Worker Visa Extension in the UK?

If you are currently in the UK on a Skilled Worker visa and want to continue working with the same employer, it's important to apply for a visa extension before your current visa expires. Understanding the process and following each step carefully can make your application smoother and increase your chances of success.

Here's a step-by-step guide to applying for a Skilled Worker visa extension UK:

1. Assess Your Eligibility
2. Gather Supporting Documents
3. Complete the Online Visa Application
4. Pay the Visa Application and IHS Fees
5. Book a Biometric Appointment
6. Attend the Biometric Appointment
7. Wait for a Decision

1. Assess Your Eligibility

Before starting your application, check that you meet all the eligibility requirements. You must still be employed in the same job with the same sponsor, meet the minimum salary threshold, and satisfy any financial, accommodation, or English language requirements set by the UK government. Ensuring eligibility from the outset helps prevent delays or refusals.

2. Gather Supporting Documents

Next, gather all documents required for your Skilled Worker visa extension. This usually includes your current passport, your Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) reference number, proof of employment and salary, and any additional documents specific to your circumstances. Having everything ready in advance avoids unnecessary delays.

3. Complete the Online Visa Application

Once you have gathered all supporting documents and received a new Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) from your employer, you must apply for your Skilled Worker visa extension UK online via GOV.UK.

Double-check all information for accuracy and completeness, including personal details, employment history, and sponsor information. Accurate details are essential for a smooth application.

4. Pay the Visa Application and IHS Fees

You will need to pay the visa application fee as part of the process. The fee depends on the visa type and the length of extension. Payment is usually made online, and you will receive confirmation once the transaction is successful. Don't forget to include the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) in your payment, as this is a mandatory part of your application.

5. Book a Biometric Appointment

After submitting your application, book a biometric appointment at the nearest visa application centre. During this appointment, you will provide your fingerprints and a photograph, which are required for identity verification.

6. Attend the Biometric Appointment

On your appointment day, attend the centre with your passport and appointment confirmation. Your biometric data will be collected, which is a crucial step in processing your Skilled Worker visa extension UK application.

7. Wait for a Decision

Once your application and biometric data are submitted, wait for the Home Office to make a decision. Processing times can vary, so it's important to remain patient while your application is reviewed.

How Much Does It Cost to Extend a Skilled Worker Visa?

In 2025, the UK Skilled Worker visa extension fee ranges from £885 to £1,751 per person, depending on job type, visa length, and application route. You also need to pay the Immigration Health Surcharge, typically £1,035 per year per person.

How Long Does a Skilled Worker Visa Extension Take to Be Decided?

A Skilled Worker visa extension usually takes around 8 weeks to process when applying from within the UK. However, you may be able to use "priority service" to get a faster decision within 5 working days.

Can I Travel Outside the UK While My Skilled Worker Visa Extension Is Pending?

It is not recommended to leave the UK, Ireland, the Channel Islands, or the Isle of Man while your Skilled Worker visa extension application is being processed. Leaving the country before a decision is made may result in your application being withdrawn, which could create delays and complicate your immigration status.

Do My Family Members Need to Apply Separately for a Skilled Worker Visa Extension?

Yes. If your spouse or children are in the UK as your dependants, they must also submit their own applications to extend their Skilled Worker visa.

Each dependant will need to provide supporting documents such as marriage or birth certificates, passports, and BRPs, and pay the relevant fees and Immigration Health Surcharge.

What Should I Do If I Change Jobs Before My Visa Extension?

If you plan to change employers or your job role, you cannot simply extend your existing visa. You will need a new Skilled Worker visa application with a fresh Certificate of Sponsorship from your new employer. This ensures that you meet all eligibility criteria, including the correct occupation code and minimum salary threshold.

Important Considerations

Changing Jobs

If you're changing employers or your occupation code, you cannot simply extend your current visa. You'll need a new Skilled Worker visa application with a new CoS.

Travel Restrictions

Do not leave the UK, Ireland, Channel Islands, or Isle of Man until your visa extension is approved. Leaving early will result in your application being withdrawn.

Dependants

Your partner and children must submit their applications before their current visas expire or at the same time as your extension application.

Tips for a Smooth Skilled Worker Visa Extension

• Apply early: Submit your application up to 60 days before your visa expires
• Double-check all documents: Ensure CoS, salary, and job details match official records
• Seek professional advice: Consider consulting a UK immigration solicitor if you have complex circumstances
• Prepare dependants' documents: Make sure partners and children's paperwork is ready

How Immigration Solicitors Can Assist with Your Skilled Worker Visa Extension?

Navigating the Skilled Worker visa extension process can be complex, but our experienced immigration solicitors are here to simplify every step.

Here's how we support your application:

• Assess Your Eligibility: We review your job offer and personal circumstances to ensure you meet all visa requirements.
• Complete and Review Applications: Our team helps you fill out your application accurately, avoiding common mistakes that could delay approval.
• Gather and Organise Documents: From your Certificate of Sponsorship to proof of English language skills, we guide you on what's needed and how to prepare it.
• Provide Expert Advice: If your case involves complexities, such as previous refusals or unusual financial situations, we offer tailored legal guidance.
• Communicate with UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI): We handle correspondence, respond to requests, and liaise directly with the Home Office on your behalf.
• Prepare You for Biometrics and Interviews: We explain what to expect and help you feel confident for appointments or interviews.
• Support with Appeals: In case of a visa refusal, we assist with appeals or alternative options to maximise your chances of success.
• Keep You Updated: Immigration rules change frequently, and we ensure your application complies with the latest regulations.

With our dedicated immigration solicitors guiding you, you can apply for your Skilled Worker visa extension with confidence, knowing your application is in expert hands.

Need Assistance with Your UK Skilled Worker Visa Extension?

If you need help with your Skilled Worker visa extension, contact Wembley Solicitors at 0203 417 3700 or info@wembleysolicitors.com today.