Introduction
If you are living and working in the UK on a Skilled Worker visa, you may eventually need a skilled worker visa extension to continue your stay. This process ensures you can carry on working legally while keeping your pathway to permanent settlement open.
At Primus Solicitors Manchester, we specialise in helping applicants with their skilled worker visa extension applications, avoiding common mistakes that could lead to refusals or delays.
If your visa is due to expire, don’t risk your status. Contact Primus Solicitors Manchester for professional guidance on your skilled worker visa extension.
📍 First Floor, 402 Palatine Road, Northenden, Manchester M22 4FZ
📞 0161 222 5860
📧 info@ansarhabib.com
🕘 Monday–Friday: 09:30 AM – 05:30 PM
🔎 What Is a Skilled Worker Visa Extension?
The Skilled Worker visa is usually granted for up to 5 years. However, if your visa is due to expire before you qualify for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR), you must apply for a skilled worker visa extension to continue your employment and remain lawful in the UK.
You can extend your visa if:
You still work for the same licensed sponsor.
You are in the same job or within the same occupation code.
You continue to meet salary requirements.
📌 Skilled Worker Visa Extension Requirements
To qualify for a skilled worker visa extension, you must meet the following conditions:
Valid Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) from your employer.
You are still working in an eligible occupation.
You meet the updated salary threshold (in 2025, £38,700, unless in shortage occupation or health/social care roles).
You meet the English language requirement.
You have not breached immigration laws.
📑 Documents Needed for a Skilled Worker Visa Extension
Applicants will need to provide:
Current passport or travel document.
Certificate of Sponsorship reference number.
Proof of salary meeting eligibility.
Bank statements (if required).
TB test certificate (if from a listed country).
Evidence of English language ability (if not already proven).
💰 Skilled Worker Visa Extension Fees (2025)
The cost of a skilled worker visa extension depends on your circumstances:
Application fee: £827 – £1,500 (depending on length and occupation).
Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS): £1,035 per year.
Priority processing: Extra £500 (5 working days).
Super priority: Extra £1,000 (next working day).
📊 Skilled Worker Visa Extension vs ILR
| Factor | Visa Extension | ILR (Settlement) |
|---|---|---|
| Duration | Up to 5 years | Indefinite |
| Job requirement | Must work for licensed sponsor | Not tied to employer |
| Fees | £827–£1,500 + IHS | £2,885 (no IHS) |
| Eligibility | Same employer & role | 5 years continuous stay |
If your visa is due to expire, don’t risk your status. Contact Primus Solicitors Manchester for professional guidance on your skilled worker visa extension.
📍 First Floor, 402 Palatine Road, Northenden, Manchester M22 4FZ
📞 0161 222 5860
📧 info@ansarhabib.com
🕘 Monday–Friday: 09:30 AM – 05:30 PM
⚖️ Common Reasons for Skilled Worker Visa Extension Refusals
Many applications are refused due to:
Incorrect or expired Certificate of Sponsorship.
Salary not meeting updated thresholds.
Incorrect documents submitted.
Late application (after visa expiry).
Employer losing their sponsor licence.
✅ How Primus Solicitors Can Help
Applying for a skilled worker visa extension can be stressful and complicated. At Primus Solicitors Manchester, our immigration team can:
Review your eligibility and documents.
Liaise with your employer to secure the correct CoS.
Ensure your application is submitted on time.
Prepare you for the next step: Indefinite Leave to Remain.
📞 Contact Us Today
If your visa is due to expire, don’t risk your status. Contact Primus Solicitors Manchester for professional guidance on your skilled worker visa extension.
📍 First Floor, 402 Palatine Road, Northenden, Manchester M22 4FZ
📞 0161 222 5860
📧 info@ansarhabib.com
🕘 Monday–Friday: 09:30 AM – 05:30 PM
❓ FAQs on Skilled Worker Visa Extension
1. When should I apply for a skilled worker visa extension?
You should apply before your current visa expires, ideally within 3 months of receiving your new Certificate of Sponsorship.
2. Can I change jobs on a skilled worker visa extension?
No, you must remain with the same sponsor. To change employers, you must apply for a new Skilled Worker visa.
3. How long does it take to process a skilled worker visa extension?
The standard processing time is 8 weeks, but priority and super priority services are available.
4. Can my dependants extend their visas with me?
Yes, your partner and children can apply to extend as dependants.
5. Does time on a skilled worker visa count towards settlement?
Yes, after 5 years on this route, you can apply for ILR.
6. What if my employer’s sponsor licence is revoked?
You may lose your visa. Seek legal advice immediately to explore alternative options.
7. Can I travel while my extension is being processed?
No, leaving the UK before a decision is made will withdraw your application.
8. Do I need to meet the English language test again?
Not if you already proved it in your initial application.
