It’s important to realize that if you currently hold a UK visa, not all of them can be extended or renewed. Let’s say you currently have a visa (like the UK investor visa) that isn’t available to new applicants.
If you still meet the requirements, you can apply for an extension or indefinite permission to remain (ILR). You should consider changing to a different type of visa in the UK, even though some aren’t extendable.
For instance, you can apply for a skilled worker visa if your graduation visa is set to expire and you have a job offer from an authorized company. However, if you presently hold a UK tourist visa, you will not be able to change it from within the UK.
You can return to your home country and apply for a new visa there. This article will discuss the various types of UK visas that you can renew or extend, as well as the necessary procedures.
Overview of the UK Visa Renewal Process
Before renewing your UK visa, it’s critical to comprehend the eligibility conditions, which visas are eligible for renewal, and which documents to include in your application portfolio.
Because certain visa types can only be applied for within the United Kingdom, it is important to understand the requirements for renewing your visa before beginning the application process.
Filing for a visa renewal also entails a processing fee; knowing the amount of this fee will help you manage your finances.
Types of UK Visas That are Available For Renewal
Business Visas
You can apply from outside the UK to renew your business visa. You should apply for a UK visa online, complete the renewal forms, and supply the necessary paperwork.
The kinds of business visas that you can renew from outside the UK are listed below:
- Sole Representative of an Overseas Business Visa.
- Senior or Specialist Worker Visa.
- Intra-Company Transfer Visa (you can apply for a Specialist Worker Visa to extend your stay).
- Graduate Trainee Visa (you must apply for this renewal from outside the country, as it is only available for renewal, not extension).
- Secondment Worker Visa (you can extend this visa by 12 months for a maximum stay of 2 years).
- Service Supplier Visa (maximum stay either 6 or 12 months).
Family Visas
Only if you reside in the UK with a family member can you apply for a renewal of your family visa. To approve your application, the UK Home Office needs proof that you plan to live in the country with your family member.
You can request a two-and-a-half-year extension if you can show proof of your UK residency. You can apply for permanent residency in the UK after five years.
The Process of Extending / Renewing Your Visa in the UK
The following general procedures must be followed in order to extend or renew your visa in the UK (please note that the specific procedure, forms, and costs required will depend on the type of visa you hold):
- Before applying, ensure you have finished any necessary preparations. If you hold a work visa, for instance, you will need to get a new Certificate of Sponsorship attesting to your extended stay in the UK. Similarly, you will need to get a new Certificate of Acceptance for Studies for your new course if you are on a student visa. Verifying sure you fulfill all the requirements for the visa you are extending is also crucial. You shouldn’t assume that you’ll be qualified just because you were initially given your visa.
- 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.
Can You Extend Your Visa After it Expires?
Your application for a visa extension must still be submitted on time. If so, you can apply your visa expiration date. If you have a valid reason and submit your application by 14 days after your visa expires, you can legally renew your visa in the UK.
You will also need to prove that exceptional circumstances prevented you from applying in time. Examples of such exceptional circumstances include the death of a close relative or receiving emergency medical attention in a hospital.
Within 14 days of your visa’s expiration date, you should present compelling documentation of your inability to meet the deadline (such as a letter from your physician outlining the situation and the dates of your hospitalization).
Your application will probably be accepted if you tell UKVI that you remembered or were too busy.
Processing Times for UK Visa Renewal
You should anticipate hearing back on your extension application within eight weeks of submitting it; however, if your case is clear-cut and you have all the required documentation, you may obtain a judgment sooner.
Even if your visa’s expiration date has passed, you are still permitted to stay in the UK. At the same time, you await a decision on your application (provided your application was received by UKVI before your visa expired). Your decision may be sent to you via mail or email.
Application Fees for UK Visa RenewalÂ
Each visa type has a different application fee amount. So, check the application fee for your specific visa type. Here is what you can expect to pay for your visa renewal if outside the UK:
- Work Visa – between £232 and £1638.
- Study Visa – between £200 and £363.
- Priority Visa Services – between £ 573 and £956
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I apply for a UK visa from another country?
To renew or apply for a visa from another country, you must do it online. When renewing a family visa, applicants must be from the United Kingdom and show that they are currently living with a UK citizen family member.
How can I see my UK visa application status?
The appropriate body to which you submitted your application can be contacted via phone or email. But be aware that there will be a fee associated with this.
How long does it take to appeal a visa decision?
You have 28 days to file an appeal against a visa determination. It usually takes the immigration authorities less than 28 days to decide after receiving your appeal letter.