Yes, you can extend a UK work visa if you continue to meet the eligibility requirements. The United Kingdom allows foreign workers to renew or extend their work visas so they can continue working legally.
Can UK Work Visas Be Extended?
Yes, most UK work visas can be extended if:
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You still work for an approved UK employer
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Your employer continues to sponsor you
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You meet salary and job requirements
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You apply before your current visa expires
Your employer must have a valid UK sponsor licence and issue a valid Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS).
Which UK Work Visas Can Be Extended?
Common UK work visas that can be extended include:
Skilled Worker Visa
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Most common work visa
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Extendable multiple times
Health and Care Worker Visa
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For healthcare professionals
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Fully extendable
Global Business Mobility Visa
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Extendable depending on category
Scale-up Worker Visa
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Extendable if eligibility requirements are met
How Long Can You Extend a UK Work Visa?
The extension length depends on your job and sponsorship:
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Usually extended for up to 5 years
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You can extend multiple times
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After 5 years, you may apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) (permanent residency)
When Should You Apply for UK Work Visa Extension?
You must apply:
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Before your current visa expires
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Usually within 3 months before expiry
You can continue working legally while your extension application is under review.
UK Work Visa Extension Processing Time
Typical processing times are:
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Standard processing: 6 to 8 weeks
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Priority service: 5 working days
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Super priority service: 1 working day
Priority services require additional fees.
Documents Required for UK Work Visa Extension
You will need:
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Valid passport
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Current UK work visa
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Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS)
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Job details and salary information
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Employer sponsorship details
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Proof of English language (if required)
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TB test results (if applicable)
Always provide complete and accurate documents.
Step-by-Step Process to Extend UK Work Visa
Step 1: Get Certificate of Sponsorship
Your employer provides a new CoS.
Step 2: Apply Online
Submit your extension application on the UK government website.
Step 3: Pay Visa Fees
Pay visa fee and Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS).
Step 4: Submit Biometrics
Provide fingerprints and photo.
Step 5: Wait for Decision
Processing usually takes 6 to 8 weeks.
UK Work Visa Extension Fees
Typical costs include:
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Visa extension fee: £719 to £1,500 (depends on visa type)
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Immigration Health Surcharge: £1,035 per year
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Priority service (optional): Extra fee
Fees may change based on visa category.
Can You Change Jobs While Extending UK Work Visa?
Yes, but you must:
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Get a new sponsor
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Apply for visa update
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Receive a new Certificate of Sponsorship
You cannot start a new job until approval.
What Happens If Your UK Work Visa Expires?
If you do not extend before expiry:
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You may lose legal work status
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You may have to leave the UK
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Future visa applications may be affected
Always apply before expiration.
Benefits of Extending UK Work Visa
Key advantages:
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Continue working legally in the UK
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Stay longer in the country
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Become eligible for permanent residency
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Access healthcare and worker benefits
UK Work Visa Extension for Indian Citizens
Indian workers can extend their UK work visas if:
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They remain employed legally
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Their employer continues sponsorship
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They meet visa requirements
Processing time is usually 6 to 8 weeks.
FAQs
1. Can I extend my UK work visa?
Yes, if you meet eligibility and apply before expiry.
2. How long does UK work visa extension take?
Usually 6 to 8 weeks.
3. Can I stay in the UK while waiting for extension?
Yes, if you applied before your visa expires.
4. How many times can I extend UK work visa?
You can extend multiple times.
5. Can I apply for permanent residency?
Yes, after 5 years of legal stay.
6. Do I need employer sponsorship?
Yes, most UK work visas require sponsorship.
7. Can I change employer?
Yes, but you need a new sponsorship.
8. What happens if extension is refused?
You may appeal or leave the UK.
Final Thoughts
Yes, UK work visas can be extended if you meet eligibility requirements. The key is to apply on time, maintain legal employment, and submit complete documents.
Extending your UK work visa allows you to continue your career and eventually apply for permanent residency in the UK.