The UK Skilled Worker Visa has long been a popular pathway for professionals from around the world to live and work in the United Kingdom. However, recent changes in 2024 under the Rishi Sunak-led government have significantly impacted the visa extension process, with new rules for both new applicants and existing visa holders. These changes are part of the UK government’s ongoing efforts to manage immigration levels and address labor market needs.
This article provides an in-depth guide to the UK Skilled Worker Visa extension process in 2024, focusing on the most important updates, eligibility criteria, application steps, and timelines. If you are planning to extend your UK Skilled Worker Visa, here’s what you need to know.
What Has Changed in the 2024 UK Skilled Worker Visa Extension Process?
1. Increased Minimum Income Requirements
One of the most significant changes in 2024 is the increase in the minimum income requirement for Skilled Worker Visa holders.
- For New Applicants: The minimum annual salary for most job roles has risen to £38,700 as of April 4, 2024, a sharp 48% increase from the previous threshold of £26,200.
- For Existing Visa Holders: Those who were already on the Skilled Worker Visa route before April 4, 2024, are subject to a lower threshold of £29,000 when applying for an extension. This allows some flexibility for current workers without drastically affecting their employment conditions.
This income increase is aimed at ensuring that foreign workers earn competitive wages in line with local employees. However, for some workers and employers, this may present a challenge, especially if salary adjustments are difficult to implement.
2. Updated Going Rates for Occupation Codes
In addition to the minimum income requirements, the going rates for occupation codes have also changed. The UK government now uses data from the Office for National Statistics (ONS) Annual Survey of Hours and Earnings (ASHE) 2023.
- For New Visa Holders: The going rates are based on the 50th percentile of wages for specific occupation codes.
- For Existing Visa Holders (Pre-April 2024): The previous 25th percentile going rates will continue to apply for visa extensions.
This means that current visa holders may have an easier time meeting the income criteria for extensions compared to new applicants, who face stricter wage demands.
3. Supplementary Employment Options Expanded
Another important update in 2024 is the change to supplementary employment rules. Previously, visa holders could only take part-time jobs that fell within the same occupation code as their primary role. This restriction has now been lifted.
- New Rule: Skilled Worker Visa holders are now allowed to work in any occupation that qualifies as a skilled worker job, providing more flexibility for professionals to take on additional employment outside their primary role.
This update is especially beneficial for those looking to increase their income or gain experience in other fields, as long as the part-time role meets the Home Office’s requirements.
Eligibility Requirements for a UK Skilled Worker Visa Extension in 2024
To successfully apply for an extension of your UK Skilled Worker Visa, you must meet the following eligibility criteria:
- Continued Employment: You must continue working for the same employer that sponsored your initial visa. Changing employers would require a new sponsorship certificate.
- Occupation Code: Your job role must still fall under the same occupation code that was used for your original visa application.
- Sponsorship Certificate: You will need a new certificate of sponsorship from your employer, which confirms the extension of your job contract and specifies your new employment terms.
- Salary Requirement: You must meet the minimum income requirement for your role, which could be either £29,000 or £38,700 depending on when your visa was first issued.
Required Documents for Extending a Skilled Worker Visa
When applying for a Skilled Worker Visa extension, it is essential to gather the necessary documents. These include:
- Current Passport
- Biometric Residence Permit (BRP)
- New Certificate of Sponsorship: This should reflect your extended employment period.
- Proof of Employment: This may include contracts, offer letters, or other official employment documents.
- Salary Details: You must provide information about your current annual salary, job title, and occupation code.
- Employer Information: Include your employer’s name and sponsor license number.
- Proof of English Proficiency: You need to demonstrate a minimum English language proficiency of B1 according to the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR).
How to Apply for a UK Skilled Worker Visa Extension in 2024
The application process for extending your Skilled Worker Visa is straightforward, but it requires careful attention to detail. Follow these steps:
- Online Application: Go to the official UK government website and complete the online visa extension application form. You will need to provide personal information, employment details, and information about your sponsoring employer.
Pay the Application Fees: The fee for extending your Skilled Worker Visa depends on the length of the extension:
- £1,636 for extensions longer than three years
- £827 for extensions up to three years
Additionally, you will need to pay the Immigration Health Surcharge, which is £1,035 for every year you stay in the UK.
- Submit Supporting Documents: Upload scanned copies of your passport, BRP, sponsorship certificate, and other relevant documents online.
- Verify Your Identity: Depending on your passport and residence permit type, you may either provide biometric data (fingerprints and a photo) at a UK Visa and Citizenship Application Services (UKVCAS) location or use the “UK Immigration: ID Check” app.
Processing Time and Priority Services
The standard processing time for Skilled Worker Visa extensions is eight weeks. However, the Home Office offers faster processing options for an additional fee:
- Priority Service: You can receive a decision within five working days for an extra cost.
- Super Priority Service: For the fastest option, you can receive a decision by the next working day.
Conclusion
The changes to the UK Skilled Worker Visa extension process in 2024 reflect the UK government’s focus on managing migration while maintaining a skilled workforce. With increased income thresholds, updated going rates, and expanded supplementary employment options, applicants must carefully navigate these new requirements to successfully extend their stay. It is crucial for both new and existing visa holders to stay informed of the latest updates to ensure compliance and a smooth application process.
By following this guide, you can ensure you meet all the eligibility requirements and submit a complete application for a UK Skilled Worker Visa extension in 2024.