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Introduction

The United Kingdom offers a myriad of opportunities for individuals seeking to extend their stay for work, study, or family reasons. However, the process of extending a UK visa is intricate and requires a thorough understanding of the eligibility criteria, required documentation, and the application process. This comprehensive guide, brought to you by Conroy Baker Ltd., aims to demystify the UK visa extension process and provide you with the knowledge to navigate it successfully.

Understanding UK Visa Extensions

A UK visa extension allows individuals to prolong their stay in the UK beyond the expiry date of their current visa. This is crucial for those who wish to continue their activities, such as studies or employment, without interruption. It’s important to note that not all visas are eligible for extension, and exceeding the limit can result in the denial of the application, affecting future immigration applications.

UK Visa Extensions Eligibility criteria

To be eligible for a visa extension, applicants must:

  1. Own a valid visa that is extendable.
  2. Submit the application before the current visa expires.
  3. Adhere to the requirements of the existing visa.
  4. Provide proof of sufficient financial resources.
  5. Demonstrate the continued purpose of the stay in the UK.

Documents required for UK Visa Extensions

The required documents for a visa extension vary depending on the visa type but generally include:

  1. A valid passport or travel document.
  2. Biometric Residence Permit (BRP).
  3. Proof of identity.
  4. Visa application form.
  5. Payment receipt.
  6. Passport-sized photographs.
  7. Proof of address.
  8. Proof of financial means.

Step by Step Application Process for UK Visa Extensions

The application process for a UK visa extension involves several steps:

  1. Check Eligibility: Ensure that your current visa type is extendable.
  2. Gather Documents: Collect all necessary and accurate documents.
  3. Prepare for Application: Choose the correct category and have a payment method ready.
  4. Online Account: Create an account on the UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) website.
  5. Complete the Form: Fill out the online application form with personal and visa details.
  6. Upload Documents: Upload all required documents to the portal.
  7. Pay the Fee: The fee varies based on visa type and individual circumstances.
  8. Biometric Appointment: Schedule and attend to provide fingerprints and a photograph.
  9. Submit Application: Review all details and submit the application.

UK Visa Extension Fees

The fees for UK visa extensions have increased from £1,500 to £1,636, marking a £136 increment. To plan your application, understand the fees.

1. Visas and applications made outside the UK

Fees category Current Fee Fee from 10 April 2024 Fee Change
Student – main applicant and dependants £490 £490 £0
Child student £490 £490 £0
Visit visa – short up to 6 months £115 £115 £0
Visit visa – long up to 2 years £400 £432 £32
Visit visa – long up to 5 years £771 £771 £0
Visit visa – long up to 10 years £963 £963 £0
Visiting academic – more than 6 months but no more than 12 months £200 £200 £0
Private medical treatment visa – more than 6 months but not more than 11 months £200 £200 £0
Transit visa (direct airside transit) £35 £35 £0
Transit visit visa (landside transit) £64 £64 £0
Visa for the purpose of joining a ship or aircraft as a member of the crew of that ship or aircraft £64 £64 £0
Single-entry visa to replace a Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) £154 £154 £0
Certificate of Entitlement to Right of Abode (outside the UK) £388 £550 £162
Transfer of Conditions (Vignette Transfer) application made overseas £154 £154 £0
Other visa £637 £637 £0
Hong Kong British National (Overseas) for 30 months – main applicant and dependants £180 £180 £0
Hong Kong British National (Overseas) for 5 years – main applicant and dependants £250 £250 £0
Route to Settlement £1,846 £1,846 £0
Route to Settlement – other dependant relative £3,250 £3,250 £0
Route to Settlement – refugee dependant relative £404 £404 £0
Indefinite leave to enter the UK as the dependant of an HM Armed Forces service leaver or a member of HM Armed Forces under Appendix HM Armed Forces to the Immigration Rules £2,885 £2,885 £0
Indefinite leave to enter the UK as an HM Armed Forces service leaver or a member of HM Armed Forces under Appendix HM Armed Forces to the Immigration Rules £2,885 £2,885 £0
Call out/ out of hours fee (per hour/part hour) – service of consular officers £142 £142 £0
Receiving, preparing and forwarding documents – consular functions £141 £141 £0
Administrative review £80 £80 £0
Electronic travel authorisation (ETA) £10 £10 £0
Indefinite leave to enter the UK as a victim of domestic abuse and dependant children under Appendix Victim of Domestic Abuse to the Immigration Rules £2,885 £2,885 £0
Check: Home Office immigration and nationality fees

Processing Times for UK Visa Extension

The processing times vary depending on the type of visa and service option chosen. Standard processing takes around 8 weeks, while the Priority Service offers an expedited decision within 5 working days for an additional £500 per application. The Super Priority Service is the fastest option, providing a decision by the end of the next working day at an additional cost of £1000 per application.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Applicants should be wary of common mistakes such as submitting incomplete forms, providing incorrect information, and missing biometric appointments. To avoid these errors, it is advisable to prepare well in advance and seek professional advice if uncertain.

After Submission

Once the application is submitted, applicants will receive a confirmation email and must attend a biometric appointment. The processing times will vary, and applicants can track their application status online. If approved, a decision letter will be issued, and it is essential to comply with the new visa conditions.

Conclusion

Extending your UK visa is a critical step in maintaining your lawful status and continuing your journey in the UK. With the right preparation, adherence to the guidelines, and the support of experienced professionals like Conroy Baker Ltd., you can navigate the visa extension process with confidence and ease.

Watch our vide on: How to Extend UK Visa?

Conroy Baker Ltd.: Your Trusted Advisor

Conroy Baker Ltd. is an OISC registered company with a wealth of experience in advising and assisting clients with UK visas and nationality matters. Led by Hemang Laaheru, an advisor with over 15 years of experience, the firm has worked with over 500 businesses across various industries, helping them successfully navigate the UK immigration system.

Whether you’re a business looking to recruit overseas talent or an individual planning to extend your stay in the UK, Conroy Baker Ltd. offers comprehensive services to meet your immigration needs. With a deep understanding of the importance of reliable help and professional services, the firm ensures a personalized approach to provide the most appropriate solutions.

For expert advice and assistance with your UK visa extension, connect with Conroy Baker Ltd. today. Reach out to our immigration barristers on +44 203 773 2948 or [email protected]