UK Skilled Worker Visa Extension 2024 | New Rules

The UK Skilled Worker Visa has long been a popular option for professionals from all over the world to live and work in the United Kingdom. However, recent changes in 2024 under the Rishi Sunak-led government have had a substantial impact on the visa extension process, with new restrictions affecting both new applicants and existing visa holders. These measures are part of the UK government’s continuous attempts to manage immigration and meet labour market demands.

This article provides a detailed overview of the UK Skilled Worker Visa extension procedure in 2024, focusing on the most relevant revisions, qualifying criteria, application steps, and timescales. If you want to extend your UK Skilled Worker Visa, here’s what you should know.

What Has Changed for the 2024 UK Skilled Worker Visa Extension Process?

1. Increased Minimum Income Requirement

One of the most major changes in 2024 will be an increase in the minimum income threshold for Skilled Worker Visa holders.

For New Applicants: The minimum annual wage for most job categories has raised to £38,700 as of April 4, 2024, up 48% from the previous level of £26,200.

Existing Visa Holders: Those who were on the Skilled Worker Visa route before April 4, 2024, can apply for an extension with a reduced threshold of £29,000. This provides some flexibility for present employees without significantly changing their working circumstances.

This income boost is intended to ensure that international workers earn competitive pay on par with local employees. However, for certain employees and employers, this may provide a barrier, particularly if compensation modifications are difficult to implement.

2. Updated Going Rates for Occupation Codes.

In addition to the minimum income requirements, going rates for occupation codes have shifted. The UK government now relies on statistics from the Office for National Statistics (ONS) Annual Survey of Hours and Earnings (ASHE) 2023.

For new visa holders, the going rates are calculated using the 50th percentile of pay for specified occupation codes.

For existing visa holders (before April 2024): The existing 25th percentile going rates will still apply for visa extensions.

This means that current visa holders may have easier difficulty achieving the income requirements for extensions than new applicants, who have tougher wage needs.

3. Supplementary Employment Options Expanded

Another significant modification in 2024 is the adjustment in supplementary employment rules. Previously, visa holders could only work part-time in occupations related to their principal role. This limitation has since been abolished.

New Rule: Skilled Worker Visa holders can now work in any occupation that qualifies as a skilled worker job, giving professionals the flexibility to pursue supplemental employment outside of their principal duty.

This upgrade is especially useful for those wishing to earn more money or get expertise in various industries, as long as the part-time position fits the Home Office’s guidelines.

Eligibility Requirements for a UK Skilled Worker Visa Extension in 2024.

To successfully extend your UK Skilled Worker Visa, you must meet the following qualifying criteria:

• Continued Employment: You must continue to work for the same employer who sponsored your first visa. Changing jobs would necessitate a new sponsorship certificate.
• Occupation Code: Your employment role must still be classified under the same occupation code that was utilized for your first visa application.
• Sponsorship Certificate: You will want a new sponsorship certificate from your employer that validates the extension of your job contract and explains your new employment terms.
• Salary Requirement: You must earn the minimum salary for your position, which might be £29,000 or £38,700 depending on when your visa was obtained.

Required Documents for Extending a Skilled Worker Visa

When filing for a Skilled Worker Visa extension, it is critical to acquire all required documentation. This includes

• Current passport 
• Biometric residence permit (BRP).
• The new certificate of sponsorship: This should reflect your extended employment tenure.
• Proof of Employment: Contracts, offer letters, and other official employment documents can serve as proof of employment.
• Salary Details: You must provide your current yearly salary, job title, and occupation code.
• Employer Information: Please include your employer’s name and sponsor license number.
• Proof of English competency: You must have a minimum English language competency 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 to extend your Skilled Worker Visa is simple, but it demands meticulous attention to detail. Take these steps:

• Online Application: Visit the official UK government website and fill out the online visa extension application form. You must give personal information, job details, and information about your supporting employer.
• Pay the application fee: The charge for extending your Skilled Worker Visa is dependent on the length of the extension.
  • £1,636 for extensions of more than three years.
  • £827 for extensions lasting up to three years.
  • In addition, you must pay the Immigration Health Surcharge of £1,035 for each year you stay in the UK.
• Submit supporting documents: Scan and upload copies of your passport, BRP, sponsorship certificate, and other essential documents online.
• Verify your identity: Depending on the type of passport and residence permit you have, you can supply biometric data (fingerprints and a photo) at a UK Visa and Citizenship Application Services (UKVCAS) facility or use the “UK Immigration: ID Check” app.

Processing Time and Priority Services

The normal processing period for Skilled Worker Visa extensions is eight weeks. However, the Home Office provides speedier processing options for an extra charge.

• Priority service: For an additional fee, you can receive a decision within five working days.
• Super Priority Service: For the quickest response, you can expect a decision within the next working day.

Conclusion

The modifications to the UK Skilled Worker Visa extension process in 2024 reflect the UK government’s commitment to managing migration while keeping a skilled workforce. With higher income thresholds, revised going rates, and more supplemental employment opportunities, applicants must carefully manage these new rules to successfully prolong their stay. To ensure compliance and a smooth application process, both new and existing visa holders must stay up to date on the most recent updates.

Follow this guide to ensure you meet all eligibility conditions and submit a comprehensive application for a UK Skilled Worker Visa extension in 2024.

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