If you wish to extend your stay in the UK as a foreign citizen on a points-based system visa, you must renew your permit before your current period of leave expires. You can usually renew your visa from within the UK, as long as your existing visa expires. The following guide outlines the process of applying for a visa renewal and addresses the crucial matter of timing and whether you can extend your UK visa before it lapses.
The Right Time For Visa Renewal
If you're applying from within the UK, You are supposed to apply for a visa renewal before your current visa expires. Certain visa categories have specific constraints that can determine the right time for the action. For example, you must apply for a Tier 2 (General) visa extension within three months of receiving your new CoS. You can't seek to extend your leave as a Tier 2 (General) visa holder more than three months before the start date of your new CoS.
It's always advisable to plan well in advance when appealing for any visa variation, whether it's an extension within the same visa program or a transition to a different path. This way, you'll be prepared to submit your application on time and with minimal hassles. As long as you filed before your former visa terminated and your appeal is still valid, you can stay in the UK until you receive a result.
Renewal Of Visa Within UK
The eligibility rules for a visa renewal application are determined by the type of visa you presently hold under the UK points-based scheme, as well as whether or not you meet the conditions for that visa program. To become eligible for a Tier 2 (General) visa extension as a skilled worker from outside the EEA, you must have the authorization to enter or stay on Tier 2 (General) visa while still being in the UK. In addition, you must satisfy the following criteria:
Have the same job as when your last permission to enter or stay in the UK was approved.
Working for the same company that issued your certification of Sponsorship (CoS)
Earning an adequate income for your Tier 2 category, which must be at least the same as (if not higher than) the salary listed on your CoS.
You will not need to demonstrate the upkeep or English language criterion if you have already been granted permission under a Tier 2 category and have already submitted documentation to the UK Home Office. Your UK sponsor will, however, need to provide you with a fresh CoS. You may be entitled to switch to a different form of visa from within the UK if your conditions have changed since your last permission.
The Process Of Visa Renewal
When applying to renew your visa from within the UK, you must do it online and include any dependents who are currently enlisted on your existing visa.
To renew your visa, as well as any dependents, you will have to pay a charge. The cost of a visa varies based on the type of visa. It's also possible that you'll have to pay the Visa Health Surcharge.
You will be required to schedule an appointment with a UK Visa and Citizenship Application Services (UKVACS) centre to submit your biometric data, which includes a fingerprint authentication and a virtual portrait of your face.
In order to support your request, you will have to submit specific documents. This can be performed by uploading the documents online or scanning them at your UKVACS appointment.
You must stay in the UK while your visa renewal application is being processed. If you leave the UK before receiving the final verdict from the Home Office, this can increase the risk of the application being withdrawn.
Expected Duration For Renewal Process
Visa renewal applications might take a long time to process, depending on the type of visa. If you choose the regular service, a decision on Tier 2 (General) visa extension is usually made within 8 weeks from your filing date. You can use the priority service by paying an extra fee, and a decision will be made within 5 working days of your UKVACS session, or by the end of the next working day if you opt for the super-priority option for express processing
However, there is no certainty that the renewal request will be executed within the given timeframe. If your conditions are complex, such as if your relevant documentation needs to be authenticated, you need to participate in an interview, or you have a felony record, this could cause your application to be delayed. It may take up to ten business days for your biometric residency visa to arrive after you receive your verdict letter.
Need support for UK Visa Renewal?
Globaltalentvisas.co.uk is an immigration firm and our knowledgeable lawyers can advise you on your UK visa alternatives and help you with the Home Office Visa Renewal application procedure. Please contact us if you require assistance!