When should I apply to extend my Skilled Worker visa?

You should apply before your current visa expires. You can apply up to 28 days before the earliest of your visa expiry date or the start date on your new Certificate of Sponsorship. Applying early gives you more time if there are issues.

Do I need a new Certificate of Sponsorship to extend?

Yes. Your employer must assign a new CoS for the extension. The CoS must reflect your current role, salary, and working conditions at the time of the extension application.

Can I extend if I changed jobs since my last visa?

If you changed to a new employer and applied for a new Skilled Worker visa at that time, you can extend with your current employer when that visa is due to expire. If you have not yet changed your visa for a new job, you need to do a change of employer application, not an extension.

What salary do I need for the extension?

You must meet the salary requirements in force at the time of your extension application, not the requirements when you were first granted the visa. If thresholds have increased, your salary must meet the new threshold.

Skilled Worker Visa Extension Guide: How to Extend in 2026

Extending your Skilled Worker visa requires a new Certificate of Sponsorship from your employer and meeting the current salary and other requirements. Apply before your visa expires to maintain your legal status through Section 3C leave.

When to Apply

Apply to extend your Skilled Worker visa before your current visa expires. The key timing rules:

You can apply from within the UK.
Apply no more than 28 days before the start date on your new CoS.
If you apply before your visa expires, Section 3C leave automatically extends your existing conditions while the application is processed.
If you miss the deadline and your visa expires before you apply, you lose your lawful status.

What You Need

A new Certificate of Sponsorship from your employer (assigned through the SMS).
Evidence that your salary meets the current salary threshold and going rate.
A valid passport.
Payment of the visa fee and Immigration Health Surcharge.
English language evidence (if not previously demonstrated at the required level).

Check the full requirements for the current rules.

The Application Process

Your employer assigns a new CoS through the Sponsor Management System.
You complete the online application on GOV.UK.
Pay the visa fee and IHS.
Book and attend a biometrics appointment (or use the IDV app if eligible).
Wait for a decision. Standard processing takes around 8 weeks. Consider priority processing if you need a faster decision.

Salary Requirements for Extension

You must meet the salary requirements in force at the date of your extension application. If the rules have changed since your original visa was granted, you must meet the new requirements. This means your salary may need to be higher than when you first applied.

Discuss any salary concerns with your employer well before the extension deadline. They may need to increase your salary to meet the current threshold.

Impact on ILR

Each extension maintains your continuous residence towards ILR after 5 years. Ensure there are no gaps in your immigration status. Keep tracking your continuous residence and absences throughout.

While Your Extension Is Pending

If you applied before your visa expired, you are on Section 3C leave. You can continue working for your employer and living in the UK. Avoid international travel during this period, as Section 3C leave does not guarantee re-entry.

Next Steps

Check your visa expiry date and plan your extension at least 2-3 months in advance. Speak to your employer about the new CoS and ensure your salary meets current requirements.

Related guides:

How to Extend Your Skilled Worker Visa