When your UK work visa expires, you must either renew, switch, or leave the country before your visa’s expiry date. Remaining in the UK after your visa has expired is classed as overstaying and can lead to serious immigration consequences, including bans on future applications. However, there are legal ways to remain in the UK by applying to extend your visa or switch to another category before your current visa ends.
What Happens When Your Work Visa Expires?
Once your visa reaches its expiry date, your legal permission to live and work in the UK ends. The Home Office typically allows a short grace period of up to 14 days only in exceptional cases with a valid reason, such as illness or technical delays, but you should not rely on this. It’s essential to act before the expiry date to protect your lawful immigration status.
If you stay in the UK after your visa expires without applying for a new one, you will be considered an overstayer. This can lead to:
- Future visa refusals and re-entry bans
- Loss of employment rights
- Ineligibility for certain immigration routes
- Difficulty renting property, opening bank accounts, or accessing healthcare
Extending Your Work Visa
Many work routes allow extensions if you still meet the eligibility criteria and your employer continues to sponsor you. The process typically involves applying online and providing updated proof of employment and sponsorship.
You should apply for an extension before your visa expires. As long as your application is submitted in time, you can remain in the UK lawfully while awaiting a decision — this is called “Section 3C Leave.”
For detailed renewal steps, read How to Extend or Renew Your UK Visa and confirm current costs via UK Visa Fees 2026.
Common work visa types that can be extended:
- Skilled Worker Visa
- Health and Care Worker Visa
- Global Business Mobility Routes
- Innovator Founder Visa (for business owners meeting renewal criteria)
Switching to a Different Visa Category
If you no longer qualify to extend your current visa, you may be able to switch to another visa type without leaving the UK, provided your circumstances allow. Common examples include:
- Switching from a Skilled Worker Visa to a Family Visa (if you have a qualifying relationship)
- Switching from a work visa to an Innovator Founder Visa to start a business
- Switching from a Skilled Worker to a Student Visa if you plan to pursue studies
Each route has separate eligibility rules and documentation requirements. It’s crucial to submit your application before your current visa expires to maintain lawful status.
If You Overstay
If your visa has already expired, take immediate action. Overstaying for more than 30 days can result in a re-entry ban of up to 10 years, depending on your case. If you have a valid reason (such as hospitalisation or system error), you may still be able to submit a late application, but it will be assessed at the Home Office’s discretion.
To understand the implications of overstaying, read our guide on UK Visa Refusals and Understanding Your UK Visa Refusal Letter.
Pathways to Settlement
If you’ve been living in the UK under a work visa for several years, you may be eligible to apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR). Most work visa holders can qualify after five years of continuous lawful residence, provided they meet salary, sponsorship, and absence requirements.
Learn more about settlement routes and timing in UK Visa Decisions and How to Extend or Renew Your UK Visa.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I stay in the UK while waiting for a visa renewal decision?
Yes. If you apply before your current visa expires, you can remain in the UK lawfully under Section 3C Leave until the Home Office decides on your application.
Can I work after my visa expires?
No. Once your visa expires, your right to work ends unless you’ve applied for an extension or switch before expiry and are covered under Section 3C Leave.
What if my renewal application is refused?
If your extension or switch application is refused, you must either appeal (if eligible), reapply, or leave the UK immediately to avoid overstaying. Review the reasons in your refusal letter and consider professional advice.
Can I get a grace period after expiry?
The Home Office does not grant a standard grace period. Late applications are only accepted in exceptional circumstances, and evidence is required.
Can overstaying affect future visa applications?
Yes. Overstaying can lead to re-entry bans and reduced credibility in future applications. Always renew or switch before expiry to protect your immigration record.
About This Page
Author: UK Visa Applications Editorial Team
Reviewed by: Michael Gibbons, UK Solicitor and Regulated Immigration Advisor
Last Updated: October 2025