How to Extend or Renew Your UK Visa 2025

Extend or Renew Your UK Visa in 2025

You may be eligible to extend or renew your visa.  If your current UK immigration permission is due to expire and you need to remain in the country longer. 

This process allows you to legally continue living, working, or studying in the UK.

While some visas can be extended, others require switching to a new visa category. For instance, holders of a Graduate Visa who secure an eligible job may apply for a Skilled Worker visa. 

However, Visitor visas generally cannot be extended or switched from within the UK. In those cases, you must leave the UK and reapply from abroad.

Eligible UK Visas for Extension

The UK Home Office permits extension for specific visa types, including:

• Student Visa – If you are continuing an approved course or starting a new one.
• Family Visa – If you are in the UK on the basis of a family relationship and need to extend your stay.
• Work Visa – If you intend to remain in the same employment or switch to a new employer under an eligible sponsorship route.
• Visitor Visa – In limited circumstances, such as for medical treatment or compelling compassionate grounds.

Eligibility criteria vary across visa categories. Always check category-specific requirements before proceeding.

 

Check Eligibility Before Applying for a Visa Extension

Before applying, ensure you meet the following eligibility conditions:

• Valid Leave – Your current visa must allow extensions. Standard Visitor visas typically do not.
• Timely Application – Apply before your current visa expires. Applications submitted late may result in penalties or refusal.
• Requirements Fulfilled – You must meet all conditions attached to your visa. These may include financial thresholds, English language ability, or tuberculosis screening (depending on your nationality).
• No Breaches – You must not have violated any conditions of your existing visa.
• Healthcare Surcharge – Pay the full immigration health surcharge as required.

Failing to meet any requirement may result in a refusal and affect future immigration applications.

Required Documents for a UK Visa Extension

Submit all supporting documents with your application. The documents must be original or certified copies where applicable. Common documents include:

• A valid passport and biometric residence permit (BRP).
• Proof of current immigration status and visa history.
• Payslips or bank statements to show maintenance funds.
• Employer letters and employment contracts (for work visas).
• Proof of accommodation (e.g. tenancy agreements).
• Confirmation of study (for student visas).

All documentation should be clearly labelled and translated into English or Welsh where applicable.

Submit Your Application Online

All visa extension requests must be made online via the official UK Government immigration service. Complete the correct application form relevant to your visa category and provide accurate, up-to-date information.

Important points to remember:

• Respond truthfully to all questions, especially those regarding immigration history or criminal records.
• Use an appropriate email address to receive time-sensitive communications.
• Double-check all information before submission.

Failure to complete the application accurately may delay the decision or result in a refusal.

Attend Your Biometric Appointment

After submitting your application, you must book an appointment to provide updated biometric information. This includes fingerprints and a recent photograph.

Key steps:

• Schedule your biometric appointment as soon as possible. Delays may affect processing times.
• Attend the appointment at a UK Visa and Citizenship Application Services (UKVCAS) centre.
• Bring all required documents, including your confirmation email and proof of application payment.

Biometric information is used to produce your new Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) if your extension is approved.

Wait for a Decision on Your Extension

Once your biometric information is submitted, the UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) department will process your application.

Average processing time is within 8 weeks from the biometric submission date. Some categories may be eligible for priority or super priority services at additional cost.

While awaiting the decision:

• Do not travel outside the UK.
• Remain in the UK under your existing visa conditions.
• Check your email regularly for correspondence from the Home Office.

What to Do if Your Extension is Refused

If your application is unsuccessful, you will receive a written explanation. Depending on your circumstances, you may take one of the following steps:

• Administrative Review – If you believe an error was made in the decision.
• Apply for a Different Visa – If you qualify for an alternative visa route.
• Voluntary Departure – Leave the UK before your current permission expires.
• Request Short-Term Permission – In some cases, you may be allowed a brief additional stay.

Always seek advice from a registered immigration adviser if you are unsure how to proceed.

Additional Guidance for Applicants

To strengthen your visa extension application, consider the following:

• Apply Early – Submit your application well before your visa expires.
• Provide Evidence of Return Ties – If required, show that you maintain family or employment links to your home country.
• Include Employer or Academic Letters – These should detail the necessity of your continued presence in the UK.
• Update Accommodation Details – Provide evidence of your current place of residence if it has changed.
• Clarify Employment or Study Gaps – Any unexplained breaks may raise concerns during review.
• Monitor Government Updates – Immigration rules change regularly. Always refer to the official Home Office website for the latest information.
• Remain Compliant – Do not work or study outside of your permitted conditions while your application is pending.

Follow each instruction carefully to ensure your application is considered promptly and fairly.