What is required to process my Tier 1 visa extension?

If you are coming to the end of your initial visa period then it will soon be time to extend your visa. In this article we look at the processing time and what you will need to be successful in your extension application.

The Home Office is not looking to catch people out, but they are looking to ensure that applicants are still eligible and will examine each case accordingly.

What are the eligibility requirements for the extension?

You will still need to meet the original requirements for the visa. These will be the same as when you first applied, but as it's now an extension you will also need to provide evidence of what you have done while in the UK on that visa.

The following conditions will apply:

• You must be registered as a director or as self-employed no more than 6 months after the date you were originally given permission to stay in the UK

• You can prove you've been self-employed, a member of a partnership or be working as a director of a business 3 months before you apply

• You have created at least 2 full-time jobs that have existed for at least 12 months.

As long as you still meet these criteria, an extension should not be difficult to obtain. You may need to provide further evidence if required. The evidence is to show that you have kept to the terms of the visa that was originally issued to you.

The Tier 1 visa route has a lot of potential for abuse and the Home Office are aware that it happens. They keep a close eye on applications and it is worth getting in touch with us if there is anything that you have a query about.

Processing time

The estimated time is 8 weeks, though in some circumstances may be longer depending on any specific circumstances. The Home Office will alert you if this is to be the case. If you feel your case may be subject to any accentuating circumstances then it would be advisable to attend an interview with us to talk about your application.

How to extend your visa from within the UK?

You will need to post the form that you can download from gov.uk. If you need help with your application then get in touch and we can provide assistance if you need it. It is worth seeking guidance to ensure that your application is as strong as possible.

How to extend your visa from outside of the UK

You will need to apply online using the same application that new applicants use. If you need any help with this then please get in touch and we can offer you guidance on the process.

How we can help

If you are looking to extend your visa and need some help then please get in touch. Our specialist immigration solicitors can help you to ensure that your visa extension is as precise as possible to give you the best chance of success. We have extensive knowledge of the visa framework and can provide the advice that you need to be successful.