For many individuals who have made the United Kingdom their home, the Tier 2 General Visa has been a gateway to a new life. However, as the five-year mark approaches, many visa holders find themselves facing a crucial decision: to extend their stay or to leave the UK. This article serves as a comprehensive guide to extending your Tier 2 Visa beyond the initial five years, covering everything from the renewal process to the grace period after visa expiry. We will also discuss the implications of reaching the maximum number of times you can renew your visa, and how to navigate this complex situation.
Understanding the Tier 2 General Visa
The Tier 2 General Visa is designed for skilled workers from outside the European Economic Area and Switzerland who have been offered a job in the UK. It is valid for a maximum of five years and 14 days, or the time given on your certificate of sponsorship plus one month, whichever is shorter.
Renewing Your Tier 2 Visa
Renewing your Tier 2 Visa, also known as a Tier 2 Visa renewal, is a process that allows you to extend your stay in the UK. It is important to note that you can apply to renew your visa up to three months before your current visa expires. The process involves several steps:
- Check your eligibility: You must still meet the criteria for a Tier 2 Visa, including having a job offer from a licensed sponsor and a valid certificate of sponsorship.
- Prepare your documents: This includes your current passport, bank statements, and proof of ongoing employment.
- Apply online: The application for renewing a Tier 2 Visa is available on the UK government’s official website.
- Pay the visa fee: The cost of renewing a Tier 2 Visa is currently £704 if you apply online.
- Attend a biometric appointment: You will need to have your fingerprints and photograph taken at a visa application centre.
Extending Your Tier 2 Visa Beyond 5 Years
While the Tier 2 General Visa is typically valid for up to five years, it is possible to extend it beyond this period. This is known as a Tier 2 General Visa extension beyond 5 years. However, there are certain conditions that must be met:
- You must still be employed by the company that is your visa sponsor.
- You must earn a salary that meets the Tier 2 minimum salary requirement, which is currently £30,000 or the appropriate rate for the job you’re offered – whichever is higher.
- You must not have any criminal convictions or breaches of UK immigration rules.
Tier 2 Visa Expiry Grace Period
After your Tier 2 Visa expires, there is a 60-day grace period during which you can either leave the UK or apply for a different visa. This is known as the Tier 2 Visa expiry grace period. It is crucial to take action during this period to avoid being classified as an overstayer, which can have serious consequences for future visa applications.
Reaching the Maximum Number of Times You Can Renew Your Visa
It’s important to note that you are approaching the maximum number of times you can renew your Tier 2 Visa. The UK government has set a limit of six years for Tier 2 Visa holders. After this, you must either leave the UK for at least 12 months or switch to a different visa category.
How Long is it to Extend Your Tier 2 Visa?
The process of extending your Tier 2 Visa can take up to eight weeks. However, you can pay for a faster decision – this is known as the ‘priority service’ and costs an additional £500. With this service, you will usually get a decision within five working days.
Extension Work: Switching to a Different Visa Category
If you have reached the maximum limit for your Tier 2 Visa, you may consider switching to a different visa category. This is known as extension work. Some options include the Tier 1 Exceptional Talent Visa, the Tier 1 Entrepreneur Visa, or the Tier 2 Intra-Company Transfer Visa. Each of these visas has its own set of requirements and application processes, so it’s important to research thoroughly before making a decision.
Conclusion
Extending your Tier 2 Visa beyond five years is a complex process that requires careful planning and preparation. By understanding the renewal process, the conditions for extension, and the options available to you after reaching the maximum limit, you can make informed decisions about your future in the UK. Always remember to seek legal advice if you are unsure about any aspect of the process.
