UK Skilled Worker Visa Extension Process 2026
One of the most popular immigration subjects is extending a UK skilled worker visa in 2026, particularly in light of recent modifications to the income criteria. Many skilled workers are concerned about safeguarding their ILR pathway, obtaining employer sponsorship, and fulfilling Home Office regulations.
At Adam Bernard Solicitors, our UK immigration lawyers help both employees and employers extend Skilled Worker visas smoothly and lawfully, avoiding refusals and costly mistakes.
Can You Extend a Skilled Worker Visa in 2026?
Yes, you can extend your Skilled Worker visa in 2026 if you:
- Continue working for a Home Office–approved sponsor
- Remain in an eligible occupation
- Meet the updated Skilled Worker salary threshold
- Receive a new Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS)
- Apply before your current visa expires
You do not need to leave the UK to extend your visa.
Skilled Worker Visa Extension Requirements in 2026
Valid Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS)
Your employer must issue a new CoS confirming:
- Your job role
- Salary
- Working hours
- Start and end dates
Using an incorrect or expired CoS is a common reason for refusal.
Minimum Salary Requirement (2026 Update)
In 2026, the Skilled Worker visa salary threshold remains one of the biggest concerns.
You must be paid:
- At least £38,700 per year (general threshold), OR
- The “going rate” for your occupation code — whichever is higher
Salary rules are strict. Even £1 less can lead to refusal.
Our immigration solicitors check salary compliance before you apply.
Same Job or New Job?
- Same employer & same role → straightforward extension
- Same employer but different role → new CoS required
- New employer → full new Skilled Worker application
We advise employers and employees on role changes without risking visa refusal.
No Breach of Immigration Rules
You must:
- Have no overstaying
- Have worked only in permitted roles
- Not exceed allowed supplementary work limits
If you are unsure, legal advice is critical before applying.
Documents Needed for Skilled Worker Visa Extension (2026)
Here is the standard list:
- Valid passport
- New Certificate of Sponsorship
- Employer sponsor licence details
- Payslips (usually last 3–6 months)
- Bank statements (if required)
- Proof of current employment
Previous BRP / eVisa details
Skilled Worker Visa Extension Fees in 2026
| Fee Type | Cost |
|---|---|
Visa application (up to 3 years) | £719 |
Visa application (over 3 years) | £1,420 |
Immigration Health Surcharge | £1,035 per year |
Priority service (optional) | Extra cost |
How Long Does a Skilled Worker Visa Extension Take?
- Standard processing: 8 weeks
- Priority service: 5 working days
- Super priority: Next working day
You can continue working legally while waiting if you applied before expiry.
Skilled Worker Visa Extension and ILR (Settlement)
If you are planning Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR):
- Time on Skilled Worker visa counts toward ILR
- Extensions must be continuous and lawful
- Salary must meet ILR-level requirements
- Absences must be within limits
A badly handled extension can delay ILR by years.
Our law firm provides long-term visa & settlement planning, not just extensions.
Common Reasons Skilled Worker Visa Extensions Are Refused
- Salary below threshold
- Wrong occupation code
- Sponsor licence issues
- Incorrect CoS details
- Late application
- Incomplete documents
Many refusals are 100% avoidable with legal advice.
How Adam Bernard Solicitors Can Help
We provide:
- Skilled Worker visa extension assessments
- Sponsor compliance and CoS checks
- Salary and occupation code verification
- Full application preparation and submission
- Support for employers and employees
Need Help Extending Your Skilled Worker Visa in 2026?
If you are unsure about:
- Salary rules
- Employer sponsorship
- Job changes
- ILR planning
Contact Adam Bernard Solicitors today for expert UK immigration advice and stress-free Skilled Worker
