Thankfully, application for a new TIER 2 visa within UK visa is neither as hectic nor as nerve-wracking as when you applied for the first time from outside UK. That being said, it is crucial you ensure all the information and documents you provide are correct. You should include any dependents who are on your current visa on your application to extend, and you should apply before your current visa expires.

Requirements to apply for an Tier 2 within UK

  • You must have current TIER 2 visa.
  • You have a new certificate of sponsorship (CoS)
  • You must be in the UK to extend your visa.

When do we need a new Tier 2 visa

  • Definitely when your current one is about to expire.
You should have a CoS for a new Tier 2 (or extension) at least 3-4 months before your current one expires to be on the safe side.
  • When you are changing to a new job (in a different trust).
  • When you are changing from a shortage occupation job to a non-shortage occupation job or vice versa. (This does not apply now as all doctor’s job are in shortage occupation).
Tier 2 (General) visa fees for jobs in shortage occupation list is different than those that aren’t. It is imperative that you communicate with your HR about this and make sure you have the correct CoS for your type of work.

Where to apply for it?

The application process is online like your first Tier 2 (general) visa. The form is self-explanatory and very easy to follow.

Apply for a Tier 2 (general) visa from the UK via this GovUK link.

How long it takes

Decisions are made:

You will now need to book an appointment with the new UKVCAS service via Sopra Steria. You can book an appointment in two ways:

  • online by either clicking the link to book an appointment from your UKVI account or by clicking the link in the UKVCAS account setup email you have been sent
  • by phone by calling the UKVCAS Premium Support Line on 0900 165 6600 (calls cost £2.50 per minute)

There are different service points for where you can book your appointment:

  • core service points are larger locations that offer both free of charge appointments and out of hours appointments bookable for a fee
  • enhanced service points offer an inclusive package of extra services, such as document checking in advance of your appointment and document digitization at the service point
  • premium lounge that offers a personalized customer experience

You’ll be contacted if your circumstances or application are more complicated if:

  • your supporting documents need to be verified
  • you need to attend an interview
  • you have a criminal conviction
Once you’ve applied, you can stay in the UK until you’ve been given a decision, as long as you applied before your last visa expired.

How much will it cost?

How much you’ll pay depends heavily on the type of visa and service you’re applying for:

  • up to 3 years - £284 per person
  • more than 3 years - £551 per person

Do my dependents need to change visas if I change visa?

If the main migrant (i.e. you) changes employers, and is given a new CoS and TIER 2 visa, dependents do not have to apply with them to renew their BRPs/visas so long as they still have valid ones. Instead, the dependents can remain in the UK until the end of the validity period of their BRPs/visas. They can later apply for further extensions, keeping in line with your visa. Check here on how to apply for Tier 2 visa for dependants.

Good luck!