If you’re currently in the United Kingdom on a visit visa, you might find yourself in a situation where you wish to extend your stay.
While it’s possible to extend your visit visa, several factors come into play. In this article, we’ll explore the circumstances under which you can extend your visit visa in the UK.
Understanding the Basics
Typically, a UK visit visa is granted for a standard duration of 6 months. However, there are variations, including visas for 1, 2, 5, or even 10 years.
Regardless of the duration of your visa, you’re usually allowed to stay in the UK for a maximum of 6 months during each visit.
Extending Your Visit Visa
If you’ve been granted a UK visit visa for a duration of fewer than 6 months, you may still have an opportunity to extend your visa.
This extension can be for a total period of 6 months, taking into account the time you’ve already spent in the UK.
Special Circumstances for Extension
In certain situations, you might need to stay in the UK for more than the standard 6-month period.
Here are two common scenarios where extensions are possible:
1. Medical Treatment: If you’re in the UK on a visit visa and require medical treatment that exceeds the initial 6-month period, you can apply for a visa extension.
Your application should include documents from UK medical practitioners detailing your treatment and condition.
Additionally, you’ll need to provide evidence of your ability to fund the required medical treatment.
Fountain Solicitors, the best in Immigration law with offices across the United Kingdom, can assist you in this process.
The Home Office may grant you permission to stay in the UK for another 6 months, with the possibility of further extensions if needed.
2. Academia: Academic visitors in the UK may extend their visas for a total of 12 months, including their initial stay.
To be eligible for this extension, you must demonstrate that you are highly qualified in your field of expertise, were engaged in this field overseas before coming to the UK, and are not filling a permanent teaching position in the UK.
Other Exceptional Circumstances
In addition to the mentioned scenarios, the Home Office may consider extending visit visas in other exceptional cases.
These could include retaking a Professional and Linguistic Assessments Board (PLAB) test, undertaking a clinical attachment, or dental observer post. However, such extensions are typically granted on a case-by-case basis, depending on the specific circumstances and the supporting documents provided.
How Fountain Solicitors Can Assist
If you find yourself in a situation where you need to extend your visit visa in the UK, it’s essential to seek expert guidance.
Fountain Solicitors, the best in Immigration law with offices across the United Kingdom, specialises in UK visa matters and can provide you with the necessary advice and assistance.
Whether you have questions or need help with the application process, don’t hesitate to reach out to us for guidance.
Remember, immigration matters can be complex, and having the right support can make all the difference in ensuring a smooth and successful visa extension. For any inquiries or further assistance, please feel free to contact us on 01922 645 429 or email info@fountainsolicitors.com or by visiting our contact us page.
