To extend your limited leave in the United Kingdom, you must do so in the appropriate category, satisfy the immigration rules and ensure that you meet the criteria’s set out in the published guidelines. Please note there may be instances where an in country switch may not be allowed and you would have to leave the United Kingdom and make an application for an entry clearance.

However, if you came here as a visitor, you cannot stay for more than six months in total - you are not allowed to extend your visa beyond six months or to apply for a new visitor visa, but in some circumstances you may be able to transfer to a different category of visa.

After you have lived in the United Kingdom for five years, you may be able to apply to live here permanently, depending on the category of visa you have.

Please contact ICS Legal team on what route you need to apply and which categories lead to settlement on 0207 749 9166.

Automatic Extension of Leave

If you make an application before your authorised stay ends, your existing immigration status will continue until your application is decided, even if the decision is not made until after the end of your permitted stay. If your existing visa or other permission to stay here allows you to work, you can continue to do so until your case is decided.