Are you considering moving to the UK? Have you already received your visit visa? But are now looking for a way to stay in the country on a longer-term basis.
If so, you may be wondering, can I change my visit visa to any other visa? In fact, the answer is not always straightforward and depends on several factors.
So, it’s important to understand the options before making any decisions. In this article, we will explore what changing a visitor visa to another type of visa implies. Therefore, read on to get your answer!
How Can I Change My Visit Visa to Any Other Visa in the UK?
Unfortunately, it is impossible to change from a Visitor Visa to another visa type in the UK. However, other options are available for those wishing to stay in the UK for an extended period.
If you’re looking to stay in the UK permanently, it’s important to remember that switching from a Visitor Visa to another visa is not an option. The Visitor Visa is designed for only temporary visits, not long-term residences.
On the contrary, other visa options are available if you wish to stay longer. It depends on your circumstances; you may even have the right to do so under EU family rights. Whatever your situation, it’s important to make sure that you understand which visa is most suitable for your needs.
What Options Are Available If I Have Visitor Visa?
Those looking to stay in the UK on a visitor visa have limited options available to them. Because this visa is intended only for visits. Furthermore, it is not a pathway to any other form of long-term residency or citizenship.
Options for long-term stay in the UK generally revolve around returning to your home country and applying for a new visa. Moreover, attempting to convert a visitor visa into any other permit in the UK is typically unsuccessful and time-consuming.
Therefore, if you plan to relocate to the United Kingdom, it is best to avoid applying for a visitor visa. Instead, opt for other UK visa routes, such as the Tier 2 General Visa.
The UK has made it increasingly difficult for foreigners to come into the country. Therefore, the UK government has taken measures to make getting visitor visas more difficult.
How Can I Start a Job in the UK While on a Visitor Visa?
Unfortunately, taking up the job while on a Visitor Visa is impossible. Unless you are eligible for an EU Family visa, Furthermore, changing your visa status to a work visa is not an option. You must return to your home country and apply for a work visa in order to be able to work.
If you have the offer of employment in the UK, the employer may possess a Tier 2 Sponsor Licence. In that case, they will be able to sponsor an application for you to move to Britain.
The most feasible way to obtain a visa and enter the country is through the Tier 2 general visa route. Nonetheless, if they do not have this license, it is likely that the process will be more complicated. Therefore, if you want to work in the UK, you may need to return to your home country and apply for such a visa.
Can I Convert a UK Visit Visa into a Work Permit?
It is impossible to transfer from a Visitor Visa UK to another route, such as a work permit or job. However, if the visitor holds secure funding, they can switch their visa category to apply for an Innovator Visa.
Switching to a UK tourist visa from any other migration route is not possible, according to Paragraph V.8.1 of Appendix V. In rare cases, visitors may be able to extend their current Visit Visa. Additionally, individuals who accompany a visiting employer as domestic workers can work in the UK under a Domestic Worker Visa.
Furthermore, switching between visa categories is possible in certain circumstances. For example, those holding Fiancé(e) Visas may be able to convert their status to that of a UK Spouse Visa. Unfortunately, holders of a UK Marriage Visa are not able to switch between visa routes.
Can I Reside with a Family Member Who Has EU Rights in the UK?
Obviously, it may be possible. However, it depends on the connection between you and the other family member. In addition, how those rights have been obtained. But it is indeed an option to stay.]
FAQs
Q: Can I Change My Visit Visa To Any Other Visa In The UK?
A: It is possible to change a visit visa to any other UK visa type. However, you must meet the eligibility criteria and have all the required documents for the new visa type.
Q: Do I Need To Submit Documents Again When Applying For A Tier 2 Visa Extension?
A: You must submit your application and supporting documents again when applying for a Tier 2 visa extension.
Q: How Long Does It Take To Process A Tier 2 Visa Extension?
A: It usually takes 6-8 weeks to process a Tier 2 visa extension. However, times may vary depending on the specific case.
Q: How Much Is The Cost Of A Tier 2 Visa Extension?
A: The Tier 2 visa extension cost is currently £704.
Q: What Are The Requirements For A Tier 2 Visa Extension?
A: The main requirements for a Tier 2 visa extension are to show that you have a valid job offer and can financially support yourself during your stay in the UK.
Q: Do I Need To Attend An Interview For A Tier 2 Visa Extension?
A: You must attend an interview at the Home Office as part of your Tier 2 visa extension application process.
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Conclusion
Well, we discussed can I change my visit visa to any other visa. In brief, it may not be possible to change from a Visitor Visa to another visa type in the UK. Hence, other options are available for those looking to stay in the country on a longer-term basis.
With careful planning and research, finding a solution best suits your needs is possible. If you have any questions or need assistance with changing your visa, the KQ Solicitor team of experts can help. Contact us today!
