TAC FG Ltd recently supported a client company through the extension of a Skilled Worker visa, ensuring full compliance with the updated UK immigration rules introduced in 2025.
The employee was already sponsored under a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS issued in 2024) and remained in continuous employment with the same UK sponsor. Due to recent regulatory changes, a detailed compliance review was required, covering:
- confirmation of the eligible occupation code under transitional provisions,
- application of the new salary threshold,
- verification of transitional rules, and
- correct calculation of Home Office fees, particularly for roles not included in the Immigration Salary List or Temporary Shortage List.
During the extension process, the Home Office confirmed that the role did not qualify for any fee reductions, as it was not listed on the Immigration Salary or Shortage Occupation lists. As a result, the standard visa fees applied. TAC FG Ltd promptly reviewed the Home Office notice, confirmed the correct tariff, completed the additional payment documentation, and submitted the required balance—successfully preventing the application from being declared invalid.
Correct Costs Incurred in This Case
Employer (Sponsor) Costs
- Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS): £525
(updated Home Office fee effective from 9 April 2025) - Immigration Skills Charge (1 year):
- £364 (small sponsor) or
- £1,000 (medium/large sponsor)
Employee Costs
- Skilled Worker visa extension fee (standard – non-listed occupation): £885
- Additional fee for non-shortage occupation: £295
- Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS): £1,035 per year
Why the Additional £295 Was Required
The additional charge applied because:
- the role was not included in the Immigration Salary List or Temporary Shortage List;
- no fee discounts were available under current regulations;
- an initial reduced fee had been paid in error.
Without this corrective payment, the application would have been deemed invalid, resulting in delays, a £25 administrative deduction, and the need to reapply.
Why Work with TAC FG Ltd
This case highlights how recent immigration changes have significantly increased the complexity of Skilled Worker sponsorship and visa extensions. TAC FG Ltd provides specialist, up-to-date advisory services, ensuring:
- accurate interpretation of immigration rules,
- correct salary and occupation code assessments,
- precise calculation of Home Office fees, and
- efficient resolution of compliance issues.
By working with TAC FG Ltd, employers can avoid costly errors, delays, and rejections, while employees benefit from a smooth and compliant visa process.
