Laravel is one of the most popular PHP frameworks, and for good reason—it’s elegant, powerful, and developer-friendly. However, if you’re running an older version of Laravel, it’s essential to keep your project up to date. Upgrading your Laravel app ensures better security, performance, and access to the latest features.
In this guide, let me walk you through how to upgrade your Laravel app to the latest version—whether you’re on Laravel 7, 8, or 9. I’ll keep it simple, practical, and focused on what you need to know.
Why You Should Upgrade Your Laravel App
Upgrading Laravel isn’t just about getting new features (though that’s a big plus). Here are some key reasons to upgrade your Laravel application regularly:
- Security fixes: Older versions stop receiving security updates.
- Performance improvements: Every release brings optimizations.
- Modern PHP compatibility: Stay aligned with the latest PHP versions.
- New features: Enjoy updated Blade components, route caching, improved job batching, and more.
- Community support: Most Laravel packages support only the latest versions.
Laravel Upgrade Path: Step-by-Step
When upgrading a Laravel app, it’s best to follow the major version upgrade path instead of jumping directly from Laravel 7 to the latest release.
Step-by-Step Laravel Upgrade Flow:
- Backup everything – your files, .env, and database.
- Upgrade from Laravel 7 to Laravel 8
- Upgrade Laravel 8 to Laravel 9
- Upgrade Laravel 9 to Laravel 10 or newer
Composer Commands Example:
Update your composer.json or run:
composer require laravel/framework:^8.0 --update-with-dependencies composer update
Repeat the process for Laravel 9 and then Laravel 10.
Key Changes to Expect While Upgrading Laravel
Each Laravel version introduces changes you should review when upgrading:
Laravel 8
- Introduction of Blade components.
- Laravel Jetstream for scaffolding.
- New job batching feature.
- Default namespace for routes removed (update RouteServiceProvider).
Laravel 9
- PHP 8.0+ required
- Anonymous stub migrations (default now).
- Improved route: list output.
- Symfony 6 components.
Laravel 10 (and beyond)
- Drops support for PHP 8.0 (requires PHP 8.1+).
- Native type declarations in code.
- Artisan commands autocompletion.
For every version you upgrade to, always refer to the official Laravel Upgrade Guide.
Tips for a Smooth Laravel Upgrade
Here are some practical tips to help you upgrade your Laravel project without headaches:
- Create a separate Git branch for your upgrade.
- Run your test suite after each upgrade step (if you have one).
- Update Laravel dependencies and other third-party packages.
- You can also use Laravel Shift for automated upgrades (optional, paid tool).
- Check the config and route files for version-specific changes.
- Read the Laravel changelog and upgrade docs thoroughly.
Common Issues During Laravel Upgrades
Below are some most commom issues that, in all probability, you will come across while upgrading your Laravel app. I am listing some of the common ones and their solutions that have worked for me.
- Composer conflicts – Resolve by reviewing composer.json and using –with-all-dependencies.
- Deprecated methods or helpers – Replace with the recommended alternatives.
- Broken routes or Blade files – Update syntax as per new standards.
- Third-party packages – Some may not be compatible with the latest version. Check GitHub or Packagist for updates.
Final Thoughts
Upgrading Laravel might seem intimidating at first, but with the right steps, it’s manageable—even enjoyable (only sometimes!). Think of it as routine maintenance that keeps your Laravel app future-proof, fast, and secure.
Whether you’re upgrading from Laravel 7, 8, or 9, follow the path carefully, test frequently, and rely on Laravel’s excellent documentation. With regular upgrades, your Laravel application will stay modern and easier to maintain in the long run.
