Have you recently applied for a UK visa? Or are you clueless about your UK visa application progress? If yes, then Do not worry. You can easily stay updated with your UK visa application status in various ways. But to do the same, you need to require some documents. Do you wonder? What are those documents? Well, have patience.
In this guide, we will discuss an overview of how to check UK visa status, the different types of UK visa statuses, the information you need to check on your UK visa application status, various steps on how to check UK visa status online and offline, and most importantly the common issues related to UK visas and their resolutions. So, without any further delay, let’s start discussing.
Overview of How to Track UK Visa Status
Tracking the status of a UK visa application is essential for individuals who have applied for a visa to visit, work, study, or settle in the United Kingdom. Here’s an overview of how to track your UK visa status:
- Wait for Processing Time: After submitting your visa application, you will typically need to wait for a specific processing time. Processing times can vary depending on the type of visa you applied for, your nationality, and your location. You can check the estimated processing times on the official UK Visa and Immigration (UKVI) website.
- Receive Confirmation Email: Once you’ve submitted your visa application, you should receive an email confirmation that your application has been received and is being processed. This email will include important information such as your application reference number and details on how to track your application.
- Use the Online Visa Application Center (VAC) Tool:
- Visit the Visa Application Center (VAC) website for your country. This website is usually operated by a third-party service provider, such as VFS Global or TLScontact, on behalf of the UK government.
- Create an account or log in using the information provided in the confirmation email.
- Enter your application reference number and date of birth to access your application status.
Overview of How to Track UK Visa Status
- Check Visa Processing Updates: Once you’re logged in, you can check the status of your visa application. You may see different stages or updates as your application progresses through the review process. Common status updates may include “Application Received,” “Under Review,” “Decision Made,” and “Passport Ready for Collection.”
- Receive Decision: When a decision has been made on your visa application, you will receive an email notification. This email will provide instructions on whether your application was approved or rejected and any additional steps you need to take.
- Collect Passport or Biometric Residence Permit (BRP): If your visa is approved, you will be informed about how to collect your passport or Biometric Residence Permit (BRP). This information will vary depending on your location and the specific visa you applied for. Some applicants may need to visit a Visa Application Center, while others may have their documents mailed to them.
- Check Visa Duration and Conditions: When you receive your visa, carefully review the visa sticker or BRP to verify the visa’s duration, conditions, and any work or study restrictions. Ensure that the details match your intended travel or stay plans.
- Maintain Communication: If you have any questions or concerns during the visa application process, it’s important to maintain communication with the relevant authorities or visa application center. You can often find contact information on the official website or in the confirmation emails you receive.
Remember that visa processing times and procedures can change, so it’s crucial to refer to the official UKVI website and the specific guidance provided by the Visa Application Center for the most accurate and up-to-date information on tracking your UK visa status.
Different Types of UK Visa Statuses
The United Kingdom offers various types of visas for individuals with different purposes, such as visiting, working, studying, settling, or joining family members in the UK. Each type of visa corresponds to a specific immigration status. Here are some of the different types of UK visa statuses:
- Visitor Visas:
- Standard Visitor Visa: For individuals visiting the UK for tourism, business meetings, academic conferences, or medical treatment.
- Family Visitor Visa: Allows individuals to visit family members in the UK.
- Child Visitor Visa: Designed for children under 18 visiting the UK for short periods.
- Business Visitor Visa: For individuals coming to the UK for business-related activities, such as meetings, conferences, and training.
- Work Visas:
- Tier 2 (General) Visa: For skilled workers offered a job in the UK by a licensed employer.
- Tier 2 (Intra-Company Transfer) Visa: Allows multinational companies to transfer employees to the UK.
- Tier 1 (Entrepreneur) Visa: For entrepreneurs looking to set up or take over a business in the UK.
- Tier 5 (Temporary Worker) Visa: Covers various categories, including creative and sporting, charity workers, religious workers, and youth mobility.
- Student Visas:
- Tier 4 (Student) Visa: For international students studying at UK institutions.
- Short-Term Study Visa: Allows individuals to study short courses in the UK.
- Family Visas:
- Spouse, Partner, and Fiancé(e) Visas: For individuals joining their UK-based spouses, partners, or fiancé(e)s.
- Parent of a Child at School Visa: Allows parents to accompany their child studying in the UK.
Different Types of UK Visa Statuses
- Settlement Visas:
- Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR): Grants permanent residency to individuals who have lived legally in the UK for a specific period.
- Spouse or Partner Settlement Visa: Provides the opportunity for spouses and partners of British citizens or settled persons to settle in the UK.
- Ancestry Visa: For individuals with a grandparent born in the UK who want to live and work in the UK.
- Asylum and Protection:
- Asylum Seeker: Individuals who have applied for asylum and are awaiting a decision on their refugee status.
- Refugee Status: Granted to individuals who are recognized as refugees and given permission to stay in the UK.
- Humanitarian Protection: A form of protection for individuals who do not meet the refugee criteria but still need humanitarian assistance.
- EU Settlement Scheme:
- Pre-Settled Status: Granted to EU, EEA, or Swiss citizens who have not yet accumulated five years of continuous residence in the UK.
- Settled Status: For EU, EEA, or Swiss citizens with five or more years of continuous residence in the UK.
- Other Specialized Visas:
- Tier 1 (Exceptional Talent) Visa: For individuals with exceptional talent in fields like science, arts, engineering, or digital technology.
- Tier 1 (Investor) Visa: Requires a significant investment in the UK.
- Tier 1 (Global Talent) Visa: For recognized leaders and emerging leaders in various fields.
Please note that the UK immigration system can change, and visa categories and requirements may be updated over time. It’s essential to consult the official UK government website or seek advice from a qualified immigration professional for the most current information and guidance regarding UK visa statuses and applications.