Complete Guide to UK Visa Application – Things You Need To Know Before Applying For UK Visa
When you’re looking to move to the United Kingdom, your first step is often to apply for a UK visa. Whether you’re an EU citizen or not doesn’t matter – all that matters are the requirements for which visas you qualify for, and how soon you can apply. An application for a UK visa is complicated and takes time. It’s important to understand what each application type entails and when it’s available so you can make the best decision for your situation. In this guide, we’ll discuss everything from how long it takes to get a visa to what documents will be required of you during the process, plus provide some tips on where and when you should apply for your UK visa.
What is a UK visa?
A UK visa is a travel document that gives you permission to live, work, and study in the UK. It’s also called a settlement visa or entry clearance. You can apply for a UK visa at your nearest British Embassy or Consulate abroad, or through the UK Visas and Immigration website.
When to apply for UK visas
When should you apply for a UK visa? The decision of when to apply is really up to you. Some people decide to file their application during the first week of the month, while others wait until the last day and hope for the best. Others might be more patient and plan on applying for two weeks in advance. If you want to ensure your application is submitted and received by the earliest possible date, then it’s advisable to submit your application as soon as possible during that first week in January (assuming you’re not an EU citizen).
How long does it take to get a UK visa?
The length of time it takes to get a UK visa varies depending on your situation. You can expect to wait from six months to three years, depending on the type of visa you apply for.
How long does it take to process a UK visa application?
As soon as you submit your application, HMG will start the processing timeline. It takes a few weeks for an initial decision to be made and processed, but once this has happened, it typically takes about two weeks for the visa to arrive in the mail.
What are the requirements for a UK visa?
Before you apply for a UK visa, there are a few things you should know about the requirements. First, to qualify for a UK visa of any type, you’ll need to have an actual residence in the UK. However, if you’re applying for a UK student visa or entry clearance under Tier 5 of the Points Based System (PBS), it’s not mandatory that you live in the country. Second, all applications must be submitted online. Third, when submitting your application online, your personal details will be verified with VisaHQ through email and phone confirmation.
All applications are subject to proof of identity and proof of travel documents. If applicable, the following will be required:
– A passport
– A valid ePassport issued by one of the following countries: Australia, Canada*, India*, Japan*, New Zealand*, Republic of Korea*
– A biometric (A) passport issued by one of the following countries: France*, Germany*, Ireland*, Italy*, Malaysia*
– A standard passport (not biometric) issued by one of the following countries: Malta*
– An immigration document certifying permanent residence issued by one of the following countries: Australia*, Canada*
– An immigration document certifying permanent residence issued by Singapore *
– A revalidated passport from Hong Kong *
– A revalidated passport from Taiwan *
– An immigration document certifying permanent residence from China *
– The United States
Where do you apply for a UK visa?
There are two main locations for submitting an application for a UK visa:
– At the United Kingdom Visa Application Centre (VAC) in your country of residence
– At the United Kingdom Visa Application Centre (VAC) in London, England
The United Kingdom Visa Application Centre (VAC) in your country of residence is where you apply for a Tier 4 visa. The United Kingdom Visa Application Centre (VAC) in London, England is where you apply for a Tier 1, 2, 6, or 7 visa. Regardless of which type of visa you need, it’s important to remember that the more time between applying and arriving in the UK when you submit your application, the longer it will take to process.
What documents do you need for UK Visa Application?
An application for a UK visa requires the following documents (you can see what will be required by clicking on each type of visa):
– Passport
– Application form
– Photocopy of passport pages containing entry stamps and visas issued in the last six months
– Proof of return ticket or full fare to your destination (if you’re travelling to any country other than the United Kingdom)
– Three passport photographs
– Proof of sufficient funds – ideally £1,000 in cash or a certified bank statement showing that you have at least £1,000 in your account. If you don’t have £1,000 available, you’ll need proof that you can support yourself during your stay. This may include: A letter from a friend or relative confirming your financial situation A letter from an employer stating how long they’ll support you A letter from a charity stating how long they’ll support you A bank statement showing a deposit of £500 with permission to spend up to £500 per month while in the UK An income tax assessment for the last year where total income is equal to or higher than the current UK minimum wage (£35,000)
Documents required during the UK Visa application process
When you’re applying for a UK visa, it’s important to know what documents you’ll need to provide. In general, all applicants will need to show:
An original passport
A certificate of good conduct from the country where they have lived in the last 10 years
A certificate of freedom from detention or imprisonment
A police clearance certificate (for criminal record checks)
Proof of a bank account in the U.K. or the European Economic Area (EEA)
Proof of having sufficient funds (for Type 6 visas and Visa 4)
Evidence that you can support yourself without public funds or employment (for Type 9 visas and Visa 2)
Evidence that you have adequate accommodation arrangements in place if you’re applying for a Tier 2 visa with a sponsor or an EEA national living in the U.K.
Evidence of means-tested benefits if applicable (for Type 5 visas and Visa 1)
If applying for a Tier 1 visa, evidence of your eligibility for significant public funding
Tips on where and when to apply for your UK visa
You can apply for a UK visa at any point in your life, even if you’re not currently living in the United Kingdom. When it comes to when to apply, there are two main points of consideration – whether you’re moving to the United Kingdom as an EU citizen or not. More information on this can be found below:
– If you’re an EU national (and don’t have a UK visa) and want to move to the United Kingdom and get a job, then your best bet is to apply for a Tier 2 visa.
– If you’re just moving to the United Kingdom with no plans of working during your stay, then you’ll likely need to apply for a visitor visa.
It’s also important that you know where and when you should apply for your UK visa. There are four main options:
– Apply online via the official government website
– Apply by post from within the United Kingdom or from abroad
– Apply in person at one of 24 Visa Application Centres around Europe
– Apply by phone or Skype from abroad
Each option has its advantages and disadvantages, so take some time to find out what makes sense for your situation before applying.
