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How to Check Your UK Visa Application Status

Paul Richmond

If you’ve applied for a UK visa, waiting for a decision can be a stressful experience, particularly if you have a travel deadline or other important plans. Fortunately, the UK visa application process allows applicants to track the progress of their UK visa application and check their UK visa application status. 

In this post, we’ll walk you through the various ways you can check your UK visa application status, so that you can stay informed and up-to-date throughout the UK visa application process.  

We also provide some useful additional information for anyone who is looking to track the status of a UK visa application, including Home Office service standards for deciding a UK visa application, how to find out current UK visa processing times, the factors that can delay a decision on a UK visa application, how to speed up a decision on a UK visa application and how to chase a delayed decision on a UK visa application.

The Importance of Checking Your UK Visa Application Status

Checking your UK visa application status is an important step in the application process. It allows you to stay informed and can give you an idea of how much longer you may have to wait for a decision. By checking your UK visa application status regularly, you can ensure that your application is moving through the process as expected and that there are no issues or delays. 

Additionally, tracking your UK visa application status can help you identify any errors or omissions in your application and allow you to correct them before it’s too late. For example, if you notice that your application has been pending for longer than the average processing time , you may want to contact UKVI to enquire about the status of your application and ensure that there are no issues that need to be addressed. 

By checking your UK visa application status, you can plan ahead and make any necessary arrangements. For example, if you receive a notification that your application has been approved, you can start making travel plans or booking accommodation. Alternatively, if you receive a notification that your UK visa application has been refused, you may need to consider reapplying or seeking legal advice regarding an immigration appeal , administrative review or judicial review .

Therefore, it is highly recommended that you regularly check your UK visa application status to stay informed and ensure a smooth UK visa application process.

What Information Do You Need to Check Your UK Visa Application Status?

To check your UK visa application status, you will need certain information about your application. Here are the key pieces of information that you may need:

Personal and contact details: You may need to provide your first name, last name, nationality, date of birth and the email address used on your application form. These details may be used to verify your identity and ensure that you are authorised to access the status of your application.

Passport number: You may need to provide the passport number that you used when you applied for your UK visa. This is another way to verify your identity and ensure that you are authorised to access the status of your application.

Type of visa applied for: As part of the process to track the progress on your immigration application, you may need to confirm the category of UK visa or immigration route that you applied for.

Date of application or biometrics: You may need to provide the date of your visa or immigration application, as well as the date when you provided your biometric information.

Place of application: If you wish to check the status of a UK visa application that was submitted overseas, you may need to provide the location of the visa application centre.

GWF reference number: This is a 9 digit (GWFxxxxxxxxx) unique reference number that may have been assigned to your application when you submitted it. You may need to enter this number in order to check your application status.

Application reference number: Depending on the type of visa you applied for, you may also have been given a 16 digit (xxxx-xxxx-xxxx-xxxx) unique application reference number. If you have been given an application reference number, you may need to enter it when you track your UK visa application status.

Immigration Health Surcharge reference number (if applicable): If you paid the Immigration Health Surcharge then you may be asked to provide your IHS number when tracking the decision on your UK visa application.

It’s important to ensure that you have all of the necessary information and documents at hand before attempting to check your UK visa application status. This will help you avoid any unnecessary delays or complications, and ensure that you are able to access the information you need as quickly and easily as possible.

How to Check the Status of Your UK Visa Application Outside the UK

1. using the vfs global website, step-by-step instructions for checking your uk visa application status on the vfs global website:.

You can track the progress of your out-of-country UK visa application on the VFS Global website:

  • Go to the VFS Global website: Start by visiting the VFS Global website at https://www.vfsglobal.co.uk/ in your web browser.
  • Select your VAC location: Select the location of the visa application centre where you provided your biometric information.
  • Click on ‘Track your application’:   At the top of the page for your VFS Global visa application centre, you may see a section called ‘Track your application’. If so, click on this section to begin the process of tracking your application status (If you cannot see a section called ‘Track your application’ then proceed to ‘3. Using the UKVI website’ below.).
  • Click on ‘Track your visa application status online’: You will see ‘track your visa application status online’ highlighted in orange.  Click on this to be taken to a login page.  
  • Enter your reference number: The reference number may be your GWF number or your VAC reference number, depending on the type of visa you applied for.  Enter the number in the appropriate field.
  • Enter your last name: You will also need to enter your last name in the appropriate field.
  • Click ‘Submit’: Once you have entered all of the required information, confirm that you are not a robot and click the ‘Submit’ button to view your application status.
  • View your application status: You should now be able to view the status of your UK visa application. The status may indicate that your application is being processed, or that a decision has been made. If a decision has been made, you may also be able to view the details of the decision, such as whether your application has been approved or refused.

If you have any questions or concerns about your UK visa application status, you can contact VFS Global customer service for assistance. Their contact details can be found on the ‘Contact us’ page of the VFS Global website.

2. Using the TLScontact website

Step-by-step instructions for checking your uk visa application status on the tlscontact website:.

You can track the progress of your out-of-country UK visa application on the TLScontact website:

  • Open your confirmation email from UK Visas and Immigration: Start by locating the confirmation email that you received from UK Visas and Immigration when you set up your visa application form.  
  • Sign into your application: Next, click on the link in the email and sign into your application on the GOV.UK website by entering your password and clicking ‘Sign in’.
  • Navigate to the TLScontact website: Once signed in, click on ‘Provide Documents and Biometrics’ and then on ‘Continue’.  You will now be redirected to your account on the TLScontact website.
  • Select ‘Track’ : Select ‘Track’ to view the status of your application in real-time.
  • View your application status: You should now be able to view the status of your UK visa application. The status should indicate whether biometric enrolment has been completed, whether your application has been transferred to and received by the decision-making centre (DMC), whether the decided application has been transferred to and received by the visa application centre (VAC) and whether you have picked your passport up from the VAC.

If you have any questions or concerns about your UK visa application status, you can contact TLScontact support by clicking on the ‘Contact us’ page on the TLScontact website. 

3. Using the UKVI website

Step-by-step instructions for checking the status of your uk visa application on the ukvi website:.

You can track the progress of your out-of-country UK visa application on the UKVI website.  Please note that this is a paid-for service. Queries about the progress of a UK visa application cost £2.74. This cost includes an initial email enquiry plus any follow-up emails that you send relating to the same enquiry:

  • Go to the UKVI website: Start by visiting the UKVI website at https://ukvi.mysecurepay.co.uk/Home in your web browser.
  • Click on ‘Start’: You will see ‘Start’ highlighted in green.  Click on this to be taken to the next page.  
  • Click on ‘General Enquiry’: You will see ‘General Enquiry’ highlighted in green.  Click on this to be taken to an online form.  
  • Complete the online form: Complete all the fields on the online form.  In the ‘Enquiry’ box you should make clear that you are enquiring about the status of your application. If the standard processing time has been exceeded then you should mention this.
  • Click on ‘Continue’: You should now be able to proceed to enter your payment details and confirm.
  • Click on ‘Submit’: If you do not select ‘Submit’ then your enquiry will not be completed and you will not be charged.  You should receive a reply to your query within 5 days, except on Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays and UK public holidays.

4. Contacting UKVI by telephone

Instructions for checking the status of your uk visa application with ukvi by telephone:.

You can track the progress of your out-of-country UK visa application by calling UKVI on +44 (0)300 790 6268 and selecting option 1.

The telephone line is open 24 hours a day, Monday to Friday.

Calls cost 69 pence per minute on top of your standard network charges.

If you cannot contact UK 0300 numbers, then use +44 (0)203 875 4669.

How to Track the Status of Your UK Visa Application Inside the UK

1. using the ukvcas website.

Unfortunately, UKVCAS does not provide any application status updates on its website. 

If you have any questions or concerns about the application status of an in-country immigration application, you should contact UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) instead (proceed to ‘4. Contacting UKVI by telephone’ below).

2. Contacting UKVCAS by telephone

It is also not possible to telephone UKVCAS to check the progress of an immigration application.

Unfortunately, UKVI does not provide any application status updates on its website (proceed to ‘4. Contacting UKVI by telephone’ below).

Instructions for checking the status of your in-country UK immigration application with UKVI by telephone:

You can track the progress of your in-country immigration application by calling the UKVI contact centre on 0300 790 6268 and selecting option 2.

The telephone line is open 9am to 4:45pm on Monday to Thursday (excluding bank holidays) and 9am to 4:30pm on Friday (excluding bank holidays).

Information on call charges can be found here . 

Frequently Asked Questions About Checking UK Visa Application Status

Does ukvi have standard processing times for uk visa applications.

UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) has published service standards for waiting times for decisions on visa and immigration applications.  If you want to track the status of a UK visa application then it is useful to refer to these.

If a UK visa application includes all relevant information and supporting documents (and the Home Office does not need to request further evidence or explanation) then the following waiting time customer service standards should apply:

  • Non-settlement visa applications submitted outside the UK: 90% to be decided within 3 weeks; 98% within 6 weeks and 100% within 12 weeks of the application date (where 1 week is 5 working days);
  • Settlement visa applications submitted outside the UK: 98.5% of settlement applications to be decided within 12 weeks of the application date and 100% within 24 weeks of the application date (where 1 week is 5 working days);
  • Applications for leave to remain submitted within the UK, including as spouses, workers and students: 8 weeks to be decided;
  • Applications for indefinite leave to remain (ILR) submitted within the UK: 6 months to be decided;
  • Applications for no time limit (NTL) submitted within the UK: 6 months to be decided;
  • Organisations seeking to sponsor a worker: 8 weeks;
  • Organisations updating their sponsor licence details: 18 weeks.

These service standards are the visa processing times that UKVI aims to deliver on for the processing of straightforward, complete applications, based on its customer charter .  Actual UK visa processing times can vary considerably.  However, if the service standard has been exceeded then this is a factor that can be raised as part of any attempt to chase a delayed decision .

What Are the Current Home Office UK Visa Processing Times?

Aside from its customer service standards for visa processing, the Home Office also publishes up-to-date information on current processing times for visa and immigration applications submitted both within the UK and outside the UK.  

Up-to-date information on current UK Visa processing times for all the main immigration routes can be found in our post:

  • UK Visa Processing & Decision Waiting Times

If you wish to track the status of your UK visa application then, in addition to referring to the customer service standard, it may be helpful to refer to these published current processing times in order to ascertain approximately how long it should take for your pending UK visa application to be decided.

What Factors Can Delay UK Visa Processing Times?

When you check the status of your UK visa application you should be aware that there are a number of factors which can delay UK visa processing times and cause the customer service standard and/or the current processing time to be exceeded, including: 

  • The complexity of the case, for example if it involves an assessment of Article 8 ECHR rights or derivative rights of EEA extended family members; 
  • Concerns regarding suitability requirements such as criminality; 
  • Consideration of any adverse immigration history; 
  • Any concerns regarding the authenticity of documents; 
  • The volume of documents provided; 
  • Whether further investigations are required or an interview scheduled; 
  • The capacity of caseworkers; and 
  • The time of the year.

If you are looking to check your UK visa application status then it is worth keeping in mind that there is no published service standard for waiting times for more complex applications and UKVI has a wide margin of appreciation with regard to the timing of their decisions.

How Can I Get a Faster Decision on a UK Visa Application?

UK Visas & Immigration offers a ‘priority service’ and a ‘super priority service’ for applicants who, for an additional fee, wish to receive a faster decision on their UK visa application.  Selecting one of these premium services at the point of application will ensure that an application is placed at the front of the queue at every stage of the decision-making process. 

In our comprehensive guide to UK Visa Premium and Priority Services, we look at the Priority Service and Super Priority Service in detail, covering everything from processing times, to current availability, costs and whether an application is likely to be suitable for an expedited decision:  

  • A Guide to UK Visa Premium and Priority Services

How Can I Chase a Delayed UK Visa Application?

It is deeply frustrating when the Home Office takes longer than stated on its website to process a visa or immigration application. If the processing of your UK visa application has been delayed then, as well as tracking the progress on your UK visa application, you may wish to consider taking additional steps to chase a decision on your UK visa application.

We explain how to chase a delayed UK Visa or immigration decision in 6 steps in our post:

  • How to Chase a Delayed UK Visa Application

In conclusion, checking your UK visa application status is a crucial step in the application process, as it will allow you to stay informed and up-to-date on the progress of your application. 

Whether you use the VFS Global website, the TLScontact website, the UKVI website or the UKVI telephone enquiry lines, it’s important to ensure that you have all the necessary information to hand before checking your status. 

Remember to be patient, as processing times can vary depending on the type of visa you have applied for and the nature of your application.  

By following the steps outlined in this post, you’ll be able to check your UK visa application status with ease and plan your next steps accordingly. Good luck with your application!

Contact Our Immigration Lawyers

For expert advice and assistance in relation to a UK visa application or immigration appeal, contact our immigration barristers on 0203 617 9173 or complete the online enquiry form below.

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UK Visa Tracking: Your Guide to Checking Visa Status

Last Update: 27-08-2024

Man smiling in sunglasses and a jacket, with snowy mountains in the background.

Aditya Jain

Big Ben with the Union Jack flag in the foreground.

United Kingdom

Keeping track of your UK visa application is very important. Whether you're applying for a UK tourist visa or a UK business visa , knowing how to check your application status helps you stay updated on any changes or additional requirements. This guide will show you how to track your UK visa application status online and offline.

I’ll explain how to use the VFS Global UK visa tracking system and your GWF number. I'll also talk about common problems you might face and how to solve them. If you're in India, I’ll cover how to track your UK visa application in India and provide contact information for the UK embassy and consulates in India. This guide will help you stay informed and confident throughout your visa application process.

Table of Contents

Why is uk visa tracking important, requirements for checking uk visa application status, how to track uk visa application online, how to check your uk visa status offline, issues while tracking uk visa application.

Tracking your UK visa application is crucial for staying updated and ensuring a smooth application process be it UK tourist visa or UK business visa . Here are the key reasons why UK visa tracking is essential:

  • Stay Informed: UK visa tracking allows you to stay updated on the status of your visa application, ensuring you are aware of any changes or requirements in real-time.
  • Avoid Delays: By regularly tracking your UK visa application, you can quickly identify and resolve any issues or additional document requests, preventing unnecessary delays.
  • Plan Your Travel: Knowing the exact status of your visa application helps you plan your travel arrangements, such as booking flights and accommodation, with confidence.
  • Peace of Mind: UK visa tracking provides peace of mind by keeping you informed about the progress of your application, reducing anxiety and uncertainty.

To successfully track and check your UK visa application status, you need to have specific information and access to the necessary tools. Here are the key requirements:

  • GWF Number : The Global Web Form (GWF) number simply known as reference number is essential for tracking your UK visa application. This unique reference number is provided when you submit your visa application. 
  • Last Name: Your last name, as provided in your visa application, is required to verify your identity and match it with your application details.
  • Passport Number : While not always necessary for initial tracking, having your passport number can help in verifying your identity during the tracking process.

By ensuring you have these requirements at hand, you can easily check the status of your UK visa application and stay informed about its progress.

UK visa applications are tracked only through the VFS Global website. Ensure you have internet access to visit the site and enter your tracking details.

1. VFS Global UK Visa Tracking

VFS Global is a trusted partner for many embassies and consulates, including the UK. They provide a reliable platform for tracking UK visa applications. Here’s how you can use the VFS Global UK visa tracking option:

  • Visit the VFS Global Website : Go to the VFS Global website and select the country (UK) and visa type you applied for.
  • Navigate to the Visa Tracking Section : Find the visa tracking section, located under the 'Track Your Application' tab.
  • Enter Your Details: Enter your GWF number/reference number and last name.
  • Submit and Check Status : Click on the 'Submit' button to view the current status of your UK visa application.

2. UK Visa Status Tracking with Teleport

If you applied for your UK visa with Teleport, use the Teleport dashboard to track UK visa application. The process is straightforward and easy. Here’s how you can track your UK visa application with Teleport:

  • Login to Your Teleport Account : Log in to your Teleport account with your login credentials. This is where you manage all your visa applications.
  • Dashboard Overview : Once logged in, go to the dashboard where you can see all your current and past visa applications. Select the visa application you want to track.
  • Check Status : Click on the ‘Check Status’ button next to your UK visa application. Teleport gets real-time updates from the UK embassy or consulate.
  • Automated Alerts and Notifications : Teleport offers email and SMS notifications. Make sure you have opted in for these notifications to get automated updates on any changes or actions required for your visa application.
  • Direct Support : If the automated updates are not enough or if you have specific questions, Teleport provides customer support through various channels like WhatsApp chat, email, or phone. Use these support services to get personalised assistance and more information about your UK visa application status.

By following these steps, you can easily track your UK visa application and stay informed about your UK visa application status. Using platforms like VFS Global UK visa tracking and Teleport makes the process seamless and efficient, ensuring you receive timely updates on your visa status.

To check your UK visa status offline, follow one of these options:

1. Visit UK Visa Application Centres in India

  • Find the Nearest VFS Global Centre : Locate the nearest VFS Global Visa Application Centre in your area. They are available in major cities across India.
  • Visit the Centre : Plan a visit to the centre. Bring necessary documents such as your passport and GWF number for verification.
  • Inquire About Your Application : Speak with a representative at the centre to inquire about your visa application status. They will provide you with the most up-to-date information.

UK Visa Application Centres in India

Contact the uk embassies in india.

Following are the UK embassy and consulates contact information to enquire about your UK visa status: 

You do not need to contact UKVI to track your application if it is still within the current processing times. UKVI will not be able to provide information on the status of your application during this period.

Tracking your UK visa application status can sometimes come with challenges. Here are some common issues you might encounter:

  • Delays in Updates : The tracking system may not always be updated in real-time. This can cause delays in seeing the latest status of your application.
  • Incorrect Details : Entering incorrect details such as your GWF number can result in errors or inability to access your application status. Always keep your application reference number noted down somewhere for easy access.
  • Technical Issues : The VFS Global website may experience technical difficulties, preventing you from accessing the status of your application.
  • Incomplete Applications : If your application is missing required information or documentation, it might not progress, and the status may not change until these issues are resolved.
  • High Volume of Applications : During peak times, such as holiday seasons or major events, the UK visa appointment or processing of UK visa applications may slow down due to the high volume of applications being handled.

If you encounter any of these issues, it's advisable to contact the VFS Global or the UK Embassy and Consulates for assistance.

Learn more about UK visas

British High Commission in India

VFS Global UK Visa Tracking Portal

Apply for UK Visa Online - Teleport

UK Visa Processing Time

Checking your UK visa application status is important for smooth travel planning. Use the VFS Global UK visa tracking system for real-time updates and avoid delays. Always have your Vfs Global UK visa tracking GWF number ready, as it’s essential for tracking your visa. You can track UK visa applications in India online through VFS Global or offline by visiting visa application centres. If you have any issues, contact VFS Global or the UK embassy for support. Regularly checking your UK visa status helps you respond quickly to any additional document requests, ensuring a smooth application process. Use this guide to manage your UK visa application tracking online and be well-prepared for your trip to the UK.

To perform UK visa tracking online, visit the VFS Global website, select the UK and visa type, and enter your GWF number and last name. This will allow you to see your current UK visa application status.

For VFS Global UK visa tracking, you need your GWF number (also known as your reference number) and personal details such as your last name and date of birth to track your UK visa application.

Yes, you can track UK visa applications in India using the VFS Global website. Enter your GWF number and last name to check UK visa status.

If there are delays in your UK visa status check, it may be due to processing times or high application volumes. Contact VFS Global or the UK embassy for assistance if the delay exceeds normal processing times.

No, you cannot track your UK visa application using only your passport number. You need your GWF number and other personal details to accurately check your UK visa application status.

The UK visa application status "processed" means that a decision has been made on your application, and the result has been sent to your local visa application center.

To check UK visa status offline, visit the nearest VFS Global Visa Application Centre in India. Bring your passport and GWF number for verification and inquire about your application status.

Yes, both VFS Global and Teleport offer email and SMS notifications. Make sure you opt in for these services to receive automated updates on your UK visa application status.

If your UK visa application is rejected, review the reasons provided in the rejection notice. Address the issues and consider reapplying with corrected documentation. You can also contact VFS Global or the UK embassy for further guidance.

The processing time for a UK visa decision typically ranges from 20 to 30 working days, depending on the type of visa and other factors. Regularly check your UK visa application tracking online for updates.

No, you cannot contact UKVI if you have questions about your UK visa application status. Please note that UKVI does not provide status updates if your application is still within the standard processing times.

Read more about visas

  • Spouse Visa
  • Fiance Visa
  • Unmarried Partner Visa
  • Dependant Visa
  • Child Dependant Visa
  • Adult Dependent Relative Visa
  • UK Ancestry Visa
  • Skilled Worker Visa
  • Scale-up Visa
  • Global Talent Visa
  • High Potential Individual Visa
  • Health and Care Worker Visa
  • Sports Person Visa
  • Minister of Religion Visa
  • Temporary Work Visa
  • Youth Mobility Scheme Visa
  • Innovator Founder Visa
  • Start-up Visa
  • Sponsor Licence
  • Immigration Compliance and Audits
  • Entrepreneur Visa Extension
  • Investor Visa Extension
  • Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR)
  • British Naturalisation
  • EUSS Family Permit
  • British Citizenship By Marriage
  • British Citizenship By Birth
  • British Citizenship By Decent
  • British Citizenship For Child
  • Administrative Review
  • Judicial Review
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How to Track your UK Visa Application Status

How to Track your UK Visa Application Status

Amar Ali Immigration Solicitors

By Amar Ali, Immigration Solicitor

Note: If we are not your lawyers who represented your case or applied for your visa, we cannot help you to check your visa application status unfortunately. Please contact UKVI (Home Office) for your visa status enquiries. For more information, please find in this content.

Having worked with thousands of UK immigration clients from around the world over many years, we know just how nerve-wracking it can be to wait for the outcome of a visa application. In this article, we are going to discuss how to check the progress of your application, what to expect when a decision is made, why some applications can be delayed, and what you can do if you receive a rejection of your application.

How will you know if your visa is approved?

You will receive a communication from UK Visas and Immigration regarding whether your visa has been approved or denied, typically in the form of a letter, a text message, and/or email.

If you are outside of the UK, you will receive a sticker (called a “vignette”) that allows you to travel to the UK. Your vignette will contain:

  • The type of visa you have been issued
  • The start and end dates of your visa
  • The conditions of your visa (e.g. whether you can work).

If you submitted your passport during your application process, you will receive it back with the vignette inside, or if you kept your passport after application, you will need to return to your local immigration centre to receive your vignette. The vignette needs to go into your passport, and you will need to present it on your arrival in the UK. For those planning to stay in the UK for longer than six months, you will have 10 days to collect your Biometric Residence Permit. Where you collect your Biometric Residence Permit from will depend on where you specified in your application.

If you are applying from the UK, then you should receive a letter or email that confirms that your application is approved. Once approved, your Biometric Residence Permit should arrive with you by courier within 7 - 10 days of receiving your decision letter. If your Biometric Residence Permit does not arrive, you must report it lost to UKVI, so they may issue another permit.

In all cases, when waiting for a visa decision, we highly recommend checking your email “spam” folder for any emails from the Home Office. We have seen many cases whereby applicants have received a decision, but they were unaware because the email was not showing in their “inbox” folder.

The process of checking the progress of your UK visa application will depend on whether you applied from inside or outside the UK, as we explain below.

Checking UK visa applications made outside the UK

If you applied for your UK visa from outside the UK, you will not be able to check the progress of your application online, but you can contact UKVI for an update.

The UKVI contact centre in the UK can assist with any of the following types of queries:

  • General queries about applying for a visa to come to the UK
  • Questions about the progress of your application
  • Technical problems with your application
  • Made a mistake in your online application
  • Problems logging into your account or with your password
  • Problems with making a payment to UKVI online or pending payments

There are two main methods of contacting the UKVI contact centre: 1) submitting an online query or 2) phoning UKVI.

  • Submitting an online query outside the UK

You can email your enquiry to the UKVI contact centre 1 , however, to do so, you will first need to pay a small fee of £2.74 online 2 . This fee covers your initial email and any following emails on the same matter. UKVI explains that you will need a credit or debit card to use this service and that you will need to enter your payment details before sending your message.

Responses to email enquiries should be received from UKVI within 5 working days.

  • Telephone: +44 (0)300 790 6268 (or +44 (0)203 875 4669 if you cannot dial 0300 numbers) and select option 1
  • Monday to Friday, 24 hours
  • Calls cost 69 pence per minute on top of your standard network charges

Checking UK visa applications made inside the UK

For an update on an application made inside the UK, you can phone UKVI using the following details:

  • Telephone: 0300 790 6268 - select option 1, then option 2
  • Monday to Thursday (excluding bank holidays), 9am to 4:45pm
  • Friday (excluding bank holidays), 9am to 4:30pm

What do you need to provide to track your UK visa status?

To track your visa status with UKVI, you may be asked for some or all of the following information:

  • Your case reference number or case ID (this is a number provided when you submitted your application)
  • Payment Reference Number – you will have received this when paying your application fee
  • Unique application number – this is provided on correspondence from UKVI
  • Your Biometric Residence Permit Number – if you have one.

All of this information will be included in your correspondence or emails from UKVI.

Reasons for a UK visa decision delay

The Home Office publishes average processing times 3 for each type of visa they handle. Applications that are straightforward and where all information and payments have been provided will typically be processed within this standard timescale (or within the 1 or 5 working day timescale if you use the priority or super-priority / premium services)

Applications may be delayed for a number of reasons, including:

  • Due to the complexity of the application
  • Where more information or supporting documentation is required before a decision can be made
  • A large backlog of applications at the UKVI process centre
  • You are required to attend an interview to verify supporting documents or to provide more details before a decision can be made
  • Due to certain aspects of your history (e.g. criminality).
  • Where there is a discrepancy found in the details provided (e.g. where you have declared a certain income, but this differs from the information held by HMRC).

Can I speed up my visa application decision process?

In many cases, delays can be avoided by engaging the services of an immigration solicitor who is well versed in spotting issues that may give rise to problems and which need to be dealt with in the initial application submission.

If you need a faster decision on your visa application than the standard processing time, it is always best to use one of UKVI’s enhanced services. Depending on the type of visa application and where you are located, you may have the option of using the priority application service, which provides a decision within 5 working days for an additional cost of £500. You may also be able to use the super-priority service, which provides a decision within 1 working day for an additional cost of £800.

Details on these services and whether these can be used for your visa type and location can be found on the UKVI website 4 .

What to do if your UK visa application is rejected?

If your application is refused, the letter or email you receive will explain the reasons why and the options now available to you, including whether you can appeal or bring an Administrative Review if you believe an error has been made by UKVI.

In any event, we recommend speaking to a specialist immigration lawyer if you receive a refusal on your application. Depending on your circumstances, instead of appealing or lodging an Administrative Review, they may recommend submitting a new application, applying for a different type of visa or immigration status (such as Indefinite Leave to Remain ), or even applying for a Judicial Review (challenging the legal basis for decision in court).

How can Reiss Edwards help?

Reiss Edwards have a wealth of experience in guiding individuals and businesses, including some of the world’s largest multinationals, through the end-to-end process of gaining UK visas – whether for work, family, business, investment, or for any other purpose. Our team of specialist immigration Solicitors can:

  • Secure the immigration status of you and your children
  • For businesses, advise on work visa and sponsor licence strategy
  • Quickly review your case and explain all of your options
  • Deal with the Home Office throughout the application process
  • Review your visa application prior to submission
  • Handle your visa application on your behalf
  • Handle appeals, Administrative Reviews and Judicial Reviews on your behalf, ensuring you have the very best chance of success.

References:

1 GOV.UK: Help with your visa application or other problems

2 GOV.UK: Contact UK Visas and Immigration from outside the UK

3 GOV.UK: Visa decision waiting times: applications outside the UK

4 GOV.UK: Get a faster decision on your visa or settlement application

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How to Check your UK Visa Application Status

Anne morris.

  • 2 July 2024

Flexible Working

IN THIS SECTION

If you are awaiting a decision on an application for a UK visa, tracking the progress of your application can be crucial to planning ahead, especially where you are time-pressured for a decision.

The following guide looks at how UK visa applicants can check the status of their applications, whether you have applied to extend an existing visa or switch to a new category of visa from within the UK, or you are applying for entry clearance or leave to enter the UK from another country.

We also share general guidance on the standard and premium visa processing times.

Section A: Checking your UK Visa Application Status: In-Country Applications

Most applications to extend leave to remain in the UK, including applications to switch to another visa category, as well as applications for settlement and citizenship , are now made through the UK Visa and Citizenship Application Services ( UKVCAS ).

UKVCAS was launched by the UK Home Office to speed up the processing of in-country further leave to remain applications. Applicants are required to attend a single appointment to have their identity confirmed, enrol any biometric information (fingerprints and photograph) that may be required and submit their documentation in support.

However, applicants will not be given a decision at their UKVCAS appointment. The visa application and supporting documents will be sent to UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) to be processed. UKVI is a division of the Home Office responsible for the UK’s visa system, who will allocate to a specific case worker for a decision to be made.

UKVCAS cannot answer queries about the status of an application. You would instead need to contact UKVI.

If you have already submitted a UK visa application and are now waiting to hear the outcome, visit the GOV.UK website to find information and updates from UKVI on visa processing in general.

You cannot currently track your individual visa application online – either through UKVCAS or UKVI – but you can use an online tool to obtain information on which department to contact for your particular application.

You will need to answer a couple of questions about your application when using this tool, such as the case reference number assigned when you submitted the application, and you should be provided contact information for different departments at UKVI.

You can call the UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) contact centre by telephone on 0300 790 6268 – select option 2 – Monday to Thursday (excluding bank holidays), 9am to 4:45pm and Friday (excluding bank holidays), 9am to 4:30pm.

If you have any questions about British citizenship applications, you will need to contact the Citizenship and Nationality Enquiries team by email  [email protected],  or by phone: 0300 790 6268 – select option 2 – Monday to Thursday, 9am to 4:45pm and Friday, 9am to 4:30pm.

Read our full guide to UK visa processing times here >> 

Section B: How to Check UK Visa Application Status: Overseas Applications

When applying for a visa from outside the UK, you will need to attend a visa application centre in the country from which you are applying to provide your biometric information, together with all necessary documents in support of your application.

As with in-country visa applications, you will not receive a decision on your application at your appointment to enrol your biometric information and provide your supporting documentation. You will instead be required to wait for a decision from UKVI.

1. UKVI website

You can check the status of your out-of-country application using the UKVI website. This ‘General Enquiry’ service incurs a charge of £2.74 per application, which covers the initial email enquiry as well as follow-up emails relating to the same enquiry.

You will need a credit or debit card to use this service, where you will be asked to enter your payment details before sending your email, but you will not be charged until your message has been sent. UKVI will usually reply within 2 days, except on Saturdays, Sundays and UK public holidays.

2. TLScontact website

On the TLScontact website, click ‘Provide Documents and Biometrics’ and then ‘Continue’ to be redirected to your account. Choose the option to ‘Track’ which will display the real-time status of your application.

3. VFS website

On the VFS Global website, choose the location of the visa application centre where you provided your biometrics, then select ‘Track your application’. IF you do not ave the option to track your application, you should try the UKVI website.

4. By telephone

You can call UKVI with a question about your application on +44 (0)300 790 6268 – select option 1, or +44 (0)203 875 4669. This service is open Monday to Friday, 24 hours, at a cost of 69p per minute on top of your standard network charges.

Please note, if your message is urgent, you can phone the contact centre instead, although the contact centre staff will not have any involvement in the outcome of your case.

Section C: Standard Processing Times for UK Visa Applications

The time in which it will take to process your UK visa application will primarily depend on whether you have applied to either come to or remain in the UK. The category of visa that you are applying for will also affect your application wait times.

Generally speaking, the wait times for visa applications made from outside the UK are typically shorter than for in-country applications.

If you are applying to remain in the UK, you should still be allowed to stay in the UK pending any decision from UKVI, so long as you have submitted your application to extend your leave to remain or switch to another category before your existing visa expires.

UKVI publishes standard processing times for applications on its website in accordance with their customer charter. It is important to remember that the guide times provided are not a guarantee.

1. Applications made in the UK

Based on the current processing times, for those applying to remain in the UK on a temporary basis, including as workers and students, the standard processing time is 8 weeks. Applications for indefinite leave to remain made from inside the UK will usually be dealt with within 6 months.

2. Applications made outside the UK

For those applying for a visa from outside the UK, the target is for 90% of non-settlement applications to be processed within 3 weeks, 98% within 6 weeks and 100% within 12 weeks of the application date, where 1 week is 5 working days.

Currently, student and Skilled Worker applications are taking 3 weeks to process out of country, while family visas are taking 24 weeks.

For those applying for settlement from outside the UK, it is estimated that 98.5% of settlement applications will be dealt with within 12 weeks of the application date, and 100% within 24 weeks of the application date, where again 1 week is 5 working days.

Section D: Priority Processing

If you are looking to obtain a faster decision on your visa application, in many cases it is possible to pay for premium processing, or what’s known as a priority service, when you submit your application. You will need to check your application type for available priority services. If you are applying outside the UK, you will also need to check with the visa application centre where you intend to make your application.

There may be two premium processing options available to you: the ‘5 working day priority service’ and the ‘next working day super priority service’. The timescales for priority services will run from when you complete your appointment to provide your biometric information and supporting evidence, although these times do not include the time taken to issue you with your Biometric Residence Permit (BRP). You will usually receive your BRP within 7 working days after a decision has been made on your application.

For super priority service appointments attended on a Saturday or Sunday, the appointment will be deemed as attended on the next working day. Where there is a bank holiday the next working day will be classed as a Tuesday, but in most cases this will be a Monday. This means, for example, a Saturday appointment will usually be deemed as attended on the Monday after the weekend, and the decision on your visa application completed and dispatched by the end of the next working day.

Section E: What Can Delay a UK Visa Application?

If your visa application is straightforward, for example, where a decision can be made on it without you being asked for more information, it will usually be decided within the standard processing times or, where you have paid for a faster decision, the premium processing times.

If, however, your application is more complex, the usual times may not necessarily apply and you may need to wait longer for a decision. If your application is delayed, you will be informed by letter as to what will happen next within the relevant timescales for your visa.

If you applied for a priority or super priority visa and it is not possible to meet the applicable timescale, your application will still be put at the front of the queue at every stage of the decision-making process. UKVI will also still aim to process your application within standard global timescales. In these circumstances, you may be able to request a refund of the additional fee paid for premium processing.

Your application could be delayed for a number of reasons. This could be due to backlogs in processing applications by UKVI, both generally and, more recently, because of the coronavirus pandemic. This could also be because your supporting documents need to be verified and/or you are required to attend an interview, or because of your personal circumstances, such as any adverse immigration history or criminal convictions.

Your visa application will be assessed both in accordance with the general requirements under the UK immigration rules, as well as the specific eligibility criteria required for your visa category. If there is insufficient evidence in support of your application, or a question mark over whether you qualify for a particular visa or satisfy the general requirements to come to or remain in the UK, further investigations may be warranted.

If you have been asked to provide additional documentation in support of your UK visa application, or have concerns about attending an interview, expert advice should be sought from an immigration specialist to guide you through this process.

Section F: FAQs

How can I check the status of my UK visa application?

There are different ways of checking different types of applications. For example, if you have made a visa extension application from within the UK, there is no online checking service available so you would instead need to call UKVI.

How do I check my VFS application status?

If you have applied overseas for a UK visa and attended an appointment at a visa application centre, you can go to the GOV.UK online tool to track your VFS application status. VFS are the commercial partners used by UKVI to help deliver their overseas visa services. You will be given the option of contacting UKVI by either telephone or email, although email enquiries are more likely to be directed to the caseworker dealing with your application.

How can I check my UK visa status with passport number?

When you first submitted your application for a UK visa, you will have been asked to provide your passport. Once your application has been successfully submitted, you should then have been given a case reference number. You will need to have this number to hand when you phone or email UKVI to check your UK visa status and the progress of your application.

How long does it take to process a UK visa application?

The processing time for a UK visa application varies depending on the type of visa you have applied for and your location. Generally, the UKVI aims to process standard visitor visa applications within three weeks, while other types of visas may take longer. It is advisable to check the UKVI website for the most current processing times relevant to your specific visa category.

What information do I need to check my visa application status?

To check your visa application status, you will need your application reference number, which is typically found on the receipt or email confirmation you received when you submitted your application. Additionally, you may need to provide personal details such as your date of birth and passport number.

What should I do if I do not receive any updates about my visa application?

If you do not receive any updates about your visa application within the expected processing time, you can contact the UKVI for assistance. They provide contact details on their website, including an international contact number and an email address. Ensure you have your application reference number and other relevant details handy when you make your inquiry.

Can I check my visa application status in person?

No, it is not possible to check your visa application status in person. All status inquiries must be made online or through the UKVI’s contact services. However, if you submitted your application through a visa application centre, you may visit the centre for general inquiries and assistance.

Will I be notified once a decision is made on my visa application?

Yes, you will be notified once a decision is made on your visa application. The notification will typically come via email or SMS, depending on the communication preferences you selected when you submitted your application. The decision notification will provide instructions on how to collect your passport and any relevant documents.

Is there a way to expedite my UK visa application status check?

There is no specific service to expedite the status check of your UK visa application. However, the UKVI offers priority and super priority visa processing services for an additional fee, which can expedite the overall processing time of your application. Information about these services is available on the UKVI website.

Section G: Glossary

Section h: additional resources.

UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) https://www.gov.uk/government/organisations/uk-visas-and-immigration The official government site for visa applications, immigration services, and detailed guidance.

Gov.uk – Check Visa Application Status https://www.gov.uk/visa-processing-times Direct link to check the status of your UK visa application online.

Visa and Immigration Enquiries https://www.gov.uk/contact-ukvi-inside-outside-uk Contact page for visa and immigration inquiries, including phone numbers and email addresses for support.

UKVI Guidance Documents https://www.gov.uk/government/collections/immigration-rules A comprehensive library of guidance documents for various visa categories, application procedures, and immigration rules.

Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) https://www.gov.uk/healthcare-immigration-application Information on the Immigration Health Surcharge, including payment and refund details.

Migration Advisory Committee (MAC) https://www.gov.uk/government/organisations/migration-advisory-committee An independent public body that advises the government on migration issues, including visa policies and regulations.

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Founder and Managing Director Anne Morris is a fully qualified solicitor and trusted adviser to large corporates through to SMEs, providing strategic immigration and global mobility advice to support employers with UK operations to meet their workforce needs through corporate immigration.

She is a recognised by Legal 500 and Chambers as a legal expert and delivers Board-level advice on business migration and compliance risk management as well as overseeing the firm’s development of new client propositions and delivery of cost and time efficient processing of applications.

Anne is an active public speaker, immigration commentator , and immigration policy contributor and regularly hosts training sessions for employers and HR professionals

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Legal Disclaimer

The matters contained in this article are intended to be for general information purposes only. This article does not constitute legal advice, nor is it a complete or authoritative statement of the law, and should not be treated as such. Whilst every effort is made to ensure that the information is correct at the time of writing, no warranty, express or implied, is given as to its accuracy and no liability is accepted for any error or omission. Before acting on any of the information contained herein, expert legal advice should be sought.

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Visa Processing Center

How To Check UK Visa Status? UK Visa Tracking with GWF Number

The UK Visa Tracking GWF Number is a unique reference number assigned when you apply for a visa to the United Kingdom .

You can use this number to track your visa application and know the status from ‘Submission’ to ‘Pending for a decision’ to ‘The decision is delivered to your visa application center’. This only allows you to track the status from the VFS side.

How Do I Know My GWF Number?

Well, first question first.

You can get your GWF number after you submit your application online. Your completed visa application form (VAF) should have your GWF number mentioned.

uk visit visa application tracker

You must also use this GWF number to book your appointment and submit biometrics to any of the biometrics partners of the United Kingdom government (eg – VFS Global). Once you submit the biometrics, you will receive an email with the details of your tracking ID and status.

Once you submit the biometrics and documents successfully, your visa application processing officially starts here.

How To Track UK Visa Application With GWF Number?

Well, to be honest, you can’t track your UK visa application for detailed status for free. All you get from the GWF tracker is the following statuses:

  • Your application has been submitted to UKVI.
  • Your Application is Awaiting A Decision
  • Decision Received from UKVI
  • Your Passport is ready to be delivered

Most of the time, stage 1, 2, and 3 comes fast, one after another. UKVI takes a longer time for a decision after you submit the application, depending on the type of visa you are applying for and the complexity of the application.

Steps To Track UK Visa Application with GWF Number

Well, to track your UK visa application with the GWF number, visit the VFS Global Tracking website .

Please note that this link will work only if you have submitted your visa application and biometrics through VFS. For other external service-providing companies, this link won’t work.

You can then put your reference / GWF number on the first field and your last name on the second.

uk visit visa application tracker

Click the submit button, and you will see where your application stand.

You can collect your passport only from the VFS Global office when the status is ‘ready to deliver’. If you purchase a courier service, the passport will be dispatched when your status change to ready to deliver.

Also Read: Countries You Can Visit Visa Free On with A UK Visa

How To Know UKVI Status of Visa Processing

If you want to know how long UKVI will take to give you a visa decision or at which status your visa application stands, you need to send them a paid email. You can’t track the UKVI-specific status from this GWF visa tracker.

To know the personalized status, visit the UKVI contact center website .

uk visit visa application tracker

Click the Start button, and give the detailed information with your query on the next screen. Pay the email reply fee of 2.74 GBP and send the email.

You will receive a reply pretty shortly. UKVI officially asks for 5 working days, but in our experience, we receive email replies within 24-48 hours.

If you have a follow-up query regarding the same issue, you can reply existing email/ ticket for free.

UKVI Phone Number for Visa Status

If you don’t want to wait for an email reply or need someone to explain your situation over the phone, you can directly call UKVI. You can talk to English-speaking agents 24/5, Monday to Friday.

However, if you want to talk to someone in any other language, they have staffs of the following languages:

Local language speakers’ availability depends on the language you choose.

Arabic: Open from Sunday morning until Thursday afternoon, 5 am to 1 pm UK time.

Cantonese: Open from Monday morning until Friday morning, 1 am to 9 am UK time.

French: Open from Monday morning until Friday afternoon, 9 am to 5 pm UK time.

Hindi: Open from Monday to Friday morning, 4 am to midday UK time.

Mandarin: Open from Monday morning until Friday morning, 1 am to 9 am UK time.

Russian: Open from Monday morning until Friday afternoon, 6 am to 2 pm UK time.

Spanish: Open from Monday afternoon until Friday night, 1 pm to 1 am UK time.

The cost of the call will depend on how long you would talk to the agent. Each minute will cost you 69 pence on top of your carrier charges.

Travel Visa Free To 22 Countries with UK Visa On Bangladeshi Passport

Us tourist visa fee for bangladeshi nationals: how to pay, 80 thoughts on “how to check uk visa status uk visa tracking with gwf number”.

I submitted my application for UK visa on 12th April2023, but didn’t got any feedback yet. My tickets are books for 24th May. Please update

I have submitted my passport to ukvi mirpur centre on 8th September 2023 but Im still waiting for my passport collection.I have no update about my visa or passport my last enrolment is 11sep after extension from university.I’m very worried.I don’t have any idea what I do the next.plz give me suggestions.

Did you get any reply?

I submitted application for uk visit visa on 02 may 2023 please update.

I applied for my UK visa on 15 of May 2023 at VFS Kochi ( Kerala) office by priority basis, still now (26 may 2023)I didn’t receive my visa,or any Visa confirmation mail On 16 of May I got one mail Visa Application which has arrived at the UKVI Decision Making Centre and is now awaiting consideration

Please do needful My application number GWF070339752

Hi Arun Kumar u received visa? Please call me I’m manikandan from Kodaikanal 9003269273

Hi sir I applied for priority visa Oct 18th 2023 but I got a mail straightforward 19th Oct right now i didn’t get any response for my visa almost 17 days now no response can pls find that .. than you ref number GWF073200516 name anil mandadapu

Hy did you get your visa

Hi, How long did it take to get your passport back? even I’m in the same situation.

Hey Arun, did you get your visa approved or rejected?

I need updates for my UKVISA application, i hope for fast response GWF069065166

I need an update about my visa ,is up to 15 working days now

Am apply for uk Visa,but unfortunate am not give the visa without knowing the reason and the during the time I was gave I couldn’t see letter that back my passport, so can I know the reason

Within the processing I did not see any messages on my email address or through my phone number

I had applied for UK Visa and provided my biometrics on 4th JULY 2022 from VFS Global Kolkotta Since then my passport is with VFS Global Kolkotta, but till now the Visa has not been granted nor rejected.I would like to request to kindly return my passport so that I can apply for visa to visit other countries .

I need an update about my UK visa, is about 15 working days now GWF070780244

I submitted my application and biometrics on 17th May 2023 and it is now 20 working days. Kindly advise me on status of processing. GWF 070558929 Application reference no (TRN) 100025670900003

GWF 070558929 Application reference no (TRN) 100025670900003 I wrote on 15th June asking to advise me on status of processing my application. There is no response.

Hello sir /ma’m I summited my all documents 5 months working days I when I will get my finally visa. my GWF069290198

I Have applied on 31-05-2023 and still no update on my visa and i need to travel on 27/06/2023 – GWF070960474

Hello, I applied for the visa since 6th of June and it’s now 15 days still processing when do I get my response my holiday is next week? Application ref no. VFS_LM481006704

Hello, I applied for a UK visa on 24/05/2023 in Kampala Uganda. My GWF Number is GWO7O780365. When can I get the response.

British Trit Mohammed Omar who apply for UK innovator Founder Visa try to decided on his visa up on Casework Appendix innovator founder to immigration rules which is seeking experience people establish business in the UK.

Trit Mohammed Omar who apply for UK innovator Visa Complete visa and immigration form and sending get GWF076845616 application number and by using GWF076845616 Tracking our visa to know our visa status?

My Number is GWF070842267 .Please let meknow the status.

I applied for my visa on 8th June 2023. But I have got no response yet. Kind request to please provide an update.

Tracking number: GWF070933429.

Thank you, waiting for your kind response.

Saeda rani apka ketne time ma visa proces complete howa

Hi, applied on 9/6/23 for a UK visa for a school trip for my daughter who is 16. Her application number is GWF070546230, application was made via Tlscontact Cyprus Nicosia. We paid for priority visa, which states 5 days for a decision. We are now 5 days from the trip and we are in no mans land. This is causing a lot of stress to our teenage daughter. Can you please update us on the situation . Thanks

I applied for on 3/07/2023. The application number is GWF071351207. She paid for Priority which states 5 days priority for a decision. We are now 2 days from the travel date to UK.

Can you please update us.

I have applied for viza application on 26 of June still my viza has not yet come today is 13 of July almost 15 days

I applied for a visitor’s visa application submitted on 18th May 2023. Its 8 weeks now no response from the centre. Please let me know how long I’ll need to wait more. My Grandson is starting to get get depressed. My ref: GWF070411837 of 18/05/2023 at Ikeja, Lagos, Nigeria.

I have applied for visa 16 June and I took priority service but I didn’t get any response.Please let me know about my visa process. This is my references no GWF071221333

GWF072928493. Is my GWF. So please Sir. I will looking forward to verifying my own Thanks

I applied for visa 16 June and I took priority service .I didn’t get any response till now plz let me know my visa process.my reference GWF071221333 Thank you

Dear Sir ir Madam I am just a Hepler from Myanmar in Singapore . I very disappointed refused my visiting visa application. As a helper very hard to get a chance to go to UK.This is part of my dream . I work in Singapore about 6 yrs ready.I worked very hard.So my employer want to bring me(1 month) holiday in UK. I just go for my holiday . I am not go work or stay there .I feel very sad . I lost my chance. I can’t goback holiday to my hometown also. Because Myanmar situation is very bad .So please …. give me a chance to go UK .Please …think about for me .god bless u

Thanks …

I have done biometric 22june 2023, they want additional documents in 7th July and i submitted 12july and this time they sent me “Home Office – UKVI – UK Decision Making Centre – Work Sponsored

This is an automated e-mail. Please do not reply.

Please note that this mailbox is for external customers who are contacting us about the following:

To provide further information that we have requested from you in support of an application (Please note that you will not receive an email confirmation from us. If you have received this auto response, your information will have been received and will be linked with your application and actioned)

For all queries relating to both Entry Clearance and applications for Leave to Remain please contact our Enquiry Service. Details can be found here: https://www.gov.uk/contact-ukvi-inside-outside-uk

If you are a Health and Care worker then you have a dedicated inbox for assistance [email protected]

If you require further assistance with the application process or help in deciding which visa you may be eligible for, you may wish to seek advice from an Office of the Immigration Services Commissioner (OISC) regulated Immigration Adviser. A list of these advisers can be found here:

https://www.gov.uk/find-an-immigration-adviser

If you wish to make a complaint details can be found here: https://www.gov.uk/government/organisations/uk-visas-and-immigration/about/complaints-procedure

Please do not send general queries to this mailbox as you will not receive a response

“” how long it may take to get my visa!?!!? Kindly reply I’m really worried about that💔😭

Have you got any reply yet? And please mention your countary also.

Trit Mohammed Omar who apply for UK innovator visa with Reference GWF076050166 but i can’t request the appointment date can You help me?

Dear Sir / MAdam I applied UK visa on 22nd of June and submitted the biometric, I took priority service .I didn’t get any response till now Please let me know my visa process.my reference GWF071397919. and we are travelling by end of this month. Thank you

Have you gotten any replies yet? And please mention your country as well.

Hello, Have you got your decision. If yes, how many days it took?

I do hope UK VISA is not having problems with enough hands to work for them. There’s so much delay in making a decision on almost all the applications for visa. This is causing undue stress for the applicants and their loved ones. The people in charge should please do something and let’s know what the problem is.

I have applied for my Visa on 24th July 2023 on priority visa. Today is 03/08/2023 I have not yet received any communication for my VISA status. Request you to kindly update the status of my VISA, my reference number is GWF071943997. I am worried about as It has been 10 days now.

Application check

Hi my name is Amandeep kaur I applied for uk visa on 10 July now is 7 August still no response

Hi Amandeep, did you get any response from visa office ?

You got reply.

I fapohunda Titilope Victoria apply for a visa since 31st of July, but nothing is heard about it. Please help me

GWF072170268

Others in the arid and dusty yellow losses of Gansu, shall be abandoned perpetually, and those places will return to the wild. By the top of this century China’s inhabitants can be plunging drastically, perhaps dropping in half.

Let me know my UK visa status ,My GWF reference number is GWF072099839.Please let me know as soon as possible that i can prepare for my travel wich is in 3rd September.

Do they really send a feed back on this asked questions. Plz help

Hi My name is Krishan, I recently applied for UK spouse visa on 18rh July it’s been a month still haven’t received any update may I know how long will it take more to make decision thanks.

My name is Rekha. My passport no. is T3054034. I have applied uk visa on 9 August 2023 online but didn’t know the status

Hello, I applied for a UK visa on 04 Aug, 2023 in New Delhi. My GWF Number is GWF071772633. Please let me know When can I get the response.

Hello, I have applied for UK visas on behalf of my spouse and three children and biometrics carried out on 18th may,2023 but didn’t know the status. Their names and particulars are: DJEBAH., (1) Anita C., GWF070230642 (2) Martha O., GWF070234348 (3) Bernard O., GWF070234809 (4) Eseoghene A., GWF070236485.

Pls, let me know via email.

Hello i have applied my student visa on 22nd august and today its 30th august but no response i get also i have taken priority in that they have to give response within 5 working days my refrence number is GWF072476012 please provide my visa as soon as possible because from 18th sept my classes are going to start i have not booked my ticket after visa i have to do all things please provide my result as soon as possible

My ref no. Is GWFO72431709.. did my biometrics on 11th Aug.. please can you update me with my visa status.. need to travel by the 5th.. the visa wait is getting very stressful.. Please revert bk soon.

The present British immigration legal guidelines state that the husbands and wives of European nationals residing in the UL with working rights are normally allowed to achieve everlasting residency so lengthy as they’ve lived together for two years. The people who’re in actual need of security from their dwelling country or from individuals who lived in other nations are additionally allowed within the standard statutes of Canadian immigration. Equally, if you are a British national but not yet a citizen, or lived in the UK for a period as a toddler, this may have an effect on the type of utility you make. Whether you’re making an utility or need to hunt recommendation on what to do next – we can assist. Numerous authorized translation providers have already been supplying their help translation many legalised records which function rules, evident paperwork, legal contracts and many others. This is actually the primary reason that has given rise to expert trade consultants in this area. For like vital information, it is always really helpful to merely search the companies of expert and esteemed corporations that have industry consultants with enough experience in search engine advertising. Utilizing this method, some firms are making sure that the proper job goes to the best professional.

GWF072476012 hi my name is sameer i have applied for my student visa on 22nd aug 2023 with priority but till now i have not received my result can you please tell me why it is getting late as i have paid priority fees also what the use of that fees if i have to wait long

Hello, I applied for a UK study visa on 22 Aug, 2023 in Chandigarh. My GWF Number is GWF072476012. Please let me know When can I get the response. Also i have applied my visa on priority basis.

Hello someone apply visa for what I noticed is that I received message on my email which the message is Approval visa: My full name Tracking code Don’t disclose this to anyone is a miss of your identification. I I notice I that he supposed to have come with the of the country i apply with and the type of Visa I put in

Hi Arun here from Mumbai India, I have done my biom on 5th Aug 2023 on standard type (health and care visa) . On 23rd Aug received NSF MAIL, After that nothing till Today is 06/09/2023 I have not yet received any communication for my VISA status. Request you to kindly update the status of my VISA, my reference number is GWF072377002.

Hi, Mayur Kothari here I have done my biometrics on 31st August through VSF global Pune for UK visa and still I have not any further communication by them. My visa application was priority one. Usually you had mention that priority visa come in 7 days and that time have been completed.

Request to you kindly update the status of my VISA. My reference number is GWF072920966

Hi, I completed by biometrics on 25th of August through VSF global Singapore for UK visa (it was priority application) It’s mentioned that priority visa can come in 5 working days, but I have not received any notification yet.

Request to you kindly update the status of my VISA. My reference number is GWF072751003

I have done my biometric on 19 September on priority visa services but i have not receive any mail regarding my visa . Please let me know about my visa status

Hi sir I applied for priority visa Oct 18th 2023 but I got a mail straightforward 19th Oct right now i didn’t get any response for my visa almost 17 days now no response can pls find that .. than you

Good morning, I have done my biometric on 22/09/23 on priority visa service but I have not received any emails regarding to my visa. Kindly, let me know about the progressive of my visa .

Hi, I have applied for my visa on priority basis on September, 08 of 2023 with my dependent but haven’t received any response. My classes have already been started. Please send me an email of acknowledgement. Details are given below: GWF072758510 GWF072756693

Dear Sir, With the greatest respect could you please track my student visa status which was applied on August 28, 2023, and has not received any update till now? Name: Emmanuel Adjei Ref no: GWF072879227

I have submitted my standard visitor Visa through TLSContact in Palestine. biometric date on 20th September 2023 Transferred to UKVI on 25th September 2023. TLSContact email decision has been made and another email that passport will be received within 5 to 7 business days on 9th October 2023. No email from UKVI yet as of 10th October 2023.

Please help me to track my visa application Name versha versha Ref no. GWF073433525

I am Ahmed Nejash i was applied visa Health care work by universal visa consultant and i am out side uk (from ethiopia).

I never got a GWF number

GWF074657769 CAN YOU PLEASE UPDATE THE STATUS.

Kindly update me about GWF074725373

Kindly update me on GWF073682955. I submitted my application since October 2023. It is like 4months now.

Hi, below mentioned my reference no for uk visa.

GWF076230856 I have already submitted my passport in UK Embassy on 02 April 24 how much time it will take.

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How do I track my UK visa status?

Tracking your UK visa application status can be difficult to do. This guide outlines everything you need to know about how to check the progress of your application.

Do you need help applying for a UK visa or assistance with UK visa tracking? Our expert immigration lawyers are ready to assist you with your case, no matter how complex your situation is.

Phone  +44 (0) 333 4149 244  to speak to our advisers today.

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How to Track UK Visa Application

How can I track the progress of my UK visa status?

The process to track your UK visa status is different depending on whether you apply from inside or outside the UK.

 How to check UK visa status inside the United Kingdom

It is not possible to track your visa application online but it may be possible to contact the relevant department processing your application.

To check your status, you may  contact UK Visas and Immigration ((UKVI)  the Home Office body in charge of processing visas in the UK).

You can ask about the progress of your application but you cannot receive information or advice about your personal circumstances.

The phone number for UKVI is 0300 790 6268. The phone service is available from Monday to Thursday 9:00 – 16:45 and Fridays 09:00 – 16:30 excluding bank holidays. Calls cost between 16p – £3.60 per minute.

Checking your status outside the United Kingdom

If you submit your visa application from outside the UK, you will be required to attend a visa application centre in the country where you are resident.

You will have to submit your biometric information at your local visa application centre, but UKVI will issue the decision on your application.

You can contact UKVI for a decision on your application but there are costs involved in checking this information.

If you wish to contact them by email, you can use this  contact page  to get in touch. You will be charged £2.74 for your initial email and any related follow-up emails.

uk visit visa application tracker

What do you need to track your UK visa status?

To track your status by contacting UKVI, you will need the provide the following information:

Your Case Identification Number or ‘CaseID’

This should be included on all letters you have received from the Home Office and should be an 8 digit number, for example, 12345678.

Payment Reference Number

After you have submitted payment for your application, you should receive a payment reference number that you can use to track the status of your UK visa application. It should follow this format: AG1234567890/123

Your Unique Application Number

This is a 16-digit number that will be on all letters and emails you receive from UKVI.

Your Biometric Residence Permit Number

This is a combination of letters and numbers and can be found on your biometric residence permit number. All new BRPs will expire at the end of 2024. If you have permission to stay in the UK longer, you’ll switch to using an eVisa before your BRP expires

Your Immigration Health Surcharge number

If you had to pay the NHS immigration health surcharge when making your application, you should receive a number after payment. It will be a combination of numbers and letters in the following format, for example: IHS123456789

Can I speed up my UK Visa Status?

If you have used any of the following forms, you may be able to get a decision on your visa within 5 working days. This service only applies to the following visas:

You will need to download and fill in these request and payment forms from the Home Office. Only the first 5 requests received each day between 8 am and midday between Monday and Thursday are accepted.

The cost for this service is £500 per person, in addition to the main application fee. This does not make it more likely your visa will be approved, it just means a decision will be made quicker.

When individuals submit their UK visa application to the Home Office, one of the most unknown parts is the waiting time. The Home Office keeps up-to-date processing times for the key visas on its website. However, the exact time can vary on a case-by-case basis. It is important to respond to any requests for additional information as soon as possible to avoid delays.

Contact us today if you have any questions or concerns regarding UK visas.

Typical Standard UK Visa Processing Times

The processing duration for your UK visa application is dependant on whether it’s for entering or remaining in the UK and the specific visa category you’re applying for. Typically, visas requested from abroad tend to have quicker processing times.

In cases where you’re seeking to stay in the UK, you can generally stay during the processing period, provided you’ve applied before your current visa expires.

Common Reasons For Visa Application Delays

For straightforward visa applications, processing occurs within standard timeframes set out by UKVI. However, complex cases may experience delays.

Delays can occur from processing backlogs due to global events such as the pandemic or busy holiday time-periods, outstanding document verification, interviews, or personal factors such as your immigration history or criminal record.

If there’s insufficient evidence or uncertainty about eligibility, further examination may be required. If requested to submit additional documents or if you’re concerned about an interview, seeking advice from an immigration specialist is advisable. Contact IAS today on  +44 (0) 333 4149 244.

In cases where you’re seeking to stay in the UK, you can generally stay during the processing period, provided you’ve applied before your current visa expires. UKVI provides estimated processing times on its website.

How can IAS help with my UK visa application?

IAS is a firm of experienced immigration lawyers who have extensive experience in assisting clients with their visa applications. Every immigration case is different and complex, and we understand the importance of receiving a successful decision on your application.

Your dedicated immigration lawyer will work closely with you to understand your case and identify your goal. We work with you throughout each step of the process, from assessing your eligibility, to completing your application, to liaising with UKVI on your behalf and monitor UK visa tracking.

Our immigration lawyers can also help if you want to track your UK visa status. We work closely with you throughout the entire process, communicating with you regularly and giving you regular updates. For a confidential discussion, contact our friendly client care team to discuss your case. We look forward to helping you achieve your goal.

We have offices based in  London ,  Manchester , and  Birmingham , as well as in  many other locations  throughout the UK. We look forward to assisting with your case.

Phone  +44 (0) 333 4149 244  to speak to us today about your visa.

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How To Check Your UK Visa Application Status

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Richmond Chambers Immigration Barristers weblink

If you've applied for a UK visa, waiting for a decision can be a stressful experience, particularly if you have a travel deadline or other important plans. Fortunately, the UK visa application process allows applicants to track the progress of their UK visa application and check their UK visa application status.

In this post, we'll walk you through the various ways you can check your UK visa application status, so that you can stay informed and up-to-date throughout the UK visa application process.

We also provide some useful additional information for anyone who is looking to track the status of a UK visa application, including Home Office service standards for deciding a UK visa application, how to find out current UK visa processing times, the factors that can delay a decision on a UK visa application, how to speed up a decision on a UK visa application and how to chase a delayed decision on a UK visa application.

The Importance of Checking Your UK Visa Application Status

Checking your UK visa application status is an important step in the application process. It allows you to stay informed and can give you an idea of how much longer you may have to wait for a decision. By checking your UK visa application status regularly, you can ensure that your application is moving through the process as expected and that there are no issues or delays.

Additionally, tracking your UK visa application status can help you identify any errors or omissions in your application and allow you to correct them before it's too late. For example, if you notice that your application has been pending for longer than the average processing time , you may want to contact UKVI to enquire about the status of your application and ensure that there are no issues that need to be addressed.

By checking your UK visa application status, you can plan ahead and make any necessary arrangements. For example, if you receive a notification that your application has been approved, you can start making travel plans or booking accommodation. Alternatively, if you receive a notification that your UK visa application has been refused, you may need to consider reapplying or seeking legal advice regarding an immigration appeal , administrative review or judicial review .

Therefore, it is highly recommended that you regularly check your UK visa application status to stay informed and ensure a smooth UK visa application process.

What Information Do You Need to Check Your UK Visa Application Status?

To check your UK visa application status, you will need certain information about your application. Here are the key pieces of information that you may need:

Personal and contact details: You may need to provide your first name, last name, nationality, date of birth and the email address used on your application form. These details may be used to verify your identity and ensure that you are authorised to access the status of your application.

Passport number: You may need to provide the passport number that you used when you applied for your UK visa. This is another way to verify your identity and ensure that you are authorised to access the status of your application.

Type of visa applied for: As part of the process to track the progress on your immigration application, you may need to confirm the category of UK visa or immigration route that you applied for.

Date of application or biometrics: You may need to provide the date of your visa or immigration application, as well as the date when you provided your biometric information.

Place of application: If you wish to check the status of a UK visa application that was submitted overseas, you may need to provide the location of the visa application centre.

GWF reference number: This is a 9 digit (GWFxxxxxxxxx) unique reference number that may have been assigned to your application when you submitted it. You may need to enter this number in order to check your application status.

Application reference number: Depending on the type of visa you applied for, you may also have been given a 16 digit (xxxx-xxxx-xxxx-xxxx) unique application reference number. If you have been given an application reference number, you may need to enter it when you track your UK visa application status.

Immigration Health Surcharge reference number (if applicable): If you paid the Immigration Health Surcharge then you may be asked to provide your IHS number when tracking the decision on your UK visa application.

It's important to ensure that you have all of the necessary information and documents at hand before attempting to check your UK visa application status. This will help you avoid any unnecessary delays or complications, and ensure that you are able to access the information you need as quickly and easily as possible.

How to Check the Status of Your UK Visa Application Outside the UK

1. Using the VFS Global website

Step-by-step instructions for checking your UK visa application status on the VFS Global website:

You can track the progress of your out-of-country UK visa application on the VFS Global website:

  • Go to the VFS Global website: Start by visiting the VFS Global website at https://www.vfsglobal.co.uk/ in your web browser.
  • Select your VAC location: Select the location of the visa application centre where you provided your biometric information.
  • Click on 'Track your application': At the top of the page for your VFS Global visa application centre, you may see a section called 'Track your application'. If so, click on this section to begin the process of tracking your application status (If you cannot see a section called 'Track your application' then proceed to '3. Using the UKVI website' below.).
  • Click on 'Track your visa application status online': You will see 'track your visa application status online' highlighted in orange. Click on this to be taken to a login page.
  • Enter your reference number: The reference number may be your GWF number or your VAC reference number, depending on the type of visa you applied for. Enter the number in the appropriate field.
  • Enter your last name: You will also need to enter your last name in the appropriate field.
  • Click 'Submit': Once you have entered all of the required information, confirm that you are not a robot and click the 'Submit' button to view your application status.
  • View your application status: You should now be able to view the status of your UK visa application. The status may indicate that your application is being processed, or that a decision has been made. If a decision has been made, you may also be able to view the details of the decision, such as whether your application has been approved or refused.

If you have any questions or concerns about your UK visa application status, you can contact VFS Global customer service for assistance. Their contact details can be found on the 'Contact us' page of the VFS Global website.

2. Using the TLScontact website

Step-by-step instructions for checking your UK visa application status on the TLScontact website:

You can track the progress of your out-of-country UK visa application on the TLScontact website:

  • Open your confirmation email from UK Visas and Immigration: Start by locating the confirmation email that you received from UK Visas and Immigration when you set up your visa application form.
  • Sign into your application: Next, click on the link in the email and sign into your application on the GOV.UK website by entering your password and clicking 'Sign in'.
  • Navigate to the TLScontact website: Once signed in, click on 'Provide Documents and Biometrics' and then on 'Continue'. You will now be redirected to your account on the TLScontact website.
  • Select 'Track' : Select 'Track' to view the status of your application in real-time.
  • View your application status: You should now be able to view the status of your UK visa application. The status should indicate whether biometric enrolment has been completed, whether your application has been transferred to and received by the decision-making centre (DMC), whether the decided application has been transferred to and received by the visa application centre (VAC) and whether you have picked your passport up from the VAC.

If you have any questions or concerns about your UK visa application status, you can contact TLScontact support by clicking on the 'Contact us' page on the TLScontact website.

3. Using the UKVI website

Step-by-step instructions for checking the status of your UK visa application on the UKVI website:

You can track the progress of your out-of-country UK visa application on the UKVI website. Please note that this is a paid-for service. Queries about the progress of a UK visa application cost £2.74. This cost includes an initial email enquiry plus any follow-up emails that you send relating to the same enquiry:

  • Go to the UKVI website: Start by visiting the UKVI website at https://ukvi.mysecurepay.co.uk/Home in your web browser.
  • Click on 'Start': You will see 'Start' highlighted in green. Click on this to be taken to the next page.
  • Click on 'General Enquiry': You will see 'General Enquiry' highlighted in green. Click on this to be taken to an online form.
  • Complete the online form: Complete all the fields on the online form. In the 'Enquiry' box you should make clear that you are enquiring about the status of your application. If the standard processing time has been exceeded then you should mention this.
  • Click on 'Continue': You should now be able to proceed to enter your payment details and confirm.
  • Click on 'Submit': If you do not select 'Submit' then your enquiry will not be completed and you will not be charged. You should receive a reply to your query within 5 days, except on Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays and UK public holidays.

4. Contacting UKVI by telephone

Instructions for checking the status of your UK visa application with UKVI by telephone:

You can track the progress of your out-of-country UK visa application by calling UKVI on +44 (0)300 790 6268 and selecting option 1.

The telephone line is open 24 hours a day, Monday to Friday.

Calls cost 69 pence per minute on top of your standard network charges.

If you cannot contact UK 0300 numbers, then use +44 (0)203 875 4669.

How to Track the Status of Your UK Visa Application Inside the UK

1. Using the UKVCAS website

Unfortunately, UKVCAS does not provide any application status updates on its website.

If you have any questions or concerns about the application status of an in-country immigration application, you should contact UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) instead (proceed to '4. Contacting UKVI by telephone' below).

2. Contacting UKVCAS by telephone

It is also not possible to telephone UKVCAS to check the progress of an immigration application.

Unfortunately, UKVI does not provide any application status updates on its website (proceed to '4. Contacting UKVI by telephone' below).

Instructions for checking the status of your in-country UK immigration application with UKVI by telephone:

You can track the progress of your in-country immigration application by calling the UKVI contact centre on 0300 790 6268 and selecting option 2.

The telephone line is open 9am to 4:45pm on Monday to Thursday (excluding bank holidays) and 9am to 4:30pm on Friday (excluding bank holidays).

Information on call charges can be found here .

Frequently Asked Questions About Checking UK Visa Application Status

Does UKVI have standard processing times for UK visa applications?

UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) has published service standards for waiting times for decisions on visa and immigration applications. If you want to track the status of a UK visa application then it is useful to refer to these.

If a UK visa application includes all relevant information and supporting documents (and the Home Office does not need to request further evidence or explanation) then the following waiting time customer service standards should apply:

  • Non-settlement visa applications submitted outside the UK: 90% to be decided within 3 weeks; 98% within 6 weeks and 100% within 12 weeks of the application date (where 1 week is 5 working days);
  • Settlement visa applications submitted outside the UK: 98.5% of settlement applications to be decided within 12 weeks of the application date and 100% within 24 weeks of the application date (where 1 week is 5 working days);
  • Applications for leave to remain submitted within the UK, including as spouses, workers and students: 8 weeks to be decided;
  • Applications for indefinite leave to remain (ILR) submitted within the UK: 6 months to be decided;
  • Applications for no time limit (NTL) submitted within the UK: 6 months to be decided;
  • Organisations seeking to sponsor a worker: 8 weeks;
  • Organisations updating their sponsor licence details: 18 weeks.

These service standards are the visa processing times that UKVI aims to deliver on for the processing of straightforward, complete applications, based on its customer charter . Actual UK visa processing times can vary considerably. However, if the service standard has been exceeded then this is a factor that can be raised as part of any attempt to chase a delayed decision .

What Are the Current Home Office UK Visa Processing Times?

Aside from its customer service standards for visa processing, the Home Office also publishes up-to-date information on current processing times for visa and immigration applications submitted both within the UK and outside the UK.

Up-to-date information on current UK Visa processing times for all the main immigration routes can be found in our post:

  • UK Visa Processing & Decision Waiting Times

If you wish to track the status of your UK visa application then, in addition to referring to the customer service standard, it may be helpful to refer to these published current processing times in order to ascertain approximately how long it should take for your pending UK visa application to be decided.

What Factors Can Delay UK Visa Processing Times?

When you check the status of your UK visa application you should be aware that there are a number of factors which can delay UK visa processing times and cause the customer service standard and/or the current processing time to be exceeded, including:

  • The complexity of the case, for example if it involves an assessment of Article 8 ECHR rights or derivative rights of EEA extended family members;
  • Concerns regarding suitability requirements such as criminality;
  • Consideration of any adverse immigration history;
  • Any concerns regarding the authenticity of documents;
  • The volume of documents provided;
  • Whether further investigations are required or an interview scheduled;
  • The capacity of caseworkers; and
  • The time of the year.

If you are looking to check your UK visa application status then it is worth keeping in mind that there is no published service standard for waiting times for more complex applications and UKVI has a wide margin of appreciation with regard to the timing of their decisions.

How Can I Get a Faster Decision on a UK Visa Application?

UK Visas & Immigration offers a 'priority service' and a 'super priority service' for applicants who, for an additional fee, wish to receive a faster decision on their UK visa application. Selecting one of these premium services at the point of application will ensure that an application is placed at the front of the queue at every stage of the decision-making process.

In our comprehensive guide to UK Visa Premium and Priority Services, we look at the Priority Service and Super Priority Service in detail, covering everything from processing times, to current availability, costs and whether an application is likely to be suitable for an expedited decision:

  • A Guide to UK Visa Premium and Priority Services

How Can I Chase a Delayed UK Visa Application?

It is deeply frustrating when the Home Office takes longer than stated on its website to process a visa or immigration application. If the processing of your UK visa application has been delayed then, as well as tracking the progress on your UK visa application, you may wish to consider taking additional steps to chase a decision on your UK visa application.

We explain how to chase a delayed UK Visa or immigration decision in 6 steps in our post:

  • How to Chase a Delayed UK Visa Application

In conclusion, checking your UK visa application status is a crucial step in the application process, as it will allow you to stay informed and up-to-date on the progress of your application.

Whether you use the VFS Global website, the TLScontact website, the UKVI website or the UKVI telephone enquiry lines, it's important to ensure that you have all the necessary information to hand before checking your status.

Remember to be patient, as processing times can vary depending on the type of visa you have applied for and the nature of your application.

By following the steps outlined in this post, you'll be able to check your UK visa application status with ease and plan your next steps accordingly. Good luck with your application!

The content of this article is intended to provide a general guide to the subject matter. Specialist advice should be sought about your specific circumstances.

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How To Track Your UK Visa Application - An Informative Guide

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Comprehensive Guide For UK Visa Tracking

Visiting the Brits!

VISA is an abbreviation for Visitors International Stay Admission. A visa is an approval added to a passport that gives the bearer formal authorisation to enter, depart from, or remain in a country for a predetermined time. If you are applying for a student or work visa, applying at least 90 days before your travel date is essential. It usually takes 7-10 working days for your visa to be approved and delivered to your home.

In this blog, We will review how to track UK visa applications and provide step-by-step instructions on everything from online UK visa tracking to how to accomplish UK visa tracking GWF numbers. This blog will also go over how to use your passport number to verify the status of your UK visa. By adhering to these steps, you can stay informed about the UK visa monitoring procedure and guarantee a smooth voyage.

How To Check UK Visa Status?

Your UK visa tracking can be done in three ways. Usually, people do it online independently, but one can check UK visa status via SMS and Mail. Below are the instructions for checking your visa application status;

Online Visa Status Check

  • Official Government Websites : You can visit the British Consulate's official website for this UK student visa tracking process. These websites have a dedicated section to check visa status and to track UK visa applications where an applicant enters the details to check UK visa status.
  • VFS Global or Visa Processing Centers : If you have submitted your application through a visa processing centre such as VFS Global, they typically provide a portal that allows you to track the status of your visa. You can access this portal by logging in with your application reference number.
  • SMS : Please ensure you've provided your active mobile number during your UK visa application. The consulate will send updates via email and SMS, offering insights into your application progress. You can also check your status by texting 7333 from your mobile. ‍
  • Email Updates : This option will be your last resort to check your UK visa status if you cannot use the online tracking system. Search the British Consulate's official website for the correct email address. In the email, ask for an update on the status of your UK visa. Make it quite clear that you want to know how your application for a UK visa is going. The British Consulate normally answers enquiries on the status of visas in 3 working days.

Offline Visa Status Check

  • Through Embassy or Consulate Visits : You can visit the nearest embassy or consulate of the country you're applying to and inquire about your visa status in person. Make sure to carry your application reference number and identification.
  • Phone Lines : Many consulates offer dedicated phone hotlines that you can call to check your visa status. Prepare your application details and identification before making the call. ‍
  • Authorized Agents : If you used an authorized visa agent or consultant for your application, you can contact them to check your visa status. They often have direct access to visa processing updates.

What Are The Causes Of UK Visa Application Delay?

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Many factors contribute to the causes of UK visa application delays, but understanding these reasons can help applicants in a faster and smoother application process. Here are some of the UK visa application delays you need to consider:

  • Document Verification : In some cases, you might encounter issues with the documents you have submitted for the verification process. To avoid this, ensure that all your documents are sorted and meet the specific criteria outlined by UK authorities.
  • High Demand for Visas : During peak seasons or when there's a surge in visa applications, the processing time may naturally increase. Be mindful of application deadlines and apply well in advance.
  • Health Issues : If there is any health check-up that needs to be done, do it on a priority basis. If not, then the delay in obtaining medical reports might slow down the UK visa application process.
  • Interview Requirements : In this application process, applicants are sometimes also requested to attend an interview. Scheduling and conducting these interviews can also add up to the UK visa application delay list. ‍
  • Administrative Errors : The administration should properly rectify all the mistakes that might occur during the verification process, such as incorrect information or any type of missing details. If not rectified properly, it might lead to further UK visa application delays.

How To Check Your UK Visa Application Status For In-Country Applications?

Most of the UK visa applications flow through the UK visa citizenship application services (UKVCAS). Though the UKVCAS process aims to speed up the process of in-country applications, it cannot answer any queries about the status of your application. If you need to find more information about your submitted UK visa application, then you can hear the feedback by visiting the GOV.UK website for more updates. 

To track the UK visa application status for in-country applications, you need to use an online tool to obtain information about the right department to contact for your particular application. These online tools will ask you a series of questions, such as the case reference number assigned at the time of applying. 

They will provide you with contact information about different departments at UKVI. If you require any help, you can reach out to the contact centre of UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) at 0300 790 6268 . To inquire about citizenship you can get in touch with the Citizenship and Nationality Enquiries team via email at [email protected] .

How To Check UK Visa Application Status For Out Of Country Applications?

For out-of-country applications, you need to visit the visa application centre of your country. During your appointment, you will be required to provide your information and submit all the required documents to support your application. Below are a few methods which will help you to check UK visa application status for out-of-country applications.

  • Using the UKVI Website : For all out-of-country applications, visit the UKVI website. They offer a 'General Enquiry' service for a fee of £2.74 per application. This fee covers the cost of the email and any follow-up correspondence. You will need to provide payment using a credit or debit card, but don't worry; you will only be charged once your message is successfully sent. 
  • Using TLScontact Website : You can also visit the TLScontact website and log in to your account. Select 'Track' to get real-time updates on your application status.
  • Using VFS Global Website : On the VFS Global website, choose the visa centre where you have submitted your biometrics. Choose 'Track your application.' If this option isn't available, you can try the UKVI website.

Documents Needed To Track UK Visa Application

Below are the documents needed to track the status of your UK visa application:

  • Payment Reference Number : This special number can be used as documentation or proof that application fees have been paid. You can simultaneously use the payment reference number to look up the status of your UK visa.
  • Unique Application Number : A unique 16-digit number that may be found on all emails and letters that the immigration office sends to you.
  • Case Identifying Number : You can UK visa application using this number as well, an additional 8-digit special identifying number that the visa office provides in its correspondence.
  • Immigration Health Surcharge Reference Number : You receive an IHS alphanumeric number when you pay the national health surcharge. This number will help you in checking the status of your UK visa application. 
  • Passport Number : You may quickly follow the status of your visa application using the passport number that your government has issued to track your UK visa application
  • GWF Reference Number : When you initially apply for a UK visa, you are given a GWF (Global Web Form) number. Your UK visa tracking GWF number is a special serial or reference number. You can see it in emails and letters about your UK visa application tracking that you receive from the Home Office or the UK Embassy.

Additionally, if you’ve availed of a student loan , then those documents would also be preferred. And here is a comprehensive guide to understanding more about UK visas for Indians. Know about it and get familiar with the process, fees and deadlines for the UK visa.

Here is a comprehensive guide to understand more about UK visas for Indians . Know about it and get familiar with the process, fees and deadlines for the UK visa.

Types of UK Visa Applications And Their Processing Time

One can issue numerous types of visas, depending on the reason for visiting the UK and the time period. Three visa types stand out, popularly pursued by people travelling to the UK.

1. UK Standard Visitor Visa

Validity: 6 months

Applicable: Everyone

Visa Processing Time: 3-4 weeks

Application Fee: 10,000-15,000 INR

This sort of visa would be appropriate for someone travelling to the UK for a short visit, to attend your graduation, or to stay in the UK temporarily. Standard visitors can stay in the UK for up to six months in any 12 months of the year. Additionally, one can apply for a priority or super priority visa service ( extra charges applicable) if available in the country where it is applied. One can check the UK visa status in their mail to be updated on the process.

2. Student Visa

Validity: 2-4 years

Applicable: Students

Visa Processing Time: 3 weeks

Application Fee: 20,000-40,000 INR

The student visa is reasonably valid for the duration of your academic programme. For instance, if your course duration is two years, your student visa validity will also be two years. Similarly, a graduation visa will permit you to stay an additional two years after graduation to find a suitable job. Students can check their UK visa status online or verify their identity at a visa application centre to speed up the process. As soon as you get a student visa, you can look into the best student discounts in the UK to make your student journey more seamless.

3. Work Visa

Applicable: Employee or potential employee

Application fee: 20,000-60,000 INR

You can apply for a skilled worker or general work visa if you anticipate a new job or transfer to the UK. Work visas can be renewed because you still have the same job. You could also be updated on your UK visa application tracking on the UK immigration ID check app. Your chances of getting a work visa approved can be increased if you have a job offer in hand and the occupation comes under the skill shortage list. 

Up until now, you must have understood everything about the UK visa application status, but you should also be prepared in case your UK visa gets rejected . There might be many reasons behind it; just follow a proper verification process and provide everything that is needed at the visa application center.

How To Contact The UK Visa And Immigration Department?

If you are outside the UK and you are facing problems with UK visa application tracking, in such cases, you can reach the UK Visa and Immigration Department at + 44 (0)844 8920232 . Please be mindful that calls to this number will be charged at a rate of £0.04 per minute in addition to the access fee from your carrier. From 9:00 to 17:30 on Monday through Friday, the helpline is available. You could ask questions, and address UK visa tracking information through this process.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does priority and super priority visa mean, where are the visa centres in india, how much does a visa application cost, what is vfs, how long will it take for my visa to arrive.

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Check Visa Status UK: Track your application

Setting off for the UK? The first step is getting your UK Visa sorted and waiting for approval. Embark on your adventure to the United Kingdom with ease by mastering the UK Visa process.

It's not just about applying for your United Kingdom Visitor Visa ; tracking your application is crucial, too. This guide offers a straightforward approach to monitoring your UK Visa status , shedding light on official procedures, and navigating any challenges that might come up during the process.

Prepare for an unforgettable journey with all the essential information at your fingertips!

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Importance of tracking your United Kingdom Visa status

Embark on a seamless voyage to the United Kingdom by staying ahead in the visa process. Monitoring your UK Visa status isn't just a formality; it's a pivotal step in ensuring your journey unfolds smoothly.

Monitoring your UK Visa status also helps you stay informed about any updates or requests from the UK Visa and Immigration (UKVI) authorities. It ensures prompt response to any additional documentation or information they may require to process your application.

Step-by-step guide: How to check your UK visa application status

You'll need specific details to track your UK Visa application status. Here's a rundown of what you may require:

Personal info: You might have to fill out your basic info, like your first name, last name, nationality, date of birth, and the email you used in the visa application.

Passport number: The passport number you use when applying for your UK visa is crucial. It's another way to confirm your identity and access your UK Visa application status.

Visa type: To track your immigration application progress, you must confirm the category of UK Visa or immigration path you applied for.

Application dates: It’s essential to provide the date you submitted your visa or immigration application.

Application location: If you're checking the status of a UK Visa application submitted abroad, you'll need to specify the location of the visa application center.

GWF reference number: This unique 9-digit (GWFxxxxxxxxx) reference number is assigned to your application file. You may need it to check your application status.

Application reference number: Depending on the type of visa you applied for, you might also have received a unique 16-digit (xxxx-xxxx-xxxx-xxxx) application reference number . If you have one, enter it when tracking your UK Visa application status.

Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) Reference Number (if applicable): If you paid the Immigration Health Surcharge , you may be asked for your IHS number when tracking your UK Visa application decision.

Ensure you have all this info before attempting to check your UK Visa application status. Having everything ready will help you avoid unnecessary delays and make it easier to access the information you require swiftly.

How to check your visa status from outside the UK

Here’s how you can check your UK Visa status from outside the country:

On the VFS Global Website

Go to the VFS Global site .

Choose the visa center location where you provided your biometric data.

Click 'Track your application' on the visa center's page.

Select 'Track your visa application status online.'

Enter your reference number and last name.

Click 'Submit' and view your application status.

On the TLS contact Website

Check your email from UK Visas and Immigration.

Use the link in the email to sign in on GOV.UK.

Click 'Provide Documents and Biometrics,' then 'Continue' to reach TLS contact.

Select 'Track' for real-time updates on your application.

On the UKVI Website (Paid Service)

Visit the official UK Government website .

Click 'Start' and 'General Enquiry' on the next page.

Complete the online form and mention your application status query.

Proceed to enter payment details and click 'Submit.' You'll get a response within 5 days (except on weekends).

Contact UKVI by phone

Call +44 (0)300 790 6268 , select option 1.

The line is open 24 hours daily, Mondays to Fridays .

Calls cost extra on top of your standard network charges .

If you can't dial UK 0300 numbers, use +44 (0)203 875 4669 .

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How to check your visa status from inside the UK

You can use the channels we mentioned before, but in this case, it’ll be easier to contact UKVI by telephone.

You can call the UKVI contact center by telephone at 0300 790 6268 and select option 2 for more details on your UK Visa status.

They are available from Monday to Thursday (excluding bank holidays), 9 am to 4:45 pm, and Friday (excluding bank holidays), 9 am to 4:30 pm.

The meaning of the different UK Visa status updates

Let's explore the different UK Visa statuses that you may encounter during your visa application:

Application Received: Your application has been successfully received by the UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) office and is in the queue for processing.

Application Under Consideration: UKVI reviews your application and verifies the information.

Processing: This means UKVI is still processing your application. It could take several weeks or even months, depending on the type of UK Visa.

Visa Granted (Approved): Your visa application has been approved. You’ll receive more info about how to pick up your visa and more (if applicable) by email soon.

Visa Refused: Unfortunately, your application wasn’t approved. You’ll be able to view the details of the rejection online.

Issued: A visa vignette will be placed in your passport after your visa is approved. The visa vignette will state the duration and conditions of your stay. Remember to check all the details carefully to ensure they match the information you offered in your UK Visa application.

Types of UK Visas: Immigrant and nonimmigrant categories

The UK offers a range of visas categorized into immigrant (also known as settlement visas) and nonimmigrant (also known as temporary visas or leave to remain) categories.

Find an overview below!

Nonimmigrant (Temporary) Visas for the United Kingdom

Here are the different types of short-stay visas for the UK:

Tourist Visa (Standard Visitor Visa) : This visa allows travelers to visit the UK for tourism or to visit family and friends. It’s typically granted for stays of up to 6 months .

Student Visa (Tier 4 or Student Route): Intended for international students pursuing a full-time course in the UK. The duration depends on the length of the course.

Temporary Work Visa (Tier 5): For people participating in temporary work, including youth mobility and creative and sporting categories.

Immigrant (Settlement) Visas for the United Kingdom

Here are the different types of immigrant visas for the UK:

Family Visa: This visa was created for spouses, civil partners, unmarried partners, parents, and children of British citizens or settled persons, allowing them to settle in the UK.

Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR): Also known as settlement, ILR grants individuals permanent residency in the UK. It's typically available after several years of legal residence.

Ancestry Visa: As an immigrant category, this visa allows Commonwealth citizens with a UK-born grandparent to settle in the UK.

Refugee and Asylum Seeker Status: Granted to people fleeing persecution, conflict, or danger in their home country. It provides protection and a pathway to settlement.

Investor Visa (Tier 1 Investor): For high-net-worth citizens willing to invest a significant amount in the UK, leading to settlement.

Entrepreneur Visa (Tier 1 Entrepreneur): For those looking to establish or take over a business in the UK, eventually leading to settlement.

Work Visa (Tier 2 or Skilled Worker Visa): For skilled workers offered employment in the UK. The duration varies based on the specific job offer.

Addressing common issues with the UK Visa application: Troubleshooting guide

Here’s a short guide with some of the most common issues regarding the UK Visa application status. Take note of these so you can obtain your visa without issues before your trip:

Application delays:

Issue: Visa processing is taking longer than expected.

Solution: Check standard processing times online, and contact UKVI for updates on your UK Visa application status, as in the above examples, if necessary.

Visa refusal

Issue: UK Visa application refusal.

Solution: Review refusal reasons, seek legal advice if needed, or reapply with corrections.

Biometric enrollment problems

Issue: Biometric data issues at the UK Visa application center.

Solution: Contact VAC for assistance or rescheduling if requested.

Document authentication

Issue: You submitted documents in another language than English.

Solution: Get certified translations and copies, and follow the official UK government website guidelines.

Online application errors

Issue: Errors during the online application on the website.

Solution: Check if all information is correctly filled out, try different devices or browsers, and seek help from the contact center if needed

Communication with UKVI

Issue: Difficulty in contacting UKVI (government).

Solution: Use official contact details, be persistent, and consider emailing for non-urgent inquiries.

Appointment availability

Issue: Limited appointment slots for dropping off documents or interviews.

Solution: Apply well in advance and regularly check back for cancellations for earlier dates.

Use our simplified UK Visa application process for help with your application, and we’ll handle the appointment scheduling on your behalf!, and

Legal aspects of the UK visa status check: Your rights and obligations

Checking your UK Visa status is an important part of the immigration process when traveling to the UK, so you should be aware of certain rights and obligations.

Right to check UK Visa status: As an applicant, you have the right to check your UK Visa status at all times. This means there is a way to monitor the progress of your UK Visa application and know where it stands in the processing timeline.

Access to information: You have the right to access information related to your UK Visa application, including any decisions made by the immigration authorities. This information is usually provided through official channels such as websites or helplines.

Appeal and review rights: If your visa application is refused, you generally have the right to appeal or request a review of the decision, depending on the visa category and the specific grounds for refusal. These appeal rights can vary, so it's important to understand your options.

Obligations:

Provide accurate information: your legal obligation is to provide accurate and truthful information in your visa application. Misrepresentation or providing false information can lead to severe consequences, including visa refusal or even bans from future applications.

Follow visa conditions: Once you receive your visa, you must adhere to the specified conditions. This may include restrictions on work, study, or residency duration. Failing to comply with these conditions could result in visa cancellation or deportation.

Comply with immigration laws: You are legally obligated to comply with the immigration laws and regulations of the country where you are applying for a visa. This includes abiding by the visa application process and any requirements set by the immigration authorities.

Respect visa expiry dates: It's crucial to know your visa's expiry date and plan to leave the country before it expires or apply for an extension if allowed. Overstaying a visa severely violates immigration laws and can lead to penalties or future visa denials.

Report changes: If there are changes in your circumstances, such as a change of address or marital status, you are typically required to report these changes to the immigration authorities to keep your records accurate and up-to-date.

Where to find more information about the UK Visa application?

Have a question or need assistance with your UK visa application? Our dedicated support team is here to help! Contact us now through our online chat or email us at [email protected] . Apply now

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Tracking the Status of A UK Visa Application

Tracking the progress of your UK visa application is crucial, especially if you have limited time for a decision. Whether you have applied to extend your visa or switch to a particular visa category from within or outside the UK, this guide provides information on how to track your application’s status.

Also, if you need help with your visa application, reach out to us today. We are a team of experienced, reliable, and affordable immigration lawyers ready to help you with your UK visa application and reduce your UK visa waiting times.

Call our London immigration lawyers on our mobile number, 020 4502 8582 , for immediate help and assistance with your situation. We’re here to help you in person, via the phone, or online.

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  • How Can I Track The Progress Of My UK Visa Application?

Tracking the status of your UK visa application will vary depending on if you applied from inside or outside the UK.

Page Contents

What are the requirements for tracking your visa status, can i speed up the process of my uk visa status, how does premium processing work, what can delay a uk visa application.

  • Need Assistance Tracking Your Visa Status? Here’s How London Immigration Lawyer Can Help

Tracking the status of your application inside the UK 

Most applications are now through the UK Visa and Citizenship Application Services (UKVCAS). These visa types include leave extension to remain in the UK, applications to switch to another visa category, and settlement and citizenship applications.

The UK Home Office formed the UKVCAS to hasten the processing of visa applications. And during the application process, you are expected to attend your appointments, provide biometric information, and submit supporting documents.

However, you won’t receive a decision at your UKVCAS appointment. Your visa application and supporting documents will be transferred to UKVI for application processing. The UKVI, responsible for the UK’s visa system, also allocates a case worker to a specific application when a decision needs to be made.

If you have previously submitted a visa application and want to track your UK visa status, visit the GOV.UK website for more information. The website now offers a visa processing times service that allows applicant monitor the progress of their visa application online. Note that tracking your individual visa application online is out of the question, but you can confirm which department you need to contact for your application.

All you need to do is use an online tool and answer a few questions about your application. One information you’d need to provide is the case reference number you received when you submitted your application. Once that’s completed, you’d receive the contact details for the different departments at UKVI.

Since there are no ways to track your UK visa status online, you can contact the department in charge of processing your application. You can contact UKVI (UK Visas and Immigration) to check your application status. It is the body in charge of processing UK visas application.

Although you’re allowed to ask for updates about your application, you won’t receive any advice on handling any personal situation. The UKVI contact line is 0300 790 6268 .

You can always reach them via phone on Monday to Thursday (9:00 a.m to 16:45) and on Fridays (9:00 a.m to 16:30). The call cost ranges between 16p to £3.60 per minute.

Tracking the status of your application outside the UK 

If you submitted your application outside the UK, you’d be required to submit your biometric information at a visa application centre in your country of residence. However, only the UKVI can decide the status of your application.

You can get in touch with the UKVI on the decision of your application, but it would cost you some money. For the initial email, you will be charged £2.74 and other follow-up emails will incur around the same cost.

Another option is to contact an English-speaking helpline on +44 (0) 300 790 6268 , which will be available 24 hours daily, from Mondays to Fridays. However, the call will cost 69p per minute.

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To track your application status, you will need to provide the following details:

Your Case ID (Case Identification Number)

Your case ID is an 8-digit number and will be on all the letters you receive from the UKVI. E.g., 45382175

Payment Reference Number

You will get a reference number after making payment for your visa application. You can use this number to track the status of your visa application. Your payment reference number should look similar to this: “AG1234567890/456”

Your 16-Digit Application Number

This is a unique 16-digit number associated with your visa application. This number will be on all the emails and letters you receive from the UKVI.

Biometric Residence Permit Number

You can find this combination of numbers and letters on your biometric residence permit.

Immigration Health Surcharge number

If you paid for the NHS health surcharge when you submitted your application, you’d get a number after payment. The number will be a combination of letters and numbers that’ll appear like IHS126745389.

With UKVI’s enhanced services, the above details will be provided to you, and you can use them to track your visa status form.

It is possible to get a decision on your visa application within five working days, but it only applies to the following visas:

You’d have to download and complete the requests and payment forms from the UKVI. The only requests accepted are the first five requests received from Monday to Thursday (between 8 a.m and midday). In addition to the main application fee, this service costs £490 per individual. You can pay with your credit or debit card, and all payment details will be sent to you.

One frustrating part of submitting a visa application to the UKVI is the waiting time. And quick online research about the processing and waiting times for your specific visa can be frustrating as well. This is because people will have varying reports, with some saying theirs was done in a few weeks whilst others saying it took months to receive confirmation.

If you need a faster decision on your application, you can pay for premium processing or a priority service when you submit your application. You can check your application type for any available priority services. If you’re applying outside the UK, you can check with the visa application centre where you plan to make your application.

For a faster decision and an additional cost, you’d have two premium processing options available to you – the five working day service and the next working day super priority service. These service time frames will begin from when you complete your appointment to when you provide your biometric information. However, these times do not include the time it takes to issue your biometric residence permit (BRP), usually seven working days after a decision has been made on your application.

If you attend a super-priority service appointment on a Saturday or Sunday, your appointment will be assumed to have been attended on the next working day. For instance, an interview on either of these days will be attended to on Monday, after which the decision on your visa application will be concluded by the end of the next working day.

Your UK visa application can be decided with the usual times, the standard or premium processing time. You get your visa during the standard processing time if your visa application is straightforward and decisions can be made without being asked for more information. If you pay for faster decision-making, you will receive your visa within the premium processing times.

However, if your UK visa application status is more complex, the standard and premium processing times might not be enough, and you’d need to wait for a longer decision. During the waiting time, you’ll receive a mail directing you on what to do next if your application is delayed.

Also, if you applied for a priority or super priority visa and UKVI cannot meet the deadline for priority services, your application would still be a priority. UKVI will still strive to process your visa application within the standard global timescales.

If you’re made to wait longer, you can request a refund of the additional fee you paid for premium processing time.

UK visa applications are delayed for several reasons. One could be because the visa application centre needs to verify your documents, or you need to attend another interview. It could also be due to personal circumstances, such as criminal convictions or adverse immigration history.

Other factors could be the backlogs UKVI experiences in their visa application centre and the repercussions of the coronavirus pandemic.

Your visa application status will undergo assessment following the general requirements under the UK immigration rules and the required specific eligibility criteria. If your application has insufficient supporting evidence, or there’s a probability that you don’t quite satisfy the requirements to remain in or come to the UK, further investigations may be conducted.

Similarly, if you’ve been asked to provide supporting documentation for your UK visa application, or you feel concerned about attending an interview, seek expert advice from an immigration specialist.

If you have any questions about your Tracking the Status of A UK Visa Application? Contact us

Need Assistance Tracking Your Visa Status? Here's How London Immigration Lawyer Can Help

One of our duties is to assign you an immigration lawyer to help you track your UK visa. This lawyer will suit your professional and individual needs and will work closely with you to help you ascertain your eligibility, needs, and goals during your UK visa application journey.

We would help you track your visa application status and keep the communication line open throughout the entire process.

You can reach out to us in person via our office in London. You can also call us on the phone at 020 4502 8582 . Get in touch with our team today to learn more about our services.

You may be interested in reading about.

Spouse visa, british citizenship, skilled worker visa, sponsor licence, indefinite leave to remain.

We offer immigration advice sessions as face to face appointments at all of our UK offices, or via the phone. Get in touch

Last modified on February 2nd, 2023 at 3:21 pm

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Comprehensive immigration advice tailored to your circumstances and goals.

Application Package

Designed to make your visa application as smooth and stress-free as possible.

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Premium application service that ensures your visa application is submitted to meet your deadline.

Appeal Package

Ensure you have the greatest chance of a successful appeal. We will represent you in any case.

The Advice Package

During this untimed Advice Session with our professional immigration lawyers in London, you will receive our comprehensive advice, completely tailored to your needs and your situation.

The Application Package

With our Application Package, your dedicated immigration lawyer will advise you on your application process and eligibility. Your caseworker will then complete and submit your forms to the Home Office on your behalf.

The Fast Track Package

Our Fast-Track Application Package is a premium service for those who need to submit their application in time with their deadlines. Your case will become a top priority for our lawyers and you will benefit from our highest-quality services.

The Appeal Package

By choosing our Appeal Package, you can rely on our lawyers’ legal knowledge and experience to ensure you have the highest chance of a successful appeal. We will also fully represent you in any hearings/tribunals.

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UK expands eVisas to new biometric customers

The UK immigration system is going digital, meaning physical documents will be replaced with an online immigration status

uk visit visa application tracker

Biometric Residence Permits (BRPs), vignette stickers in passports or ‘wet ink stamps’ are among some of the physical documents that will no longer needed. If you are granted a visa to stay in the UK for longer than 6 months – for example to work or study – you will now need to create a UKVI online account to access your eVisa. The account acts as an online record of your immigration status. For those granted a visa to stay in the UK for less than 6 months, for example as a tourist, you do not need to create a UKVI account.

High Commissioner Jane Marriott CMB OBE said:

“We are constantly innovating to make it easier for Pakistanis to travel to the UK. This new use of technology will streamline a key part of the visa process, make it more secure and reduce the dependence on paper documents.”

The process is free, secure, and straightforward. You can find out more, including how to create an account, on our website: gov.uk/eVisa. You must not travel to the UK until you have received your passport and valid UK visa back from the Visa Application Centre (VAC). Updating a physical document to an eVisa does not affect your immigration status or the conditions of your permission to enter or stay in the UK.

Upon arrival in the UK you will still be required to collect a BRP. All BRP cards are valid until 31 December 2024, but the expiry of your BRP card does not affect your immigration status. You can use your BRP card to create your UKVI account and access your eVisa. You should continue to carry your BRP until it expires, and take your BRP and your passport when travelling overseas to prove your permission to return to the UK.

For more information, visit: Online immigration status (eVisa) - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)

More information

For updates on the British High Commission, follow our social media channels:

  • High Commissioner’s Twitter

Contact British High Commission Islamabad tel. 0300 500 5306

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COMMENTS

  1. | vfsglobal

    Track your UK visa application status online with VFS Global, the trusted partner of UK Visas and Immigration. Visit the website and enter your details to check your progress.

  2. Online immigration status (eVisa)

    An eVisa is an online record of your immigration status and the conditions of your permission to enter or stay in the UK. You will need to create a UKVI account to be able to access your eVisa ...

  3. Visa processing times: applications outside the UK

    UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) starts processing your application once you either: verify your identity and submit your documents and application online using the UK Immigration: ID Check app. We ...

  4. How to sign in to continue your visa application

    If you've started a UK visa application, you can sign back in to continue your application. To sign back in: Find your registration email. Follow the link in the email. Enter your sign in details.

  5. How to track your UK Visa application status

    The processing time for SAR can be quite lengthy, so you may want to factor this in your plans. Visit the UK government's 'Visa and Immigration' webpage. Find and click on the section titled 'Check your Visa Application Status'. When prompted, enter your 16-digit application reference number.

  6. How to Check Your UK Visa Application Status

    You can track the progress of your in-country immigration application by calling the UKVI contact centre on 0300 790 6268 and selecting option 2. The telephone line is open 9am to 4:45pm on Monday to Thursday (excluding bank holidays) and 9am to 4:30pm on Friday (excluding bank holidays).

  7. Welcome to VFS Global

    VFS Global is the world's largest visa outsourcing and technology services provider, working with the UK government and other countries. Whether you need a tourist, student, work, or family visa, you can find all the information and guidance you need on their website. You can also apply online, book an appointment, and track your application status. Welcome to VFS Global, your one-stop ...

  8. UK Visa Tracking: How to Track Your Application Status

    Visit the VFS Global Website: Go to the VFS Global website and select the country (UK) and visa type you applied for.; Navigate to the Visa Tracking Section: Find the visa tracking section, located under the 'Track Your Application' tab.; Enter Your Details: Enter your GWF number/reference number and last name. Submit and Check Status: Click on the 'Submit' button to view the current status of ...

  9. How to Track your UK Visa Application Status

    Checking UK visa applications made inside the UK. For an update on an application made inside the UK, you can phone UKVI using the following details: Telephone: 0300 790 6268 - select option 1, then option 2. Monday to Thursday (excluding bank holidays), 9am to 4:45pm. Friday (excluding bank holidays), 9am to 4:30pm.

  10. How to Check your UK Visa Application Status

    On the TLScontact website, click 'Provide Documents and Biometrics' and then 'Continue' to be redirected to your account. Choose the option to 'Track' which will display the real-time status of your application. 3. VFS website.

  11. Visit the UK as a Standard Visitor: Apply for a Standard Visitor visa

    You can choose to apply for a long-term Standard Visitor visa if you visit the UK regularly. This visa lasts 2, 5 or 10 years. You can stay for a maximum of 6 months on each visit. If you're ...

  12. How To Check UK Visa Status? UK Visa Tracking with GWF Number

    You can't track the UKVI-specific status from this GWF visa tracker. To know the personalized status, visit the UKVI contact center website. Click the Start button, and give the detailed information with your query on the next screen. Pay the email reply fee of 2.74 GBP and send the email. You will receive a reply pretty shortly.

  13. How to Check Your UK Visa Application Status

    Click on 'Track your application': At the top of the page for your VFS Global visa application centre, you may see a section called 'Track your application'. If so, click on this section ...

  14. UK Visa Tracking: Here's How To Track Your Application

    To check your status, you may contact UK Visas and Immigration ( (UKVI) the Home Office body in charge of processing visas in the UK). You can ask about the progress of your application but you cannot receive information or advice about your personal circumstances. The phone number for UKVI is 0300 790 6268. The phone service is available from ...

  15. How to track my UK Visa Application Status?

    Their internal systems only have about 5 status's anyway. Your T2 sponsor, on the other hand has access to the UKVI Sponsor Management System and can query the database on your behalf. The only information that your sponsor is likely to get is what you already received via SMS. The same goes for your VFS, but they cannot access Sponsor ...

  16. How To Check Your UK Visa Application Status

    You can track the progress of your in-country immigration application by calling the UKVI contact centre on 0300 790 6268 and selecting option 2. The telephone line is open 9am to 4:45pm on Monday to Thursday (excluding bank holidays) and 9am to 4:30pm on Friday (excluding bank holidays).

  17. Visa processing times: applications inside the UK

    You can stay in the UK until you've been given a decision, as long as you applied before your last visa expired. You do not need to contact UKVI to track your application if you've already ...

  18. How To Track Your UK Visa Application

    If you are outside the UK and you are facing problems with UK visa application tracking, in such cases, you can reach the UK Visa and Immigration Department at +44 (0)844 8920232. Please be mindful that calls to this number will be charged at a rate of £0.04 per minute in addition to the access fee from your carrier.

  19. Check Visa Status UK: Track your application

    Here's how you can check your UK Visa status from outside the country: On the VFS Global Website. Go to the VFS Global site. Choose the visa center location where you provided your biometric data. Click 'Track your application' on the visa center's page. Select 'Track your visa application status online.'.

  20. Using your UK Visas and Immigration account

    View and prove your immigration status. You can sign in to the online View and Prove service using your UKVI account details. Use this service to view your eVisa and check what rights you have in ...

  21. Tracking UK Visa Application Status

    You can contact UKVI (UK Visas and Immigration) to check your application status. It is the body in charge of processing UK visas application. Although you're allowed to ask for updates about your application, you won't receive any advice on handling any personal situation. The UKVI contact line is 0300 790 6268.

  22. How to apply for a visa to come to the UK

    If you want to visit the UK. Apply for a Standard Visitor visa to visit the UK for up to 6 months. For example: for a holiday or to see family and friends. for a business trip or meeting. to do a ...

  23. UK expands eVisas to new biometric customers

    For more information, visit: Online immigration status (eVisa) - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk) More information For updates on the British High Commission, follow our social media channels: