The process of applying for a UK visa may be both thrilling and nerve-wracking, especially if you’re waiting to hear back about the progress of your application. Thankfully, the process comes with multiple ways to track your UK visa application regardless of whether you’re seeking a work permit, student visa, or tourist visa.

Ways to Track Your UK Visa Application

The wait for your visa begins as soon as you click on the submit button after you are done filling out your application. But then, to ease the anxiousness, there are steps on how to track your UK visa application, what information you’ll need, and key tips to stay updated on your visa status. To track your UK visa application, have your GWF Number, date of birth, passport number, and tracking reference number ready. This information is crucial for successful tracking and can be used as a secondary identifier in some tracking systems.

Using the Visa Application Centre’s Online Tracking System

To track your UK visa application, visit the Visa Application Centre (VAC) where you submitted your application. Log into your account using your login details, enter your tracking number, and view the current status of your application. Organizations like TLScontact and VFS Global process visa applications for Europe, Africa, and the Middle East.

Track Through UKVI’s Online Portal

The UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) department offers an online tracking service for visa applicants. To track your application, visit the UKVI portal at www.gov.uk/track-visa-application. Enter your Global Web Form number (GWF) and check your visa status, which may show “under consideration,” “decision made,” or “dispatched for delivery.” This is particularly useful for online applicants who need regular updates.

Check Your Email or SMS Updates

Visa Application Centres often provide an additional fee-based SMS or email notification service for applicants. This service provides updates at key stages of the visa process, such as application receipt, review, and decision-making. Regularly check your registered email or phone number.

Contact UKVI via Email or Telephone

If online tracking systems don’t provide enough updates, UKVI offers paid email and phone support services. This option is best used if the tracking portal doesn’t provide the necessary information. To contact UKVI for visa application assistance, visit www.gov.uk/contact-ukvi-inside-outside-uk, select your application country, and submit an inquiry via email or phone. Provide your GWF number, full name, date of birth, and visa type.

In-Person Collection or Delivery

After a visa decision is made, documents are ready for collection or delivery if a courier service is chosen. In-person collection requires identification and a receipt or reference number. For home delivery, check the dispatch timeline for your visa decision.

Frequently Asked Questions and Answers About How to Track Your UK Visa Application

1. How long does it take to get a UK visa?

The processing time for a UK visa depends on the visa type. A standard visitor visa usually takes around 3 weeks, while student visas or skilled worker visas may take up to 8 weeks. If you opt for priority services, you can receive your visa decision within 5 working days.

2. Can I track my UK visa application without a GWF number?

No, the GWF number is essential for tracking your visa application. You’ll receive this number when you submit your visa application either online or at a Visa Application Centre.

3. What does it mean when my visa status says “decision made”?

“Decision made” means that the UKVI has reviewed your application and reached a conclusion. You’ll soon be notified whether your visa is approved or rejected.

4. How can I expedite my UK visa application?

You can use the UKVI priority services, which fast-track your application decision. However, this service comes at an additional cost and is not available for all visa types.

Conclusion

Tracking your UK visa application is easy once you know the stages and systems. Whether you monitor it online through the Visa Application Centre or UKVI, you need your GWF number. For specific questions, contact UKVI, but check your email and SMS for real-time updates. Staying educated will lessen visa tension and prepare you for your next steps after a choice.