Most applications receive a response within 10 working days. There is a possibility of putting in a priority visa application, which generally comes back within less than 5 working days, or super priority applications that can be processed in a 24-hour period. With the coronavirus pandemic, turnaround times may be impacted and take a little longer.

UK visa applications require a number of documents including:

• A passport with a double blank page
• A separate passport photo
• A visa application form
• The visa fee
• Details on your flights and where you plan to stay
• Details of any sponsorship from family or friends
• Evidence of your financial status, including bank statements
• Up to date utility bills
• Marriage certificate (if relocating as a couple)
• Birth certificates (including those of family members relocating with you)
• Details of a contact at the company you plan to work for or study with.

Depending on the type of visa that you are applying for, you may also need some additional documentation. Our staff can advise on your individual application, ensuring that you are fully prepared.

As well as completing the relevant application forms, you must be over 18 years old for a work or study visa (unless applying for a children’s visa), meet the requirements for the English language, and prove that you can financially support yourself for a time after entering the country.

The UK is currently open for applications, however, due to the pandemic, processing times may be longer than expected.

This visa used to be known as a Tier 2 visa and is for those who would like to come to the UK to work for an approved employer. These employers are identified by the Home Office of the UK.

Yes, this is a possibility if you are currently on some visas but are eligible for the skilled worker visa. If you are on a visit visa or student visa (short term), however, you would need to leave the country and apply from scratch.

While the test is not mandatory, many UK visas do require a good understanding of the English language, and this test is a great way to evidence this. Some visas may recommend the test to help with the application. One other test that is often recommended is the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR).