This library covers route choice, evidence, sponsorship, fees, and processing. Each entry points to the official official page so you can confirm the latest rules before you apply.
Search the library or browse the questions below. Answers are written in plain language and point back to official sources for the final decision.
Start with purpose: visit, study, work, family, or settlement. The category must match your main activity in the UK.
Use the official checker to confirm the route for your nationality and purpose, then read the route page in full.
Open the visa checkerMany short visits are visa-free, but some travellers must apply for an ETA before travel.
The official checker confirms whether you need a visa, an ETA, or neither based on nationality and purpose.
Check visa or ETA requirementStandard Visitor covers tourism, family visits, short business, and limited study. It does not allow paid work.
Review the official list of permitted activities and restricted work before you plan your visit.
Standard Visitor guidanceApplication windows vary by visa type and location. Some routes allow applications months before travel or start dates.
Check the official route page to confirm the earliest application date for your visa.
Application timing overviewWork routes typically require sponsorship from a licensed employer. The employer issues a Certificate of Sponsorship reference number.
Confirm whether your role and employer qualify before you apply.
Skilled Worker sponsorshipA Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) is issued by your education provider after you meet their offer conditions.
Only apply for a Student visa once your CAS is issued and your documents match the CAS details.
Student visa overviewSome routes require evidence of funds for a set period. Evidence can be personal savings or sponsor support.
Check the route guidance for the exact amount, period, and acceptable evidence format.
Student maintenance guidanceFamily routes usually require evidence of relationship, cohabitation, or parental responsibility.
Use official checklists to confirm which documents are required for partners, parents, or children.
Family visa overviewYour passport must be valid for the entire period you plan to stay in the UK.
Some routes require additional checks or identity steps, so ensure the passport is in good condition.
Visitor identity requirementsTB tests are required for some applicants based on country of residence and visa type.
Check the official list of countries and the approved clinic list before booking a test.
TB test requirementsATAS is required for certain sensitive subjects in study or research roles.
Confirm with your university or employer and apply for ATAS before your visa submission.
ATAS guidanceMany longer-term visas require the Immigration Health Surcharge to access NHS services.
Use the official guidance to check who pays, exemptions, and how the amount is calculated.
Healthcare surcharge guidanceFees depend on visa length, category, and where you apply from.
Use the official fee table to confirm the latest figures for your route.
Visa fee tableProcessing time is influenced by application volume, document completeness, and any additional checks.
Use the official processing time checker for the latest estimate for your route and location.
Check processing timesSome routes offer paid priority decisions depending on location and availability.
Confirm eligibility and availability on the official official page before you apply.
Priority servicesMost applicants must provide fingerprints and a photo at a visa application centre.
Bring your appointment confirmation and the required documents as instructed.
Biometrics overviewDocument upload rules depend on your location and the service you use.
Follow the instructions from your visa application centre and keep proof of uploads.
Document upload guidanceTravel rules differ based on where you applied and the route you are using.
Check your route guidance and your application centre rules before booking travel.
Processing time and travelSome routes allow switching from inside the UK, while others do not.
Check both your current visa and your target route for switching rules.
Switching and applying inside the UKMany visas include a condition that you cannot claim public funds during your stay.
Check the official site to understand which benefits are considered public funds and how the condition applies.
Public funds guidanceDependants usually apply alongside the main applicant and must meet route-specific rules.
Check the dependant guidance for your route before you submit applications.
Dependant routesRefusals include the reason and, in some cases, a right to administrative review or appeal.
Read the decision letter carefully and follow the official process if you plan to challenge it.
Administrative reviewTracking options depend on the route and where you applied.
Follow the instructions in your application confirmation emails for updates.
After you applyKeep your decision letter and any digital status or evidence issued with your visa.
Use official guidance to access and share your immigration status when needed.
View and prove statusSome routes ask for proof of where you will stay and how you will travel.
Use booking confirmations or a clear plan that matches your purpose and duration.
Visitor evidence guidanceStatements should be clear, consistent, and cover the required period for your route.
Explain large one-off deposits and keep evidence of income sources ready.
Financial evidence guidanceIt mirrors the official official category pages at the time of review.
Always confirm the latest routes on the official site before you apply.
Browse official visa categoriesNo. It reflects recent visa grant volumes, not eligibility or approval chances.
Use the official route page to check your exact requirements.
Check your route on the official siteMost applications are completed online, then you attend a biometrics appointment.
Follow the official application steps for your route and location.
How to apply onlineSome routes require an approved test, a degree taught in English, or a nationality exemption.
Use the official list to confirm accepted evidence for your route.
English language requirementFamily routes often require evidence of income, savings, or permitted sources.
Check the official thresholds and evidence rules before you submit.
Family visa financial evidenceMany applicants now receive digital immigration status instead of a physical card.
Use the official service to view and share your status when needed.
View and prove statusIf your details change after you apply, you may need to update your UKVI record.
Use the official change‑of‑circumstances service to stay compliant.
Update your details