Minister of Religion visa (T2)

Overview

You can apply for a Minister of Religion visa (T2) if:

you’ve been offered a job within a faith community (for example as a minister of religion, missionary, or member of a religious order) in the UK

you meet the other eligibility requirements

If you or your family are from the EU, Switzerland, Norway, Iceland or Liechtenstein

If you or your close family member started living in the UK before 1 January 2021, you may be able to apply to the free EU Settlement Scheme.

Otherwise you need a visa to work in the UK.

Irish citizens do not need to apply for a visa or to the EU Settlement Scheme (the free EU Settlement Scheme).

Getting sponsored

You need to be employed by a licensed sponsor to apply to live in the UK.

Your sponsor (a licensed sponsor) checks that you can do the job they (a licensed sponsor)’re hiring you for and if it qualifies you for a visa. They (a licensed sponsor)’ll give you a certificate of sponsorship to prove this.

They (a licensed sponsor) must also give you other information you need when you apply, for example how much you’ll be paid.

How long it will take

You can apply for a visa up to 3 months before the day you’re due to start work in the UK. This date is listed on your certificate of sponsorship (a certificate of sponsorship).

You should get a decision on your visa within 3 weeks when you apply from outside the UK.

Find out about paying for a faster decision.

Application fee

How much you pay for a Minister of Religion visa (T2) depends on where you are.

Who you’re applying for | Apply outside the UK | Extend or switch in the UK

You | £610 | £704

All dependants | £610 each person | £704 each person

If you’re from an eligible country

Your application fee (Application fee) will be automatically reduced by £55 if you’re from one of the following countries:

Austria, Belgium, Croatia, Republic of Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, North Macedonia, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Spain, Sweden or Turkey.

This reduction only applies to your visa application. Your partner and children will still need to pay the full application fee.

Healthcare surcharge

You’ll also have to pay the healthcare surcharge as part of your application. Check how much you’ll have to pay before you apply.

If you’re applying to extend or switch in the UK

You’ll need to pay £19.20 to have your biometric information (fingerprints and a photo) taken.

Get a faster decision on your application

If you’re applying to extend or switch in the UK you can pay an extra £500 for the priority service to get a decision within 5 working days.

You can pay an extra £800 for the super priority service (the priority service) to get a decision:

by the end of the next working day after providing your biometric information if your appointment is on a weekday

2 working days after providing your biometric information if your appointment is at the weekend

Working days are Monday to Friday, not including bank holidays.

Once you’ve got your decision letter, your biometric residence permit will take up to 10 working days to arrive.

How long you can stay

You can come to the UK with a Minister of Religion visa (T2) for a maximum of up to 3 years and 1 month, or the time given on your certificate of sponsorship plus 14 days, whichever is shorter.

You can apply to extend your stay.

You must apply before your visa expires.

What you can and cannot do

You can:

work for your sponsor in the job described in your certificate of sponsorship

do a second job - in certain circumstances

do voluntary work

study as long as it does not interfere with the job you’re sponsored for

travel abroad and return to the UK

bring your partner and children with you as your ‘dependants’, if they’re eligible

You cannot:

own more than 10% of your sponsor’s (your sponsor) shares  (unless you earn more than £159,600 a year)

get public funds

Eligibility

You need to:

have a certificate of sponsorship for your job

prove your knowledge of English

have personal savings so you can support yourself when you arrive in the UK

show you can travel and your travel history over the last 5 years

have tuberculosis test results if you’re from a listed country

You need to have an eligible qualification if you’re switching from a Tier 4 visa.

Certificate of sponsorship

A certificate of sponsorship holds your personal details and information about the job you’ve been offered (your job). It’s an electronic record, not a paper document. Your sponsor will give you a certificate of sponsorship reference number to add to your application.

You can only use your certificate of sponsorship reference number (your certificate of sponsorship) once. You must use it (A certificate of sponsorship) within 3 months of getting it (A certificate of sponsorship).

Money to support yourself

You must have at least £1,270 in your bank account to show you can support yourself in the UK.

You will need to have had the money available for at least 28 days in a row. Day 28 must be within 31 days of applying for this visa.

You’ll usually need to show proof of this when you apply, unless either:

you’ve been in the UK with a valid visa for at least 12 months

your employer can cover your costs during your first month in the UK, up to £1,270

Your partner and children will also need to prove they can support themselves while they’re in the UK. Check how much they’ll need.

Read the guidance on financial evidence for more information about the money you need and how to prove it.

If your employer can support you instead

Your certificate of sponsorship must confirm this. Your employer will need to complete the ‘sponsor certifies maintenance’ section on your certificate. This is under ‘Additional data’.

Knowledge of English

You may need to prove your knowledge of the English language (English) when you apply.

You can prove your knowledge of English by either:

passing an approved English language (English) test with at least CEFR level B2 in reading, writing, speaking and listening

having an academic qualification that was taught in English and is recognised by Ecctis (formerly UK NARIC) as being equivalent to a UK bachelors degree, master’s degree or PhD

You may be able to meet the English language requirement in other ways. Check the full visa guidance for detailed information.

Exceptions

You will not need to prove your knowledge of English if you’re a national of one of the following countries:

Antigua and Barbuda

Australia

the Bahamas

Barbados

Belize

Canada

Dominica

Grenada

Guyana

Jamaica

Malta

New Zealand

St Kitts and Nevis

St Lucia

St Vincent and the Grenadines

Trinidad and Tobago

USA

You also may not have to prove your knowledge of English in other circumstances - check the full visa guidance.

Documents you'll need

When you apply you’ll need to provide:

your certificate of sponsorship reference number (your employer will give you this)

proof of your knowledge of English

evidence that you have enough personal savings to support yourself in the UK, for example bank statements (unless your certificate of sponsorship shows your employer can support you)

a valid passport or other document that shows your identity and nationality - you need a blank page in your passport for your visa

expired passports or travel documents if you need them to show your travel history

your tuberculosis test results if you’re from a listed country

If your documents are not in English or Welsh you’ll also need to provide a certified translation.

You may need to provide additional documents depending on your circumstances.

See the full list of documents you can provide.

Read the guidance about the money you’ll need and how to prove it.

Apply from outside the UK

You must apply online for a Minister of Religion visa (T2).

Check which documents you’ll need to apply.

Your partner or children will need to apply separately.

Proving your identity and providing supporting documents

As part of your online application, you need to book an appointment at a visa application centre.

You’ll have your fingerprints and photograph taken at the visa application centre (a visa application centre), so you can get a biometric residence permit.

You’ll have to collect your biometric residence permit (a biometric residence permit) within 10 days of when you said you’d arrive in the UK.

Apply for a Minister of Religion visa (T2)

Once you’ve started your application you can save your form and complete it later.

Apply now

Continue your application

You can sign back into your application if you’ve saved it (your form). Check your email and follow the link to return to your application.

How long it takes to get a decision

Once you’ve applied online, proved your identity and provided your documents, you’ll usually get a decision on your visa within 3 weeks.

Find out how to get your visa decision faster - this depends on what country you’re in.

After you apply

You can ask to cancel your application. You’ll only get your fee refunded if the application (your application) has not been processed yet.

You’ll get an email containing the decision on your application. This will explain what you need to do next.

Extend your visa

You may be able to apply to extend your stay in the UK under a Minister of Religion visa (T2).

You can add your partner and children to your online application - including children who have turned 18 during your stay.

You should apply before your current visa expires.

Eligibility

You’ll still need to meet the eligibility criteria and provide the right documents.

You’ll also need a new certificate of sponsorship from your sponsor.

How long you can stay

You can extend a Minister of Religion visa (T2) for up to 3 years, or the time given in your certificate of sponsorship plus 14 days, or the time required to take your total stay in the UK to a maximum of 6 years, whichever time is shorter.

Fees

Check the fees for your visa.

Apply to extend your Minister of Religion visa (T2) (a Minister of Religion visa (T2))

You must apply online before your current visa expires.

Once you’ve started your application, you can save your form and complete it later.

Apply now

Continue your application

Providing biometric information and supporting documents

When you apply, you’ll be asked to make an appointment at a UK Visa and Citizenship Application Services (UKVCAS) service point to provide your biometric information (your fingerprints and a photo).

You’ll also need to submit your supporting documents (supporting documents). You can:

upload them (supporting documents) into the online service

have them (supporting documents) scanned at your UKVCAS (UK Visa and Citizenship Application Services (UKVCAS)) appointment

You must not travel outside of the UK, Ireland, the Channel Islands or the Isle of Man until you get a decision. Your application will be withdrawn if you do.

How long it takes

Once you’ve applied you can stay in the UK until you’ve been given a decision, as long as you applied before your last visa expired.

You’ll usually get a decision:

within 8 weeks of your application date if you use the standard service

within 5 working days of your UKVCAS (UK Visa and Citizenship Application Services (UKVCAS)) appointment if you use the priority service

If you use the super priority service you’ll get a decision:

by the end of the next working day after your UKVCAS (UK Visa and Citizenship Application Services (UKVCAS)) appointment if your appointment is on a weekday

2 working days after your UKVCAS (UK Visa and Citizenship Application Services (UKVCAS)) appointment if your appointment is at the weekend

Working days are Monday to Friday, not including bank holidays.

Once you’ve got your decision letter, your biometric residence permit will take up to 10 working days to arrive.

You’ll be contacted if your circumstances or application are more complicated, for example if:

your supporting documents (supporting documents) need to be verified

you need to attend an interview

you have a criminal conviction

Switch to this visa

You can apply to change (‘switch’) from another visa to a Minister of Religion visa (T2) (this visa).

You should apply before your current visa expires.

Eligibility

You must meet the Minister of Religion visa (T2) eligibility requirements and must already be in the UK under any of the following visas:

Tier 1 visa

Tier 2 (Sportsperson) visa

Tier 2 (General) visa

Tier 2 (Intra-company Transfer) visa under the Immigration Rules in place before 6 April 2010 and you’re applying to change sponsor

Tier 4 visa - if you have an eligible qualification

Start-up visa

Innovator visa

You can also switch to this visa if you meet the eligibility requirements and you’re:

a dependent partner of someone with a Tier 4 visa

a representative of an overseas business

You must leave the UK and make your Minister of Religion visa (T2) application from abroad if you’re not in any of these categories.

Eligible qualifications for Tier 4 visa

You must have been sponsored by a licensed sponsor to get one of the following qualifications:

a UK bachelors degree

a UK masters degree

a postgraduate certificate in education

a professional graduate diploma of education

If you’re a PhD student, you must have also have completed the last 12 months’ study  during your most recent stay in the UK. This can be through a licensed sponsor or another visa that allowed you to study.

How long you can stay

You can stay up to 3 years after switching to a Minister of Religion visa (T2).

Fees

Check the fees for your visa.

Apply to switch to a Minister of Religion visa (T2)

You must apply online before your current visa expires.

Once you’ve started your application, you can save your form and complete it later.

Apply now

Continue your application

Providing biometric information and supporting documents

When you apply, you’ll be asked to make an appointment at a UK Visa and Citizenship Application Services (UKVCAS) service point to provide your biometric information (your fingerprints and a photo) (biometric information).

You’ll also need to submit your supporting documents (supporting documents). You can:

upload them (supporting documents) into the online service

have them (supporting documents) scanned at your UKVCAS (UK Visa and Citizenship Application Services (UKVCAS)) appointment

How long it takes

You’ll usually get a decision:

within 8 weeks of your application date if you use the standard service

If you use the super priority service you’ll get a decision:

2 working days after your UKVCAs (UK Visa and Citizenship Application Services (UKVCAS)) appointment if your appointment is at the weekend

Working days are Monday to Friday, not including bank holidays.

Once you’ve got your decision letter (a decision), your biometric residence permit will take up to 10 working days to arrive.

You’ll be contacted if your application is complex and will take longer, for example because:

your supporting documents need to be verified

you need to attend an interview

of your personal circumstances, for example if you have a criminal conviction

Your partner and children

Your partner and children can apply to join you or to stay in the UK as your ‘dependants’ if they (Your partner and children)’re eligible. If their (Your partner and children) application is successful, their (Your partner and children) visa will end on the same date as yours.

Your relationship

A dependant partner or child is any of the following:

your husband, wife, civil partner or unmarried partner

your child under 18 - including if they were born in the UK during your stay

your child over 18 if they’re currently in the UK as your dependant

You’ll need to provide evidence of your relationship when you apply.

Your partner

You must be able to prove that either:

you’re in a civil partnership or marriage that’s recognised in the UK

you’ve been living together in a relationship for at least 2 years when you apply

If your child is 16 or over

They (your child) must:

live with you (unless they (your child)’re in full-time education at boarding school, college or university)

not be married, in a civil partnership or have any children

be financially supported by you

If your child lives with you, you’ll need to provide evidence of their address such as:

a bank statement

credit card bills

driving licence

NHS registration document

an official letter from their (your child) university or college

Money they (your child) need to support themselves (your child)

Your partner or children must have a certain amount of money available to support themselves while they’re in the UK.

You - or your partner or child - will need:

£285 for your partner

£315 for one child

£200 for each additional child

You - or your partner or child - will need to have had the money available for at least 28 days in a row. Day 28 must be within 31 days of you or them (Your partner or children) applying for this visa.

You’ll usually need to show proof of this when they (Your partner or children) apply, unless either:

you have all been in the UK with a valid visa for at least 12 months

your employer can cover your family’s costs during your first month in the UK - this must be confirmed on your certificate of sponsorship

If your partner or child is applying at a different time to you, they’ll only need to prove they have enough money to support themselves if they (your child) have been in the UK for less than one year.

Apply from outside the UK

Your partner and children must apply online.

Each family member will need to complete a separate application and pay the visa fee. They (Your partner or children) must apply before they (Your partner or children) travel to the UK.

They (Your partner or children)’ll also need your application number - you’ll get this when you apply. This number is called a Global Web Form (GWF) or a Unique Application Number (UAN). You’ll find it on emails and letters from the Home Office about your application.

Proving their (your child) identity

As part of their (your child) application, your partner and children (your child) will need to have their (your child) fingerprints and photograph taken at a visa application centre. They (your child) may need to travel to get to their (your child) nearest centre (this could be in another country).

The visa application centre (their (your child) nearest centre) may need to keep their (your child) passport and documents while they (their (your child) nearest centre) process their (your child) application.

How long it takes to get a decision

Once they (your child)’ve applied online, proved their (your child) identity and provided their (your child) documents, they (your child)’ll usually get a decision within 3 weeks.

They (your child) may be able to pay to get their (your child) visa faster - check with the visa application centre (their (your child) nearest centre).

Apply from inside the UK to extend

You can include your partner and children on your application to extend this visa. This includes children who were born or have turned 18 during your stay.

If you cannot apply at the same time, your partner or child can apply to extend their visas at a later date. This must be before their current visa expires.

How to apply

Your partner and children must apply online to either:

extend as a partner

extend as a child

They (Your partner and children)’ll need your application number - you’ll get this when you apply. This number is called a Global Web Form (GWF) or a Unique Application Number (UAN). You’ll find it on emails and letters from the Home Office about your application.

As part of their (your partner or child) application, your partner and children (your partner or child) will need to have their (your partner or child) fingerprints and photograph taken at a UK Visa and Citizenship Application Services (UKVCAS) service point.

They (your partner or child) must not travel outside of the UK, Ireland, the Channel Islands or the Isle of Man until they (your partner or child) get a decision. Their (your partner or child) application will be withdrawn if they (your partner or child) do.

How long it takes to get a decision

Once they (your partner or child)’ve applied online, proved their (your partner or child) identity and provided their (your partner or child) documents, they (your partner or child)’ll usually get a decision within 8 weeks.

They (your partner or child) may be able to pay to get a faster decision - they (your partner or child)’ll be told if they (your partner or child) can when they (your partner or child) apply.

Children born in the UK

If you have a child while you’re in the UK, they do not automatically become a British citizen.

You can apply online for their (a child) visa as your dependant. You must do this if you want to travel in and out of the UK with your child.

You’ll need to provide a full UK birth certificate for each child, showing the names of both parents.

You must apply to add them (a child) to your visa before they turn 18 if they want to stay in the UK.

Taking a second job

You can take a second job on this visa (your visa) if you’re working up to 20 hours a week in either:

the same profession as your main job

a profession on the Skilled Worker shortage occupation list

You can also do unpaid voluntary work.

Otherwise, you’ll need to apply for a new visa. You’ll need to be sponsored by your second employer and get a new certificate of sponsorship.

When to apply for a new visa

You cannot apply for a new visa until you’ve started work with your first sponsor.

You cannot start work with your second sponsor until your visa application has been approved.

How to apply

Read the guidance before you apply.

You must apply online.

You must be in the UK to apply.

Documents you must provide

You’ll need to provide some documents with your application.

You must also provide a letter explaining that you want to change your current permission to stay.

Your letter must state:

your name

your date of birth

your current certificate of sponsorship reference number

the date when your current permission to stay runs out


Temporary Worker - Government Authorised Exchange visa (T5)

Overview

You can apply for a Temporary Worker - Government Authorised Exchange visa (T5) if you:

want to come to the UK for a short time for work experience or to do training, an Overseas Government Language Programme, research or a fellowship through an approved government authorised exchange scheme

have a sponsor

meet the other eligibility requirements

This visa has replaced the Tier 5 (Temporary Worker - Government Authorised Exchange) visa.

If you or your family are from the EU, Switzerland, Norway, Iceland or Liechtenstein

If you or your close family member started living in the UK before 1 January 2021, you may be able to apply to the free EU Settlement Scheme.

Otherwise you need a visa to work in the UK.

Irish citizens do not need to apply for a visa or to the EU Settlement Scheme (the free EU Settlement Scheme).

Sponsorship

You need to have a certificate of sponsorship from a licensed sponsor before you can apply to come to the UK to work.

Your work, training or research in the UK must relate to the work of your sponsor organisation.

Your sponsor can be any of the following:

an organisation running an approved exchange scheme

a higher education institution (if you are a sponsored researcher, visiting academic or examiner)

a government department or agency

How long it will take

The earliest you can apply for a visa is 3 months before the date you’re due to start work. This date is on your certificate of sponsorship (a certificate of sponsorship from a licensed sponsor).

You should get a decision on your visa within 3 weeks when you apply from outside the UK.

Find out about paying for a faster decision.

Application fee

The application fee for each person applying (Application fee) is £244.

The fee (Application fee) is the same whether you’re applying from inside or outside the UK.

If you’re from an eligible country

Your application fee (Application fee) will be automatically reduced by £55 if you’re from one of the following countries:

Austria, Belgium, Croatia, Republic of Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, North Macedonia, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Spain, Sweden or Turkey.

This reduction only applies to your visa application. Your partner and children will still need to pay the full application fee.

Healthcare surcharge

You’ll also have to pay the healthcare surcharge as part of your application. Check how much you’ll have to pay before you apply.

If you’re applying to extend or switch in the UK

You’ll need to pay £19.20 to have your biometric information (fingerprints and a photo) taken.

Get a faster decision on your application

If you’re applying to extend or switch in the UK you can pay an extra £500 for the priority service to get a decision within 5 working days.

You can pay an extra £800 for the super priority service (the priority service) to get a decision:

by the end of the next working day after providing your biometric information if your appointment is on a weekday

2 working days after providing your biometric information if your appointment is at the weekend

Working days are Monday to Friday, not including bank holidays.

Once you’ve got your decision letter, your biometric residence permit will take up to 10 working days to arrive.

How long you can stay

You can stay in the UK for up to 12 or 24 months (depending on the scheme you’re applying for) or the time given on your certificate of sponsorship plus 14 days, whichever is shorter.

You can enter the UK up to 14 days before the start date of your job.

What you can and cannot do

You can:

study (for some courses you’ll need an Academic Technology Approval Scheme certificate)

work in the job described in your certificate of sponsorship

do a second job for up to 20 hours per week

do a job on the Skilled Worker shortage occupation list for up to 20 hours per week as well as your main job

apply to change (‘switch’) to a Global Talent visa if you’re in the government authorised exchange scheme for sponsored researchers

bring your partner and children with you as your ‘dependants’, if they’re eligible

You cannot:

take a permanent job

get public funds

Eligibility

You must have both of the following:

a certificate of sponsorship reference number from your UK sponsor

enough money to support yourself in the UK - you’ll usually need to have at least £1,270 available (unless you’re exempt)

Certificate of sponsorship

A certificate of sponsorship is a reference number which holds information about the job and your personal details. It’s not an actual certificate or paper document.

Your sponsor (your UK sponsor) will give you your certificate of sponsorship reference number.

They (your UK sponsor) must also give you some other information to help you to apply, for example your working hours.

You’ll need to add your certificate of sponsorship reference number to your application form - you can only use it (A certificate of sponsorship) once.

Your certificate of sponsorship is valid for 3 months from the date it (your certificate of sponsorship) is assigned to you.

Multiple entry

Your sponsor can give you a multiple entry certificate of sponsorship so you can leave and return to the UK.

Money to support yourself

You must have at least £1,270 in your bank account to show you can support yourself in the UK.

You will need to have had the money available for at least 28 days in a row. Day 28 must be within 31 days of applying for this visa.

You’ll usually need to show proof of this when you apply, unless either:

you’ve been in the UK with a valid visa for at least 12 months

your employer can cover your costs during your first month in the UK, up to £1,270

Your partner and children will also need to prove they can support themselves while they’re in the UK. Check how much they’ll need.

Read the guidance on financial evidence for more information about the money you need and how to prove it.

If your employer can support you instead

Your certificate of sponsorship must confirm this. Your employer will need to complete the ‘sponsor certifies maintenance’ section on your certificate. This is under ‘Additional data’.

Documents you must provide

When you apply you’ll need to provide:

your certificate of sponsorship reference number - your employer will give you this

a valid passport or other document that shows your identity and nationality

evidence that you have enough personal savings to support yourself in the UK, for example bank statements (unless your certificate of sponsorship shows your employer can support you)

proof of your relationship with your partner or children if they’re applying with you

your tuberculosis test results if you’re from a country where you have to take the test

a valid ATAS certificate if your employer tells you that you need one because your job involves researching a sensitive subject at PhD level or higher

You need a blank page in your passport for your visa.

You must also provide a certified translation of any documents that are not in English or Welsh.

Read the guide for a full list of documents you can provide.

You may need to provide additional documents depending on your circumstances.

Apply

Read the full guidance before you apply.

Apply from outside the UK

You must apply online for this visa (your visa).

You’ll need to have your fingerprints and photograph taken at a visa application centre (to get a biometric residence permit) as part of your application.

You’ll have to collect your biometric residence permit within 10 days of when you said you’d arrive in the UK (even if you actually arrive at a later date).

Find out how to get your visa decision faster - this depends on what country you’re in. Check if your visa application centre offers faster decisions and other services.

Apply from inside the UK

You can only extend your existing visa or switch to this visa (your visa) if you’re already in the UK.

Extend your visa

You can apply to extend your Temporary worker - Government Authorised Exchange visa (T5).

You should apply before your current visa expires.

Eligibility

You might be able to extend your stay. You must still meet the eligibility requirements.

You must apply while you’re still in the UK.

How long you can stay

You can apply to stay in the UK for up to a maximum of:

12 months, if you’re doing work experience

24 months, if you’re doing research, training or an Overseas Government Language Programme

You can also stay for the length of time on your certificate of sponsorship plus 14 days, whichever is shorter.

Fees

Check the fees for your visa.

How to extend your visa

You should read the full guidance before you apply.

You must apply online.

Your partner and children

You can add your partner and children to your online application - including children who have turned 18 during your stay.

Providing biometric information and supporting documents

When you apply, you’ll be asked to make an appointment at a UK Visa and Citizenship Application Services (UKVCAS) service point to provide your biometric information (your fingerprints and a photo).

You’ll also need to submit your supporting documents (supporting documents). You can:

upload them (supporting documents) into the online service

have them (supporting documents) scanned at your UKVCAS (UK Visa and Citizenship Application Services (UKVCAS)) appointment

You must not travel outside of the UK, Ireland, the Channel Islands or the Isle of Man until you get a decision. Your application will be withdrawn if you do.

How long it takes

A decision will be made within 8 weeks of your application date if you use the standard service.

If you use the super priority service a decision will be made:

by the end of the next working day after your UKVCAS (UK Visa and Citizenship Application Services (UKVCAS)) appointment if your appointment is on a weekday

2 working days after your UKVCAS (UK Visa and Citizenship Application Services (UKVCAS)) appointment if your appointment is at the weekend

Working days are Monday to Friday, not including bank holidays.

You’ll be contacted if your application is complex and will take longer, for example because:

if your supporting documents (supporting documents) need to be verified

if you need to attend an interview

because of your personal circumstances, for example if you have a criminal conviction

Changing your sponsor

You must apply again and meet all the eligibility rules if you want to change your sponsor within the same organisation or move to a new organisation.

Switch to this visa

You can apply to change (‘switch’) to a Temporary Worker - Government Authorised Exchange visa (T5).

You should apply before your current visa expires.

Eligibility

You can apply if you’re a:

student, whether studying, resitting an examination or writing a thesis

student union sabbatical officer

student nurse

postgraduate doctor or dentist

student visa holder (including Tier 4)

sponsored researcher who came to the UK on a work permit and you want to continue in the same job with your sponsor

You must have completed a UK bachelor’s or master’s degree during your last grant of leave.

You must also meet the other eligibility requirements.

Fees

Check the fees for your visa.

How to switch your visa

You must apply online.

Your partner and children

Providing biometric information and supporting documents

You’ll also need to submit your supporting documents (supporting documents). You can:

upload them (supporting documents) into the online service

How long it takes

A decision will be made within 8 weeks of your application date if you use the standard service.

If you use the super priority service a decision will be made:

by the end of the next working day after your UKVCAS (UK Visa and Citizenship Application Services (UKVCAS)) appointment if your appointment (your UKVCAS (UK Visa and Citizenship Application Services (UKVCAS)) appointment) is on a weekday

2 working days after your UKVCAS (UK Visa and Citizenship Application Services (UKVCAS)) appointment if your appointment (your UKVCAS (UK Visa and Citizenship Application Services (UKVCAS)) appointment) is at the weekend

Working days are Monday to Friday, not including bank holidays.

You’ll be contacted if your application is complex and will take longer, for example:

if your supporting documents (supporting documents) need to be verified

if you need to attend an interview

because of your personal circumstances, for example you have a criminal conviction

Your partner and children

Your partner and children can apply to join you or to stay in the UK as your ‘dependants’ if they’re eligible. If their application is successful, their visa will end on the same date as yours.

Your relationship

A dependant partner or child is any of the following:

your husband, wife, civil partner or unmarried partner

your child under 18 - including if they (Your partner and children) were born in the UK during your stay

your child over 18 if they’re currently in the UK as your dependant

You’ll need to provide evidence of your relationship when you apply.

Your partner

You must be able to prove that either:

you’re in a civil partnership or marriage that’s recognised in the UK

you’ve been living together in a relationship for at least 2 years when you apply

If your child is 16 or over

They (your child) must:

live with you (unless they (your child)’re in full-time education at boarding school, college or university)

not be married, in a civil partnership or have any children

be financially supported by you

If your child lives with you, you’ll need to provide evidence of their address such as:

a bank statement

credit card bills

driving licence

NHS registration document

an official letter from their (your child) university or college

Money they (your child) need to support themselves (your child)

Your partner and children must have a certain amount of money available to support themselves while they’re in the UK.

You - or your partner or child - will need:

£285 for your partner

£315 for one child

£200 for each additional child

You - or your partner or child - will need to have had the money available for at least 28 days in a row. Day 28 must be within 31 days of you or them applying for this visa.

You’ll usually need to show proof of this when they (Your partner and children) apply, unless either:

you have all been in the UK with a valid visa for at least 12 months

your employer can cover your family’s costs during your first month in the UK - this must be confirmed on your certificate of sponsorship

If your partner or child is applying at a different time to you, they’ll only need to prove they have enough money to support themselves if they have been in the UK for less than 1 year.

Apply from outside the UK

Your partner and children must apply online.

Each family member will need to complete a separate application and pay the visa fee.

They (Each family member)’ll also need your application number - you’ll get this when you apply. This number is called a Global Web Form (GWF) or a Unique Application Number (UAN). You’ll find it on emails and letters from the Home Office about your application.

Proving their (your partner or child) identity

As part of their (your partner or child) application, your partner and children will need to have their (your partner or child) fingerprints and photograph taken at a visa application centre. They (your partner or child) may need to travel to get to their (your partner or child) nearest centre (this could be in another country).

The visa application centre (their (your partner or child) nearest centre) may need to keep their (your partner or child) passport and documents while they (their (your partner or child) nearest centre) process their (your partner or child) application.

How long it takes to get a decision

Once they (your partner or child)’ve applied online, proved their (your partner or child) identity and provided their (your partner or child) documents, they (your partner or child)’ll usually get a decision within 3 weeks.

They (your partner or child) may be able to pay to get their (your partner or child) visa faster - check with the visa application centre (their (your partner or child) nearest centre).

Apply from inside the UK (extend or switch their (your partner or child) visa)

You can include your partner and children on your application to extend or switch to this visa. This includes children who were born or have turned 18 during your stay.

If you cannot apply at the same time, your partner or child can apply to extend or switch their visas at a later date. This must be before their current visa expires.

Your partner or children cannot apply to switch to your visa as your dependants if they are currently in the UK:

on a visit visa

on a short-term student visa

on a Parent of a Child Student visa

on a seasonal worker visa

on a domestic worker in a private household visa

on immigration bail

because they (your partner or child) were given permission to stay outside the immigration rules, for example on compassionate grounds

How to apply

Your partner and children must apply online to either:

extend or switch as a partner

extend or switch as a child

They (your partner or child)’ll need your application number - you’ll get this when you apply. This number is called a Global Web Form (GWF) or a Unique Application Number (UAN). You’ll find it on emails and letters from the Home Office about your application.

Proving their identity

As part of their application, your partner and children will need to have their fingerprints and photograph taken at a UK Visa and Citizenship Application Services (UKVCAS) service point.

They must not travel outside of the UK, Ireland, the Channel Islands or the Isle of Man until they get a decision. Their application will be withdrawn if they do.

How long it takes to get a decision

Once they’ve applied online, proved their identity and provided their documents, they’ll usually get a decision within 8 weeks.

They may be able to pay to get a faster decision - they’ll be told if they can when they apply.

Children born in the UK

If you have a child while you’re in the UK, they do not automatically become a British citizen.

You can apply online for their visa as your dependant. You must do this if you want to travel in and out of the UK with your child.

You’ll need to provide a full UK birth certificate for each child, showing the names of both parents.

You must apply for their dependant visa before they turn 18 if they want to stay in the UK.


Youth Mobility Scheme visa (T5)

Overview

You can apply for a Youth Mobility Scheme visa (T5) if you:

want to live and work in the UK for up to 2 years

are aged 18 to 30

have £2,530 in savings

have certain types of British Nationality or are from certain countries or territories

meet the other eligibility requirements

This visa (a Youth Mobility Scheme visa (T5)) has replaced the Tier 5 (Youth Mobility Scheme) visa.

How long it will take

The earliest you can apply for a visa is 6 months before you travel.

You should get a decision on your visa (a Youth Mobility Scheme visa (T5)) within 3 weeks when you apply from outside the UK.

Find out about paying for a faster decision.

Fees

It costs £244 to apply.

You’ll also have to pay the healthcare surcharge as part of your application. Check how much you’ll have to pay before you apply.

How long you can stay

You’ll be given a visa to live and work in the UK for up to 24 months.

You can enter the UK at any time while your visa is valid, and leave and come back at any time during your stay.

If you turn 31 while you’re in the UK, you can stay for as long as your visa is valid.

What you can and cannot do

You can:

study - for some courses you’ll need an Academic Technology Approval Scheme certificate

work in most jobs

be self-employed and set up a company - as long as your premises are rented, your equipment is not worth more than £5,000 and you do not have any employees

You cannot:

work as a professional sportsperson (for example as a coach)

extend your stay

get public funds

bring in family members on your application - they must apply separately

Eligibility

You can apply for a Youth Mobility Scheme visa (T5) if you’re aged 18 to 30 and you’re from:

Australia

Canada

Monaco

New Zealand

San Marino

You must be selected in the Youth Mobility Scheme ballot before you can apply for your visa (a Youth Mobility Scheme visa (T5)) if you’re from:

Hong Kong

Japan

South Korea

Taiwan

You must also be aged 18 to 30 on the date you apply for your visa (a Youth Mobility Scheme visa (T5)).

You can also apply if you’re 18 to 30 and a:

British overseas citizen

British overseas territories citizen

British national (overseas)

You cannot apply if you have:

children under the age of 18 who live with you

children you’re financially responsible for

already been in the UK under the scheme

Money to support yourself

You must have at least £2,530 in your bank account to show you can support yourself in the UK.

You will need to have had the money available for at least 28 days in a row. Day 28 must be within 31 days of applying for this visa (a Youth Mobility Scheme visa (T5)).

You’ll need to show proof of this when you apply.

Read the guidance on financial evidence for more information about the money you need and how to prove it.

Documents you must provide

When you apply you’ll need to provide:

a valid passport or other document that shows your identity and nationality

a bank statement showing you have at least £2,530 in savings

your tuberculosis (TB) test results if you’re from a country where you have to take the test

You need a blank page in your passport for your visa.

You’ll need to provide a certified translation of any documents that are not in English or Welsh.

Read the guide for a full list of documents you can provide.

You may need to provide additional documents depending on your circumstances.

Apply

Read the Youth Mobility Scheme guidance (the guidance on financial evidence) before you apply.

If you’re from Hong Kong, Japan, South Korea or Taiwan, you must be successfully selected in the Youth Mobility Scheme ballot before you can apply for your visa (a Youth Mobility Scheme visa (T5)).

Apply from outside the UK

You must apply online for this visa (a Youth Mobility Scheme visa (T5)).

You’ll need to have your fingerprints and photograph taken at a visa application centre (to get a biometric residence permit) as part of your application.

You’ll have to collect your biometric residence permit (a biometric residence permit) within 10 days of when you said you’d arrive in the UK (even if you actually arrive at a later date).

Find out how to get your visa decision faster - this depends on what country you’re in. Check if your visa application centre offers faster decisions and other services.

If you have a child while you’re in the UK, they do not automatically become a British citizen.

You can apply online for their (a child) visa as your dependant. You must do this if you want to travel in and out of the UK with your child.

You’ll need to provide a full UK birth certificate for each child, showing the names of both parents.


Entrepreneur visa (Tier 1)

Overview

You can no longer apply for a Tier 1 (Entrepreneur) visa.

If you want to set up or run a business in the UK you might be able to apply for an Innovator visa or a Start-up visa.

If you already have a Tier 1 (Entrepreneur) visa

You can still apply:

to settle in the UK (indefinite leave to remain)

to extend your visa (a Tier 1 (Entrepreneur) visa)

for family members to join you

Extend your visa (a Tier 1 (Entrepreneur) visa)

You may be able to extend your Tier 1 (Entrepreneur) visa (a Tier 1 (Entrepreneur) visa).

You should apply before your current visa expires.

You can apply to extend your visa (a Tier 1 (Entrepreneur) visa) if you:

registered as a director or as self-employed no more than 6 months after the date you were given permission to stay in the UK under a Tier 1 (Entrepreneur) visa

can prove you’ve been self-employed, a member of a partnership or working as a director of a business 3 months before you apply

created at least 2 full time jobs that have existed for at least 12 months

can continue to support yourself

You must have invested into 1 or more UK (the UK) businesses either:

£200,000 in cash

£50,000 in cash

The amount depends on the level of funds your initial application was based on.

You should include any dependants who are on your current visa on your application to extend - including children who have turned 18 during your stay.

You should read the full guidance on the Tier 1 (Entrepreneur) visa (a Tier 1 (Entrepreneur) visa) before you apply.

Fees

It costs £1,277 to extend this visa (a Tier 1 (Entrepreneur) visa).

You’ll also need to pay £19.20 to have your biometric information (fingerprints and a photo) taken. You’ll pay as part of your application.

How to extend your visa if you’re in the UK

You must apply online.

Providing biometric information and supporting documents

When you apply, you’ll be asked to make an appointment at a UK Visa and Citizenship Application Services (UKVCAS) service point to provide your biometric information (your fingerprints and a photo) (biometric information).

You’ll also need to submit your supporting documents (supporting documents). You can:

upload them (supporting documents) into the online service

have them (supporting documents) scanned at your UKVCAS (UK Visa and Citizenship Application Services (UKVCAS)) appointment

You must not travel outside of the UK, Ireland, the Channel Islands or the Isle of Man until you get a decision. Your application will be withdrawn if you do.

Get help to apply online

You can get help with completing the online form if you:

do not feel confident using a computer or mobile device

do not have internet access

You can only use this service (the online service) if you’re applying to extend your visa in the UK.

You cannot get immigration advice through this service (the online service).

How long it takes

A decision will be made on your application within 8 weeks.

You’ll be contacted if your application is complex and will take longer. This could be because:

your supporting documents need to be verified

you need to attend an interview

of your personal circumstances (for example if you have a criminal conviction)

Once you’ve applied you can stay in the UK until you’ve been given a decision, as long as you applied before your last visa expired.

How to extend your visa if you’re outside the UK

If you’re outside the UK, you must apply online to extend a Tier 1 (Entrepreneur) visa.

Switch to this visa (a Tier 1 (Entrepreneur) visa)

If you’re already in the UK you may be able to switch to a Tier 1 (Entrepreneur) visa if:

you’re on a Tier 1 (Graduate Entrepreneur) visa

you switched to a Start-up visa from a Tier 1 (Graduate Entrepreneur) visa for your second year

You must meet the eligibility requirements for a Tier 1 (Entrepreneur) visa. You must have:

£50,000 in funds to spend in the UK

a viable business plan

You must apply before your current visa expires.

How long you can stay

You can stay for 3 years if your application to switch is successful.

Fees

It costs £1,277 to switch to this visa (a Tier 1 (Entrepreneur) visa).

How to apply to switch your visa

You must apply online.

Providing biometric information and supporting documents

upload them (supporting documents) into the online service

Get help to apply online

You can get help with completing the online form if you:

do not feel confident using a computer or mobile device

do not have internet access

You can only use this service (the online service) if you’re applying to switch to this visa (a Tier 1 (Entrepreneur) visa) in the UK.

How long it takes

A decision will be made on your application within 8 weeks.

your supporting documents need to be verified

you need to attend an interview

of your personal circumstances, for example you have a criminal conviction

Switching to this visa (a Tier 1 (Entrepreneur) visa) if you’re outside the UK

You can apply to switch to a Tier 1 (Entrepreneur) visa if you have:

a valid Tier 1 (Graduate Entrepreneur) visa

a valid Start-up visa, and you switched from a Tier 1 (Graduate Entrepreneur) visa  for your second year

a Tier 1 (Graduate Entrepreneur) visa that expired less than 12 months ago

a Start-up visa that expired less than 12 months ago, and you switched from a Tier 1 (Graduate Entrepreneur) visa for your second year

Family members

Your family members (‘dependants’) can join you if you’re in the UK on this visa (a Tier 1 (Entrepreneur) visa). Your family members must apply for their own visa.

If they (Your family members (‘dependants’)’re from the European Economic Area (EEA) or Switzerland and arrive before 1 January 2021, they (Your family members (‘dependants’) may be able to apply to the free EU Settlement Scheme.

A ‘dependant’ is any of the following:

your partner

your child under 18

your child over 18 if they’re currently in the UK as a dependant

Read the guidance on dependant applications before you apply.

Adult family members must provide a criminal record certificate from any country they have lived in for 12 months or more in the last 10 years.

Savings

You must show that your dependants can be supported while they’re in the UK.

Each dependant must have a certain amount of money available to them (Your family members (‘dependants’) - this is in addition to the £945  you must have to support yourself.

The amount (a certain amount of money available to them (Your family members (‘dependants’)) depends on your circumstances. You must have £1,890 for each dependant if you’ve been in the UK for less than 12 months. If you’ve been in the UK for more than 12 months, you must have £630 for each dependant.

You must have proof you have the money, and that it’s been in your bank account or your dependant’s bank account for at least 90 days before you or they (Adult family members) apply.

Fees

It costs £1878 for each family member.

They (your dependant’s)’ll also need to pay £19.20 to have their (your dependant’s) biometric information (fingerprints and a photo) taken. They (your dependant’s)’ll pay as part of their (your dependant’s) application.

If your family member is applying from within the UK, they may be able to pay an extra £800 for the super priority service to get a faster decision.

Dependants applying outside the UK

Your family members must apply online.

They’ll need to have their fingerprints and photograph taken at a visa application centre (to get a biometric residence permit) as part of their application.

They’ll have to collect their biometric residence permit (a biometric residence permit) within 10 days of when they said they’d arrive in the UK (even if they actually arrive at a later date).

They may be able to get their visa faster or other services depending on what country they’re in - check with the visa application centre.

If your child is over 18 they cannot apply if they are outside the UK. They can apply from inside the UK if they are already here as your dependant.

Dependants applying in the UK on their own

Your dependants can apply to extend or switch their visas to stay with you if they’re already in the UK. Dependants must either:

apply online as a dependant partner

apply online as a dependant child

Family members cannot apply in the UK as your dependant if they hold a visitor visa.

Providing biometric information and supporting documents

When they (Family members) apply, they (Family members)’ll be asked to make an appointment at a UK Visa and Citizenship Application Services (UKVCAS) service point to provide their (Family members) biometric information (their (Family members) fingerprints and a photo) (biometric information).

They (Family members)’ll also need to submit their (Family members) supporting documents. They (Family members) can:

upload them (their (Family members) supporting documents) into the online service

have them (their (Family members) supporting documents) scanned at their (Family members) UKVCAS (UK Visa and Citizenship Application Services (UKVCAS)) appointment

They (Family members) must not travel outside of the UK, Ireland, the Channel Islands or the Isle of Man until they (Family members) get a decision. Their (Family members) application will be withdrawn if they (Family members) do.

How long it takes to get a decision

A decision will be made within 8 weeks of your application date if you use the standard service.

If you use the super priority service (the online service) a decision will be made:

by the end of the next working day after your UKVCAS (UK Visa and Citizenship Application Services (UKVCAS)) appointment if your appointment is on a weekday

2 working days after your UKVCAS (UK Visa and Citizenship Application Services (UKVCAS)) appointment if your appointment is at the weekend

Working days are Monday to Friday, not including bank holidays.

They’ll be contacted if their (Family members) application is complex and will take longer, for example:

if their (Family members) supporting documents need to be verified

if they (Family members) need to attend an interview

because of their (Family members) personal circumstances (for example if they (Family members) have a criminal conviction)

Once they (Family members)’ve applied they (Family members) can stay in the UK until they (Family members)’ve been given a decision, as long as they (Family members) applied before their (Family members) last visa expired.

Get help to apply online

Your family can get help with completing the online form if they:

do not feel confident using a computer or mobile device

do not have internet access

Your family can only use this service (the online service) if they (Your family)’re applying to extend or switch to your visa in the UK.

You cannot get immigration advice through this service (the online service).

Children born while you’re in the UK

If you have children while you’re in the UK, you can apply online to add them to your visa as your dependant.

You must do this (apply) if you want to travel in and out of the UK with them.

You’ll need to provide a full UK birth certificate for each child, showing the names of both parents.


British National (Overseas) visa

Overview

If you’re from Hong Kong and are a British national (overseas) you and your family members can apply for a British National (Overseas) visa. This is known as a BNO visa. It allows you to live, work and study in the UK.

Who can apply

You can apply for a BNO visa if you’re:

a British national (overseas)

18 or older

Your permanent home must be:

in Hong Kong, if you’re applying from outside the UK

in the UK, Channel Islands, Isle of Man or Hong Kong if you’re applying in the UK

Your family members

Your family members can apply for a BNO visa if they (Your family members)’re eligible. They (Your family members) must usually apply at the same time as you.

Check if your family members can apply.

How long you can stay

You can apply to stay for either:

2 years and 6 months

5 years

You will be able to extend your visa if you want to stay longer. You can apply to extend your visa as many times as you want.

After you’ve lived in the UK for 5 years, you can apply to live in the UK permanently.

What you can and cannot do

You can:

work (except you cannot work as a professional sportsperson or sports coach)

study (including at school, college or university)

You cannot usually apply for most benefits (public funds).

Once you have a BNO visa, you might be able to apply for access to benefits. You’ll be eligible for this in certain financial circumstances, for example if you:

do not have a place to live and cannot afford one

have a place to live but cannot afford essential living costs like food or heating

are at risk of losing your place to live or being unable to afford essential living costs

have a very low income, and not having access to benefits would harm your child’s wellbeing

How much it costs

When you apply for a British National (Overseas) visa, you must:

pay the visa application fee

pay the healthcare surcharge

prove that you have enough money to support yourself and your family members for at least 6 months while you’re in the UK

Visa application fee

You and your family members will each need to pay a visa application fee (the visa application fee).

It (the visa application fee) costs:

£180 if you’re applying for 2 years and 6 months

£250 if you’re applying for 5 years

As part of your application, you might need to go to an appointment to give your biometric information (fingerprints and a photo). This (the visa application fee) will cost £19.20.

Healthcare surcharge

You and your family members will each need to pay the healthcare surcharge (Healthcare surcharge).

This (Healthcare surcharge) is so you can use the National Health Service (NHS) in the UK. You’ll still need to pay for some NHS care such as prescriptions, dental care and eye tests.

For each adult (18 or older) it (Healthcare surcharge) costs:

£1,560 if you’re staying for 2 years and 6 months

£3,120 if you’re staying for 5 years

For each child (under 18), it costs:

£1,175 if you’re staying for 2 years and 6 months

£2,350 if you’re staying for 5 years

You pay the healthcare surcharge (Healthcare surcharge) as part of your online visa application.

Money to support yourself and your family

You’ll need to show you have enough money to pay for your housing and to support yourself and your family for 6 months.

This (Money to support yourself and your family) can include:

your income and savings as well as your family member’s

money you will earn in your current job in the UK

money you will earn if you’re transferring to a job in the UK with your current employer

an offer of help from family or friends

You usually do not need to show you have enough money to support yourself if you’ve been living in the UK for 12 months or more. You’ll still need to show this if you’ve been in the UK on a Youth Mobility Scheme visa.

As well as money for housing costs, you’ll need at least the same amount as someone would get on Income Support in the UK.

How much you need depends on how many family members are applying with you. For example, you’ll need about:

£2,000 as a single adult

£3,100 as a couple with a child

£4,600 as a couple with 3 children

£9,200 as a couple with 2 parents and 2 adult children

Check what documents you need to show this.

Your family members

If you’re a British national (overseas), your family members can apply as your ‘dependant’ if they (Your family members) normally live with you.

A dependant can include your:

husband, wife, civil partner or unmarried partner

child or grandchild under 18

child 18 or older, born on or after 1 July 1997 (and their partner or child under 18)

parent, grandparent, brother, sister, son or daughter (18 or older) if they (Your family members) live with you and are very dependent on you for their (Your family members) care

When you apply, you and your family member will need to provide evidence of your relationship and that you normally live together.

Partners

Partners must be 18 or older to apply. They can be either:

your partner

your adult child’s partner

They’ll need to prove that they’re either:

in a civil partnership or marriage that’s recognised in the UK

in a relationship and have been living with their partner for at least 2 years when they apply

Children under 18

All children under 18 need to apply with both parents, unless one parent or grandparent has sole responsibility for them.

The child (All children under 18) must normally live with you, unless they (All children under 18)’re living away from home to study.

Children 18 or older

You or your partner’s child (18 or older) can apply as your dependant if they were born on or after 1 July 1997. They must apply at the same time as you.

They (your partner’s child (18 or older)) must normally live with you, unless they (your partner’s child (18 or older))’re living away from home to study.

If they (your partner’s child (18 or older))’re not eligible for a BNO visa, they (your partner’s child (18 or older)) may be able to apply for another visa to come to the UK to work or study. Check what visa they (your partner’s child (18 or older)) need.

Other family members who live with you

Other adult family members (18 or older) can only apply if they are very dependent on you for their care. For example, they rely on your care to perform everyday tasks because of illness or disability.

This includes your or your partner’s:

parent or grandparent

brother or sister

son or daughter

If eligible, they can apply as an ‘adult dependent relative’. They must apply at the same time as you.

How long family members can stay

Your family member will need to apply for the same BNO visa as you, for either:

2 years and 6 months

5 years

How to apply with your family

Each family member will need to make their own application as your dependant.

As a British national (overseas), you’ll need to submit your application first to get an application number. This is called a Global Web Form (GWF) or a Unique Application Number (UAN).

Your family members will need to use your application number (an application number) when they apply, and submit it (an application number) within 2 days of your application.

If you have technical problems that mean your family members might not be able to apply within 2 days of you, contact UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) for help.

If your partner or child cannot apply within 2 days

If your partner or child under 18 cannot apply within 2 days of you, they (your partner or child) might still be able to apply later as your dependant. This will only be allowed in cases where they could not apply when you did, for example if:

you start a new relationship when you have a BNO visa

your child was born after you got your BNO visa (a BNO visa)

your partner cannot travel when you apply, for example because of medical needs

They (your partner) may be asked to give evidence to show they (your partner) could not apply within 2 days of your application. Your visa must still be valid when they (your partner) apply to be your dependant.

Apply online

Your family members can either:

apply from outside the UK

apply in the UK

Documents you’ll need to apply

When you apply you’ll need to provide a valid passport or other travel document that shows your identity and nationality.

If you’re a British national (overseas) (BNO), you can use a current or expired BNO passport (or a photocopy) to show your BNO status when you apply.

If you no longer have a BNO passport you can still apply. The Home Office will check your status (your BNO status) but it may take longer to get a decision on your application.

You do not need a BNO passport to travel to the UK. You can use any valid passport or travel document.

You’ll also need to provide evidence:

that you have a permanent home in Hong Kong, the UK, Channel Islands or Isle of Man

that you have enough money to support yourself and your family

of your relationship with family members

of your tuberculosis (TB) test certificate, if you did not already provide it when you arrived the UK

You must provide a certified translation of any documents that are not in English.

Proof of your permanent home address

You’ll need to provide up to 3 documents that show your permanent home address. This can include:

household or utility bills

a visa, residence permit or other immigration document (or a colour photocopy)

payslips or your most recent P60

bank statements

a letter from an employer confirming your employment

records of rent or mortgage payments

an appointment letter from your GP or other healthcare professional

a letter from the local council or a government

Your family members (‘dependants’) will need to provide evidence that their permanent home address (your permanent home address) is the same as yours.

Proof you have enough money to support yourself and your family

You usually need to show that you have enough money to support yourself and your family (dependants) for 6 months in the UK - unless you’ve been living in the UK for at least 12 months.

If you’ve been in the UK for 12 months or more on a Youth Mobility Scheme visa, you still need to show you have enough money to support yourself and your family.

This (show) includes proving you have the money to pay for accommodation or an offer of accommodation from friends or family.

If you’re applying with family, evidence can include you and your family member’s income or savings.

You might need to provide evidence such as:

bank or savings account statements

payslips

proof of income from self-employment

proof of income from rental property

a letter from friends or family with evidence (such as bank statements or payslips) that they (Your family members (‘dependants’)) have the money to support you and your family (yourself and your family)

a letter confirming an offer of accommodation from friends or family

a tenancy or mortgage agreement

At least one piece of evidence must be dated no more than 31 days before you submit your application.

An offer of work does not usually count as evidence unless you’re transferring to a job in the UK with your current employer.

Evidence of your relationship with family members

If you’re applying with family members from your household, you’ll need to provide evidence of your relationship with them.

For example:

a copy of a marriage or civil partnership certificate

a birth certificate or adoption certificate for children

evidence that their (family members from your household) permanent home address is the same as yours

When you need a TB test certificate

Whether you need a certificate depends on where you’re applying from.

If you’re applying from outside the UK

If you’ve been living in Hong Kong or another country where you have to take a TB test for the past 6 months, you must provide a TB certificate.

If you’re already in the UK

If you provided a TB certificate to come to the UK, you do not need to show one again.

Otherwise, you’ll need to provide a TB test certificate to stay in the UK if you came from Hong Kong or another country where you have to take the TB test (a TB test).

Getting a TB test certificate

You might not be able to get a TB test (a TB test) appointment straight away. If you apply for your visa without a certificate, you might not get your certificate by the time your application is being considered.

If you wait until you have your certificate before you apply for your visa, you can avoid the risk of your application being looked at before you get your certificate.

The certificate (your certificate) must be no older than 6 months when you apply for your visa.

Your test certificate must be from an approved test centre abroad or an approved test centre in the UK.

Apply from outside the UK

You must apply online for a British National (Overseas) visa.

Your permanent home must be in Hong Kong.

Before you apply, you can check:

what documents you’ll need to apply

how to apply with your family

Apply online

As part of your online application, you’ll need to prove your identity. How you do this depends on what type of passport you have.

You’ll either:

use the ‘UK Immigration: ID Check’ app to scan your BNO, HKSAR or EEA passport - you’ll also create or sign into your UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) account

go to an appointment at a visa application centre to give your fingerprints and a photo - this is to get a biometric residence permit

You’ll be told what you need to do when you apply. If you’re applying with a family member, your applications will be processed together even if you prove your identity in different ways.

If you need to go to an appointment:

the centre may have to keep your passport and documents while they process your application

you may need to travel to get to your nearest visa application centre (this could be in another country)

If you use a valid BNO or Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) (Hong Kong) passport to prove your identity, you do not need to travel to the UK using the same passport (your BNO, HKSAR or EEA passport).

Apply now

Continue your application

You can continue your application if you’ve saved it (your application). To do this, sign in to your account (your UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) account) using the link from your sign-up email.

After you apply

UKVI (your UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI)) aims to make a decision on your application within 12 weeks.

If you applied using the ‘UK Immigration: ID check’ app, the 12 weeks (12 weeks) starts from the date you submitted your online application (your application).

If you went to a visa application centre, the 12 weeks (12 weeks) starts from the date you attended your appointment and submitted your fingerprints.

Your application may take longer to process if:

your supporting documents need to be verified or you need to provide more evidence

you need to attend an interview

you do not have a valid tuberculosis (TB) certificate

you have a criminal conviction for an offence that is recognised in the UK

you’re applying as a family group, and one or more of your family members has to go to a visa application centre

If you need to change or cancel your application

If you need to change something in your application after you’ve sent it (your application), contact UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) (your UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI)).

You can ask to cancel your application. Your fee will only be refunded if UKVI (your UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI)) has not started processing your application.

After you get a decision

You’ll get a letter or an email containing the decision on your application. This will explain what you need to do next.

Find out what happens after you get your decision (the decision on your application).

If your application is successful

You must travel to the UK:

within 90 days, if you went to a visa application centre to prove your identity

before your visa expires, if you used the ‘UK Immigration: ID Check’ smartphone app to prove your identity

Children under 18 must travel with one or both parents, unless they’re joining their parents who are already in the UK.

If your application is unsuccessful

If you’re a British national (overseas) and your application is unsuccessful, your family members’ applications will also be refused. If your application is successful but your family member’s is not, you can still come to the UK.

You’ll get a refund for the healthcare surcharge you paid for each unsuccessful application.

Apply in the UK

You must apply online for a British National (Overseas) visa.

Your permanent home must be in the UK, Channel Islands, Isle of Man or Hong Kong.

Before you apply, you can check:

what documents you’ll need to apply

how to apply with your family

Switch to a BNO visa

If you meet the eligibility requirements, you can apply to switch to a BNO visa if you’re already in the UK on a different UK visa.

Your family members will usually need to apply at the same time as you. Check how to apply with your family.

Apply online

You’ll either:

use the ‘UK Immigration: ID Check’ app to scan your BNO, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR (Hong Kong)) (Hong Kong) or EEA passport - you’ll also create or sign into your UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) account

go to a UK Visa and Citizenship Application Services (UKVCAS) service point to give your fingerprints and a photo - this is to get a biometric residence permit

Apply now

Continue an application

You can continue your application (an application) if you’ve saved it (an application). To do this (Continue), you can sign in to your account using the link from your sign-up email.

Get help to apply online

You can get help with completing the online form if you:

do not feel confident using a computer or mobile device

do not have internet access

You can only use this service if you’re applying for a visa in the UK.

You cannot get immigration advice through this service.

After you apply

UKVI aims to make a decision on your application within 12 weeks.

If you applied using the ‘UK Immigration: ID check’ app, the 12 weeks (12 weeks) starts from the date you submitted your online application (an application).

If you went to a UKVCAS service point, the 12 weeks (12 weeks) starts from the date you attended your appointment and submitted your fingerprints.

Your application may take longer to process if:

your supporting documents need to be verified or you need to provide more evidence

you need to attend an interview

you do not have a valid tuberculosis (TB) certificate

you have a criminal conviction for an offence that is recognised in the UK

you’re applying as a family group, and one or more of your family members has to go to a visa application centre

You can stay in the UK until you’ve been given a decision about your application.

You must not travel outside of the UK, Channel Islands or Isle of Man until you get a decision.

If you need to change or cancel your application

If you need to change something in your application after you’ve sent it (your application), contact UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) (UKVI).

You can ask to cancel your application. Your fee will only be refunded if UKVI has not started processing your application.

After you get a decision

You’ll get a letter or an email containing the decision on your application. This will explain what you need to do next.

Find out what happens after you get your decision (the decision on your application).

If your application is unsuccessful

If your application is unsuccessful, your family members’ applications will also be refused.

You may be able to stay in the UK for up to 12 months if you were not able to prove that you:

have enough money to support yourself and your family in the UK

have a permanent home in the UK, Channel Islands, Isle of Man or Hong Kong

When you get your decision letter, it will say if you’re allowed to do this. You’ll be able to apply for a BNO visa again.

If you stay in the UK for up to 12 months, you’ll get a refund for some of the healthcare surcharge you paid.

As an adult (18 or older), you’ll get a refund of:

£936 if you applied for 2 years and 6 months

£2,496 if you applied for 5 years

As a child under 18 you’ll get a refund of:

£705 if you applied for 2 years and 6 months

£1,880 if you applied for 5 years

If you leave the UK, you’ll get a full refund for the healthcare surcharge you paid.

Living permanently in the UK

If you’ve lived in the UK for 5 years, you may be able to apply to stay permanently.

Applying to settle in the UK

You can apply to settle in the UK (known as ‘indefinite leave to remain’) after you’ve lived in the UK for 5 years on a BNO visa. This means you can stay in the UK without any time limits.

If you’ve already spent time in the UK on one of the following visas this will count towards the 5 years (5 years):

Global Talent visa (or a Tier 1 Exceptional Talent visa)

Investor visa

Entrepreneur visa

Skilled Worker visa (or a Tier 2 General work visa)

Minister of Religion visa

Sportsperson visa

Representative of an Overseas Business visa

UK Ancestry visa

Time spent on a Student visa (previously called a Tier 4 (General) student visa) or a Youth Mobility Scheme visa will not count.

To apply, you’ll need to:

meet the knowledge of English requirements

pass the Life in the UK Test

have spent no more than 180 days outside the UK in any 12 months in the last 5 years

pay an application fee

Children under 18 applying to settle

If your child applies as a dependent on your BNO visa, they can also apply to settle in the UK with you.

You can only apply once you, your child and your child’s other parent (unless you have sole responsibility) have all been here for 5 years. If you arrived in the UK at different times, those who arrived earlier will have to extend their visa until the last person to arrive has been here for 5 years.

Becoming a British citizen

One year after you settle in the UK (have ‘indefinite leave to remain’), you’ll usually be able to apply for British citizenship.


Turkish Worker visa

Overview

You can apply to extend your Turkish Worker visa if you already have permission to stay in the UK as a Turkish Worker.

Eligibility

You can only extend your visa (your Turkish Worker visa) if you’re already in the UK.

You’ll need to meet the eligibility requirements to extend your visa (your Turkish Worker visa).

How long you can stay

The length of time you can apply to extend your stay for and what job you can do depends on how long you’ve legally worked in the UK.

How long you’ve worked in the UK | Length of permission to be in the UK | What you can do

3 to 4 years | Up to 1 year | Change employer, but in the same occupation

4+ years | Up to 3 years | Work in any occupation for any employer

You must apply from within the UK before your current permission to stay expires.

If you want to stay longer in the UK

You can apply to extend your visa (your Turkish Worker visa) as many times as you like as long as you still meet the eligibility requirements.

After 5 years, you may be able to apply to settle in the UK permanently (also known as ‘indefinite leave to remain’). This gives you the right to live, work and study here for as long as you like, and apply for benefits if you’re eligible.

How to apply

You must apply to extend your visa (your Turkish Worker visa) online.

Your partner and children (‘dependants’) can apply separately to extend their dependant visas, if they already have them.

How long it takes

As part of your application, you’ll need to prove your identity and provide your documents.

You may need to allow extra time if you need an appointment to do this. You’ll find out if you need one when you start your application.

Getting a decision

Once you’ve applied, you’ll usually get a decision on your visa extension within 6 months.

How much it costs

There’s no fee to apply to extend your visa.

What you can and cannot do

With a Turkish Worker visa extension you can:

include your family (‘dependants’) on this extension (a Turkish Worker visa extension) if they (Your partner and children (‘dependants’))’re already in the UK and have a dependant visa

study

do voluntary work

apply to settle permanently in the UK (also known as ‘indefinite leave to remain’) if you’ve lived in the UK for 5 years and meet the other eligibility requirements

You cannot:

apply for most benefits (public funds), or the State Pension

If your application is successful, you’ll get a full list of what you can and cannot do with a Turkish Worker visa.

Eligibility

To be eligible to apply for an extension of your Turkish Worker visa (a Turkish Worker visa) you need to:

have a valid Turkish Worker visa

show you have not broken any immigration laws

Documents you’ll need to apply

When you apply to extend your visa (a Turkish Worker visa) you’ll need to provide:

a valid passport or other document that shows your identity and nationality

a biometric residence permit showing your Turkish Worker visa (a Turkish Worker visa)

proof of all your employment during your current stay in the UK, including payslips and bank statements for the whole period you’ve worked here

You’ll need to have a blank page in your passport on which to put the visa (your visa extension).

If you’re an au pair, you can provide a letter from your host family if you do not have payslips and bank statements.

You may be asked to get a police certificate for yourself and your family in the UK if you or they don’t already have one.

Your job

You should also provide evidence that shows you have been legally employed in the UK with the same employer for at least 3 years, and you’re planning to:

carry on doing the same type of job, if you’ve been legally employed for between 3 and 4 years

work for any employer doing any job, if you’ve been legally employed for 4 years or longer

Evidence can include things like a letter from your current or prospective employer, or a current job application letter.

Extend your visa

You can usually apply to extend a Turkish Worker visa if you’re in the UK and all of the following are true:

you have a valid Turkish Worker visa

you can show you have not broken any immigration laws

Your partner or children will need to apply separately, including children who have turned 21 during your stay.

You must not travel outside of the UK, Ireland, the Channel Islands or the Isle of Man until you get a decision. Your application will be withdrawn if you do.

Fees

There’s no fee to apply to extend your visa.

Proving your identity and providing supporting documents

As part of your application you’ll need to prove your identity. How you do this depends on where you’re from and the type of passport you have.

You’ll either:

give your fingerprints and a photograph (biometric information) at a UK Visa and Citizenship Application Services (UKVCAS) service point - this is to get a biometric residence permit

use the ‘UK Immigration: ID Check’ app to scan your identity document - you’ll also create or sign in to your UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) account

You’ll be told what you need to do when you apply.

Apply to extend your Turkish Worker visa

You must apply online before your current visa expires.

Once you’ve started your application, you can save your form and complete it (a biometric residence permit) later.

Apply now

Continue your application

Sign in to your account (your UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) account) using the link from your sign-up email.

How long it takes to get a decision

You’ll usually get a decision within 6 months of your application date.

You’ll be contacted if your application will take longer, for example because:

your supporting documents need to be verified

you need to attend an interview

of your personal circumstances, for example if you have a criminal conviction

You may be able to pay to get a faster decision - you’ll be told if you can when you apply.

After you apply

If you need to change something in your application after you’ve sent it (your application) contact UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI).

You can ask to cancel your application. You’ll only get your fee refunded if UKVI (UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI)) has not started processing your application.

You’ll get an email or a letter containing the decision on your application. This will explain what you need to do next.

Your partner and children

Your partner and children can apply to extend their (Your partner and children) permission to stay in the UK as your ‘dependants’ if they (Your partner and children)’re eligible. To do this, they (Your partner and children) must have a valid dependant visa.

Your children or those of your partner can apply to come to the UK if you have a Turkish Worker visa. They’ll need to apply for a visa as your dependant.

If their (Your children or those of your partner) application is successful, their (Your children or those of your partner) visa (a visa) will end on the same date as yours.

Your relationship

A dependant partner or child is any of the following:

your husband, wife, civil partner or unmarried partner

your child under 21 - including if they (Your partner and children) were born in the UK during your stay

your child over 21 if they’re currently in the UK as your dependant

You’ll need to provide evidence of your relationship when you apply.

Your partner

You must be able to prove that either:

you’re in a civil partnership or marriage that’s recognised in the UK

you’ve been living together in a relationship for at least 2 years when you apply

Your child

Your child must:

live with you (unless they’re in full-time education at boarding school, college or university)

not be married, in a civil partnership or have any children

be financially supported by you

If your child lives with you, you’ll need to provide evidence of their address such as:

a bank statement

credit card bills

driving licence

NHS registration document

an official letter from their (your child) university or college

Documents you must provide

For each dependant in the UK applying to extend you must have:

a valid passport or other document that shows your identity and nationality

a biometric residence permit (BRP) showing their current dependant visa

bank statements or payslips for the last 6 months showing you can support them

a police registration certificate if your dependants were asked to register with the police when they came to the UK

If you’re the only parent of any dependants aged under 18 in the UK, you must provide legal documents or written permission from their other parent showing you legally have sole responsibility.

Applying inside the UK (extend)

Your partner or children who are already in the UK can apply to extend their visa.

Your partner or child will need to apply separately (including children who have turned 21 during your stay).

How to apply

If the dependant is your partner, they must apply online as a partner.

You need to apply online for your child.

They (the dependant)’ll need your application number - you’ll get this when you apply. This number is called a Global Web Form (GWF) or a Unique Application Number (UAN). You’ll find it on emails and letters from the Home Office about your application.

Proving their (Your partner or child) identity

As part of their (Your partner or child) application, your partner and children (Your partner or child) will need to prove their (Your partner or child) identity. They (Your partner or child)’ll either:

have their (Your partner or child) fingerprints and photograph taken at a UK Visa and Citizenship Application Services (UKVCAS) service point - this is to get a biometric residence permit

use the ‘UK Immigration: ID Check’ app to scan their (Your partner or child) identity document - they (Your partner or child)’ll also create or sign in to their (Your partner or child) UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) account

They (Your partner or child)’ll be told what they (Your partner or child) need to do when they (Your partner or child) apply.

They (Your partner or child) must not travel outside of the UK, Ireland, the Channel Islands or the Isle of Man until they (Your partner or child) get a decision. Their (Your partner or child) application will be withdrawn if they (Your partner or child) do.

How long it takes to get a decision

Once they (Your partner or child)’ve applied online, proved their (Your partner or child) identity and provided their (Your partner or child) documents, they (Your partner or child)’ll usually get a decision within 6 months.

They (Your partner or child) may be able to pay to get a faster decision - they (Your partner or child)’ll be told if they (Your partner or child) can when they (Your partner or child) apply.

Applying from outside the UK

Your children or those of your partner can apply to come to the UK if you have a Turkish Worker visa. They (Your partner or child)’ll need to apply for a visa as your dependant.

If you’re already in the UK and want your child to join you, they (Your partner or child) must apply online for a dependant visa.

As part of their (Your partner or child) application, your children (or your partner’s children) (Your partner or child), will need to prove their (Your partner or child) identity. They (Your partner or child)’ll either:

How long it takes to get a decision

Once they (Your partner or child)’ve applied online, proved their (Your partner or child) identity and provided their (Your partner or child) documents, they (Your partner or child)’ll usually get a decision within 12 weeks.

Children born in the UK

If you have a child while you’re in the UK, they do not automatically become a British citizen.

You can apply online for their (a child) dependant visa. You must do this if you want to travel in and out of the UK with your child.

You’ll need to provide a full UK birth certificate for each child, showing the names of both parents.

You must apply for their dependant visa before they turn 18 if they want to stay in the UK.


Study English in the UK (Short-term study visa)

Overview

You can apply for a Short-term study visa to study English language in the UK.

This visa is for English language courses lasting longer than 6 months and up to 11 months.

If your course is different to this (This visa), check which visa you need.

If you or your family are from the EU, Switzerland, Norway, Iceland or Liechtenstein

If you or a close family member started living in the UK before 1 January 2021, you may be able to apply to the free EU Settlement Scheme.

Otherwise, you’ll need to apply for a visa to study for longer than 6 months in the UK. The earliest date your visa will start from is 1 January 2021.

Irish citizens do not need to apply for a visa or to the EU Settlement Scheme (the free EU Settlement Scheme).

How long you can stay

You can stay in the UK for the length of your course plus an extra 30 days as long as your stay is no longer than 11 months.

Fees and costs

It costs £186 for a Short-term study visa.

Healthcare surcharge

You’ll also have to pay the healthcare surcharge (Healthcare surcharge) as part of your online application. It (Healthcare surcharge) usually costs £470.

This (pay) is so you can use the National Health Service (NHS) in the UK.

Check how much you’ll need to pay before you apply.

What you cannot do

You cannot:

study on any other course or change your course while in the UK

study at a state-funded school

work or carry out any business (this includes paid or unpaid work, work experience or work placements)

extend this visa

bring family members (‘dependants’) with you on this visa

apply for most benefits (public funds) or the State Pension

Who can apply

You must be 16 or older to apply.

You must prove that:

you’ve been accepted onto an English language course that lasts 11 months or less and includes no other subjects

your course is with an accredited institution

you have enough money to support yourself without working or help from public funds, or that relatives and friends can support and house you

you can pay for your return or onward journey

If you’re under 18 you must also:

have made arrangements for your travel and stay in the UK

have the consent of your parent or guardian to study in the UK

Your course

Your English language course (your course) must be with an ‘accredited institution’.

This (an ‘accredited institution’) can be either:

an accredited UK institution

an eligible overseas provider, if you’re studying in the UK as part of an overseas course

Accredited UK institutions

An accredited institution must either have a student sponsor licence or have a valid accreditation and be listed by one of the following:

Accreditation Body for Language Services

Accreditation Service for International Colleges

Accreditation UK (the UK)

British Accreditation Council

Education and Training Inspectorate (in Northern Ireland)

Estyn (in Wales)

Education Scotland

Independent Schools Inspectorate

Office for Standards in Education (Ofsted)

Office for Students

Quality Assurance Agency for Higher Education

Eligible overseas providers

You can also apply for a Short-term study visa if you’re studying at an overseas higher education institution and part of your English language course (your course) is in the UK.

Your institution (an overseas higher education institution) must:

hold its (an overseas higher education institution) own national accreditation

offer no more than half of its (an overseas higher education institution) educational programme in the UK

offer programmes that are equivalent to a UK degree

Documents you'll need

When you apply you must provide:

a current passport (with a blank page for your visa) or other valid travel document

evidence that you can support yourself during your trip, for example bank statements or payslips for the last 6 months

details of where you intend to stay and your travel plans - you should not pay for accommodation or travel until you get your visa

evidence that you’ve paid your course fees or have enough money to pay them

You also need to provide:

your tuberculosis (TB) test results, if you’re from a country where you have to take the TB test

contact details for at least one parent or guardian in your home country, if you’re under 18 years old

a certified translation if any documents are not in English or Welsh

Documents about your course

You must provide written proof of the course you’re studying. For example, a letter of acceptance from the educational institution (an overseas higher education institution) stating the course’s name, duration and cost (including accommodation).

You may need to provide additional documents depending on your circumstances, such as evidence of your:

permission to be in the country you’re applying from (if you’re not a national)

financial sponsor’s occupation, income, savings or funds that will support your studies

If you’re under 18

If you’re under 18 you need to provide additional documents if:

you’re travelling on your own

you’re travelling with someone who is not your parent or guardian

Travelling on your own

You can travel to the UK without an adult (someone 18 or older).

You must have written consent from both parents (or one parent if they have sole responsibility) or your legal guardian. This must confirm they consent to:

your visa application

your living arrangements and care in the UK

your travel to the UK

They also need to provide proof that you have somewhere suitable to live during your stay in the UK, including:

the name and date of birth of the person that you will be staying with

an address where you will be living

details of your relationship to the person who’ll be looking after you

consent in writing so they can look after you during your stay in the UK

Your parent, guardian or school must tell the relevant local authority about your visit if either of the following are true:

you’re under 18 and have a disability

you’re going to be looked after for more than 28 days by someone who is not a close relative (called ‘private foster care’)

You should provide a reply from the local authority if you have one.

Travelling with an adult

If you travel to the UK with an adult (someone 18 or older), you need to identify them in your visa application.

Their (an adult (someone 18 or older)) name will appear on your visa, and you’ll be refused entry to the UK if you arrive in the UK without them (an adult (someone 18 or older)).

You can identify up to 2 adults in your visa application, and your visa will only be valid if you travel with at least one of them.

The adult (an adult (someone 18 or older)) can apply for a visa at the same time, but you must each complete separate applications.

Apply

You must apply online before you come to the UK. The earliest you can apply is 3 months before you travel to the UK.

As part of your online application, you’ll need to book an appointment at a visa application centre to provide your documents and prove your identity.

Allow time to attend your appointment (an appointment at a visa application centre).

The visa application centre (a visa application centre) may keep your passport and documents while processing your application (your online application).

How long it takes to get a decision

Once you’ve applied online, proved your identity and provided your documents, you’ll usually get a decision within 3 weeks.

You may be able to pay to get a faster decision. Check if your visa application centre offers faster decisions and other services.

Apply online

You must apply online.

Before you start, check what documents you’ll need to apply.

Once you’ve started your application you can save your form and complete it later.

Apply now

Continue your application

You can sign back into your application if you’ve saved it (your form). Check your email and follow the link to return to your application.

After you apply

You’ll get a letter containing the result of your application. This will explain what you need to do next.

Find out what happens after you get your decision.

You can ask to cancel your application. You’ll only get your fee refunded if UKVI has not started processing your application.