How to track UK visa application in India?

While checking the UK Visa status, you might come across various terms before the final approval of the visa. So, the candidates need to know the meaning of different terms. Therefore, let’s know the meaning of the different types of UK visa status below.

Received: When your application arrives at the UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) office, it is stamped "Received." This status indicates that your application was successfully submitted and logged into the system. At this step, the UKVI conducts preliminary checks to ensure that all essential documents are available and properly completed.

Under Consideration: Following the initial tests, your application will be moved to the "Under Consideration" stage. This phase includes a thorough review by a UKVI official. They will evaluate the information you have provided or attached with your application, cross-check papers, and determine your eligibility depending on the visa type.

Processing: This status means that the UKVI is actively considering and processing your application. This stage can take many weeks or even months, depending on the complexity of the application and the type of visa requested. During this period, further inspections and verifications may be performed.

Approved: If your visa application is accepted, it will be upgraded to "Approved" status. The UKVI will send you an acceptance letter describing your visa's terms and conditions. In addition, a visa vignette (tag) will be placed in your passport, indicating the duration of your stay and any limitations.

Issued: When your visa is approved, and all final checks are completed, your status will change to "Issued." Your visa vignette has been deposited in your passport, and you can now go to the United Kingdom. It is critical to thoroughly verify the details on the vignette to ensure they correspond to the information you gave.

Refused: If your visa application is accepted, it will be upgraded to "Approved" status. The UKVI will send you an acceptance letter describing your visa's terms and conditions. In addition, a visa vignette (tag) will be placed in your passport, indicating the duration of your stay and any limitations.

In order to check your UK visa status, you might require certain documents, which are mentioned below: 

1. Personal and Contact Information: To verify your identification, you may be required to submit your first and last name, nationality, date of birth, and email address.

2. Passport Number: You may be required to provide the passport number that you used when applying for your UK visa. This helps validate your identity and guarantees that you have permission to view the progress of your application.

3. Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) Reference Number (if any): The IHS is appropriate for specific visa categories, most notably those involving extended visits or work in the UK. If you paid the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS), you will be required to do so.

4. Payment Reference Number:  It is issued when you pay the visa application fee. This number is occasionally necessary to ensure that your application fee has been correctly handled.

5. Unique Application Number (GWF Number): The Unique Application Number is assigned to your visa application. It is required to follow your application status and can be found in the confirmation email or receipt from the UKVI office.

6. Type of Visa Applied For: It is imperative to know which type of visa you applied for. Different visa types may have varied processing dates and criteria, and knowing this will help you keep track of your application. 

Here is a step by step guide to track UK visa application status online:

STEP 1: Visit the official page of UKVI (UK Visa and immigration) 

STEP 2: There, you’ll find an option of “Check your visa application status” Click on that. 

STEP 3: Now, enter your GWF (Global Web Form) reference number. 

STEP 4: Select the destination where you applied for your visa. 

STEP 5: Enter your date of birth 

STEP 6: After entering all the details, click on the “Submit” button. 

STEP 7: You will be redirected to a page showing your visa application status.

Also, read: UK Student VISA

Here is a step by step guide to track UK visa application status offline:

STEP 1: Keep all your documents under your hands.

STEP 2: Call the helpline of UK Visas and Immigration and ask for the status of your visa application. 

STEP 3: They may require certain details in order to provide the status of your visa, such as your full name, passport number, date of birth, application reference, etc. 

STEP 4: Follow the instructions of the call attendee. 

STEP 5: Note the information you have provided and ask for any questions you may have. 

STEP 6: After verification of the details, you can check your UK Visa status 

Here is the list of all the UK Visa application centres in India to help you with the offline application process: 

Here are some common issues that candidates face while applying for the UK Visa: 

• Visa Refusal: One of the most prevalent concerns is visa refusal, which can occur for various reasons, including supplying erroneous information, failing to fulfil eligibility requirements, or presenting insufficient documents.  

• Specific conditions: UK visas may include constraints like not working or studying, or leaving the UK at a specified period.

• Visa Extension: If your visa is about to expire and you want to remain in the UK, you require applying for visa extension. It is critical to complete this before your existing visa expires. 

• Change of Circumstance: If your circumstances change while you are in the UK, such as changing jobs or getting married, you may need to apply for a new visa to accommodate these changes.

• Change of Immigration Policy: Immigration regulations can influence visa requirements and eligibility criteria. To stay up to date, check the UKVI website on a regular basis or speak with an immigration counsellor. 

• Administrative Errors: Mistakes might occur during the application process or by the immigration officials, delaying or denying your visa.

• Financial and Language Requirements: Certain types of visas need proof of sufficient cash and, in some situations, confirmation of English language proficiency. Failure to meet these standards may result in a visa refusal. 

• Incorrect or Incomplete Information: Failure to provide accurate or complete information in your visa application may result in delays or refusals. To ensure correctness, carefully examine all details before submitting them.

• Issues with Biometric Information: Biometric information is required in the visa application. Delays in scheduling or finishing your biometric appointment can affect your application timeframe.

• Delays in Processing: Delays in processing visa applications may occur due to large application volumes, additional needed checks, or administrative backlogs.

Also, read: Youth Mobility Visa UK from India

Dealing with a delayed or denied visa application can be a frustrating process. However, there are particular steps you may take to address the issue and boost your chances of a successful outcome the next time you apply. 

• Understand the reason for Delay or Rejection: The first step is to understand why your visa application was delayed or denied. UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) frequently include explicit grounds for refusal in their communication.

• Contact UKVI for More Information: If your visa application is delayed, please contact the UKVI contact centre for further information on its status. Have your application's reference number and other identifying information handy.

• Provide additional information: If your visa application was denied or delayed owing to the lack of evidence or information, you may submit additional documents or information to support your case. Make sure to follow the directions given by the embassy or consulate.

• Seek legal advice: If you believe your visa application was wrongfully delayed or denied, you can seek legal assistance from an immigration lawyer. They can advise you on your alternatives and support you through the appeals process.

• Appeal the Decision: As per the type of visa and grounds for refusal, you may be able to appeal the decision. The refusal letter will explain whether you can appeal and what actions to take.

• Reapply for the visa: If your visa application is rejected, you are eligible to resubmit. However, you should address any issues that resulted in the rejection and submit any further requested information.

• Look for other visa options: If your visa application is refused and reapplying is not a possibility, look into other visa categories that may be open to you. Consider other short-term visa kinds if your study visa is denied. 

• Be patient: The visa application procedure can be lengthy and tedious. It's critical to remain patient and persistent. Stay in constant touch with the embassy or consulate conducting your application. 

Also, read: Common Reasons for UK Student Visa Rejection

Ultimately, carefully applying for a UK visa with all the correct documents will help you achieve one. Also, it is very easy to check your UK visa status. You can check it either online or offline. 

If you need clarification or more profound insight on how to track your UK visa application in India or want to study in UK, we encourage you to speak with our expert counsellors at Meridean Overseas Education Consultants (MOEC). If you cannot travel to our offices, we offer free online counselling services via our website. Our dedicated counsellors will provide the best guidance regarding your application to study in the UK. Apart from this, our expert counsellors will also offer assistance in the visa process for your successful study abroad journey. Don't hesitate to contact us at application02@meridean.org or call us at 1800-1230-00011.

Question: Can I check my UK visa status online?

Answer: Yes, you can easily check your UK visa status online through the official website of the British consulate or by logging in to VFS Global. You just need certain login credentials, such as your ID and date of birth. 

Question: How can I check my visa application status?

Answer: You can check the status of your visa application online at the UKVI website or by calling the UKVI contact centre and providing your application reference number and personal details.

Question: Will we be notified when our visa is approved? 

Answer: Yes, you will receive an email notification after your UK visa is accepted. To stay informed, checking your inbox and spam/junk folder regularly is a good idea.  

Question: How many days does the UK visa process take? 

Answer: The processing period for a UK visa varies depending on the type: visitors or tourist visas can take up to three weeks, while other long-term visas can take up to twelve weeks from the date of application. 

Question: Can I get a UK visa in 1 day?

Answer: Yes, certain visa types allow you to use the super-priority service to get a decision within 1 day with an extra fee. 

Question: How do I know if my visa is approved?

Answer: When your visa is approved, the UKVI will send you an official email notification and a decision letter.

Question: Can Indians work in the UK on a tourist visa?

Answer: No, Indian people cannot work in the UK while on a tourist visa. To be eligible to work in the UK, you must apply for the necessary work visa.

Question: Can I contact UKVI if I have questions about my application status?

Answer: Yes, you can contact UKVI if you have any issues regarding your application status or require assistance with the application process. You can find contact details on the UK government's website.

Question: Where can I find my GWF number?

Answer: Your GWF number is a unique reference number assigned to your UK visa application. Your GWF number can be found in the confirmation email for your visa application or on the application form you completed. 

Question: What should I do if my UK visa application gets denied?

Answer: If your UK visa application is denied, you will be given a reason for the rejection and instructions on how to appeal the decision. You may be able to submit a new application with updated or corrected information.