How to Check UK Visa Status Online with Passport Number?

Have you recently applied for a UK visa? Or are you clueless about your UK visa application progress? If yes, then Do not worry. You can easily stay updated with your UK visa application status in various ways. But to do the same, you need to require some documents. Do you wonder? What are those documents? Well, have patience.

In this guide, we will discuss an overview of how to check UK visa status, the different types of UK visa statuses, the information you need to check on your UK visa application status, various steps on how to check UK visa status online and offline, and most importantly the common issues related to UK visas and their resolutions. So, without any further delay, let’s start discussing.

Overview of How to Track UK Visa Status

We all know that international travel and immigration have become more common than ever. Obtaining a visa is often crucial for individuals planning to visit or reside in the United Kingdom. Once you’ve applied for a UK visa, keeping track of your application’s status is essential to ensure a smooth journey. Fortunately, you can easily check your UK visa status using your passport number. But you can also check the UK Visa status offline and online. 

But before discussing the various steps of how to check UK visa status online, let’s discuss the different types of UK Visa Statuses. 

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Different Types of UK Visa Statuses

Before you receive a final decision, you must go through several different visa application statuses when applying for a UK visa. Let’s explore the various types of UK visa statuses that individuals may encounter when applying for a visa to the United Kingdom:

• Visa Approved: This is the most desired outcome. You will get a document stating your visa application is approved if you have met all the requirements. Well, as soon as your visa gets approved, you are granted permission to enter and stay in the UK according to the terms and conditions of your visa. The UKVI (United Kingdom Visas & Immigration) sends you an approval letter having a visa vignette and terms of your stay.

• Visa Refused: Unfortunately, not all visa applications are successful. When your visa application is refused, it means that the authorities have found an issue with your application. For instance, incomplete documentation, inconsistencies, or not meeting the eligibility criteria. Once your visa gets refused, you will receive a letter from UKVI stating the reasons for refusal. After that, you may be able to appeal the decision. But the right choice is to reapply at a later date.

• Further Action Required: Sometimes, your visa application may not be immediately approved or refused. Instead, the authorities may request additional information or documents to make a decision. In this case, you’ll need to provide the requested information promptly. In the steps of how to check UK visa status online, you might get the status as further action is required, so do not worry.

• Under Consideration: After submitting your visa application, it may remain under consideration for some time. This status indicates that the authorities are reviewing your application but have not reached a decision yet.

• Pending Decision: In the steps of how to check UK visa status online, you might get the status as pending decision. It is just like “under consideration,” which means your application awaits a final decision. Patience during this period is essential, as visa processing times can vary.

• Visa Issued: Once your visa application is approved, you may see the status “issued.” This means that your visa has been granted and is ready for collection or delivery. After getting this visa status, you can proceed with your travel plans.

• Visa Pending Appeal: In the steps of how to check UK visa status online, you might get the status that the visa appeal is pending. If you appeal a visa refusal decision, your application may be in a “pending appeal” status while the process is ongoing. The outcome of the appeal will determine your final visa status.

• Visa Cancelled: Visa cancellations can occur for various reasons, including changes in your circumstances or visa conditions. If your visa is canceled, you must adhere to the instructions provided by the authorities.

These are some common UK visa statuses that individuals may encounter during the application process of how to check UK visa status online. Furthermore, understanding these statuses is essential for managing your visa application and complying with UK immigration regulations. If you’re looking for a convenient and efficient way to monitor your visa status, consider using a tool like Visafly.

What Information Do You Need to Check on Your UK Visa Application Status?

You’ll typically need the following information to check your UK visa application status. Here are essential information that you may need:

• Passport Number: The passport number is a crucial piece of information required to access the visa application status. Because it uniquely identifies your application in the system.

• Date of Birth: Your date of birth is used as a verification measure to ensure that you are the rightful owner of the passport.  You might also need the date of birth information while implementing the steps of how to check UK visa status online.

• Visa Application Reference Number: You may be asked to provide your visa application reference number of 16 digits. This reference number is usually provided when you submit your visa application. It is used to link your application to the system. You must have this number because you may need to enter it while tracking the UK visa application.

• Biometric Data: This is another piece of information you need while implementing how to check UK visa status online. If you’ve provided biometric data, such as fingerprints and a photograph, during the application process. You can also use it to check your UK visa status. 

• Contact Information: In case there are some updates or issues with your application, the authorities may need to contact you. So, make sure you provide accurate contact information, such as an email address or phone number.

• Application Type: You should know the type of visa you applied for, such as a tourist visa, work visa, student visa, or any other category. This helps in directing you to the correct portal or department for checking your visa status.

• Application Location: It is used because, in many cases, the aspirants applied for the visa file from overseas. You may need to specify the location or embassy involved in processing your application. Depending on your location and where you submitted your visa application (e.g., at a Visa Application Centre or online), you can check your UK visa status.

• GWF Reference Number: A 9-digit GWF (Global Web Number) is assigned to your application when you apply it. You can also use the GWF Reference Number to check the status of your UK visa status.

It’s important to note that the specific information required to check your UK visa application status may vary depending on the system or website you use to access this information. Always refer to the official UK Visa Application website or the instructions provided by the relevant authorities to ensure you provide the correct details and follow the proper procedure for checking your visa status.

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How to Check UK Visa Status Online?

Here is step-wise guidance on how to check UK Visa Status Online. Remember that checking the status online of the visa application is a straightforward process. So, just follow these steps:

1. Visit the Official UK Visa Application Website

This is the first step of how to check UK visa status online. First, open your web browser and visit the official UK Visa Application website. The official website is the most reliable source for checking your visa status.

2. Select the “Check Your Visa” Option

Once you visit the website, the next step of how to check UK visa status online is to select the option. On the website’s homepage, you’ll typically find a prominent option that says, “Check Your Visa” or something similar. Click on this option to proceed.

3. Choose the Visa Category

This is another step of how to check UK visa status online. In this step, you may be asked to select the type of visa you applied for, such as a tourist visa, work visa, student visa, or any other category. Choose the appropriate category that matches your application.

4. Enter Your Passport Number

After choosing the visa category in the next step of how to check UK visa status online, enter your passport number accurately. So, you will be prompted to enter your passport number. Ensure you input this information accurately because the passport number is a crucial identifier.

5. Provide Additional Information (If Required)

In the next step, you may need to provide additional information depending on the specific system or the type of visa you applied for. This could include your date of birth, visa application reference number, or other details related to your application. We already discussed this topic under head: what information do you need to check on your UK visa application status? Furthermore, you can follow the on-screen instructions and fill in the required information.

6. Click on “Check Visa” or Similar Button

Once you’ve entered all the necessary information, move to the next step of how to check UK visa status online. Now, look for a button or option that says “Check Visa” or something similar. Click on it to start the process.

7. Wait for the Results

When you tap the button, the system will process your request and display your visa status on the screen. Your visa status can fall into categories such as “Visa Approved,” “Visa Refused,” or “Further Action Required.”

8. Understanding the Visa Status

In this step of how to check UK visa status online. Pay close attention to your visa status. If your visa is approved, congratulations! You are granted permission to enter and stay in the UK according to the terms and conditions of your visa. If your visa is refused, the reasons for refusal will be provided. If further action is required, follow the instructions provided.

9. Save or Print the Results (Optional)

It’s a good practice to save or print the visa status results for your records. This can be helpful for future reference or if you need to discuss your visa application with the authorities. So, while following the steps of how to check UK visa status online, make a habit of saving and printing the results.

10. Contact Authorities (If Necessary)

This is the next step of how to check UK visa status online. You can contact the UK Visa Application Centre or the relevant authorities for assistance if you have concerns or questions about your visa status. Ensure to check the contact information, as contact information is typically provided on the official website.

By following these steps, you can easily check your UK visa status online and stay informed about the progress of your application. Remember to apply for your visa well before your intended travel date to allow processing time. Always use the official UK Visa Application website for this purpose.

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How to Check UK Visa Status Offline?

Now, you have all the information on how to check UK visa status online. Let me tell you some great news: you can also use an offline way to check the status of your UK visa application. Now, let’s discuss various steps of how to check UK visa status offline.

Remember that checking your UK visa status offline may take longer than checking online. So, start this process well in advance of your intended travel date. To do this, always use the official contact information provided by the relevant authorities to ensure the accuracy and reliability of the information you receive. Here’s how you can do it:

1. Contact the visa application center (VAC), or you can review the documents you receive during your application process. Sometimes, the authorities also provide information on how to inquire about your visa status offline.
2. If this does not work, you can contact the UK embassy directly to get the information on your visa status.
3. Before making the call or sending an email, gather all the necessary information related to your visa application. Because having the information ready will help the authorities assist you more effectively.
4. After that, you can contact the relevant authority through the provided phone number or email address. So, be polite and patient, as visa processing times may vary, and it may take some time to receive a response.
5. Make sure you inquire about the status of your visa application and ask if there are any updates.
6. Maintain a record of all communication with the authorities. 
7. Lastly, after verification of the details, you will be able to check your UK Visa status 

You can learn how to check your UK visa status offline by following these steps.

Common Issues Related to UK Visa Status & its Resolution

Until now, we have discussed various steps on how to check UK visa status online. But do you know? Everything does not go as smoothly as we think. Applicants and travelers may encounter several common issues and challenges when dealing with UK visa status. Here are some of the most prevalent problems and their potential resolutions:

Delayed Processing Times

Issue: Visa processing times can vary, and delays are not uncommon, especially during peak application periods.

Resolution: Apply for your visa well before your intended travel date to account for potential delays. Check the official processing time guidelines on the UK Visa Application website.

Visa Application Refusal

Issue: Some applicants may receive visa refusals for various reasons, such as incomplete documentation, insufficient funds, or discrepancies in the application.

Resolution: Carefully review the refusal letter to understand the reasons for refusal. Address the issues identified, gather additional documentation if necessary, and consider reapplying or appealing the decision if necessary.

Biometric Data Collection Issues

Issue: The biometric data collection process may pose challenges for applicants, such as technical glitches or difficulties in scheduling appointments.

Resolution: Contact the Visa Application Center for guidance and assistance in resolving biometric data collection issues. Ensure you have all required documents and information before your appointment.

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Lack of Communication

Issue: Applicants may face challenges getting updates on their visa application status or receiving responses to inquiries.

Resolution: Maintain communication records and follow up politely with the relevant authorities. Use the contact information provided on the official website for inquiries.

Technical Issues with Online Status Checking

Issue: Some applicants may experience technical difficulties when checking their visa status online.

Resolution: Contact the UK Visa Application Centre or authorities for assistance. They can provide information over the phone or by email if the online system is experiencing issues.

Change in Travel Plans

Issue: Unexpected changes in travel plans, such as delayed flights or cancellations, can disrupt visa validity.

Resolution: If your travel plans change, contact the authorities or the Visa Application Centre as soon as possible to inquire about options for rescheduling or amending your visa.

To navigate these common issues related to UK visa status effectively, it’s essential to stay informed and follow the guidance provided by the UK Visa Application Centre and relevant authorities. Additionally, being proactive in addressing any concerns or challenges can help ensure a smoother visa application and travel experience.

Final Words

To conclude, checking the UK visa status online is a straightforward process that ensures you stay informed about the progress of your application. Remember to apply for your visa well before your intended travel date to allow processing time. If you encounter any issues or have questions about your application, don’t hesitate to contact the UK Visa Application Centre or the relevant authorities.

All the information provided in this blog, like how to check UK visa status online and offline, and common issues related to UK visas and their resolution, will be helpful to you. Do visit CourseMentor to learn about international tests and study abroad topics. 

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