How to track UK visa application in India

Just applied for a UK visa but not heard anything for a while? Or perhaps you’re thinking of applying for a visa, but aren’t sure of the process or how long it takes.

Whichever is the case, we’re here to help. In this guide, we’ll look at how to track a UK visa application from India. This includes your options for finding out where your application is up to. Plus, some other useful info on UK visa processing times.

And while you’re waiting, it could be a good idea to think about how you’ll manage your money when you arrive in the UK.

Check out Wise, a multi-currency online account which lets you send, spend, convert in 50 currencies and receive in 10. It’s tailor-made for expats. There’s even a Wise debit card for spending in GBP from the moment you land.

But for now, let’s get back to tracking that visa application for you.

How to apply for a UK visa - an overview

If you’ve not yet applied for your UK visa, here’s a rough outline of what to expect from the application process:

1. Gather your documents and apply online at the UK Government visa website.
2. Follow the on-screen steps to complete your application.
3. Pay your application fee and submit.
4. Prove your identity with an appointment at a local visa application centre in India - you’ll provide your biometric information, such as your fingerprints and photograph¹.
5. It may also be possible to prove your identity using the ‘UK Immigration: ID Check’ smartphone app¹.
6. Wait for your visa application to be processed.
7. You’ll receive an email or letter with the result of your application, and instructions on what to do next.

UK visa processing times

So, how long should you expect to wait for a decision on your UK visa application? The processing time can vary depending on your visa type, and the complexity of your case.

But for most visa types, the standard processing time for applications from outside the UK is 3 weeks. The exception is if you’re applying to join family in the UK, when it takes up to 24 weeks to get a decision².

Your waiting time starts after you’ve verified your identity².

How to track your UK visa application in India

If it’s been longer than the standard visa processing time and you haven’t heard anything about your application, you may want to look into tracking it.

But is it possible to track your UK visa application once submitted, and can you do it from abroad?

The good news is that there are options for tracking your visa application. You can contact UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI), the UK Government body responsible for processing visa applications.

Here are your options³:

• Send an email using this contact form- you should hear back within five working days. There is a charge for this service, however. You’ll pay £2.74 for your initial email, and the same amount for any related follow-up emails.
• Call the helpline (English speaking) on +44 (0) 300 790 6268. This line is available 24 hours a day, Monday to Friday. Calls cost from £0.69 a minute.

What information do I need to track my visa application?

You should have the following details to hand before contacting UKVI³:

• Case Identification Number (CaseID)
• Payment Reference Number
• Unique Application Number
• Biometric Residence Permit Number
• Immigration Health Surcharge Number.

Is it possible to track my UK visa application online?

Although you will apply for your visa online, it isn’t currently possible to track your application online⁴. If you want a status update, you’ll need to contact the UKVI on one of the methods outlined above.

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Sources used:

1. Gov.uk - Prove your identity
2. Gov.uk - Visa decision waiting times
3. Immigration Advice Service - How do I track my UK visa status?
4. VisaHelpUK - How to track your UK Visa application status

Sources last checked on date: 15-Feb-2023