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Applying for your visa overseas

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If you are applying for a Student visa overseas, you need to submit your visa application in the country where you are living. In this context, "living" somewhere means that you are there lawfully for a reason other than for a short-term visit. 

You can also apply in any other country whose passport you hold.

If you are applying in a country that you do not hold nationality for, you may be asked to prove your immigration status for that country. 

In preparation to Student visa application outside the UK, please read guidance on submitting your entry clearance visa application here and eligibility requirements here.

As soon as you have your Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) from the University, start preparing your documents for your UK Student visa. You can apply up to 6 months before your course start date.

  • Start your UK Student visa journey with the right documentation.
  • Take the time to check your information and spelling before you submit your UK Student visa. If you make an error, your application will take longer to process.
  • Accuracy matters! Double-check your application to ensure all required documents are included. Mistakes can lead to delays in processing your application.
  • Do you have gaps in your studies? It may be helpful to include a supporting letter with your Student visa application to explain any gaps in your study (these gaps don’t include official holidays).
  • Are you waiting until closer to your course start date to apply for your Student visa? Remember paying for Priority or Super priority service does not guarantee success and some applications can take longer to consider.
  • Avoid visa delays by making sure to regularly check your registered email including the junk folder as UKVI may write to you for more information.
  • Summer is the peak period for Student visa applications. UKVI is currently experiencing high global demand so there may be delays to receiving a decision. The latest visa processing times can be found on: gov.uk/visa-processing-times  
  • UKVI are aware a small number of applications are taking longer to process. Your visa application may take longer if:
    • the information in your application is not accurate or requires further consideration.
    • you need to provide further evidence, for example evidence of funds.
    • your supporting documents need to be verified.
    • you need to attend an interview.
    • further information is required on your personal circumstances (for example if you have a criminal conviction)
  • You will be contacted by letter or email if we need more information on your visa application or if your application is complex.
  • If you have provided the contact email for a representative or agent when you applied, please check with them to see if they've received any correspondence on your behalf.
  • If you are waiting for a decision on your application, you do not need to go to the VAC to inquire until your passport is ready for collection. You will receive an email once a decision is made and your passport is ready for collection.
  • UKVI aim to ensure there are available appointments at the VAC within 5 working days. However, it is possible that the most convenient timeslots for you are unavailable when you book your appointment. This may lead to delays in meeting our target timescales.
  • The introduction of eVisa is on the way! The UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) are currently in process of rolling out a digital immigration system. This means UKVI are replacing physical documents with an online record of your immigration status. For further information please visit: gov.uk/onlineimmigration-status-evisa

 

 

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