UK Visa Tracking: Your Guide to Staying Updated

You’ve worked hard on your UK visa application. You gathered all the documents and filled out the forms. Now, you’re eager to know what’s happening. It’s natural to feel a bit anxious while you wait. UK visa tracking can help! It keeps you informed and gives you peace of mind.

The UK visa process can sometimes take a while. Tracking your UK visa application is important.
Here’s why:

1. You can plan your trip better.
2. You’ll know when your visa expires.
3. If UK immigration rules change, you can make sure you still meet the requirements.
4. If something unexpected happens, you can adjust your travel plans.
5. You’ll know if the authorities need anything else from you.

Here’s what you need to track your UK visa:

1. GWF Reference Number: This is a special number for your application. You need it to track your visa. You can find it on the invoice/receipt you received from the visa application centre.
2. Last Name: Your last name as it appears on your visa application.
3. Email ID: The email address you used for your visa application.

Note:

• If you applied before 19 September 2024, you would need to enter your GWF reference number and last name.
• If you applied after, you’ll need your GWF reference number and email address.

The UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) will send you emails about your application. These emails will tell you if your visa is approved or rejected. Check your inbox and spam folder regularly.

If you gave them your phone number, you might get text messages about your visa. This is a quick and easy way to stay updated.

VFS Global handles visa applications for the UK in many countries. They have a website where you can track your UK visa application. You’ll need your reference number, last name, and date of birth.

Keep your reference number safe, you’ll need it often.

1. Visit the VFS Website: Go to the official VFS Global website.
2. Select the Country You Are Applying From: Choose the country from which you submitted your application.
3. Select the Country You Are Applying For: Next, select the country for which you are applying (in this case, the UK).
4. Click on ‘Track Your Application’: Find and click on the “Track Your Application” option.
5. Click on ‘Click Here’: A new page will appear; click on the “Click Here” button to proceed.
6. Enter Your Details: You’ll be prompted to enter your Global Web Form number (GWF No.) and the email address you used when submitting your visa application.

Once you’ve entered these details, you’ll be able to see the status of your visa application. The possible statuses include:

1. On Hold
2. In Process
3. Approved (You’ll receive an email notification)
4. Refused (You’ll receive an email notification)

If you have questions or it’s taking too long, call the UKVI helpline. Have your application information handy.

Sometimes things can go wrong with UK visa applications.

Here are a few common problems and how to fix them:

1. Incomplete or Incorrect Information: Make sure your application is complete and accurate. Double-check everything before you submit it.
2. Missing Documents: Gather all the required documents before you apply. Check the UKVI website for a list.
3. Passport Problems: Make sure your passport is valid and in good condition.
4. Technical Issues: If you have problems with the website, try again later. If the problem continues, contact UKVI.

5. Criminal Record: If you have a criminal record, your visa might be rejected.
6. Weak Ties to Your Home Country: Show that you have strong connections to your home country, like family, a job, or property.
7. Too Many Applications: Don’t apply for a visa too many times. It might raise red flags.
8. Immigration Violations: Make sure you haven’t broken any immigration rules in the past.