Where do I apply?

Generally, you should apply for an entry clearance at the UK Mission in the country where you are normally and legally resident. This is particularly important if you are applying to come to stay in the UK for a long time, or for settlement. If you are staying only temporarily in the country where you apply, the visa office may not accept your application, or there may be a long delay before a decision on your application is made.

How do I apply?

As of 26 April 2008, the visa section at the British Embassy ONLY accepts online visa applications. After having completed your application on-line you can select an appointment time to submit your application. Once you have lodged your application and provided your finger scan, we will ask you to leave the visa section. We will call you if we need to interview you in connection with your application, but we hope to reach decisions on the majority of cases based on the papers that you have provided. If we are able to reach a decision without interview you will be called and informed of the decision. Our aim is to make decisions on the majority of straightforward applications within 24 hours of the fee being paid (subject to referral requirements).

In line with international practice, when children under 18 years of age are travelling alone or with only one parent, we require a "no objection letter" from the parent(s) who are not travelling, giving permission for the child to be taken abroad.

Please note that only visa applicants are allowed to enter the visa section to lodge their applications. Those accompanying an applicant will not be able to enter the visa section except in the following cases:

• An individual accompanying an elderly or infirm applicant who needs assistance;
• A parent or guardian accompanying an applicant under 18 years of age;
• The British sponsor of a settlement applicant only.

We may need to refer your application to the Foreign and Commonwealth Office in London. We therefore recommend that you apply at least six weeks, but not more than three months, in advance of your proposed date of travel, especially if you are travelling on business or are intending to study in the United Kingdom.

What do I need to provide?

You will need to submit a printed copy of your on-line application ( with reference number) to the visa office along with the following:

• The visa fees: (payable by Bankers Draft made payable to the British Embassy);
• Supporting documents (including passport and photographs);

• You should submit original documents plus one clear photocopy of each document.

• You make your application in good time, but not normally more than 3 months before you plan to travel.

Please make sure that:

• You have answered clearly all of the required questions on the form(s);
• Signed and dated the form(s) where asked;