Effortless UK Visa Tracking:

Your 2025 Guide to Staying Updated!

UK Visa Tracking

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Introduction: UK Visa Tracking

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.

Why Track Your UK Visa Status?

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.
Track Your UK Visa Status

Key Information Needed for UK Visa Tracking

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.
Key Information Needed for UK Visa Tracking

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.

How to Track Your UK Visa Application?

How to Track Your UK Visa Application?

1. Emails

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.

2. Text Messages

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.

3. VFS Global Website

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.

Step-by-Step Guide for UK Visa Tracking

Step-by-step guide for UK visa Tracking
  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)

4. Call UKVI

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

UK Visa Applications: Common Issues & How to Resolve Them

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.

UK visa applications: Common Issues

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.

UK Visa Refused? Don't Give Up – The Smartmove2UK Can Help!

Watch our video on: UK Visa Tracking 2025

How to Track Your UK Visa Application (Step-by-Step Guide!)

Conclusion

You’re excited to visit the UK!

UK visa tracking can make the process less stressful. Use these tips to stay informed and prepare for your trip.

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We offer clients a personal and friendly, yet comprehensive solution to their immigration, travel and business needs. You can get in touch with our UK immigration lawyer to book a consultation!

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FAQs: UK Visa Tracking

You will need:

  • Your GWF Reference Number (found on the invoice/receipt from the visa application centre).
  • Your Last Name (as it appears on your visa application).
  • 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.

You can track your application through the VFS Global website:

    1. Visit the official VFS Global website.
    2. Select your country of application and the country you’re applying for (UK).
    3. Click on “Track Your Application”.
    4. On the new page, click “Click Here”.
    5. Enter your GWF Reference Number and the email address used for your application.

The website will display the status of your application (e.g., On Hold, In Process, Approved, Refused).

The UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) will communicate updates through:

  • Emails: Check your inbox and spam folder regularly.
  • Text Messages: If you provided your phone number during the application process.
If you have concerns about processing times, you can contact the UKVI helpline. Ensure you have your application information ready when you call.

If your application is refused, you have several options:

  • Administrative Review: Request a review of the decision if you believe there was an error.
  • Appeal to the First-tier Tribunal: Challenge the decision through a formal legal process.
  • Judicial Review: Seek a judicial review of the decision if you believe it was unlawful.
  • Re-apply: Submit a new application addressing the reasons for the previous refusal.

You can seek guidance from an immigration lawyer to determine the best course of action for your situation.

When tracking your UK visa application, you might see different status updates.
Here are a few common ones and what they mean:

  • “On Hold”: Your application is paused for some reason. More information should be available via email or through the tracking service you’re using.
  • “In Process”: Your application is being reviewed by UKVI.
  • “Decision Made”: A decision has been made on your visa, but you might not know the result until you get your passport back.
  • “Approved”: Your visa has been approved. You should receive an email notification. You’ll get your passport back with a vignette (sticker) if you’re outside the UK, or a biometric residence permit (BRP) if you’re already in the UK.
  • “Refused”: Your visa has been refused. You should receive an email notification outlining the reasons. You can then decide whether to reapply, appeal the decision, or seek legal options.

Our branches of UK Immigration Law Firm in India

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