The UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) service is responsible for handling visa applications, immigration control, and citizenship matters in the United Kingdom. With the rising number of international students, workers, and visitors applying for UK visas, there is an increasing demand for transparency and efficiency in checking the status of visa applications. Whether you are a Tier 4 student, a Skilled Worker, or someone applying for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR), it is important to know how to track your visa progress or immigration status with UKVI.
This article provides a comprehensive, step-by-step guide on how to check your UKVI status, whether you’re inside or outside the UK. We’ll also explain the various tools available, such as the UKVI Visa Status Checker, the View and Prove Service, and how to contact UKVI if you need help. Knowing your immigration status or application progress can provide peace of mind and help you plan your next steps accordingly.
What Is UKVI?
UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) is a division of the Home Office that manages immigration applications. UKVI processes applications for:
- Visas to visit, work, or study in the UK
- Settling in the UK (Indefinite Leave to Remain)
- British citizenship
- Asylum and protection
Because of the complexity of the immigration system, UKVI offers multiple tools for applicants to track their immigration or visa status. Checking your UKVI status helps ensure your application is progressing smoothly and allows you to spot any delays or issues early on.
How to Check UKVI Status Online
1. Using the UKVI Application Status Checker
If you applied for a UK visa online, your application will be processed through UKVI’s online system. The most direct way to check your application status is through the UKVI Visa Application Centre or the platform where you submitted your application. Here’s how to check it:
- Visit the official UKVI status inquiry page.
- Select the appropriate category that matches your visa type and location.
- Complete the online contact form with your personal details, visa reference number, and application information.
- Submit the form. You should receive an email response in a few days.
Please note that UKVI does not offer a real-time tracking system for all types of visas, especially paper-based applications. In such cases, email correspondence is the main way to get status updates.
2. UKVI View and Prove Your Immigration Status Tool
The UK government provides an online tool called “View and Prove Your Immigration Status.” This service is available to individuals who have been granted immigration status digitally rather than on a physical visa or Biometric Residence Permit (BRP).
To use this tool:
- Go to the View and Prove Your Immigration Status service.
- Log in using the email address or mobile number associated with your application, along with the security code sent to you.
- Once logged in, you can:
- View your immigration status and the conditions of your stay
- Generate a share code to provide proof of your status to employers, landlords, or universities
This service is especially helpful for EU, EEA, and Swiss citizens who applied under the EU Settlement Scheme, as well as others who received a digital immigration status.
3. Using Visa Application Centre (VAC) Portals
If you applied through a Visa Application Centre (VAC) such as TLScontact or VFS Global, they provide their own status tracking services. Here’s how to use them:
TLScontact
- Visit uk.tlscontact.com
- Log in to your account using the email and password you used during your application.
- Check the “Application Status” section to view progress updates, such as:
- Appointment booked
- Documents submitted
- Under review by UKVI
- Decision made
VFS Global
- Go to the VFS Global UK Visa page.
- Select your country and then the UK visa services.
- Use the “Track Your Application” feature by entering your reference number and last name.
These services typically offer faster updates than contacting UKVI directly, as they include real-time changes from the visa center.
How Long Does UKVI Take to Process Applications?
UKVI processing times vary depending on the visa type, country of application, and whether you applied using standard or priority services. Below are general timelines:
- Visitor visa: 15 working days (standard), 5–7 days (priority)
- Skilled Worker visa: 8 weeks (standard), 5 working days (priority)
- Student visa: 3 weeks outside UK, 8 weeks inside UK
- Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR): Up to 6 months (standard)
- EU Settlement Scheme: Up to 5 working days, though may take longer
If your application has taken longer than the published service standard, you can contact UKVI to request an update using the appropriate enquiry method.
Checking Status for EU Settlement Scheme Applications
Applicants under the EU Settlement Scheme (EUSS) can check their status via the UKVI View and Prove service mentioned earlier. If you haven’t received your decision, you can:
- Log in to the View and Prove service
- Check your email (including spam/junk folders) for decision letters
- Contact the EU Settlement Resolution Centre at the UKVI contact page
This status is digital and will not be printed on a physical document, which makes it essential to keep your login details secure.
How Employers and Landlords Can Check Your Status
Employers and landlords must ensure that prospective employees and tenants have the legal right to work or rent in the UK. As an individual, you can generate a share code using the View and Prove service to give them temporary access to your status.
Steps to generate a share code:
- Go to the View and Prove Immigration Status service
- Log in with your credentials
- Select the option to share your status
- Choose whether it’s for work, study, or housing
- Provide the share code to the employer or landlord
The code is valid for 30 days, and the recipient can use it to confirm your right to work, rent, or study in the UK.
How to Contact UKVI for Status Updates
If you are unable to check your status online or require further assistance, you can contact UKVI using the following channels:
Inside the UK
Use the UKVI contact form to submit a status enquiry. Include:
-
- Your full name
- Date of birth
<liNationality
- GWF/URN/reference number
- Details of your query
Outside the UK
You can submit an enquiry to the International Contact Centre via the official site. Some services may incur a fee.
Common Issues and Delays in Status Checks
Delays in UKVI application processing or status updates can occur due to:
- High application volumes
- Missing or incorrect documents
- Background checks or security concerns
- Requests for further information
If you believe your application is delayed, it’s advisable to contact UKVI or your visa centre for clarification. You may also consult an immigration lawyer if necessary.
Tips for a Smooth UKVI Status Experience
- Always keep your GWF or application reference number safe
- Monitor the email address associated with your application
- Use the View and Prove service regularly if you hold digital status
- Respond promptly to any UKVI requests for additional documents
- Consult immigration experts or advisors for complex cases
Conclusion
Understanding how to check your UKVI status is crucial for every visa applicant and resident in the UK. The digital tools provided by UKVI, along with the services offered by TLScontact, VFS Global, and the View and Prove system, make it easier than ever to monitor your immigration journey.
Whether you’re applying for a new visa, waiting for an extension, or managing your status as a settled person, staying informed and proactive is key. Make use of the official UK government resources and keep your information up to date to avoid unnecessary complications. For ongoing cases or issues, do not hesitate to contact UKVI or seek professional immigration advice.
Related topics:
- How Do I Check My Case Status in NVC? A Complete Guide
- How Do I Apply for a Work Visa? A Step-by-Step Guide
- How Do I Contact CIC by Phone? A Complete Guide
