Mastering the UK Visa Application Form: Your Comprehensive Guide

Applying for a UK visa can be an overwhelming process, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the steps involved. In this comprehensive guide, we will walk you through the process of filling out the UK visa application form. From providing personal information to detailing your travel history and submitting the required supporting documents, we’ll cover every aspect of the application process to ensure a smooth experience and increase your chances of success. Let’s dive in!

Updated as of March 20, 2023, to ensure the latest UK Visitor Visa Application Form requirements are reflected.

UK Visa Application Form Example

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UK Visa Application Filled PDF Form Example

Overview of the UK Visa Application Process

Step 1: Determine Your Visa Type

Before you begin the application process, it’s crucial to determine the visa type you need. The UK offers various visa categories, including tourist, business, study, work, and family visas. Research the eligibility criteria and requirements for each visa type to identify the one that suits your travel purpose.

Step 2: Create an Account on the UK Government Website

Navigate to the UK government’s official visa application website (https://www.gov.uk/apply-to-come-to-the-uk) and click on “Apply Online.” You’ll need to create an account to start your application. Make sure to use a valid email address, as important notifications will be sent to this address.

Step 3: Complete the UK Visa Application Form

Once you’ve logged in, you’ll be able to access the online application form. Here are some essential tips to guide you through the process:

  • Personal Information: Fill in your full name, date of birth, and nationality. Ensure that the details match the information on your passport.
  • Passport Details: Enter your passport number, issue date, and expiration date. Double-check this information to avoid any errors.
  • Travel History: Provide information on your travel history, including any previous UK visas and visits to other countries. Be honest and accurate, as the UK authorities may cross-check this information.
  • Employment and Finances: Provide details about your employment status, employer, and income. If you’re self-employed or a student, provide relevant information. Attach supporting documents, such as bank statements, to prove your financial stability.
  • Travel Purpose and Itinerary: Explain the purpose of your visit and provide a detailed itinerary, including your intended travel dates, accommodation, and activities.
  • Dependents and Family Members: If you’re traveling with dependents or family members, provide their details and ensure they also have the necessary supporting documents.
  • Additional Information: Answer any additional questions, such as criminal convictions or immigration violations. Be truthful, as dishonesty could result in visa denial.

Step 4: Pay the Visa Fee

After completing the form, you’ll be prompted to pay the visa application fee. The fee varies depending on your visa type, so double-check the amount before paying. Payments can be made using a credit or debit card.

Step 5: Book a Biometrics Appointment

After completing your visa application and paying the fee, you’ll need to book a biometrics appointment at a visa application center. You can book an appointment online through the UK government’s visa application website, selecting a date and time that works best for you.

During your biometrics appointment, you’ll have your fingerprints and photograph taken for your visa. It’s important to bring your passport, appointment confirmation, and any other required documents.

Step 6: Submit Supporting Documents

After your biometrics appointment, you’ll need to submit your supporting documents, either at the visa application center or via mail, depending on the center’s requirements. These documents may include bank statements, employment letters, or invitation letters. Make sure that they’re in English or have a certified translation.

Step 7: Track Your Application Status

After submitting your application and supporting documents, keep an eye on your email for updates on your application status. You can also track your application on the UK government website using your unique reference number. Once your application is processed, you’ll receive a decision on your visa application. If approved, you’ll receive your visa and passport with the approved visa stamp.

UK Visa Application Filled PDF Form Example
How to Fill Tourist Visa Form UK

Enquiry Form

    *What happens next?

    Multilingual qualified London based immigration specialists will get back to you, usually within 2-3 working days. If you have not attached any documents, then the UK based Law firm may ask for the relevant Case-Specific Document(s) such as Refusal Letters, Deportation Orders, Application Forms etc. Moreover, after reviewing the papers and information, the legal advisor may advise a course of action and quote the fees for processing the application.

    Have a wonderful day!

    Filling Out the UK Visa Application Form: A Detailed Guide

    Example of a UK Visa Online Application Filled Form

    Understanding how to fill out the UK visa application form correctly is crucial for a successful application. In this example, we’ll explore the case of Mr. Arun Kumar, who plans to apply for a UK visitor visa from New Delhi, India. Arun is a self-employed agriculturist and intends to travel for tourism with his family, including his spouse Kiran, their dependent children Amit (12 years old), Madhuri (9 years old), and Rekha (2 years old). We will highlight key sections of the application form based on the information provided by Arun.

    1. Summary Information

    The Summary Information section of the completed application PDF form is generated based on the applicant’s answers. For Arun Kumar, this section contains the following details:

    APPLICANT NAME: Arun Kumar
    GWF NUMBER: GWF041163715
    PASSPORT NUMBER: HF51441XY
    COUNTRY OF NATIONALITY: India
    DATE OF BIRTH: 29 February 1976
    GENDER: Male
    DATE OF APPLICATION: 29 July 2019 09:23 British Summer Time (BST)
    TYPE OF VISA / APPLICATION: Visitor visa
    SERVICE OPTION: Priority service
    DURATION OF VISA: 6 months
    TOTAL FEE: 29,808.00 INR
    SUBMISSION METHOD: Online
    ISSUING OFFICE: New Delhi
    PAYMENT REFERENCE: 3030003150731
    CONTACT EMAIL: arunkumarexample@gmail.com
    CONTACT LANGUAGE: Hindi

    To ensure a successful application, Arun must demonstrate that he is well-settled in his home country and has no intention of overstaying his visa. Additionally, he should show that he has sufficient funds to cover the trip expenses without relying on public funds. By carefully filling out the application form and providing the necessary supporting documents, Arun can increase his chances of obtaining the UK visitor visa for himself and his family.

    Remember to always provide accurate and truthful information when filling out the UK visa application form. An honest and well-prepared application is more likely to be successful, paving the way for a memorable trip to the United Kingdom.

    2. Travel Information in UK Visa Applicaiton Form

    For Arun’s UK visa application, he has planned a 13-day trip itinerary and booked tickets. To meet the requirements of the UK visitor visa application, he needs the following supporting documents:

    Trip itinerary (tour details): to explain the purpose and activities during the planned vacations.
    Ticket booking: to explain the exact dates of arrival and departure from the UK.

    If Arun was applying for a UK family visitor visa, he would only require ticket booking as a supporting document.

    Date you will arrive in the UK: 18 August 2018

    Date you will leave the UK: 31 August 2018

    Calculated duration of visit: 13 days

    What is the main reason for your visit to the UK? Tourism, including visiting family and friends

    Will you be travelling to the UK as part of an organised group? No

    Will you be travelling to the UK with someone who is not your partner, spouse, or dependent? No

    What is the main reason for your holiday visit to the UK? Tourist

    Give details of the main purpose of your visit and anything else you plan to do on your trip. See tourist and short stays for more information. For holidays and sightseeing with family – trip itinerary attached

    3. Personal Information

    To fill out the Personal Information section in the UK tourist visa online form, Arun requires the following supporting documents:

    • Residential Property Documents
    • National ID Card
    • Marriage Certificate
    • Telephone Number

    Family name: Kumar
    Given names: Arun

    Are you now or have you ever been known by another name? No

    Residential address: House # 20XYZ, Street 25C, Greater Kailash II, New Delhi, 110048, India

    Telephone number: +01145557907

    How many days, weeks, months, or years have you lived at this address? 17 Years

    What is the ownership status of your home? I own it

    What is your gender, as shown in your passport or travel document? Male

    What is your relationship status? Married or a civil partner

    Country of nationality: India

    Date of birth: 16 February 1976

    Place of birth: Mumbai

    Country of birth: India

    Do you have a national identity card? Yes

    National identity card number: 1111-0000-1111

    4. Passport

    To fill out the Passport section of the UK tourist visa online application form, Arun needs the following:

    • Current passport (this is a mandatory document)
    • Previous passport (optional, if available)

    Passport number or travel document reference number: JXXXXXX2
    Place of issue: New Delhi
    Issue date: 23 May 2013
    Expiry date: 22 May 2023

    Do you have another passport or travel document? Yes
    Passport number or travel document reference number: JXXXXXX1
    Place of issue: New Delhi
    Issue date: 9 May 2008
    Expiry date: 8 May 2013

    5. Spouse/Partner Details

    To complete the Spouse/Partner section of the application form, Arun needs the current passport of his wife, Kiran Kumar.

    Given names: Kiran

    Family name: Kumar

    Date of birth: 9 December 1986

    Nationality: India

    Do they currently live with you? Yes

    Will they be travelling with you to the UK? Yes

    Their passport number: J1234567

    6. Dependant Details in UK Visa Application Form

    For completing the Dependant section of the UK standard visitor visa application form, Arun needs the current passports of his children: Amit Kumar, Madhuri Kumar, and Rekha Kumar.

    Does anyone rely on you for financial support? Include both those travelling with you and those who are not

    Given names: Amit
    Family name: Kumar
    Date of birth: 26 February 2007
    Does this person currently live with you? Yes
    Is this person travelling with you to the UK? Yes
    Country of nationality: India
    Passport number: J7654321

    Given names: Madhuri
    Family name: Kumar
    Date of birth: 31 January 2009
    Does this person currently live with you? Yes
    Is this person travelling with you to the UK? Yes
    Country of nationality: India
    Passport number: J6543217

    Given names: Rekha
    Family name: Kumar
    Date of birth: 17 March 2016
    Does this person currently live with you? Yes
    Is this person travelling with you to the UK? Yes
    Country of nationality: India
    Passport number: J6543277

    7. Parents Details in UK Visa Application Form

    To complete the Parent section of the tourist visa application form, Arun needs the national ID cards or passports of his parents: Kishore Kumar (father) and Lakshmi Kumar (mother).

    What is this person’s relationship to you? Father

    Given names: Kishore

    Family name: Kumar

    Date of birth: 1 January 1940

    Country of nationality: India

    Have they always had the same nationality? Yes

    What is this person’s relationship to you? Mother

    Given names: Lakshmi

    Family name: Kumar

    Date of birth: 1 January 1946

    Country of nationality: India

    Have they always had the same nationality? Yes

    8. Employment and Income in UK Visa Application Form

    To meet the requirements of the Employment, Income, and expenditure section of the UK tourist visa application form, Arun needs the following supporting documents:

    1. Business or Tax Registration Certificate
    2. Annual Tax Returns for the last 3 years – to compute the average annual income and monthly expenditure
    3. Bank Account Maintenance Certificate
    4. Bank Account Statement for the last 6 months
    5. Agricultural land ownership documents
    6. Lease agreement for the cultivation of agricultural produce
    7. Agreement for the purchase of agricultural produce with wholesalers and mills

    What is your employment status? Self-employed

    What is your job? Landlord- decision making and managerial

    How much do you earn from this job in a year? 53886.00 GBP

    Do you have another income or any savings? Savings

    How much money do you have in savings (in GBP)? 61348.00 GBP

    How much money are you planning to spend on your visit to the UK? 12500.00 GBP

    What is the total amount of money you spend each month? 3718.00 GBP

    Will anyone be paying towards the cost of your visit? No

    9. Accommodation

    To complete the Accommodation details in the UK tourist visa application form, Arun needs the Hotel Booking for 2 adults and 3 children. Please note: Arun has no close relatives or friends living in the UK, so he is staying at a hotel. However, if Arun were applying for a UK family visitor visa, then instead of the hotel booking, he would be furnishing the accommodation details of the sponsor.

    Do you have any family in the UK? No

    Do you have an address for where you are going to stay in the UK? Yes

    Where are you planning to stay in the UK? Stylotel

    Enter the address for where you are staying: 160 Sussex Gardens Paddington Westminster Borough London

    When will you arrive there? 18 August 2018 When will you leave there? 31 August 2018

    10. Travel History (UK)

    For completing the Travel history (UK) section of the UK tourist visa application form, Arun needs his passports and refusal letters. Please note: an applicant must provide their travel history for the past 10 years and disclose past refusals.

    Have you applied for leave to remain in the UK in the past 10 years? No
    How many times have you been to the UK in the last 10 years? 2 to 5 times
    What was the reason for your visit? Tourism
    Date of visit: December 2016
    Number of days, weeks, months, or years: 9 days
    What was the reason for your visit? Tourism
    Date of visit: June 2016
    Number of days, weeks, months, or years: 7 days
    Have you ever been: Yes
    – refused a visa for the UK
    – deported from the UK
    – removed from the UK
    – required to leave the UK
    – refused entry at the UK border

    Give details of what happened: An application for a UK tourist visa was refused Date: October 2014
    Give more details of what happened: Post Reference 1234567 dated Oct 16, 2014. The issue was addressed in the subsequent UK tourist visa application in July 2015. And all my family members visited London (England), Aberdeen, Edinburgh, Glasgow (Scotland), Cardiff (Wales) and Belfast (Northern Ireland) for tourism and sightseeing in July-Aug 2015

    11. Travel History (Other)

    To complete the Other Travel History section of the UK tourist visa application form, Arun needed his passports and a refusal letter from Germany (Schengen visa).

    How many times have you visited the following places in the past 10 years? 2 to 5 times

    – Australia
    – Canada
    – New Zealand
    – USA
    – Schengen area
    Which country did you visit? Schengen Area
    Which country in the Schengen area? Germany
    What was the reason for your visit? Tourism
    Date of visit: August 2017
    Number of days, weeks, months or years: 17 Days
    Which country did you visit? Schengen Area
    Which country in the Schengen area? Italy
    What was the reason for your visit? Tourism
    Date of visit: August 2016
    Number of days, weeks, months or years: 10 Days

    Have you visited any other countries in the past 10 years? Yes

    Which country did you visit? Turkey
    What was the reason for your visit? Tourism
    Date of visit: June 2016
    Length of visit: 2 days
    Which country did you visit? Turkey
    What was the reason for your visit? Tourism
    Date of visit: July 2015
    Length of visit: 4 days
    Which country did you visit? Singapore
    What was the reason for your visit? Tourism
    Date of visit: January 2015
    Length of visit: 2 days
    Which country did you visit? Malaysia
    What was the reason for your visit? Tourism
    Date of visit: January 2015
    Length of visit: 8 days
    Which country did you visit? United Arab Emirates
    What was the reason for your visit? Tourism
    Date of visit: December 2012
    Length of visit: 9 days
    Which country did you visit? Malaysia
    What was the reason for your visit? Tourism
    Date of visit: February 2011
    Length of visit: 5 days

    Have you ever been refused a visa for any country other than the UK: Yes

    – deported from any country other than the UK
    – removed from any country other than the UK
    – required to leave any country other than the UK
    – refused entry at the border of any country other than the UK
    Give details of what happened: An application for a visa was refused
    Country: Germany
    Date: May 2015
    Give more details of what happened: In the summer of 2015, I intended to travel to Turkey, Germany, and other European Countries. Accordingly, after getting the Turkish Visit Visa, applied for Schengen Visa through Germany. However, due to the failure of the travel agent to make accommodation bookings as per the satisfaction of the Embassy, I was unable to get the visa. However, since then I have travelled twice to the Schengen Countries in Aug 2016 and 2017.

    12. Other History

    Like most of the applicants, Arun did not require any document to complete this section of the application form.

    In either peace or wartime have you ever been involved in, or suspected of involvement in, war crimes, crimes against humanity, or genocide? No
    Have you ever been involved in, supported or encouraged terrorist activities in any country? No
    Have you ever been a member of, or given support to, an organisation which has been concerned in terrorism? No
    Have you, by any means or medium, expressed views that justify or glorify terrorist violence or that may encourage others to commit terrorist or other serious criminal acts? No
    Tell us about work for the following types of organisation: I have not worked in any of the jobs listed
    – Armed Forces (including compulsory national or military service)
    – Government (including Public or Civil Administration and compulsory national service)
    – Media organisations
    – Security organisations (including police and private security companies)
    – Judiciary (including work as a judge or magistrate)

    13. Convictions and Other Penalties

    Arun did not require any document to complete this section of the UK tourist visa online application form.

    At any time have you ever had any of the following, in the UK or in another country? No, I have never had any of these
    – A criminal conviction
    – A penalty for a driving offence, for example, disqualification for speeding or no motor insurance
    – An arrest or charge for which you are currently on, or awaiting trial
    – A caution, warning, reprimand or other penalty
    – A civil court judgment against you, for example for non-payment of debt, bankruptcy proceedings or anti-social behaviour
    – A civil penalty issued under UK immigration law

    14. Medical Treatment

    Arun did not require any document to complete the Medical Treatment section of the UK tourist visa online application form.

    Have you ever been given medical treatment in the UK? No

    15. Extra Information

    Arun previously applied for the UK tourist visa without family in 2016. Therefore, explained the reason to apply for the UK tourist visa with family in 2018.

    If you needed to add more information about your application but were not able to, you can write it here. If there is no further information you want to add, click the ‘Save and continue’ button.

    Add further details: Perhaps, visiting the British Isles for the very first time with my family during July 2015 was a very fulfilling experience. After the first trip, we were intending to revisit the United Kingdom during the Christmas holidays in Dec 2015. However, my wife got pregnant with our 3rd child in Aug-Sept 2015. And we were not able to revisit during Dec 2015. The child Rekha Kumar was born in March 2016. And despite my intentions to apply along with my other family members, I was only able to apply singly for the UK tourist visa.

    16. English Language

    Arun is educated but is not very fluent in English. So, he opted for the Hindi language for any expected interview for the UK tourist visa application.

    We may have to talk to you about your application. Which language would you prefer to use? Other Which language would you prefer to use? Hindi

    17. Mandatory Documents

    The online application form mentions that an applicant’s passport is a mandatory document. However, an applicant also needs to submit other supporting documents with the application.

    Mandatory documents: The passport or travel document for ARUN KUMAR from India

    18. Receipt of Payment UK Visa Application Form

    This is a system-generated section, which confirms the receipt of payment for the UK tourist visa application. Importantly, also state the type of SERVICE i.e. Standard or Priority that an applicant will get! Please note, it is not possible to download PDF of the final UK visa online form without paying the application fee.

    Length of your visit visa: 6 months
    Service: Priority Service
    ARUN KUMAR’s application for UK Visitor visa: 29,808.00 INR
    Total: 29,808.00 INR

    19. Declaration

    Finally, Arun needed to read the declaration and electronically sign the UK tourist visa application form by ticking the checkbox and providing his full name

    By sending this application, you confirm that to the best of your knowledge and belief the following is correct: – the information relating to your application – your supporting documents Also, the application will be processed according to the privacy policy and terms and conditions. If false information is given, your application will be refused, and you may be banned from the UK and prosecuted. I confirm that I understand and agree with the above declarations.

    Submission and Next Steps

    After completing the online application form, Arun needed to pay the visa fee and schedule an appointment at the nearest visa application center. At the appointment, Arun had to submit his passport, biometric data (fingerprints and facial photograph), and all the required supporting documents. He should also bring a printout of the completed application form to the appointment.

    After submission, Arun had to wait for the decision on his application. The processing time may vary depending on the application center and the season. If approved, Arun would receive his passport back with the UK visa stamped inside.

    Required Supporting Documents for UK Visa Application

    Arun Kumar submitted the following supporting documents along with the UK tourist visa online application for himself and his family:

    1. Current and previous passports for all family members
    2. Printouts of the final application forms
    3. National Identity cards
    4. 13-day trip itinerary
    5. Ticket and hotel bookings
    6. Family form
    7. Marriage certificate
    8. Children’s birth certificates
    9. School certificates
    10. Residential property documents
    11. Agricultural property documents
    12. Business or Tax Registration Certificate
    13. Annual Tax Returns for the last 3 years
    14. Bank Account Maintenance Certificate
    15. Bank Account Statement for the last 6 months
    16. Agricultural land ownership documents
    17. Lease agreement for agricultural produce cultivation
    18. Agreements for the purchase of agricultural produce with wholesalers and mills

    Arun and his family attended the biometric appointment at the UKVAC Mumbai. Their application was processed within 3 working days, and they successfully received their tourist visas by correctly completing the online application form and providing the required supporting documents.

    Conclusion:

    Applying for a UK visa may seem daunting, but with this step-by-step guide, you’ll be well-prepared to navigate the process smoothly. Remember to double-check all information, provide accurate details, and submit the necessary supporting documents. By following these steps and keeping an eye on your application status, you’ll be one step closer to obtaining your UK visa and embarking on your next adventure.

    Get Best Advice UK Visa and Immigration

    Explore more information on UK visas and immigration processes through these informative articles:

    1. Standard Visitor Visa UK – Learn about the requirements, application process, and documents needed for a UK Standard Visitor Visa.
    2. UK Visit Visa Extension – Discover how to apply for an extension of your UK visit visa.
    3. Business Visitor Visa UK – Understand the application process and requirements for a UK business visitor visa.
    4. UK Visa Refusal Reasons – Explore common reasons for UK visa refusals and how to address them.
    5. Form FLR(IR) – Learn about the Form FLR(IR) and its role in extending your stay in the UK.

    For more information and assistance on the UK visa application process, consider visiting the following websites:

    1. Official UK Government Visa Application Website: Begin your visa application process and find detailed information about eligibility and requirements.
    2. VFS Global: Access information on visa application centers, biometric appointments, and document submission.
    3. IATA Travel Centre: Obtain information on travel restrictions, visa requirements, and documentation needed for different countries.
    4. UK Council for International Student Affairs (UKCISA): For students planning to study in the UK, this website offers valuable resources and guidance on visa applications and requirements.

    Remember to always refer to official sources for the most accurate and up-to-date information on the UK visa application process.

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