UK Visa for Bangladeshi Citizens 2024: Fees and RequirementsThis pertains to UK visa application fees and entry requirements for Bangladeshi travelers to the UK. For 2024, the fees are ৳15,882 for a tourist visa, ৳67,671 for a student visa, and ৳254,939 for a spouse visa. An additional ৳69,052 is charged for priority service on visit, study, and work visas. After biometric submission, the expected processing time is around 3 weeks. This article provides a detailed, step-by-step approach to smoothly navigate the UK visa application process.
Table of Contents
1. Overview of UK Visa for Bangladeshi Citizens 2024
Bangladeshi citizens planning to visit, work, or study in the UK in 2024 need to secure the appropriate visa, with requirements varying based on the visa type.
UK Embassy Fee in Bangladesh 2024
The cost of a UK visa for Bangladeshi citizens varies according to the visa type. Specifically, tourist visas cost ৳15,882, student visas ৳67,671, and spouse visas ৳254,939.
Processing Times for UK Visas in Bangladesh
- Non-settlement Visas (Tourist, Study, Work):
- Standard processing time is around 3 weeks. With priority service, this can be reduced to 5 working days for an additional VFS fees in Bangladesh for UK of ৳69,052.
- Spouse, Partner, or Family Settlement Visas:
- The standard processing time post-biometrics is up to 12 weeks. Priority service can reduce this to 6 weeks for an extra UK Embassy Fee in Bangladesh of ৳69,052.
- Super-priority Service:
- Priced at ৳138,104 for next-working-day processing, though not available in Bangladesh currently.
Travel Cost to the UK from Bangladesh
For varying durations and group sizes, the anticipated budget is as follows:
- Individual (7-15 days): ৳190,000 – ৳575,000
- Couple: ৳380,000 – ৳1,150,000
- Family of Four: ৳775,000 – ৳3,000,000
Duration of Stay for Bangladeshis in the UK
- Visitor Visas:
- Allow a stay of up to 180 days per visit.
- Other Visa Types (Spouse, Student, Work):
- The stay corresponds to the visa’s validity period. Extensions can be sought by meeting Leave to Remain (LTR) criteria.
- Pathway to Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) and Citizenship:
- Certain visas like the Skilled Worker and Innovator visas can lead to ILR and eventually British citizenship.
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2. London Visit Visa Requirements from Bangladesh
Bangladeshis must apply for a visa to enter the United Kingdom. The only exception is for Bangladeshis with dual citizenship from visa-exempt countries like the USA, Australia, New Zealand, or EU Member States.
UK Visit Visa from Bangladesh
The standard visitor visa allows Bangladeshis to engage in various activities, including tourism, family visits, business engagements, and short-term studies. Understanding the eligibility criteria is crucial before submitting an application.
When processing applications, UK immigration officials consider several criteria, such as the intent of the visit, the applicant’s financial security, and their accommodation and departure plans.
In the year ending September 2022, a total of 27,116 Bangladeshis applied for visitor visa UK. 23,655 applications resolved, 17,551 visit visas granted to Bangladeshi nationals, and 5,922 applications rejected. Therefore, the UK visitor visa success and refusal rate from Bangladesh are 74.20% and 25.03%, respectively.
Visit Visa to UK from Bangladesh Fees
In 2024, the UK visit visa fee from Bangladesh is categorized as follows: ৳15,882 for a 6-month visa, ৳55,241 for a 2-year visa, ৳106,478 for a 5-year visa, and ৳132,994 for a 10-year visa. All these visa categories limit your stay to a maximum of 180 days per visit.
The standard visitor visa processing time is approximately three weeks. However, applicants can opt for expedited services. A one-week priority service is available at a charge of ৳69,052.
UK Tourist Visa from Bangladesh: A Detailed Guide
Bangladeshi citizens applying for a UK tourist visa need to follow a comprehensive process, which involves completing an online application, paying the visa fee, and submitting biometric data at a visa application center. Alongside these steps, several supporting documents are required to strengthen the visa application. The UK tourist visa fee from Bangladesh is ৳15,882.
Required Documentation for Tourist Visa to UK from Bangladesh
- Proof of Intent to Return
- Evidence of employment or educational commitments in Bangladesh.
- Financial Evidence
- Bank statements to verify adequate funds for the stay.
- Travel Itinerary and Accommodation
- Detailed travel plans and proof of accommodation, such as hotel reservations.
Show Money for UK Tourist Visa from Bangladesh
To qualify for the visa, applicants must demonstrate they have sufficient financial means for their visit. The required amount typically ranges between GBP 3,000 and 5,000, depending on the trip’s duration and the number of travelers.
London Visit Visa Requirements for Bangladeshi Citizens
For those specifically visiting London, the application process for a standard visitor visa remains the same. This includes the online application, document verification, and biometric data submission. While the general requirements are similar, applicants should ensure all their travel plans within London are well documented and included in their visa application.
Other Visit Visa to UK from Bangladesh Fees
- Marriage Visitor Visa:
- For Bangladeshi citizens intending to marry or register a civil partnership in the UK.
- Duration: Up to 180 days.
- Fees: ৳15,882
- Private Medical Treatment Visa:
- For Bangladeshis traveling to the UK for private medical treatment lasting 6-11 months.
- Attendants applying must do so as visitors.
- Fee ৳27,621
- Visiting Academics Visa:
- For Bangladeshi academic professionals planning research or educational exchange in the UK for up to 12 months.
- Fee: ৳27,621
- Permitted Paid Engagement (PPE) Visa:
- For Bangladeshis undertaking specific short-term paid tasks like lecturing or assessing in the UK, available for up to 30 days.
- Fee: ৳15,882
- Parent of Child Student Visa:
- For Bangladeshi parents whose children are enrolled in fee-paying day schools in the UK, available for 12 months.
- Fee: ৳87,972
- Transit Visas:
- For Bangladeshis transiting through the UK en route to another country. Includes Airside Transit and Visitor in Transit visas.
- Airside: ৳4,834
- Visitor in Transit: ৳8,839
3. UK Student Visa from Bangladesh
The UK Student Visa permits Bangladeshis to pursue a range of educational opportunities in the UK, from higher education to Student Union roles.
UK Student Visa Ratio from Bangladesh
In the year ending September 2022, a total of 20,958 Bangladeshis applied for student visa UK. 20,975 applications resolved, 20,464 student visas granted to Bangladeshis, and 451 applications rejected. Therefore, the UK student visa success and refusal rate for Bangladeshis are 97.56% and 2.15%, respectively.
UK Student Visa Fee for Bangladeshi Students
Bangladeshi students applying for a UK Student Visa need to pay a standard application fee of ৳67,671. The usual processing time is about 3 weeks. However, for those requiring faster processing, an expedited service is available for an additional ৳69,052. Besides these fees, students are also required to pay the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS), which is £776 annually.
The short-term study visa caters to Bangladeshis studying English in the UK for 6-11 months, with a fee of ৳27,621. For a 6-month course, the cost is ৳15,882.
Work Rights for Bangladeshi Students
Bangladeshi students in degree-level programs in the UK are permitted to work part-time, up to 20 hours per week, during school terms and can work full-time during holidays. Those enrolled in sub-degree level courses are limited to 10 hours of work per week.
Post-Study Work Opportunities
Upon graduation, Bangladeshi students can access a 2-year post-study work visa. Those who complete a PhD can obtain a 3-year visa, offering a significant period to gain professional experience in the UK. Afterwards, Bangladeshis can switch to the skilled worker route, which enables permanent settlement in the UK.
4. UK Family Visa from Bangladesh
The family route is for those Bangladeshis who can apply for a UK visa because of their relationship to a person settled in the UK or a British citizen. This includes spouse settlement visa, adult dependent relative, parent of a British Child visa etc.
In the year ending September 2022, a total of 2,467 Bangladeshis applied for family settlement visa UK. 1,701 applications resolved, 1,555 family settlement visas granted to Bangladeshis, and 130 applications rejected. Therefore, the UK family (spouse) settlement visa success and refusal rate from Bangladesh are 91.42% and 7.64%, respectively.
Spouse Visa from Bangladesh to UK
- Visa Requirements for Bangladeshis:
- Applicants from Bangladesh need to follow the Appendix FM of the UK Immigration Rules.
- The UK Spouse Visa prerequisites include evidence of a genuine relationship, financial stability, appropriate accommodation, and English language skills.
- Duration and Renewal:
- Initially, the spouse visa is granted for 33 months for Bangladeshis, with an option to extend it for another 30 months.
- After 5 years, Bangladeshi applicants can seek ILR, subject to continuous fulfillment of all visa conditions.
- There’s also an alternative 10-year path to settlement available under specific circumstances, such as not meeting the financial or English proficiency requirements.
- UK Spouse Visa Fee from Bangladesh:
- The standard spouse visa application fee for Bangladeshis is ৳254,939.
- For those opting for expedited processing within 6 weeks, an additional VFS fees in Bangladesh for UK of ৳69,052 is levied, bringing the total to ৳323,991.
Other Family Visa from Bangladesh to UK:
- Fiancé(e) Visa:
- For Bangladeshis planning to marry or engage in a civil partnership in the UK. Valid for 6 months, with an option to switch to a spouse or civil partner visa after marriage/partnership formation.
- Fee: ৳254,939
- Parent of a British Child Visa:
- For Bangladeshis with sole guardianship of a British child.
- Fee: ৳254,939
- Adult Dependent Relative Visa:
- For Bangladeshis needing extended care from a UK relative.
- Fee: ৳448,837
- Returning Residents Visa:
- For Bangladeshis who were previously settled in the UK and wish to return.
- Fee: ৳87,972
5. London Work Permit Visa from Bangladesh
The primary route for Bangladeshis seeking UK employment is through the Skilled Worker Visa. Other options include visas like Innovator, Startup, Global Business Mobility, and Health and Care Worker.
To secure a UK work visa, Bangladeshis need to meet varying requirements based on the type of work visa they are applying for.
In the year ending September 2022, a total of 2,761 Bangladeshis applied for work visa UK. 2,309 applications resolved, 1,951 work visas granted to Bangladeshi nationals, and 343 applications rejected. Therefore, the UK work visa success and refusal rate from Bangladesh are 84.50% and 14.85%, respectively.
UK Work Permit Visa for Bangladesh 2024 Requirements
Skilled Worker Visa UK for Bangladeshi Citizens
Bangladeshis can work in the UK under the Skilled Worker Visa. This visa is for those sponsored by a licensed Home Office sponsor for specific skilled roles. It offers a path to permanent UK settlement. The cost of the UK work visa for Bangladeshi in 2024 stands at ৳99,297 for up to three years and ৳196,107 for longer durations.
As a distinct category within the Skilled Worker (Shortage Occupation) Visa has lower fees, set at ৳76,095 for visa durations of up to three years, and ৳149,704 for timeframes beyond three years.
Health and Care Work Visa UK from Bangladesh
This visa is specifically designed for qualified doctors, nurses, or allied health professionals from Bangladesh who are sponsored by a licensed Home Office sponsor. It also provides a route to permanent UK settlement. The UK Work Visa for Bangladeshi cost for health and care route is ৳39,221 for up to three years and ৳76,095 for more extended periods.
Global Business Mobility Visa UK for Bengalis
A brief overview of UK work visas available for Bangladeshis under the Global Business Mobility category, along with their 2024 fees.
- Senior or Specialist Worker:
- For high-level managers or specialists transferring to a UK branch.
- Fees for up to three years: ৳99,297
- Fees for stays over three years: ৳196,107
- Graduate Trainee:
- For individuals in graduate training programs progressing towards specialist positions in the UK.
- Fees: ৳41,155
- UK Expansion Worker:
- For senior managers or specialists extending a company’s operations to the UK.
- Fees: ৳41,155
- Service Supplier:
- For individuals providing services under UK trade commitments.
- Fees: ৳41,155
- Secondment Worker:
- Specifically for Bangladeshis seconded to the UK for high-value contracts or investments.
- Fees: ৳41,155
Other Work and Business Visas for Bangladeshis
Below is a brief overview of various UK visa categories along with their associated fees for Bangladeshis looking to work or do business in the UK.
- Innovator Founder Visa:
- Replaces older Innovator and Startup visas, streamlined for international entrepreneurs from Bangladesh, requiring endorsement-based approval.
- Potential permanent UK residency for family members.
- Endorsement: ৳138,104
- Application: ৳164,481
- Start-Up Visa:
- For Bangladeshis starting an innovative business in the UK.
- Fee: ৳60,075
- Innovator Visa:
- For Bangladeshis with innovative, viable, and scalable businesses. Includes requirements like an endorsement, £50,000 investment, and B2 IELTS level.
- Fee: ৳164,481
- Investor Visa:
- For high-value Bangladeshis investing in the UK.
- Fee: ৳260,187
- High Potential Individual (HPI) Visa:
- For Bangladeshi graduates from top-50 global universities seeking UK employment. ৳113,521
- Scale-Up Visa:
- For Bangladeshis with a job offer from a UK scale-up company. Potential UK settlement after 5 years.
- Fee: ৳113,521
- Global Talent Visa:
- For Bangladeshis who are leaders in academia, research, arts, or digital technology.
- Approval Letter: ৳72,366
- Main Applicant With Approval Letter: ৳26,516
- Without Approval Letter and Dependents: ৳98,882
- T2 Minister of Religion Visa:
- For Bangladeshis undertaking preaching and pastoral work in the UK.
- Fee: ৳99,297
- International Sportsperson Visa:
- For elite Bangladeshi sportspersons or coaches. Fee varies based on the Certificate of Sponsorship (COS) duration.
- Up to 12 months COS: ৳41,155
- Over 12 months COS: ৳99,297
- T5 (Temporary Worker) Visa:
- For Bangladeshis in various sectors like seasonal, religious, or creative workers.
- Fee: ৳41,155
6. How to Apply for UK Visa from Bangladesh
A comprehensive guide tailored for Bangladeshis outlining the steps to apply for a UK visa. Note: The estimated cost is based on a UK visitor visa, and priority service could shorten the process to 15 working days from 30.
Total Time: 30 days
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Determine the Visa Type
Firstly, ascertain the specific visa category that aligns with your reason for traveling from Bangladesh to the UK.
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Create an Online Account
Visit the UK’s official visa and immigration website and set up an account on the UK Visas and Immigration portal.
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Fill Out the Application Form
For Bangladeshi applicants, it’s essential to accurately complete the online application form, making sure each detail corresponds with their provided supporting documents.
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Pay the Application Fee
Bangladeshi users completing the UK visa application will be taken by the UKVI online system to a secure payment portal to safely process their application fee.
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Assemble Your Supporting Documents
Depending on the type of visa, collect key documents such as your Bangladeshi passport, proof of financial status, and UK accommodation details.
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Schedule a VAC Appointment in Bangladesh
Bangladeshis are not qualified to use the Immigration App for identity verification. As a result, it’s vital to book an appointment at a UK Visa Application Centre (UKVAC) in Bangladesh.
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Attend the VAC Appointment
Head to the closest UKVAC, equipped with all supporting documents, and complete the biometric verification as per the guidelines of your appointment.
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Await Visa Decision
Post-submission, the processing of your UK visa application commences. A decision is usually reached within 3 weeks, or 5 working days if you have chosen priority service.
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Passport Collection or Delivery
You have the option to pick up your passport with the visa from the VAC or arrange for courier delivery. If your visitor visa application is unsuccessful, consider reapplying or initiating a Judicial Review. Remember, appeals are possible only for cases based on human rights grounds. Key reasons for visa refusal include suspicious intentions and significant unexplained bank transactions.
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Prepare for Your UK Journey
With your visa secured, plan your UK travel and familiarize yourself with the terms of your visa.
Estimated Cost: 15882 BDT
Supply:
- Application form
- Valid Bangladeshi Passport
- Recent passport-sized photos
- Invitation letter (if applicable)
- Payment for visa fee in USD
- Proof of UK accommodation
Tools:
- Internet access
- Bangladeshi Passport
- Financial documents
Materials: Photocopies of documents. Copy of online application form. If required, postal envelope for mailing documents.
UK Visa VFS Bangladesh Pvt Ltd.
- UK Visa Application Centre Dhaka
- 4th Floor, Delta Life Tower, Plot 37, Road 45, North Avenue, Gulshan 2, Dhaka 1212, Bangladesh
- UK Visa Application Centre Sylhet
- 7th Floor, Nirvana Inn, Mirza Jungle Road, Ramerdhigir par, Sylhet-3100, Bangladesh
For further details please refer to find a visa application centre.
7. UK Visa from Bangladesh Required Documents
Primary Documentation
- Valid Passport
- Must be valid for the entire duration of your stay in the UK.
- Application Form
- To be completed on the UK Visas and Immigration portal by Bangladeshi applicants.
- Proof of Accommodation
- Details of your intended accommodation in the UK.
- Financial Proof
- Evidence of financial capability for the duration of your UK stay.
- Travel Itinerary
- Outline of your travel plans to and from Bangladesh.
- Proof of Ties to Bangladesh
- Demonstrating intent to return to Bangladesh after the UK visit.
- English Language Proficiency
- Required test, generally via an accredited institution, if applicable.
Documentation Based on Visa Type
- Work Visas
- Job Offer and Certificate of Sponsorship: Relevant documentation for Bangladeshi applicants securing a job in the UK.
- Study Visas
- Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS): Required from a UK institution for Bangladeshi students.
- Family Visas
- Proofs of Family Relationships: Necessary documentation to establish family ties for Bangladeshi applicants.
- Tourist Visas
- Additional Trip Details: Specific information about the trip, tailored for Bangladeshi tourists.
For UK-Based Sponsors
- Letter of Invitation
- Essential for Bangladeshi applicants, especially for family or work visa categories.
- Sponsor’s Immigration Status
- Documentation of the sponsor’s status in the UK.
- Financial Documents
- Proof of the UK sponsor’s financial stability.
- Accommodation Proof
- Evidence of where the Bangladeshi applicant will stay in the UK.
- Relationship Evidence
- Proof of relationship with the UK sponsor, crucial for family visas.
Important Notes
- For Bangladeshi applicants, sponsor documents are supplemental yet vital for certain visa types like family or work visas.
- Fulfilling the primary visa requirements is critical for all UK visa categories.
8. FAQs: UK Visa for Bangladeshi Citizens 2024
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How much is UK Visa Fee in Bangladesh?
UK visa fee requirements in Bangladesh depends on the type of application. For instance, UK tourist, student, and spouse visa fees in Bangladesh are ৳15,882, ৳67,671, and ৳254,939, respectively.
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How Long Does It Take to Process UK Visa in Bangladesh?
In 2024, non-settlement visit, study, and work visa application processing time in Bangladesh is usually 3-weeks. UK priority non-settlement visit, study, and work applications processing time from Bangladesh is normally 5 working days. The additional cost of UK priority (non-settlement) visa service from Bangladesh is ৳69,052.
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What is Spouse Settlement Visa Processing Time for Bangladeshis?
The UK settlement visa processing time after biometrics from Bangladesh for spouse, partner, family applications are usually within 12 weeks. Spouse priority settlement visa processing time for Bangladeshi passport holders is 6-weeks. The additional cost of UK priority settlement visa service from Bangladesh is ৳69,052.
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What are the entry requirements for a Bengali girlfriend’s visa to the UK?
The type of visa required for a Bengali girlfriend depends on her purpose of visit to the UK. For tourism purposes, the standard visitor visa is suitable. However, if she intends to get married in the UK, a marriage visitor visa is necessary. In cases where the goal is permanent living and settlement in the UK, applying for a fiancé or spouse/civil partner visa is the appropriate course of action.
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How much does a UK visa cost for a Bengali girlfriend?
The cost of a UK visa for a Bengali girlfriend varies based on the type of application. For a tourist or a 6-month visit visa, VFS fees in Bangladesh for UK is ৳15,882. On the other hand, if she is applying for spouse settlement route, the UK visa cost from Bangladesh escalates to ৳254,939.
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Can my Bengali girlfriend work in the UK on her visa?
A Bengali girlfriend is not permitted to work in the UK while on a visitor or tourist visa. However, if she is in the UK on a family settlement visa, then she is allowed to work. Additionally, for the purpose of working in the UK, she may consider applying for specific work visas such as the Skilled Worker, Health and Care Worker, or Global Business Mobility visas.