UK Visas for Sri Lankans 2024: Fees and Entry RequirementsThis guide pertains to UK visas for Sri Lankan applicants in 2024, offering information on visa types, fees, and processing times. In 2024, UK visit visa fee from Sri Lanka is US$145. The London visa price in Sri Lanka for student and spouse application visa is US$619 and US$2,332, respectively. UK visa fees Sri Lanka for skilled worker application are $908. Additionally, priority service is available for various visa categories at US$632, aiming to expedite the process. Our guide is designed to simplify your UK visa journey, detailing each step and ensuring a smoother application experience.
Table of Contents
1. Overview: UK Visas for Sri Lankans 2024
Sri Lankan nationals planning to visit, work, or study in the UK must obtain the appropriate visa. Visa requirements and fees vary based on the visa type.
UK Visa Fees in Sri Lanka
- Tourist Visa:
- $145
- Student Visa:
- $619
- Spouse Visa:
- $2,332
UK Visa Processing Time in Sri Lanka
- Non-Settlement Visas (Tourist, Study, Work)
- Typical: 3 weeks
- Priority Service: 5 working days, additional $632
- Spouse, Partner, or Family Settlement Visas
- Typical: Up to 12 weeks
- Priority Service: 6 weeks, additional $632
- Super-Priority Service
- Next-working-day processing: $1,263 (Not available in Sri Lanka)
Estimated Travel Costs to the UK from Sri Lanka
- Per Person (7-15 days)
- Cost Range: $1,750 – $5,225
- Couples
- Cost Range: $3,000 – $9,000
- Family of Four
- Cost Range: $5,500 – $16,000
Note: These figures are approximate estimates and vary based on the duration and nature of the stay. It’s advisable to confirm current rates for more accurate budgeting.
How to Migrate to the UK from Sri Lanka
Work Visas
For skilled workers with a job offer in the UK. Includes Skilled Worker and other specific work visas.
- Length of Stay:
- Duration aligns with visa validity.
- Possibility of extension and pathway to ILR and citizenship.
Study Visas
For Sri Lankans pursuing education in the UK.
- Length of Stay:
- Duration aligns with course length.
- Extensions possible under certain conditions.
Family Visas
For Sri Lankans with close relatives in the UK. Includes spouse, partner, and other family visas.
- Length of Stay:
- Duration varies based on the specific visa.
- Extensions and ILR possible.
Investor/Entrepreneur Visas
Includes Innovator Founder visa for Sri Lankan entrepreneurs.
- Length of Stay:
- Duration varies.
- Pathway to ILR and citizenship available.
Visitor Visas
For short-term visits, tourism, business, or family visits by Sri Lankans.
- Length of Stay:
- Up to 180 days per visit.
- Not extendable for long-term stay.
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2. Visiting Visa to UK from Sri Lanka 2024
Visiting the UK requires Sri Lankans to obtain a visa unless they have dual citizenship with countries that are visa-exempt, such as the USA, Australia, New Zealand, or EU Member States.
Standard Visitor Visa for UK from Sri Lanka
The Standard Visitor Visa enables Sri Lankans to participate in various activities like tourism, visiting family, attending business meetings, and short-term studies. Familiarizing yourself with the eligibility criteria is essential before applying.
The qualification for a UK visitor visa hinges on multiple aspects such as the reason for the visit, proof of financial means, and confirmed plans for accommodation and return.
As of September 2022, 21,481 Sri Lankans applied for UK visitor visas. With 15,834 visas granted and 3,531 applications rejected, the success and refusal rates were 81.42% and 18.16%, respectively.
UK Visit Visa Fee from Sri Lanka 2024
- 6-month Visa: $145
- 2-year Visa: $505
- 5-year Visa: $974
- 10-year Visa: $1,217
Note: The stated UK visit visa fee from Sri Lanka is as of 2024. All visa categories allow a maximum stay of up to 180 days per visit. The standard processing time in Sri Lanka for a visitor visa is approximately three weeks.
Visiting Visa to UK from Sri Lanka Processing Time
- Standard Service: 15 working days (or 3 weeks)
- One-week Priority Processing: Additional charges $632
- Next Working Day Super Priority Processing: Additional charges $1,263
Tourist Visa for UK from Sri Lanka
Sri Lankan individuals applying for a UK tourist visa need to complete an online application form, pay the visa fee, and submit biometric data at a local visa application center. They must also provide additional supporting documents.
Required Documentation for Tourist Visa to UK from Sri Lanka
- Evidence of intent to return to Sri Lanka, such as employment or educational commitments
- Bank statements confirming adequate financial resources for the trip
- Detailed travel plans and proof of accommodations, like hotel bookings
Show Money for UK Tourist Visa from Sri Lanka
Applicants must verify they hold enough financial resources, usually ranging from GBP 3,000 to 5,000, for their UK visit. The specific amount required will depend on the trip’s length and the total number of travelers.
London Visa for Sri Lankan (aka England Visa from Sri Lanka)
The Standard Visitor Visa covers travel specifically to London or any part of England. The application process involves online form submission, document verification, and biometric data collection. In 2024, the London visa price in Sri Lanka is US$145.
Other Visit Visas for UK from Sri Lanka
- Marriage Visitor Visa:
- Suitable for marriage or civil partnership registration in the UK. Duration: Up to 180 days.
- Fee: $145
- Private Medical Treatment Visa:
- For travel to the UK for private medical treatment lasting between 6 and 11 months. Attendants must apply as standard visitors.
- Fee: $253
- Visiting Academics:
- For Sri Lankan academic professionals planning research or educational exchange for up to 12 months.
- Fee: $253
- Permitted Paid Engagement (PPE):
- For Sri Lankan professionals to perform specific short-term paid tasks like lecturing or assessing, available for up to 30 days.
- Fee: $145
- Parent of Child Student Visa:
- For Sri Lankan parents whose children are enrolled in fee-paying day schools in the UK, available for 12 months.
- Fee: $805
- Transit Visas for Sri Lankan Citizens:
- Airside: $44
- Visitor in Transit: $81
3. Student Visa UK from Sri Lanka 2024
The UK Student Visa enables Sri Lankans to engage in various educational activities in the UK, such as higher education and Student Union involvement.
To qualify for a UK Student Visa, Sri Lankans are required to meet specific conditions. Among these are a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) from a UK educational institution and evidence of English language skills, typically via an IELTS exam. Financial stability to cover both tuition and living expenses is also essential.
In the year ending September 2022, a total of 8,970 Sri Lankans applied for a UK student visa. 8,911 applications were resolved, 8,837 student visas were granted to Sri Lankans, and 58 applications were rejected. Therefore, the UK student visa success and refusal rates for Sri Lankans are 99.17% and 0.65%, respectively.
Student Visa Fees for UK from Sri Lanka
- Fee: $619 (Plus $632 for faster processing)
- Estimated processing time of 3 weeks. Additional $632 payment for faster processing.
- Immigration Health Charge (IHS) Annually: £776
- Short-term Study Visa (6-11 months) for English Language Course: $253
- Short-term Study Visa (up to 6 months) for English Language Course: $145
Note: The fees listed are for 2024 and are subject to change. It is advisable to check for the most current fees before applying.
Work Rights for Sri Lankan Students
- Degree-Level Students:
- Work up to 20 hours per week during term time, full-time during vacations.
- Sub-Degree Courses:
- Work limit set at 10 hours a week.
- Post-Study Work Visa:
- Graduates: 2-year PSW visa.
- PhD Holder: 3-year PSW visa
4. UK Visas for Sri Lankans 2024: Family Settlement
The family visa pathway enables Sri Lankans to apply for UK residency due to their relationship with a British citizen or a person settled in the UK. This encompasses various types, such as spouse settlement visas, adult dependent relatives, and parent of a British child visas.
In the year ending September 2022, a total of 1,244 Sri Lankans applied for family settlement visas in the UK. Of these, 735 applications were resolved, with 667 family settlement visas granted to Sri Lankans and 63 applications rejected. Therefore, the UK family (spouse) settlement visa success and refusal rates from Sri Lanka are 90.75% and 8.57%, respectively.
Spouse or Partner Visa Requirements for Sri Lankan Citizens
Eligibility:
- Applicants must comply with Appendix FM of the Immigration Rules.
- The requirements for the UK Spouse Visa entail demonstrating a bona fide relationship, financial stability, adequate accommodation, and proficiency in the English language (CEFR A-1 or above).
Validity & Extensions:
- The initial visa duration is 33 months and can be renewed after 30 months.
- After 5 years, applicants can apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain under the 5-year route if they continue to meet all conditions.
- An alternative 10-year path to settlement is available under special circumstances.
UK Spouse Visa Fees in Sri Lanka 2024
- Standard Spouse Visa Application: $2,332
- Expedited 6-Week Processing (Additional): $632
- Total UK Spouse Priority Visa Fees Sri Lanka 2024: $2,964
UK Visa Fees in Sri Lanka 2024: Other Family Visas
- Fiancé(e) Visa:
- For Sri Lankans intending to marry or form a civil partnership in the UK. Valid for 6 months. Fee: $2,332
- Parent of a British Child:
- For Sri Lankans who are the sole caregivers of a British child. Fee: $2,332
- Adult Dependent Relative:
- For Sri Lankans requiring long-term care from a UK-based relative. Fee: $4,106
- Returning Residents:
- Sri Lankans who have previously been settled in the UK and wish to return. Fee: $805
5. Work Visa for UK from Sri Lanka
The main pathway for Sri Lankans seeking employment in the UK is via the Skilled Worker Visa. Other notable options are the Innovator, Startup, Global Business Mobility, and Health and Care Worker Visas.
In the year ending September 2022, a total of 4,973 Sri Lankans applied for work visas in the UK. Of these, 4,805 applications were resolved, with 4,680 work visas granted to Sri Lankan nationals and 111 applications rejected. Therefore, the UK work visa success and refusal rates from Sri Lanka are 97.40% and 2.31%, respectively.
London Work Visa from Sri Lanka
Skilled Migration to UK from Sri Lanka
Sri Lankans can opt for the Skilled Worker Visa to work in roles sponsored by a licensed Home Office employer. This visa can lead to permanent settlement in the UK.
UK Skilled Worker Visa Fees in Sri Lanka 2024
- Skilled Worker Visa (Up to three years): $908
- Skilled Worker Visa (More than three years): $1,794
- Skilled Worker (Shortage Occupation) Visa (Up to three years): $696
- Skilled Worker (Shortage Occupation) Visa (More than three years): $1,370
Health and Care Work Visa for UK from Sri Lanka
Designed for qualified health professionals from Sri Lanka, this visa also offers a pathway to permanent UK residency.
UK Visa Fees Sri Lanka 2024 for Health and Care Workers
- Health and Care Work Visa (Up to three years): $359
- Health and Care Work Visa (More than three years): $696
Global Business Mobility Visa to UK for Sri Lankans
A comprehensive guide to UK work visas available for Sri Lankan citizens under the Global Business Mobility category, with details on their fees for 2024.
UK Visa from Sri Lanka 2024: Global Business Mobility Visa to UK for Sri Lankans
- Senior or Specialist Worker Visa:
- Suitable for high-level managers or specialists relocating to a UK branch.
- Up to three years: $908
- Exceeding three years: $1,794
- Graduate Trainee Visa:
- For Sri Lankans in graduate training programs aimed at specialist roles in the UK.
- Fee: $377
- UK Expansion Worker Visa:
- For specialists or senior staff planning to expand a business into the UK.
- Fee: $377
- Service Supplier Visa:
- For Sri Lankans offering services in accordance with UK trade commitments.
- Fee: $377
- Secondment Worker Visa:
- For Sri Lankans seconded to the UK for high-value contracts or investments.
- Fee: $377
Quick Guide to Other Work and Business Visas:
A concise guide to other visa categories for Sri Lankans aiming to work or establish a business in the UK:
- Start-Up Visa:
- For Sri Lankans starting an innovative business in the UK.
- Fee: $550
- Innovator Visa:
- For Sri Lankans with innovative, viable, and scalable businesses. Requirements include an endorsement, £50,000 investment, and B2 IELTS level.
- Fee: $1,505
- Innovator Founder Visa:
- For Sri Lankan entrepreneurs, replacing older Innovator and Startup visas. Simplified endorsement-based process, leading to possible UK family residency.
- Endorsement: $1,263
- Application: $1,505
- Investor Visa:
- For high-value Sri Lankans investing in the UK.
- Fee: $2,380
- High Potential Individual (HPI) Visa:
- For Sri Lankan graduates from top-50 global universities seeking employment in the UK.
- Fee: $1,039
- Scale-Up Visa:
- For Sri Lankans with a job offer from an authorised UK scale-up company. Leads to potential UK settlement after 5 years.
- Fee: $1,039
- Global Talent Visa:
- For Sri Lankans who are leaders or potential leaders in academia, research, arts, or digital technology.
- Approval Letter: $662
- Main Applicant with Approval Letter: $243
- Main Applicant without Approval Letter and for Dependants: $905
- T2 Minister of Religion Visa:
- For Sri Lankans intending to undertake preaching and pastoral work.
- Fee: $908
- International Sportsperson Visa:
- For elite Sri Lankan sportspersons or coaches contributing to UK sports.
- Up to 12 months COS: $377
- More than 12 months COS: $908
- T5 (Temporary Worker) Visa:
- For Sri Lankans in various sectors, such as seasonal, religious, or creative workers.
- Fee: $377
6. How to Apply for UK Visa from Sri Lanka?
This comprehensive guide is tailored for Sri Lankans detailing the steps to apply for a UK visa. Follow this guide to understand everything from choosing the right visa type to preparing for your trip to the UK. Estimated processing time is 30 days. However, opting for priority service could expedite this to 15 working days.
Total Time: 30 days
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Determine the Visa Type
Identify the visa category that matches your purpose for traveling from Sri Lanka to the UK.
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Create an Online Account
Visit the official UK government site for visas and immigration and create an account on the UK Visas and Immigration platform.
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Complete the Application Form
Enter your information in the online application form accurately, ensuring it corresponds with the details in your supporting documents.
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Pay the Application Fee
Once you have finished the form, the system will guide you to an online payment portal where you can pay your application fee.
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Assemble Supporting Documents
Collect essential documents like your Sri Lankan passport, proof of financial resources, and details of your UK accommodation.
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Schedule a VAC Appointment in Sri Lanka
Sri Lankans cannot use the Immigration App for identity verification. Schedule an appointment at a UK Visa Application Centre (UKVAC) in Sril Lanka.
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Attend the VAC Appointment
Be present at the UKVAC with all your documents and complete the biometric verification process.
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Await Visa Decision
Your application enters the processing phase post-submission. You will be notified upon decision.
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Passport Collection or Delivery
Choose between collecting your visa from the VAC or receiving it via courier service.
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Prepare for Your UK Journey
With the visa in hand, make necessary preparations for your UK travel and review your visa’s terms.
Estimated Cost: 145 USD
Supply:
- Application form
- Valid Sri Lankan Passport
- Recent passport-sized photos
- Invitation letter (if applicable)
- Visa fee payment in USD
- Proof of UK accommodation
Tools:
- Internet access
- Sri Lankan Passport
- Financial documents
Materials: Duplicate copies of essential documents, Printout of application confirmation, Envelope for postal submission.
UK Visa Application Centre Colombo, Sri Lanka
- No -75, Arnold Ratnayake Mawatha, Colombo 10, Postal Code – 01000 Sri Lanka
For further details please refer to find a visa application centre.
7. Documents Checklist for UK Visas for Sri Lankans
This section offers a comprehensive checklist of the necessary documentation for Sri Lankans applying for a UK visa. It’s crucial to gather all required documents to ensure a smooth application process.
UK Visa from Sri Lanka: Primary Documentation
- Valid Passport: Must be valid throughout your UK stay.
- Application Form: Filled out via the UK Visas and Immigration portal.
- Proof of Accommodation: Information about your UK lodging.
- Financial Proof: Documents showing financial capability.
- Travel Itinerary: Planned travel activities and schedule.
- Proof of Ties to Sri Lanka: To confirm intent to return to Sri Lanka.
- English Language Proficiency: Required for certain visas, usually verified by an accredited test.
Note:
This list includes fundamental documents applicable to all visa categories. Always verify specific requirements for additional documentation for your visa type.
Documentation by Visa Category
Different visa categories may require additional specific documents:
- Work Visas: Job offer, Certificate of Sponsorship.
- Study Visas: Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS).
- Family Visas: Documents proving relationship status.
- Tourist Visas: Additional details about the trip may be required.
UK Visa from Sri Lanka: Sponsorship Documents
In cases where sponsorship is necessary or beneficial:
- Invitation Letter: From the UK-based sponsor.
- Sponsor’s Immigration Status: Confirmation of the sponsor’s status in the UK.
- Financial Documents: Sponsor’s financial capability proof.
- Proof of Accommodation: If staying with the sponsor.
- Evidence of Relationship: If applicable.
Essential Reminder:
While sponsor documents can enhance your application, the primary focus should be on meeting the core visa requirements.
8. FAQs: UK Visas for Sri Lankans 2024
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What are the UK Visa Fees in Sri Lanka?
The cost of a UK visa in Sri Lanka varies according to the visa category. Specifically, tourist, student, and spouse visa fees are US$145, US$619, and US$2,332, respectively.
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How Long Does It Take to Process UK Visa in Sri Lanka?
In 2024, the typical processing period for non-settlement visas, including visit, study, and work categories, is around 3 weeks. The UK also provides a priority service option, which can expedite processing to just 5 working days for an extra fee of US$632.
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What is Super Priority Visa Processing Time in Sri Lanka?
The super-priority service fee in Sri Lanka is US$1,263, aimed at processing applications by the next working day. However, this service is currently not available in Sri Lanka.
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Can Sri Lankans Work on Visiting Visa in the UK?
Sri Lankans visiting the UK are not allowed to do work. Sri Lankans travelling on a visitor visa needs to abide the conditions of stay in the UK. If the Home Office finds a visiting Sri Lankan breaching their conditions of stay, then may cancel the visitor visa with a re-entry ban.
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How to pay for UK visa fee in Sri Lanka?
Sri Lankans need to pay the UK visa fee online in US Dollars. Accordingly, Sri Lankans can pay for UK visa fee online by a debit or credit card. after completing the application form.
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What Sri Lankans can do if UK Visit Visa is Refused?
Sri Lankans can either reapply or file Judicial Review after UK visitor or tourist visa rejection. There is no right of appeal or administrative review against a UK visitor visa denial for Sri Lankans. If Sri Lankans have applied for UK visa on human rights grounds, then can file appeal after refusal. Please note, common reasons for visitor or tourist visa refusal for Sri Lankans includes but not limited to doubtful intentions and large unexplained transactions in the bank statement.