Visa applications for the United Kingdom are submitted by prior appointment at a visa application center.
Applicants submit their documents through visa centers working with UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI).
The application process is fully digital:
the application form is completed online
supporting documents are uploaded to a personal account before the appointment
in some cases, a paid document scanning service is available at the visa center
Applications must be submitted in person, as biometric data (fingerprints and a photograph) is required.
Children under 5 do not provide fingerprints but must still attend in person
Minors under 18 must be accompanied by an adult
You can apply for a Visitor visa:
suitable for short-term courses
simpler application process
no medical examination required
You must apply for a Student visa:
requires a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS)
a medical examination (at accredited clinics) is mandatory
higher visa fees apply
intended for English language courses lasting between 6 and 11 months
Applicants can apply for the following UK visa categories:
Visitor visa
(tourism, visits, business trips, short-term study up to 6 months)
Student / Child Student visa
(study at schools, colleges, and universities)
Short-term Student visa
(English language courses lasting 6–11 months)
Parent of a Child Student visa
(for parents of children under 12 studying in the UK)
Graduate visa
(for graduates of UK universities)
Standard processing time: around 3 weeks (approximately 15 working days)
In practice, processing may take longer due to additional checks
Student visa: no earlier than 6 months before the start of studies
Visitor visa: no earlier than 3 months before travel
Priority (expedited) processing may be available depending on the country of application and visa center availability.
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