UK Visas - Frequently Asked Questions

If you require further information or assistance, you can start the process by contacting us for a free visa assessment.

 

What is entry clearance?

  • Entry clearance is the procedure used by Entry Clearance Officers (ECOs) at British Embassies and missions overseas to check, before a person arrives in the United Kingdom, if that person qualifies under the immigration rules for entry to the UK. In some cases entry clearance is mandatory (compulsory), in others it is optional.

What is leave to enter the UK?

  • Leave to enter is the outcome of a successful application for entry clearance; it may be granted for a limited or for an indefinite period, depending upon the category of the immigration rules. 

What is the difference between leave to enter and leave to remain?

  • Leave to enter is granted to a person who is outside of the UK. Leave to remain is granted to a person who is present in the UK.

What is a visa?

  • A visa is an endorsement (‘stamp’) on a passport indicating that the holder is allowed to enter, and then stay, in the UK for a specified period of time. 

Does everyone need a visa to enter the UK?

  • No; it will depend upon several factors including the person's nationality and their reason(s) for wishing to enter the UK.

What documents should I submit with my visa application?

  • The UK Border agency website gives general guidance on supporting documents. For advice which is more specific to your particular circumstances we recommend that you seek legal advice. 

My visa application has been refused; can I appeal?

  • Refer to the Notice of Immigration Decision that you should have received; your appeal rights (if any) should be explained in the Notice. Not all refusals attract a right of appeal.

My visa refusal attracts a right of appeal; how long will the appeal process take?

  • It is not possible to give a specific timescale for an appeal, but the process can take up to several months.

Should I exercise my right of appeal, or should I make a new visa application instead?

  • The answer to this question will depend upon the facts of the individual case. We recommend that you seek urgent immigration legal advice.

My visa appeal has been dismissed; can I apply for another visa?

  • Yes, but you must ensure that you fully meet the requirements of the immigration rules before applying.

My circumstances have changed since my visa was issued; do I need to do anything?

  • The answer to this question will depend upon the facts of the individual case. We recommend that legal advice is obtained, because in some circumstances the visa could be cancelled.

My visa application has been successful. Will I be able to switch (change) my immigration category once I am in the UK?

  • Switching immigration categories is possible in some circumstances, depending upon the category that you are in and the category that you wish to switch into.

My visa application has been successful. Will I be able to extend my stay once I am in the UK?

  • An extension of stay can be granted, but not under all categories of the immigration rules.

Can I settle permanently in the UK?

  • The answer to this question will depend upon several factors, including the visa category/ categories and how long you have been living in the UK.

 

If you require further information or assistance, you can start the process by contacting us for a free visa assessment.