UK VISA Process

VFS Global is the designated agency to process visa applications to the UK. Their official website is listed as http://www.vfsglobal.co.uk/india/.

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Typically students apply for a

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The following flow chart is a good way to organise before the VISA Application process –

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Step 1

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Visit the UK government website for visas and immigration in India and apply for a visa online.

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Step 2

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On the day of your appointment, plan to arrive 15 minutes early at the visa application centre. Bring your appointment letter and application pack, your passport, along with a valid passport or travel document with at least 1 page that is blank on both sides.

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When you arrive at the visa application centre you will collect a token. Wait until your token is called to make your application.

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Once the visa filing process is completed you will be issued with an acknowledgment receipt. Please hold on to your receipt as you will need this later to collect your documents.

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Important note: You will not be able to submit further documents once your application has been submitted at the visa application centre. The documents that you submitted at the time you made your application will be the only documents that are considered.

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Step 3

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You can apply for a visa up to 3 months before your date of travel to the UK. We strongly advise you not to confirm your travel arrangements until you have received your visa. To find out how long it usually takes to process your type of visa, see the Visa processing times page.

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You will need to arrange for supporting documents for your visa application. If you do not know which supporting documents to provide, the Visa application fees and guides page will help you to find guidance for your visa category.

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Step 4

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To complete the application process, you must book and attend an appointment at the visa application centres in India. All UK visa applicants are required to book an appointment prior to submission.

You can find more information on the (book an appointment) page

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Step 5

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Choose whether you would prefer to collect your documents in person at the visa application centre or have them delivered to you by post.

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Step 6

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Enrol your fingerprints and photograph (known as biometric information collection) at the visa application centre. This includes a digital finger scan (all 10 digits) and a digital photograph. The finger scan procedure uses an electronic scanner. No ink, liquid or chemical. You should ensure that your fingertips are free from any forms of decoration (for example, henna), cuts, abrasions or other markings as these may affect your ability to provide acceptable finger scans. Your digital photograph must be taken with full face and without sunglasses or tinted spectacles, or head covering unless it is worn for religious or medical reasons. Your face should be clearly visible with no hair across the eyes. We cannot process your visa if you do not submit your biometric information.