🇬🇧 United Kingdom

UK Visa Application

Work, Study, or Family Visa

Hard ~45 min VisaImmigrationWorkStudy

/ What is this form?

The UK operates a points-based immigration system for work and study visas. Skilled Worker visas require a job offer from a licensed UK employer paying above the minimum salary threshold. Student visas require a CAS from a licensed education provider.

Most visa applications are made online and require attendance at a Visa Application Centre for biometrics. The Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) is an annual fee giving access to NHS healthcare — £1,035/year for most adults.

Family visas allow joining a UK citizen or settled person, with income requirements for the UK sponsor.

/ Who needs this form?

Workers with a UK job offer from a licensed Home Office sponsor
Students accepted at a UK higher education or further education institution
Family members of UK citizens or settled persons
Anyone without the right to live and work in the UK

/ What you need before you start

Valid passport

English language qualification (for most visa types)

Financial evidence showing you can support yourself

Certificate of Sponsorship (Skilled Worker) or CAS (Student)

TB test results (nationals from certain countries)

Immigration Health Surcharge payment: £1,035/year

/ Step-by-step guide

1 Check Visa Type

Use gov.uk/check-uk-visa to determine which visa you need: Skilled Worker, Student, Family, or other.

2 Apply Online

Create a UKVI account and complete the online application form. Gather all required documents before starting.

3 Book Biometrics Appointment

Book an appointment at a Visa Application Centre (VAC) to submit biometrics (fingerprints and photo).

4 Attend VAC Appointment

Bring all supporting documents and your passport to the VAC appointment.

5 Wait for Decision

Standard processing: 3 weeks. Priority service (extra fee): 5 business days. Check your decision online.

/ Key fields explained

Field	What to enter	Common mistake
Visa type	Select the specific visa route: Skilled Worker, Student, Graduate, Family, etc.	Not checking the minimum salary threshold for Skilled Worker — it was raised significantly in 2024.

/ Common mistakes to avoid

Not meeting the minimum salary threshold for Skilled Worker visa.

Having insufficient funds for the maintenance requirement.

Forgetting the Immigration Health Surcharge — it must be paid upfront for the full visa period.

Not checking if your country requires a TB test.

/ Frequently asked questions

How much does a UK visa cost?

Skilled Worker: from £719 (up to 3 years). Student: from £490. Plus the Immigration Health Surcharge of £1,035/year (payable for full visa duration upfront).