Applying for immigration from within the UK allows those already present under specific visas to extend, switch, or adjust their immigration status. This process is essential for individuals who wish to remain in the UK under a different visa type or extend their current stay. This post outlines the steps in making an immigration application from inside the UK with the Home Office UKVI, focusing on the essential requirements and up-to-date processes.
Step 1: Determine the Correct Visa Category or Extension Route
The first step is identifying the visa category that best suits the applicant’s circumstances. Those eligible to apply from within the UK may include family members, skilled workers, students, and those seeking Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) and British Citizenship. Each route has its eligibility criteria:
- Extensions: Allows individuals to extend their stay in a visa category, such as a spouse, student, or skilled worker.
- Switching Categories: Certain visas allow switching to a different visa type, such as moving from a student visa to a work visa.
- ILR: For those eligible to settle permanently, this application permits indefinite residency in the UK.
- British Citizenship: Individuals who have been residing in the UK and are eligible can apply for British Citizenship by Naturalisation to get a British passport.
Applicants should carefully review the eligibility criteria for each visa type to ensure they meet all requirements before applying.
Step 2: Verify Eligibility Requirements
Each visa route has specific eligibility requirements, which may include proving financial stability, providing details of the applicant’s relationship or employment, and meeting language standards.
- Financial Requirements: Depending on the visa type, applicants may need to demonstrate sufficient funds to support themselves without public assistance. Common documents include bank statements or employment proof.
- Relationship Evidence: For family visas, such as spouse visas, applicants must show proof of an ongoing, genuine relationship with their UK-based family member, typically through documentation like marriage certificates and cohabitation evidence.
- Residence Requirements: Depending on the visa requirements, applicants may need to demonstrate that they have been residing in the UK continuously.
- English Language Requirements: Depending on the visa stage, applicants may need to demonstrate their proficiency in the English language.
Completing these eligibility checks beforehand helps ensure that the application meets Home Office UKVI standards and reduces the risk of a refusal.
For advice and assistance with your immigration application, contact our professional team on 0208 757 5751 or use our contact form.
Step 3: Gather Supporting Documentation
Once the correct visa route and eligibility have been confirmed, applicants should gather all necessary supporting documents. The documents required will vary by visa type but generally include:
- Identity Documentation: A valid passport and any other identification documents.
- Proof of Eligibility: For family visas, marriage certificates; for work visas, an employment offer or sponsorship certificate; for student visas, a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS).
- Financial Documents: Bank statements or income proof to demonstrate the applicant can support themselves.
For documents not in English, certified translations are mandatory to ensure compliance with Immigration Rules.
Step 4: Complete the Online Application Form
Most UK immigration applications are completed and submitted online. It’s crucial to select the correct application form and answer each section accurately to avoid delays. The application process involves:
- Personal Information: Details like name, address, and nationality must match those in the applicant’s identification documents.
- Detailed History: Information regarding travel history, financial circumstances, and accommodation plans in the UK.
Once completed, the application form is submitted along with the applicable fees.
Step 5: Pay the Application Fee and Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS)
An essential step in the application process is payment of the application fee and the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS), which grants access to the National Health Service (NHS) in the UK.
- The Home Office UKVI application fee will vary depending on the visa type and duration of stay.
- Applicants must pay the IHS fee calculated based on the length of stay, covering healthcare during their time in the UK.
Payment is required at the time of application submission to ensure the application proceeds without interruption.
Step 6: Schedule and Attend a Biometric Appointment
Most applicants applying from within the UK must attend a biometric appointment at a local UK Visa and Citizenship Application Services (UKVCAS) centre to submit their fingerprints, photograph, and signatures.
From 15 October 2024 onwards, TLScontact has been appointed as the new service provider for UKVCAS services, from the previous commercial partner Sopra Steria.
To submit your biometric information, you will need to:
- Appointment Booking: Book the appointment promptly as slots may fill up quickly, depending on location.
- Upload Documents: As part of the application process, you will need to upload your supporting documents to the website of the relevant service provider before attending your appointment
- Documentation: Bring the necessary documents, including the appointment confirmation and passport, to the biometric appointment.
Step 7: Await the Application Decision
Once the biometric information is submitted, the application moves into the processing phase, where Home Office UKVI reviews the application. Processing times vary based on the visa category and whether priority services are selected. Applicants can check UKVI’s website for updated processing times.
- Standard Processing Time: Typically takes from a few weeks up to 6 months, but may vary by the type of immigration you are applying for.
- Priority Services: Available for an additional fee, these services expedite processing and reduce waiting time.
Step 8: Receive and Review the Decision
If the application is approved, applicants will receive a decision letter or email notifying them of the decision. Depending on the outcome, applicants may:
- Evisa: If the application is approved, applicants will be invited to sign up for an eVisa to prove their immigration status online. The Home Office UKVI no longer issues BRP cards from
- Right to Appeal: If the application is denied, applicants may have the right to appeal or request an administrative review, depending on the reason for refusal.
How Whytecroft Ford Can Help
Whytecroft Ford’s experienced immigration team offers tailored support for UK-based immigration applications, providing clients with guidance on eligibility requirements, document preparation, and navigating the UKVI process efficiently.
Contact us today to discuss your immigration application needs and receive expert assistance with your case, call our team on 0208 757 5751 or use our contact form.
