UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) is the government body responsible for overseeing the United Kingdom’s immigration system. It manages visa applications, settlement processes, asylum claims, and citizenship requests, ensuring that only applicants who meet the relevant requirements are granted entry or permission to remain in the UK. The department also regulates employer and educational sponsorship, enabling businesses and universities to attract and recruit international talent.

Each year, UKVI processes millions of applications from individuals wishing to visit, work, study, or reunite with family members in the UK. In addition, it handles applications for British citizenship and ensures that asylum seekers receive protection in line with UK legislation and international obligations. A key development in recent years is the introduction of digital immigration status, known as eVisas, which allows individuals to access and share their status online through a secure UKVI account.

UKVI’s services are widely used by visa and citizenship applicants, employers hiring overseas workers, universities enrolling international students, and landlords or organisations required to verify immigration status. The department also collaborates with law enforcement and border authorities to maintain compliance with immigration laws. Overall, UKVI plays a vital role in managing legal migration, supporting economic growth, and maintaining national security.

In this guide, we explain what UKVI is, its core responsibilities, and the services it provides. We also outline how to create a UKVI account, how to check your online immigration status, typical processing times, and how to contact UKVI if required.

What is UKVI?

UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) is a division of the UK’s Home Office responsible for administering the country’s visa and immigration system. Its main responsibilities include processing visa applications for individuals who wish to visit, study, or work in the UK, as well as assessing applications for British citizenship and managing the UK’s asylum system.

UKVI also evaluates applications from employers and educational institutions seeking to become licensed sponsors, allowing them to recruit or enrol international workers and students. At the same time, the department plays a key role in protecting national security by ensuring that only eligible individuals are granted entry or permission to stay in the UK.

Applicants interact directly with UKVI when applying for visas, settlement, citizenship, or sponsorship licences. Each application is carefully assessed in line with UK immigration rules and policies to determine eligibility and compliance.

In addition, UKVI is responsible for managing the UK’s asylum system, providing protection to individuals who qualify under the 1951 Geneva Convention. It also reviews applications from organisations wishing to join the official register of sponsors, enabling them to employ or educate foreign nationals legally.

UKVI Services

UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) provides a wide range of services for individuals, businesses, and educational institutions interacting with the UK immigration system. These services are designed to support legal migration, ensure compliance, and streamline application processes.

Key UKVI Services

• Visa Processing
  UKVI manages applications across multiple visa categories, including visitor visas, work visas, student visas, and business-related routes.

• Citizenship Applications
  The department processes applications for British citizenship, including naturalisation and registration.

• Asylum Services
  UKVI oversees the UK’s asylum system, assessing claims and offering protection to individuals who qualify under UK law and international conventions.

• Sponsorship Licensing
  Employers and educational institutions must apply to UKVI for a sponsor licence to hire foreign workers or enrol international students.

• Immigration Appeals Management
  UKVI administers the appeals process for refused applications, ensuring decisions can be reviewed fairly.

• Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA)
  A digital pre-travel requirement for certain visa-exempt nationals travelling to the UK.

• eVisas and Digital Immigration Status
  UKVI is replacing physical documents like Biometric Residence Permits (BRPs) with eVisas—secure, online records of immigration status accessible through a UKVI account.

• Right to Work and Right to Rent Share Codes
  Individuals can generate share codes to prove their immigration status to employers or landlords, removing the need for physical documents.

• Employer Checking Service (ECS)
  Employers can verify a person’s right to work if a share code is unavailable, particularly in cases involving pending applications or appeals.

What is a UKVI Account?

A UKVI account is an online platform that allows individuals and organisations to access and manage immigration services provided by UK Visas and Immigration.

For individuals, the account is essential when applying for visas, settlement, or British citizenship. It enables users to:

• Track application progress

• Upload supporting documents

• Book biometric appointments

• Receive updates from the Home Office

It also provides access to the UK’s digital immigration system, where users can view and share their eVisa, a secure online record of their immigration status. As part of the UK’s digital transformation, physical documents such as BRPs are being phased out in favour of this system.

Users can generate a share code through their account to prove their right to work or rent in the UK. Employers and landlords can then verify this status online quickly and securely.

For organisations, a UKVI account is used to manage sponsorship licences. Employers and educational providers can:

• Issue Certificates of Sponsorship (CoS)

• Assign Confirmations of Acceptance for Studies (CAS)

• Monitor compliance with sponsorship duties

• Update licence details

Where a share code cannot be provided, employers can use the Employer Checking Service to confirm an individual’s immigration status.

Maintaining a UKVI account is essential for ensuring a smooth immigration process. Users should keep their login details secure and regularly check for updates or required actions.

How to Create a UKVI Account

Setting up a UKVI account is a straightforward process. Follow these steps:

1. Visit the Official Website
   Go to the GOV.UK website and select “Start now.”

2. Enter Personal Details
   Provide your full name, date of birth, email address, and mobile number.

3. Verify Your Identity
   Confirm your identity using a valid passport or Biometric Residence Permit (BRP).

4. Create Security Credentials
   Set a strong password and security questions to protect your account.

Once your account is created, you can access your eVisa using the “View and Prove” service. This allows you to:

• View your immigration status

• Understand your rights in the UK

• Generate share codes for employers, landlords, or other authorities

Keeping Your UKVI Account Updated

It is important to keep your UKVI account information accurate and up to date. You must notify UKVI if there are changes to:

• Your name or nationality

• Your home or postal address

• Your passport or travel document

• Your login details (email address or phone number)

Keeping your details updated ensures continued access to your digital immigration status and helps prevent delays when travelling in and out of the UK. When you re-enter the UK, your status can be checked digitally through your linked account, making border processes faster and more efficient.

How to Check Your UKVI Immigration Status

If you have been informed that your UK immigration status is available online, you can access it using the “View and Prove” service on the official GOV.UK website. This digital service, provided by UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI), allows you to manage and share your immigration status quickly and securely.

Using this service, you can:

• Generate a share code to prove your immigration status to employers, landlords, or other third parties

• Update your personal details, including passport or travel document information

• Check your rights in the UK, such as your right to work or right to rent

This system is part of the UK’s move towards a fully digital immigration process, replacing physical documents with secure online records (eVisas).

Getting Help with Your UKVI Account

If you experience difficulties accessing or using your UKVI account, you can contact the UKVI Resolution Centre. This support service provides assistance via phone and email to help users manage their accounts effectively.

Support includes:

• Recovering access to your account

• Updating personal or travel details

• Helping you share your immigration status if you are unable to do so yourself

This ensures that users can continue to access essential services without disruption.

UKVI Processing Times

UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) aims to process applications within defined customer service standards. If your application is considered straightforward—meaning no additional information is required—it is usually decided within these target timeframes.

Processing times begin once you have:

• Submitted your application

• Verified your identity

• Provided all required supporting documents

The length of time it takes depends on several factors, including:

• The type of visa or application (e.g. work, study, family, visitor, or settlement)

• Whether you are applying from inside or outside the UK

• The complexity of your case

UKVI publishes standard processing times across different categories on the GOV.UK website, helping applicants understand how long decisions are likely to take.

Why Processing Times May Vary

While UKVI aims to meet its service standards, some applications may take longer due to:

• Requests for additional documents or information

• High application volumes

• Complex eligibility assessments

For this reason, applicants are advised to apply well in advance of their intended travel or start date.

UK Visa Type	Processing Time (Outside the UK)	Processing Time (Inside the UK)
Visit Visas	Up to 3 weeks	Up to 8 weeks
Study Visas	Up to 3 weeks	Up to 8 weeks
Work Visas	Up to 3 weeks	Up to 8 weeks
Family Visas	Up to 12 weeks	Up to 8 weeks

 

You can view our full guide to UK visa processing times for detailed information on specific application categories and timelines.

For example, applicants applying for a student or work visa can typically expect a decision within:

• Up to 3 weeks when applying from outside the UK

• Up to 8 weeks when applying from inside the UK

These timeframes are based on standard UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) service targets and may vary depending on application volumes and other operational factors, such as the prioritisation of certain visa routes.

If UKVI anticipates a delay beyond the standard processing time—due to complexity or the need for additional information—you will be notified. In such cases, UKVI will explain the reason for the delay and outline the next steps in your application process.

Similarly, if your application cannot be processed within the usual timeframe due to issues such as missing documents or complex circumstances, UKVI will contact you directly. This communication will include details of what is required and how your application will proceed.

If you have selected a priority service and there is a problem with your application, UKVI will still contact you within the expected service timeframe to inform you of the situation.

Can You Pay for a Faster UKVI Decision?

In many cases, applicants can pay for a faster decision through priority or super priority services. Availability depends on your visa type and where you are applying from, and you will usually be informed of these options during the application process.

• Priority Service
  Typically provides a decision within 5 working days (or shortly after)

• Super Priority Service
  Usually provides a decision by the end of the next working day (or shortly after)

These services come at an additional cost:

• Priority service: £500 (in addition to the application fee)

• Super priority service: £1,000 (in addition to the application fee)

It is important to note that faster processing is not guaranteed in every case. If UKVI requires further information or your application is more complex than expected, delays may still occur. In most cases, the additional fee for priority services is non-refundable, even if the decision takes longer than anticipated.

Can You Minimise the Risk of UKVI Delays?

While UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) aims to process applications within standard timeframes, delays can still occur. However, you can significantly reduce the risk of delays by following best practices set out in the UKVI customer charter.

To help ensure your application is processed on time, you should:

• Apply before your current visa expires, if you are already in the UK

• Complete your application accurately and in full, including all required information and photographs

• Provide your biometric information when requested, either at a visa application centre (VAC), a UK Visa and Citizenship Application Services (UKVCAS) centre, or via the UK Immigration: ID Check app

• Submit all supporting documents at your VAC or UKVCAS appointment, or upload them online as required

• Respond promptly to any UKVI requests for additional information

• Use the correct application form if applying on paper, ensuring it is signed, dated, and submitted with the correct fee

Taking these steps can help avoid unnecessary delays and improve your chances of a smooth application process.

Consider Professional Support

It is often beneficial to seek advice from an immigration specialist before applying. Professional guidance can help you:

• Confirm your eligibility for the visa category

• Ensure your application is completed correctly

• Gather all required supporting documents

This can reduce the likelihood of errors or omissions that may lead to delays or refusals.

How to Contact UKVI

You can contact UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) from both inside and outside the UK, depending on your situation and the type of enquiry.

The easiest way to find the correct contact method is through the official GOV.UK page by searching: “Contact UK Visas and Immigration for help.”

Contact Options

• Online Enquiries
  Submit general questions using the UKVI online contact form.

• Email Support
  You can contact the UKVI help team via email at:
  public.enquiries@homeoffice.gov.uk

• Telephone Support
  UKVI provides phone support for applicants both inside and outside the UK. Contact numbers and opening hours are available on the GOV.UK contact page.

Important Things to Know

UKVI contact centre staff cannot provide personalised immigration advice, including:

• Recommending which visa you should apply for

• Assessing your chances of success

• Providing detailed updates on your application status

For help with digital services, including accessing your eVisa or completing an online application, you can use the Assisted Digital Support Service.

Reporting Immigration Issues

If you need to report an immigration-related offence, you can contact the Immigration Enforcement hotline:

• 📞 0300 123 7000

Is UKVCAS Different from UKVI?

Yes, UK Visa and Citizenship Application Services (UKVCAS) is different from UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI), although the two work closely together as part of the UK immigration system.

UKVI is the government department responsible for making decisions on visa, settlement, asylum, and citizenship applications. In contrast, UKVCAS is a service operated by a commercial partner on behalf of UKVI to support the application process for individuals applying from within the UK.

As of October 2024, TLScontact has taken over the operation of UKVCAS from Sopra Steria.

What Does UKVCAS Do?

UKVCAS plays an administrative and support role in the immigration process. Its key functions include:

• Biometric Enrolment
  Applicants must provide biometric information, including fingerprints and a photograph, at a UKVCAS service point.

• Document Submission
  Supporting documents can be uploaded online via the UKVCAS portal or scanned during your appointment.

Booking a UKVCAS Appointment

After submitting your application on the official GOV.UK website, you will be directed to the UKVCAS system to book an appointment.

Key points to note:

• Appointments are mandatory and must be booked in advance

• Walk-in appointments are not permitted

• Standard appointments are usually free

• Paid options may include:

  • Out-of-hours appointments

  • Same-day or next-day slots

  • अतिरिक्त services such as document checking and translation

Do You Always Need a UKVCAS Appointment?

Not always. Some applicants may be eligible to use the UK Immigration: ID Check app to verify their identity digitally and reuse previously submitted biometric data.

If this option is available to you, you will be informed during the application process, and you may not need to attend a UKVCAS centre in person.

UKVCAS vs UKVI: What’s the Difference?

• UKVCAS handles the administrative side of your application (biometrics and documents)

• UKVI is responsible for assessing your application and making the final decision

Once you have attended your UKVCAS appointment—or completed identity verification through the app—your application is passed to UKVI for processing.

Processing times will depend on the type of application and whether you have selected a priority service. Importantly, UKVCAS does not influence the outcome of your application.

Need Assistance?

If you require professional support with a UK visa, settlement, or citizenship application, it is advisable to seek guidance from a qualified immigration specialist. Expert advice can help ensure your application is accurate, complete, and aligned with current UK immigration rules.

UKVI FAQs

What is UKVI?

UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) is a division of the Home Office responsible for managing the UK’s immigration system. It processes visa, settlement, asylum, and citizenship applications, while also overseeing employer and educational sponsorship schemes and ensuring compliance with UK immigration laws.

Who Uses UKVI Services?

UKVI services are used by a wide range of individuals and organisations, including:

• People applying for visas, settlement, or British citizenship

• Businesses sponsoring overseas workers

• Universities enrolling international students

• Employers and landlords verifying immigration status

What Types of Visas Does UKVI Process?

UKVI processes several types of UK visas, including:

• Visitor visas

• Work visas

• Student visas

• Family visas

• Business and investment routes

Each visa category has its own eligibility requirements, documentation, and processing criteria.

How Can I Check My Visa Application Status?

You can track your application through your UKVI account on the GOV.UK website. Depending on your application type, you may also receive updates via email or SMS.

What is an eVisa?

An eVisa is a digital record of your immigration status, replacing physical documents such as Biometric Residence Permits (BRPs). You can access and share your status online through your UKVI account using the “View and Prove” service.

How Can Employers Verify the Right to Work?

Employers can check an individual’s right to work by using the Home Office online service. This requires a share code provided by the employee.

If a share code is not available, employers can use the Employer Checking Service to confirm immigration status.

What Should I Do If My Visa Application Is Refused?

If your application is refused, you will receive a decision letter explaining the reasons. Depending on the visa type, you may be able to:

• Request an administrative review

• Submit an appeal

• Make a new application with additional supporting evidence

How Do I Apply for British Citizenship?

You can apply for British citizenship through UKVI if you meet the eligibility requirements, which typically include:

• Meeting residency requirements

• Passing the Life in the UK Test

• Demonstrating knowledge of English (if required)

Applications are submitted online, and successful applicants must attend a citizenship ceremony.

What is the UKVI Sponsorship System?

The UKVI sponsorship system allows UK employers and educational institutions to recruit international workers and students.

To do this, organisations must apply for a Sponsor Licence. UKVI regulates this system and monitors compliance to ensure that immigration rules are followed and not misused.

Glossary

Term	Definition
UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI)	A division of the Home Office responsible for processing visa, settlement, citizenship, and asylum applications, as well as managing sponsorship for businesses and educational institutions.
Visa	Official permission allowing a foreign national to enter, stay, work, study, or live in the UK for a specific period.
Settlement (Indefinite Leave to Remain – ILR)	Immigration status allowing a person to live in the UK without time restrictions, usually granted after a qualifying period of residence.
eVisa	A digital immigration status that replaces physical documents such as Biometric Residence Permits (BRPs), accessed through a UKVI online account.
Biometric Residence Permit (BRP)	A physical card previously issued to visa holders as proof of their right to live, work, or study in the UK, now being phased out in favour of eVisas.
Sponsor Licence	A licence required by UK employers and educational institutions to legally recruit and sponsor foreign workers or students under UK immigration rules.
Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS)	A digital reference number issued by an employer or sponsor, required by a foreign worker when applying for a work visa.
Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS)	A reference number issued by a UK educational institution confirming an offer of study, required for student visa applications.
Right to Work Check	A legal requirement for UK employers to verify that employees have permission to work in the UK, often done using a share code or the Employer Checking Service.
Right to Rent Check	A legal requirement for landlords to verify that tenants have the right to rent property in the UK, often done using a share code.
Share Code	A digital code generated through the UKVI online system, used by individuals to prove their right to work or rent in the UK.
Employer Checking Service (ECS)	A service provided by UKVI that allows employers to verify an individual’s right to work when a share code is unavailable.
Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA)	A new system requiring visitors from certain visa-exempt countries to obtain digital authorisation before travelling to the UK.
Life in the UK Test	A mandatory test for individuals applying for British citizenship or settlement, covering UK history, traditions, and laws.
Administrative Review	A process that allows applicants to request a review of a visa refusal if they believe an error was made in the decision.
Appeal	A legal process allowing an applicant to challenge a visa refusal decision in certain cases, such as asylum or human rights-based applications.