The process of applying for a UK visa can be extremely draining. After submitting your application, the waiting period starts. There are trustworthy ways to find out the status of your application, even though the UK Home Office does not always provide regular updates. To monitor the status of their application, applicants in the UAE can use the UK visa tracking Dubai service.
If you are unsure of how to track UK visa application, this guide will help you through the process in 2025.
What is the process for applying for a visa?
The usual procedure for applying for a UK visa.
1) Depending on the UK visa types and where you live, you can submit your application online, in person at a designated application facility, or by mail.
2) At a visa application center, you will have to make a biometrics appointment. This entails providing a photo and fingerprints.
3) You will then have to compile and submit the necessary documents.
4) The decision will be reached after UK Visas and Immigration reviews your application.
5) You are notified of the decision. If approved, your passport with the visa will be returned.
What is Visa Tracking for the UK?
UKVI created the online visa tracking UK system to inform applicants of the status of their visa applications. It removes a lot of the uncertainty that comes with waiting for a decision by providing information regarding the progress of your application.
Why Check the Status of Your UK Visa?
It can at times require a long time to obtain a UK visa. Keeping track of your UK visa application is important.
1) You can make better travel plans.
2) You will know the expiration date of your visa.
3) If immigration laws in the UK change, you can confirm that you still fulfil the requirements.
4) You can change your travel schedule if something unexpected occurs.
5) You will be informed of any additional information that the authorities require from you.
What are the Important Details Required for UK Visa Tracking?
For UK visa status check online, you will need the following information,
1) Email ID – The email address you provided while applying for a visa.
2) GWF Reference Number – The UK visa tracking GWF number is a special number for your application. It is necessary to track your visa. It is on the receipt or invoice you get from the visa application center.
3) Last name – Your last name as it appears on your visa application.
Take note
1) You would need to give your last name and GWF reference number if you applied before September 19, 2024.
2) You will need your email address and GWF reference number if you applied after.
How to Track Your UK Visa Application?
Those applying for a UK visa from Dubai can track their application using these methods.
1) Text Messages
Check if SMS updates are available at the Visa Application Center you are visiting. You may receive text notifications regarding your visa if you provide them with your phone number.
2) Login to the VFS Global Website
Applications for UK visas are processed by VFS Global in numerous nations. You may follow the progress of your UK visa application on their website. Your date of birth, last name, and reference number are required.
You will frequently need your reference number, therefore keep it safe.
3) Call the UK Visas and Immigration
Contact the UK Visas and Immigration helpline if you have any questions or if the process is taking too long. You can call this number using a UK number registered under your name or public landlines in the UK. Keep your application details handy. You may need to provide your application reference number, full name, passport number, date of birth, etc.
4) Email the British consulate
You can send an email to the British Consulate. Within three working days, they will get back to you if you include your unique application number in the email.
5) Go to one of the VFS Global Visa Application Centers
Find the closest center to you and bring your GWF number and passport. To find out the status of your application, talk to a center representative.
What is the Process for UK Visa Tracking?
The UK visa processing time is 3 weeks after the date of your biometrics appointment. During the waiting period, if you want to check the UK visa application status, you may do the following,
i) Visit the official website of VFS Global.
ii) Select the nation from where your application will be sent.
iii) Next, pick the nation you want to apply to (in this example, the UK).
iv) Locate the Track Your Application option and select it.
v) A fresh page will show up. To continue, click the Click Here button.
vi)The email address you used to submit your visa application will be asked for, along with your Global Web Form number.
The status of your visa application will be visible to you after you have supplied these details. The following are the possible statuses,
i) In Process
ii) On Hold
iii) Refused
iv) Approved
How Can I Use My Passport Number To Check My UK Visa Status?
You can use your passport number to check the status of your UK visa application without following any particular steps. Your GWF reference number and the email address you used to access the service are required.
Why is UK Visa Tracking Important?
There are several steps in the visa application procedure. Each has a different processing timeframe. The tracking system gives,
1) Transparency – Applicants can understand the exact stage at which their application is being processed.
2) Peace of Mind – By staying informed, you can lessen your anxiety.
3) Prompt Action – As soon as your status changes, you can take prompt action and be prepared for the next steps.
What are the Common Challenges with UK Visa Tracking?
The most common challenges faced are,
1) Delayed Updates – There are instances when the status in the system is not immediately updated.
2) System Maintenance – Access to the tracking portal may be momentarily unavailable due to routine maintenance.
3) False Information – Verify that you have provided your credentials and application reference number accurately.
Final Thoughts
Visitors from Kuwait, Bahrain, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates who want to stay in the UK for brief stays must have a UK ETA visa. One helpful tool for staying informed during the visa application process is the UK Visa Tracking system. You will need to keep your patience and rely on the official sources of communication. By using the system effectively, you can reduce uncertainty and prepare for the next phase of your trip to the UK.