You may be familiar with visa vignettes that are provided for UK visas if you are
applying for a UK Visit Visa. Understanding the visa vignette process is essential for a seamless entry while making travel plans to the UK. Let us examine this in detail.
What is the Vignette Visa?
A vignette visa, which is also called a UK visa vignette, is an entry permit sticker that is affixed to your passport. It includes details regarding your visa, such as the type, expiration date, and date of issuance. A picture of your photo ID is also sent. The permit is given to people who are allowed admission into the UK for a variety of purposes, including employment, education, or visiting relatives.
Vignette Validity
The UK visa vignette validity varies depending on the type of visa issued. The vignette is valid for 30 days. It can be extended to 90 days in certain circumstances. This period allows you to travel to the UK and collect your Biometric Residence Permit (BRP). You can use the 2024 vignette from December 1, 2023, to January 31, 2025.
Types of UK Visa Vignettes
The different types of vignettes are,
Uniform Format Visa (UFV)
This vignette applies to all EU Member States. It is used for visa nationals coming to the UK as visitors or in transit (Category A, B or C)
CAT C Vignette
The CAT C vignette is only used in specific situations for foreign people holding visas who are only allowed entry into the UK for a maximum of three months (90 days) as visitors or in transit. It is given to,
- Chinese nationals are granted 30-day validity for approved destination status (ADS) agreement visas.
- Traveller in Transit (good for a maximum 48-hour stay)
- Direct airside transit visas (DATV)
CAT D Vignettes
Cat D vignette visa holders are those having a
UK standard visitor visa 6 months multiple entry visa. People looking to work, visit family, or study can apply for the Cat D vignette visa. It is valid for 30 days.
As you submit your application for a skilled worker visa vignette, make sure you have all the supporting documentation needed.
The Biometric Residence Permit
You will want a Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) as proof of your legal right to reside in the UK once you arrive. You have ten days from the time of your arrival in the UK to obtain this important document. It demonstrates your identification and immigration status. It serves as evidence of your eligibility to remain in the UK and to work or study. The BRP includes your biographical details, fingerprints, and a photo, and it replaces the need for a visa vignette in your passport after the initial entry.
Exempt Vignette
Certain categories of people are granted an exempt vignette, which allows them to enter the UK without a visa but still requires them to prove that they can live and work there. Diplomats, members of the military forces, and their families may fall under this category. Travellers who would not normally require a visa and are exempt from UK immigration control can apply for an exempt vignette to avoid delays at the crossing. Although not required, an exemption visa can expedite border procedures.
- You are eligible to apply for an exempt vignette if you are
- if you were offered the position while you were abroad as a diplomat or employed by a diplomatic mission in the United Kingdom.
- a government minister flying abroad for official business, or accompanying one on official business trips.
- a soldier serving in the Commonwealth or an overseas territory who is stationed or receiving training in the UK.
- a head of state, or working for a head of state (eg on a state visit).
- exempt from immigration control for any other reason.
- Exempt vignette holders are exempt from obtaining a Biometric Residence Permit (BRP). People on a UK skilled worker visa must do so. They still need to prove their ability to reside and work in the UK.
Please be aware that it is your responsibility to check your vignette for informational errors and notify the visa application centre of them. Make sure that as soon as you arrive, you pick up your BRP. If your UK visa vignette expired, you must apply for a new one before you enter the UK. By following these guidelines, you can ensure a smooth transition into your new life in the UK.
Visa Vignette FAQs
1. What is a UK vignette sticker?
A vignette is a sticker placed on your passport after a successful entry clearance application. It includes essential information about your visa type and validity period.
2. What is an entry vignette?
A vignette is a sticker on your passport that allows you to enter the UK. It is valid for 30 or 90 days. During this time you must enter the UK and collect your BRP.
3. What is the difference between visa and entry clearance?
Entry Clearance is the technical term for getting a visa to the UK. A visa is permission granted by the UK authorities to enter, stay, and undertake certain activities in the UK.
4. What is the 30 or 90-day window on the entry vignette?
The 30 or 90-day window on an entry vignette indicates the period during which you must enter the UK. For example, if you receive a visa vignette valid from June 1 to June 30, you must enter the UK within these 30 days. Once you arrive, you will collect your BRP, which will provide you with permission to stay for the duration of your visa.
Imagine you are granted a student visa to start your studies in the UK. Your visa vignette is issued with a 30-day validity from September 1 to September 30. You must enter the UK within this period. Upon arrival, you collect your BRP, which will show your visa’s full duration, covering the entire length of your course.
