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Mastering UK Visa Appointment: Your Complete Resource

Last Update: 30-05-2024

UK Visa Appointment

Table of Contents


  1. Introduction
  2. What is the Purpose of the UK Visa Appointment?
  3. What are the Documents Required for a UK Visa Appointment?
  4. How to Schedule a UK Visa Appointment?
  5. What are the Locations Available in India for UK Visa Appointment?
  6. UK Visa Appointment Date Availability and Waiting Times
  7. Attending Your UK Visa Appointment in India: What to Expect?
  8. Biometric Enrollment Process at a UK Visa Appointment in India
  9. Conclusion
  10. FAQs

Introduction

Embarking on a journey to the United Kingdom often begins with navigating the visa application process. Understanding the ins and outs of scheduling a UK visa appointment and what to expect during the process is essential for a successful application.


From gathering the necessary documents to attending the appointment and submitting biometric data, each step plays a vital role in ensuring your visa application is processed smoothly. 


In this comprehensive guide, we'll walk you through everything you need to know about scheduling and attending your UK visa appointment, providing valuable insights and tips to simplify the process.

What is the Purpose of the UK Visa Appointment?

The purpose of the UK visa appointment is to verify the information provided in your visa application and to collect necessary biometric data such as fingerprints and a photograph. This appointment is a crucial step in the visa process as it also involves an interview (if required) where you might be asked about your travel plans, financial status, and reasons for visiting the UK. The appointment ensures that all your documents are in order and helps the visa officers assess your application to make an informed decision.

What are the Documents Required for a UK Visa Appointment?

When attending your UK visa appointment, you'll need to bring several important documents to ensure the application process proceeds smoothly. Here's a summary of what to prepare:


Appointment Confirmation: Bring a printed copy of your appointment confirmation that includes a QR code. This confirms your scheduled visit to the visa application centre.


Passport or Travel Document: Your current passport or another valid travel document is required. It should be valid for the entire duration of your stay in the UK.


Supporting Documents: Depending on your visa type, bring all other required supporting documents that you did not upload online. The specific documents needed will be listed in the guidance you receive after submitting your online application.


For Family Members: If your application includes family members, everyone must attend the appointment together.


For Children Under 16:

  • Children under 16 should be accompanied by a responsible adult, named in their application.
  • The responsible adult must bring a photo ID, which can be a passport, photo driving license, national identity card, or a UK Biometric Residence Permit.
  • If the responsible adult is not the parent or legal guardian, they must also bring written proof of their responsibility for the child. This proof should be issued by the child’s parent, legal guardian, a registered foster carer, or a social services representative.

These documents and procedures are essential to verify the identity of the applicants and to process the visa applications effectively. Make sure you have everything prepared and organised to facilitate a smooth appointment.

How to Schedule a UK Visa Appointment?

Step 1: Complete Your Visa Application:

Start by filling out your visa application on the UK government website, GOV.UK. Ensure all information is accurate and complete.


Step 2: Submit and Pay for Your Application:

Once you’ve completed the application, submit it and pay the required visa fee. This step must be completed before you can book an appointment.


Step 3: Booking Your Appointment:

After submission and payment, you will be directed to book an appointment at a Visa Application Centre (VAC). This is where your biometric data (fingerprints and photograph) will be captured.


Step 4: Choose a Visa Application Centre (VAC):

Select a VAC location from the list available on the ‘Find a visa application centre’ page on GOV.UK or through our commercial partners’ websites. Note that you cannot change the location after you have submitted your application.

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Teleport’s Expert Tip

If there isn’t a VAC in your preferred location, try an alternative location. Remember, appointments are mandatory at all VACs.

Step 5: Attend Your Appointment:

Go to your scheduled appointment with all required documents, including your passport, printed confirmation of the appointment with a QR code, and any other supporting documents unless previously uploaded online.


Step 6: Biometrics Submission:

At the VAC, submit your biometric data as scheduled.


Step 7: Tracking and Changes:

You can track your visa application status online. Remember, you can rearrange your UK visa biometric appointment up to 24 hours before the scheduled time if necessary.


Following these steps will help ensure a smooth process for scheduling and attending your UK visa appointment in India.

What are the Locations Available in India for UK Visa Appointment?

In India, there are several locations where you can schedule a UK visa appointment. Here is a list of available locations:

LocationOperating Hours

Ahmedabad

Monday - Friday: 08:00 - 16:00

Bengaluru

Monday - Friday: 08:00 - 16:00

Chandigarh

Monday - Friday: 08:00 - 16:00

Chennai

Monday - Friday: 08:00 - 16:00

Cochin

Monday - Friday: 08:00 - 16:00

Coimbatore

Monday - Friday: 08:00 - 14:00

Goa

Saturday: 09:00 - 17:30

Gurgaon

Wednesday: 09:00 - 16:00

Hyderabad

Monday - Friday: 08:00 - 16:00

Jaipur

Friday - Saturday: 09:00 - 16:00

Jalandhar

Monday - Friday: 08:00 - 16:00

Kolkata

Monday - Friday: 08:00 - 16:00

Lucknow

Monday - Tuesday: 09:00 - 16:00

Mumbai North

Monday - Friday: 08:00 - 16:00

Mumbai South

Monday - Friday: 08:00 - 16:00

New Delhi

Monday - Friday: 08:00 - 16:00

Park Plaza Ludhiana

Monday and Wednesday: 10:00 – 16:00

Pune

Monday - Friday: 08:00 - 16:00

Radisson Blu Amritsar

Thursday: 10:00 - 16:00

Radisson Blu Guwahati

Friday: 10:00 - 16:00

Radisson Blu Visakhapatnam

Friday and Saturday: 11:00 - 17:00, 12:30 - 18:00

Radisson Noida

Monday: 09:00 - 16:00

Radisson Red Mohali

Thursday: 09:00 – 16:00

The Gateway Hotel, Calicut

Saturday: 10:00 – 15:00

Vivanta Mangalore

Saturday: 09:00 – 14:00

These locations provide visa application services for individuals applying for a UK visa from different regions of India.

UK Visa Appointment Date Availability and Waiting Times

When Your Application Processing Time Begins

UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) initiates the processing of your visa application once you've completed one of the following steps:


  • Verified your identity and submitted your documents and application online using the UK Immigration.
  • Attended your appointment at a visa application centre (VAC) to provide your fingerprints and a photograph (biometric information).

When You Might Experience Longer Wait Times

Your visa application may require additional processing time due to various reasons such as:


  • Inaccurate information in your application or information needing further consideration.
  • Additional evidence required, like proof of funds.
  • Verification of supporting documents.
  • Need for an interview.
  • Further information needed regarding your personal circumstances, such as if you have a criminal conviction.
  • Increased visa demand, which can lead to longer processing times.

Current Processing Times

The processing times provided below are based on the current volume of visa applications and are measured against agreed customer service standards.


Visit Visas:

  • Standard Visitor: 3 weeks
  • Marriage Visitor: 3 weeks
  • Transit: 3 weeks

Understanding these processing times can help you plan your visa application process effectively.

Attending Your UK Visa Appointment in India: What to Expect?

When preparing for your UK visa appointment at a USCIS Application Support Center, it's important to bring the necessary documents to ensure a smooth process. Here's what to expect and what to bring:


Documents Required:


  1. Printout of Appointment Confirmation Letter: Ensure you have a printed copy of the Appointment Confirmation letter received from VFS Global. This letter confirms the details of your appointment.
  2. Valid Passport or Travel Document: Bring your valid passport or travel document. For biometrics appointments, no additional documents are typically required.

Additional Documents (If Applicable):


  • If you are exempt from giving biometrics, you may need to bring one recent photograph, following UK Visas and Immigration guidelines.
  • If you are not a national of the country where you are applying, bring evidence of your permission to be in that country.
  • If you are applying as a dependent, provide evidence of your sponsor's leave to remain in the UK.

By ensuring you have the necessary documents, you can streamline the visa application process and make your appointment efficient and successful.

Biometric Enrollment Process at a UK Visa Appointment in India

Biometrics play a crucial role in the UK visa application process, ensuring the security and authenticity of your application. Here's what you can expect during the biometric enrollment process:

Biometric Information:

  • Your visa application requires biometrics information, including fingerprint scans and a facial scan.
  • A digital fingerprint scanner captures images of all 10 fingers, along with a digital photo of your full face.
  • The process is quick, discreet, and non-intrusive, designed to efficiently collect the necessary data.

Photo Guidelines:

  • Your digital photograph must display your entire face clearly, without sunglasses, tinted spectacles, or head coverings, unless for religious or ethical reasons.
  • Temporary finger injuries or decorations like mehndi can interfere with the fingerprint scanning process, so it's best to wait until they heal or are removed.

Exemptions and Special Cases:

  • Children under 5 years old are exempt from providing fingerprints, while those physically unable to provide fingerprints must provide a medical certificate.
  • Heads of State, members of national governments, and their official delegations travelling for official purposes are also exempt.
  • For applicants aged 12 to 17, parental consent is required for fingerprint collection.

Additional Information:

  • If you've previously provided fingerprints for a Schengen visa application within the last 5 years, you may be exempted from providing them again.
  • Despite previous fingerprint submissions, the UK Mission may request them again at their discretion.

By understanding and adhering to these guidelines, you can ensure a smooth biometric enrollment process, contributing to the efficiency and security of your UK visa application.

Conclusion

Navigating the UK visa appointment process can feel like embarking on a journey itself, but with the right guidance and preparation, it becomes a manageable and rewarding experience. 


From gathering your documents to attending the appointment and submitting biometric data, each step brings you closer to your goal of visiting the United Kingdom. 


By understanding the purpose of the appointment, knowing what documents to bring, and familiarising yourself with the biometric enrollment process, you can navigate the application process with confidence and ease. 


Remember, preparation is key, and with this guide as your companion, you're well-equipped to master your UK visa appointment and embark on your UK adventure.


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