How to Track My UK Visa Application Status? (2025 Guide)

Waiting for a decision on your UK visa can feel stressful. Whether you’re applying from abroad or inside the UK, many applicants ask the same question: “How can I track my UK visa application status?”

The answer depends on:

• where you submitted your application (inside or outside the UK), and
• the type of visa you applied for.

This guide explains the different ways to track your visa status, what reference numbers you’ll need, how long you may need to wait, and what to do if your application is delayed.

Can I Track My UK Visa Application Online?

Unlike many countries, the UK does not offer a real-time online visa tracking portal. Instead, the progress of your application can only be checked by:

• contacting UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI),
• using a visa application centre service (VFS or TLS), or
• checking email updates from the Home Office.

⚠️ This means you cannot see “live” updates on your case — but you can request progress information using the details provided in your application.

Tracking from Inside the UK

If you submitted your application from within the UK (for example, to extend a skilled worker visa or apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR)), you can:

• Contact UKVI by phone: 0300 790 6268 (Mon–Fri, standard hours).
• Use the home office contact number for other enquiries.
• Check your UKVI account for updates if you applied digitally using the “UK Immigration: ID Check” app.

Tracking from Outside the UK

If you applied from overseas, you’ll usually apply via a visa application centre (TLScontact or VFS Global).

You can:

• Log in to the tracking system of your visa centre (TLS/VFS).
• Receive email or SMS updates (optional paid service in some countries).
• Contact UKVI directly via email (note: there is often a charge for this service).

What Do You Need to Track Your UK Visa Status?

When contacting UKVI or your visa centre, you may need to provide:

• Case ID number (8-digit number from your application correspondence).
• Unique Application Number (UAN) (16-digit number in emails/letters).
• Payment Reference Number (starts with “AG”).
• Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) number (if you already hold one).
• Immigration Health Surcharge reference (if paid).

Having these details ready will help UKVI or the visa centre locate your file quickly.

Can I Speed Up My Visa Decision?

In some cases, yes. The Home Office offers priority and super-priority services for certain applications, including sponsor licence applications and personal visas.

• Priority service: decision usually within 5 working days.
• Super priority service: decision usually within 24 hours.

These options require an additional fee (on top of the main visa and government fees).

Standard UK Visa Processing Times

Typical processing times depend on visa category and location:

• Outside the UK: most work and family visas take around 3–6 weeks.
• Inside the UK: decisions can take 8 weeks or longer, depending on the visa type.

For up-to-date estimates, check our guide to UK visa processing times.

Common Reasons for Delays

Visa decisions may take longer if:

• You have a complex immigration history.
• There are missing or unclear documents.
• The Home Office requires further checks (e.g. criminal records, interviews).
• Global events cause backlogs (e.g. COVID, geopolitical events, busy holiday seasons).

What If My Visa Is Delayed?

If your application takes longer than expected, you can:

• Contact the Home Office for updates.
• Respond quickly to any requests for additional documents.
• Seek advice from a qualified immigration adviser if delays put your status at risk.

If your application is refused or your sponsor licence is revoked, you may need to explore appeal or re-application options.

How Borderless Can Help

At Borderless, we support both employers and workers with the visa process, including:

• Clear guidance on timelines and requirements.
• Tools like our visa fees calculator and Immigration Skills Charge calculator.
• Compliance support for businesses managing a sponsor licence.

👉 Get in touch with our immigration specialists if you need support tracking your visa or managing compliance.

FAQs on Tracking UK Visa Applications

Can I track my UK visa application online?
No — there is no real-time online tracking. You must contact UKVI or your visa centre.

How long does it take to get a UK visa?
It depends on the visa type and location. Check our UK visa processing times guide for details.

Can I speed up my visa application?
Yes, if eligible, you can pay for priority or super-priority services.

What if my visa is delayed?
Contact the Home Office, respond to requests, or seek professional advice.

Does tracking my visa affect the decision?
No — contacting UKVI won’t change the outcome or speed of your case.

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