Have you recently applied for a UK visa and are clueless about its progress?

Worry not! You can now easily stay updated about your UK visa application status both online and offline. All you need is your visa reference number and passport number.

Want to know about the process in detail? Keep reading.

Checking the status of your UK visa application is essential to stay updated on its progress and ensure that you are prepared for any required actions. Here is a list of information required to check your UK visa application status:

• Personal and Contact Details: To verify your identity, you may need to provide several personal and contact details, such as first name, last name, nationality, date of birth, and email address.

• Passport Number: You may need to provide the passport number you used when you applied for your UK visa. This helps verify your identity and ensures that you are authorised to access the status of your application.

• Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) Reference Number (if applicable): The IHS is appropriate for certain visa categories, primarily those involving longer stays or work in the UK. If you paid the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS), you need this.

• Unique Application Number (GWF Number): This unique identifier is assigned to your visa application. It is essential for tracking your application status, and it can be found in the confirmation email or receipt from the UKVI office.

• Payment Reference Number: The payment reference number is provided when you pay your visa application fee. This number is sometimes required to verify that your application fee has been processed correctly.

• Type of Visa Applied For: It is important to know the specific type of visa you applied for. Different visa categories may have different processing times and requirements, and this information can help you track your application. 

Follow the steps mentioned below to track UK visa status online -

1. Visit the British Consulate website for your city or log in to VFS Global.
2. Provide the tracking ID you received through SMS and email after your visa application.
3. Next, enter your date of birth in YYYY-MM-DD format and the captcha text.
4. Click on “Submit”.

The webpage will display the status of your visa application.

To track UK visa application status through any third-party website, you have to enter the following details -

• Passport number
• Visa tracking number
• Date of birth
• Captcha

The above details must have made it clear how to check UK visa status with passport number as well.

In case you are unable to carry out this online process, here’s how to check UK visa status offline. You can email the British consulate and state your unique application number there. They will revert to you within 3 working days about your visa status.

The consulate office also sends SMS and emails to update you on the UK visa status.  If the visa is rejected, you will get a letter mentioning the reason for the denial.

Navigating the UK visa application process can sometimes be challenging due to various common issues that applicants may face. Here are some common problems related to UK visa status:

• Visa Refusal: One of the most common issues is visa refusal, which can happen for several reasons, such as providing incorrect information, failing to meet eligibility criteria, or submitting insufficient documentation. 

• Delays in Processing: Another issue can occur is delays in processing visa applications due to high application volumes, additional required checks, or administrative backlogs.

• Administrative Errors: Sometimes, errors made by immigration authorities can lead to delays or even visa refusals. These errors can include incorrect processing of applications or miscommunication regarding necessary documents.

• Visa Expiry: Another possible issue is visa expiry. Keeping track of your visa’s validity is crucial to avoid overstaying, which can result in serious consequences such as being barred from re-entering the UK.

• Changes in Immigration Policy: Immigration policies can affect visa requirements and eligibility criteria. To stay informed, regularly check the UKVI website for updates or consult with an immigration advisor.

• Financial and Language Requirements: Certain visa types require proof of sufficient funds and, in some cases, evidence of English language proficiency. Failing to meet these requirements can result in visa refusal.

• Change of Circumstances: Significant changes in your circumstances, such as getting married or changing jobs, after submitting your visa application may require you to update your application or apply for a different visa.

• Incorrect or Incomplete Information: Providing accurate or complete information in your visa application can lead to delays or refusals. Carefully review all details before submission to ensure accuracy.

• Issues with Biometric Information: Biometric information is necessary in visa application. Delays in scheduling or completing your biometric appointment can impact your application timeline.

• Appeal Process for Rejected Visas: If your visa application is rejected, you will receive a letter explaining the reasons for the refusal. Depending on the visa type, you can appeal the decision or reapply.

Dealing with a delayed or rejected visa application can be a frustrating experience. However, there are specific steps you can take to address the issue and improve your chances of a successful outcome, such as:

• Understand the Reason for Delay or Rejection: The first step is understanding why your visa application was delayed or rejected. The UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) will usually provide specific reasons for rejection in their correspondence.

• Contact UKVI for More Information: If your visa application is delayed, contact the UKVI contact centre for more information about its status. Have your application reference number and other identifying details ready.

• Review and Gather Required Documents: If your visa was rejected due to missing or insufficient documentation, review the refusal letter carefully to identify what additional documents are needed.

• Seek Legal Advice: If you believe your visa application was wrongly delayed or rejected, consider consulting an immigration lawyer. If applicable, an experienced lawyer can help you understand your options and assist with the appeal process.

• Appeal the Decision: Depending on the type of visa and the reason for rejection, you may have the right to appeal the decision. The refusal letter will outline whether you can appeal and the steps to follow.

• Reapply for the Visa: If you are not eligible for an appeal or choose not to appeal, consider reapplying. In your new application, address the reasons for the initial rejection and ensure that all information is accurate and complete.

• Explore Alternative Visa Options: If your visa application is rejected and reapplying is not an option, explore other visa categories that might be available to you. For example, consider other travel-related visa types if a tourist visa is rejected.

• Stay Patient and Persistent: The visa application process can be lengthy and sometimes frustrating. It’s essential to remain patient and persistent. Keep in regular contact with the embassy or consulate handling your application.

Applying for a UK visa can be complex, and many applicants face rejections for various reasons. Here are some of the most frequent causes of UK visa rejections:

• Incomplete or Incorrect Application Forms: One of the most common reasons for visa rejections is submitting incomplete or incorrect application forms. Missing information or errors in the details provided can lead to an automatic rejection.

• Insufficient Financial Evidence: Applicants must demonstrate that they have sufficient funds to support themselves during their stay in the UK. This includes providing bank statements, proof of income, or sponsorship letters.

• Inadequate Documentation: Please submit all required documents for a common reason. Each visa category has specific documentation requirements, and missing even one critical document can prevent your application from being denied.

• Incorrect Visa Category: Applying for the wrong visa category can lead to rejection. Ensure that you apply for the visa category that best suits your purpose of travel and that you meet all the eligibility criteria for that category.

• Poor English Language Skills: For certain visa categories, applicants must demonstrate proficiency in the English language. This often involves taking a standardised test such as IELTS.

• Previous Immigration Violations: A history of immigration violations, such as overstaying a previous visa or being deported from the UK, can negatively impact your current visa application.

• Criminal Record: A criminal record can be a significant barrier to obtaining a UK visa. While not all offences will lead to a rejection, serious crimes or repeated offences can result in denial.

• Failure to Attend Biometric Appointment: Part of the visa application process involves attending a biometric appointment to provide fingerprints and a photograph. Failing to attend this reschedule can lead to your application being rejected.

Online options to check your UK visa application status can accomplish your quest at the earliest, whereas offline options will take some time to update you. However, you will get an official notification from the British High Commission stating the details about your visa status.