All documents not in English must be accompanied by a certified translation. Originals should be submitted â if you submit copies, ensure they are certified as true copies of the original.
Required for ALL Visa Applications
7 documentsValid Passport
Current passport with at least 6 months validity beyond intended stay. Include all old/expired passports if any.
Passport-Sized Photographs
2 recent photos, biometric standard: 35mm x 45mm, plain white background, no glasses, neutral expression.
Bank Statements (last 6 months)
Official bank statements showing sufficient funds. Account must be in your name. Funds should have been present for 28+ consecutive days.
Proof of Accommodation in the UK
Hotel bookings, rental agreement, letter from host, or property ownership documents.
Application Reference Number
Your UKVI application GWF number generated after online form submission. Keep this safe throughout the process.
Cover Letter
A clear, concise letter explaining the purpose of your visit, your ties to your home country, and your intention to return.
Travel History Evidence
Previous visa stamps, travel history showing compliance with visa conditions in other countries.
Standard Visitor Visa
5 documentsReturn or Onward Travel Booking
Evidence of return flight booking or clear travel itinerary demonstrating intention to leave the UK.
Employment/Business Evidence
Employment letter confirming your job, salary, and approved leave period. If self-employed: business registration documents.
Invitation Letter (if visiting family/friends)
Letter from your UK host confirming your stay, their address, and relationship to you.
Property Ownership Documents
Evidence of property or assets in your home country to demonstrate strong ties.
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance with medical coverage for the duration of your UK stay. Not mandatory but strongly recommended.
Student Visa
6 documentsConfirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS)
Your CAS reference number from your UK educational institution. The CAS must be valid and contain a unique reference number.
English Language Proficiency Proof
IELTS, TOEFL, or equivalent test result with required scores. Some institutions' qualifications are accepted as evidence.
Financial Evidence â Tuition + Living Costs
Bank statements showing you can cover your full tuition fee plus ÂŖ1,334/month for London or ÂŖ1,023/month outside London for 9 months.
Academic Transcripts & Qualifications
Previous academic certificates and transcripts relevant to your chosen course.
ATAS Certificate (if applicable)
Academic Technology Approval Scheme certificate required for certain advanced STEM courses.
Parental Consent Letter
Required if you are under 18. Written consent from both parents or legal guardian.
Skilled Worker Visa
6 documentsCertificate of Sponsorship (CoS)
Reference number from your UK employer's Certificate of Sponsorship. Your employer must be a licensed UKVI sponsor.
English Language Proof (B1 Level)
Approved English test, UK degree, or nationality from majority English-speaking country as proof of B1 level English.
Employment Contract / Job Offer Letter
Formal job offer letter or contract showing your role, salary, start date, and employer details.
Personal Savings Evidence
If not confirmed in CoS: bank statements showing ÂŖ1,270 in personal funds held for 28 consecutive days.
Professional Qualifications
Certificates relevant to your occupation, especially for regulated professions (medicine, law, engineering, etc.)
Criminal Record Certificate
For certain occupations (healthcare, childcare, education), a certificate of good conduct may be required.
Family Visa
7 documentsSponsor's Proof of UK Status
UK citizen's passport or BRP card for ILR/settled status holders. Proof of sponsor's right to be in the UK.
Relationship Evidence
Marriage certificate, civil partnership certificate, or evidence of cohabitation for at least 2 years (for unmarried partners).
Sponsor's Financial Evidence
Payslips, P60, employment contract showing sponsor earns âĨ ÂŖ29,000/year (2024+ requirement).
English Language Test (A1 Level)
Approved Secure English Language Test (SELT) at A1 level for entry as a spouse/partner.
Proof of Genuine Relationship
Photos together, correspondence, joint accounts, travel records, communications history spanning the relationship.
Adequate Accommodation Evidence
Property ownership, rental agreement or mortgage statement for UK accommodation. Must not be overcrowded.
Birth Certificates (dependent children)
For children joining, original birth certificates showing parentage for all dependent children applying.
Ready to start your application?
Use our step-by-step guide to walk through the complete application process.