Introduction
The UK is considered one of the major international business hubs, and it attracts a lot of migrants from around the world who wish to live and work here. The UK visa application process can be quite overwhelming as it involves a lot of paperwork, documentation and a lengthy processing time. However, the UK government has introduced the Fast Track UK Visa system for individuals who want a quicker processing time.
In this article, we will explore what a Fast Track UK Visa is, who is eligible for this type of visa, the procedures and the application process.
What is a Fast-Track UK Visa?
A Fast-Track UK Visa is a visa application process that offers a quicker turnaround time than the standard UK visa application. The visa processing time varies depending on the type of visa that is being applied for and the country where the application is being made.
The UK government has introduced the Fast-Track UK Visa system to help individuals who need to urgently travel to the UK for business, work or study purposes. The Fast-Track application process is an optional service that is available to anyone who meets the eligibility criteria.
Who is Eligible for a Fast-Track UK Visa?
The Fast-Track UK Visa is available to individuals who are already in the UK and who need to extend their stay, as well as to those who are applying for a new visa to enter the UK. To be eligible for a Fast-Track UK Visa, the applicant needs to:
– Have a legitimate reason for the urgent visit to the UK such as a job offer, business meeting, or academic course.
– Be able to provide all the required documentation and information to support their application.
– The applicant needs to not have a criminal record or have been deported from the UK in the past.
Applicants who are applying for a Tier 2 Visa using the Fast-Track UK Visa system need to have a sponsor who is a UK employer and holds a valid Tier 2 Sponsor Licence.
Procedures for Fast-Track UK Visa
The procedures for applying for a Fast-Track UK Visa are the same as the standard visa application process. The applicant must complete a visa application form and provide the necessary documentation and associated fees. In addition to the standard requirements, the Fast-Track UK Visa applicant must also:
– Notify the UKVI that they wish to apply for a Fast-Track UK Visa.
– Book an appointment for the priority service at one of the UKVI premium service centres.
– Attend the appointment to provide their biometric information.
The Fast-Track UK Visa processing time varies depending on the type of visa that is being applied for. For example, the processing time for a Tier 2 Visa using the Fast-Track UK Visa service is typically two working days. The processing time for a Standard Visitor Visa, however, is five working days.
Application Process for Fast-Track UK Visa
The application process for a Fast-Track UK Visa can be broken down into the following steps:
Step 1: Determine your eligibility
Before applying for a Fast-Track UK Visa, applicants need to ensure that they meet the eligibility criteria. This includes having a legitimate reason for the urgent visit, being able to provide all the required documentation and not having a criminal record.
Step 2: Complete the visa application form
The visa application form must be completed accurately and in full. It is essential to ensure that all of the information provided is correct since mistakes can lead to delays or even the rejection of the visa application.
Step 3: Notify the UKVI
Once the applicant has completed the visa application form, they need to notify the UKVI that they want to apply for the Fast-Track UK Visa service.
Step 4: Book an appointment
The applicant must then book an appointment at one of the UKVI premium service centres. The appointment must be booked for a date that is at least 48 hours ahead.
Step 5: Attend the appointment
At the appointment, the applicant must provide their biometric information, along with the required documentation and payment of the visa fee.
Step 6: Wait for the visa decision
The decision on a Fast-Track UK Visa is typically made within two to five working days. The applicant will be informed of the decision by email.
FAQs
1. What is the cost of a Fast-Track UK Visa?
The cost of a Fast-Track UK Visa varies depending on the type of visa that is being applied for. The additional fee for a Tier 2 Visa using the Fast-Track service is £500.
2. Can I use the Fast-Track UK Visa service if I am applying for a spouse visa?
Yes, the Fast-Track UK Visa service is available for all types of visa applications.
3. What is the processing time for a Fast-Track UK Visa?
The processing time for a Fast-Track UK Visa varies depending on the type of visa that is being applied for. The processing time for a Tier 2 Visa using the Fast-Track UK Visa service is typically two working days. The processing time for a Standard Visitor Visa, however, is five working days.
Conclusion
The Fast-Track UK Visa service is an excellent option for individuals who need to urgently travel to the UK for business, work or study purposes. The application process is straightforward and typically results in a quicker turnaround time than the standard visa application process.
Applicants should take care to ensure that all the required documentation and information are provided, as mistakes can result in delays or rejection of the visa application. With the right preparation, however, the Fast-Track UK Visa process can be a successful one.