Summary

You can check your UK visa status using the VFS Global website. Just enter your GWF number and date of birth. You’ll receive updates by SMS or email if you sign up. It helps you track your visa every step of the way.

Introduction

The UK visa process takes time. While waiting, checking your status often can reduce stress and keep you aware of any important updates. 

VFS Global is the official partner that helps with UK visa services. It offers easy tools to track your application. In this blog, we will guide you on how to check your UK visa status using VFS.

Understanding the Process of a UK Visa Application

Your application goes through a number of phases once you send it in. First, VFS gets your papers together and submits them to the UK Visas and Immigration. 

Once your application reaches UKVI, they begin their review. The time to decide varies with visa types. Some are fast, others slow. That’s why understanding the steps beforehand is always a good idea.

Why Keeping an Eye on Your UK Visa Status Matters?

Visa status updates help you stay on track. They show whether your application is in progress, approved, or rejected. This helps with travel planning. 

No more waiting blindly or feeling unsure. You know what to expect and when. It keeps you in control and reduces stress during the visa process.

What is VFS Global?

VFS Global is an official visa application partner. It helps you submit your visa documents and biometrics. VFS does not decide your visa result, but it helps in sending your papers to UKVI. 

With VFS Global, tracking your visa status online is easy. It offers services like SMS notifications and courier support in many countries around the world.

What Information Do You Need to Check Your UK Visa Application Status?

VFS visa tracking needs a few basic details. Be sure everything is correct before using the VFS tracking tool. Even a small error can block the process.

• Application Reference Number

You receive this number after submitting your application. It is usually printed on your receipt or confirmation email from VFS. You’ll get a GWF number starting with “GWF” and digits. Save it. It helps you track your visa status on the website.

• Date of Birth

To match your record, you need to give your exact date of birth. This confirms your identity while checking the status.

• Full Name and Passport Number (Sometimes)

Always double-check your name and passport number when using a tracking system. Wrong details can cause errors.

• Email and Phone Number (For SMS/Email Updates)

Your email or phone number is also important if you signed up for alerts. They help you receive quick updates on your visa or passport status. The phone number and email should match what you gave during your appointment.

Methods to Check UK Visa Status on VFS Inside the UK

If you are already inside the UK, here are the ways you can check your visa status through VFS:

• Online Tracking Through the VFS Website

Start by visiting the VFS Global website. Locate the tracking section. Enter your application reference number and your date of birth. Submit the form. Your current visa status will be displayed. This method is quick, accurate, and widely used.

• Email Notifications

If you chose email updates during your appointment, you will get automatic updates. Once your documents are sent to UKVI and returned, and your passport is ready, you’ll get email alerts. It ensures you stay updated without any confusion.

• SMS Updates

You can also pay a small fee to receive SMS alerts. These messages are sent to your registered phone number. They are short but give real-time updates about your application.

• Contact VFS Support

If the website isn’t showing your status or you’re having issues, you can contact VFS support. They can guide you or provide updates manually if needed.

Methods to Check UK Visa Status on VFS Outside the UK

If you applied from outside the UK, the tracking process is similar but may vary slightly based on the country.

• Visit Country-Specific VFS Website

Every country has a local VFS page. You should visit the VFS Global website for your country. Go to the “Track Application” section. Please type in your reference number and date of birth. The website will show your application status.

• SMS and Email Notifications

When applying from outside the UK, you can still choose SMS and email updates. These are often offered during your appointment. You will get messages every time your application status changes.

• Courier Delivery Status

If you opted for the courier return of your passport, you can also track the delivery status. VFS usually partners with local courier companies, and they provide a tracking link once your passport is sent.

• Call or Email the Local VFS Office

In case there are delays or tracking issues, call your country’s VFS office. They can guide you or help connect you to UKVI if further steps are required.

How to Understand Your Status Updates?

Below are the usual visa statuses and what they actually mean:

• Application Received: Your documents have reached VFS and were sent to UKVI for a decision.
• Under Process: Your application is being reviewed by UKVI.
• Ready for Collection: Your passport is back from UKVI and ready to pick up.
• Dispatched via Courier: Your passport has been sent to your address.
• Decision Made: A decision is made, but you’ll learn it only when the passport reaches you.

Conclusion

It’s easy and helpful to check the status of your UK visa with VFS. It keeps you up to date as you wait. Stay updated with VFS by tracking your visa online, via SMS, or through email in the UK. 

Keep your reference number handy. Avoid issues by following the process step by step. When you have the needed data, checking your visa status is simple. The process is fast and hassle-free.

FAQs

How do I use my GWF reference to track status?

Enter your GWF (e.g., “GWF123456”) and date of birth on the VFS “Track Application” page to view your visa status.

Why does VFS tracking show “invalid input”?

Sometimes the error occurs if your GWF number needs a suffix like “/01” or you’re using the wrong country site.

Do I pay to email UKVI for status?

Yes, contacting UKVI via email from outside the UK has a one-time fee.

How much does a UKVI email enquiry cost?

It costs £2.74 per inquiry.

How long after “dispatched” will the passport arrive?

You’ll typically receive your passport within a few days of dispatch, depending on courier delivery.