UK Visa Checklist

What supporting documents should I include with my applications?

The documents the visa section will want to see will depend on the type of visa you apply for. The guidance notes will give an indication, but there may be others that you should include. The documents that our visa sections around the world will ask for can vary and you should visit the visa section's website to find out more.

They ask for supporting documents to help us decide if you meet the requirements of the UK Immigration Rules. For example you will usually need to show that you have enough money to pay for your trip, and your food, accommodation and expenses in the UK. To show this we will ask to see bank statements, pay slips and evidence of savings - yours and/or your sponsor's, depending on who is paying the costs. Also you will usually need to show that you will leave the UK at the end of your proposed time there. To show this you could send evidence of your job, or continuing studies in your home country.

If you are not sure whether or not you should include a particular document, include it. It is better that we have too many than not enough. But please do not include an excessive number - the entry clearance officer only has a limited amount of time to read the documents.

You should include original documents if possible, particularly those relating to birth, marriage, divorce and death. If you are not able to include originals of these then you should send attested copies. All original documents will be returned to you.

You should not pay for any travel tickets until a decision has been made on your visa application, but you may want to send evidence that you have reserved flights.

Contact us for any further information