Frequently Asked Questions
Entry Clearance
Q: Can I just come to the UK on a visit and apply for the visa I want when I get here?
A: In most instances you should apply for entry clearance in a relevant category before traveling
to the UK. This is done through the British mission in your country of residence.
Working Holiday Maker Visa
Q: Can I extend my Working Holiday Maker Visa beyond the 2 years?
A: No, but you may be eligible to apply in a different visa category so that you can stay longer.
Q: When does my Working Holiday Maker Visa start?
A: From the date of issue, not the date you enter the UK.
Q: Can I have another Working Holiday Maker Visa once my present one expires?
A: No, you are only allowed one in your lifetime.
Ancestry Visa
Q: Am I eligible for a UK Ancestry Visa if I don't have a UK born grandparent?
A: No.
Q: Is it possible to apply for this Visa while in the UK?
A: No, you will need to return home to make an application for entry clearance.
Q: If my Visa was initially issued for 4 years am I eligible to apply for
Indefinite Leave to Remain at the end my Visa?
A: No, you are required to spend 5 years in the UK before being eligible for ILR
and will need to extend your Visa by at least 12 months.
Visitors Visa
Q: Can I work on this visa?
A: Employment, be it paid or unpaid, is strictly prohibited on this Visa.
Q: Can I extend my Visitors Visa beyond the 6 months while I am still in the UK?
A: No, not unless there are compelling circumstances such as being unable to
fly due to medical reasons, etc.
Conditions in Line
Q: What are "Conditions in Line?"
A: This usually refers to spouses, children, and other close family members who
may be eligible to apply for the same visa conditions as the main applicant. For example:
ancestry, student, work permit. Some visa categories do not permit 'conditions in line.'
Indefinite Leave to Remain
Q: What is "Indefinite Leave to Remain?"
A: It is also known as: "Permanent Residency" or "Full Residency."
It allows the holder to stay in the UK without a time limit. It does not change your citizenship.
Q: I hear that I can lose Full Residency once I've got it, is that correct?
A: Yes you can, if you spend more than 2 years continuously outside of the UK.