Elsie UdohApplying for a UK visa is one thing, but keeping track of your application progress is another crucial part.
Some important updates or issues may arise in the process, such as errors or missing information that could jeopardise your application. If you’re not vigilant, then a small oversight could lead to a rejection and ruin your travel plans.
Join our WhatsApp ChannelThat is why it is very important to track your visa application for the UK. This allows you to spot any delays, rectify mistakes or omissions promptly and respond swiftly if your application is declined.
But how do you track your visa application for the UK? This article will walk you through the process to ensure you’re fully informed at every stage.
How Does The Process Of Tracking Your UK Visa Application Work?
The process of tracking your UK visa application starts after you’ve completed and submitted your application at a visa application centre (VAC) in Nigeria.
After that is done, you can monitor your application’s status through many channels, including:
- Online tracking systems provided by official partners (primary method) and
- Direct communication with UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI).
How To Track Your Visa Application Online Via VFS Global
VFS Global is an official partner of UKVI that manages visa application centres in various countries, including Nigeria.
Here’s how you can track your application online using this platform:
1. Visit the VFS Global Nigeria tracking page.
2. Enter the reference number from the invoice or receipt issued to you by the VAC and your last name.
3. You can view the current status of your application after entering the necessary information.
Note: VFS Global provides real-time updates so this helps you to stay informed about your application’s progress.
How To Track Your Visa Application via TLScontact
This is another official partner that manages UK visa application centres in Nigeria. They are located in Abuja, Lagos, Port Harcourt, and Enugu.
If you submitted your application through TLScontact, here’s how you can track its status:
1. Find the email confirmation that you received after submitting your application on GOV.UK.
2. Log in to Your application
3. Provide documents and biometric information.
4. Proceed to your TLScontact portal to view your application’s progress.
Note: TLScontact advises applicants not to enquire directly about passport readiness. Instead, UKVI will notify you via email once a decision has been made regarding your application.
READ ALSO: UK Visa 2025: All You Need To Know
How To Track Your Visa Application Via Direct Contact with UKVI
This tracking method is for applications submitted within the UK.
You can contact the UKVI contact centre at 0300 790 6268 and select option 2 to track your application’s progress.
Note: The processing time for UK visas takes between 15 working days. However, this could be delayed due to certain factors, such as the application volume and additional document verification.
Common Causes of Application Delays
In cases where your application is delayed, here are some common factors that could lead to that:
- Incomplete or inaccurate information.
- Insufficient financial evidence to cover your stay in the UK.
- Past criminal records or security issues can cause delays.
- Medical issues
- Previous visa refusals or overstays
It’s important to take note of these mistakes and try to avoid them so that you can have a seamless and successful visa application.
Tracking your UK visa application will also help you to stay on top of your visa application and make your visa processing faster.
However, if you have any corrections or difficulties during the application process, then you can seek professional advice from a trusted agent to help out with your UK visa application.
Elsie Udoh is an SEO content writer who specialises in writing engaging stories that resonates with diverse audiences. She studied mass communication at the Lagos State University.
