UK VISA FROM BANGLADESH : DOCUMENTS, CONSULTANT & FEES

2023: The Year of UK Visitor Boom!

2023 is shaping up to be the best year for visiting Great Britain.

Why?

UK Tourism officials are forecasting 35.1 million visits in 2023, which is 86% of pre-COVID levels and an 18% increase compared to 2022.

Are you planning to explore the rich, multi-layered history of Britain but worried about getting your visa approved?

Take a look at the numbers…

In the year ending June 2022, the UK government issued approximately 2 million visas. Following the COVID-19 pandemic, which heavily impacted the UK’s tourism economy, the government is focusing on recovery and actively supporting tourism.

As a result, the UKVI is issuing more visas, and the approval rate is higher than ever. However, to increase your chances of approval, it’s essential to fully understand the process of getting a UK visa from Bangladesh.

Today, we’ll guide you through all the details you need to know!

What Can You Do with a UK Visitor Visa?

The UK Standard Visitor Visa is ideal for anyone wishing to visit the United Kingdom for tourism, medical treatment, business, or to visit friends and family. It also allows for other temporary activities, including short-term study.

Here’s what you can do as a visitor:

  • Explore the UK and enjoy a relaxing holiday
  • Spend time with friends and family
  • Volunteer work for up to 30 days
  • Transit through UK airports
  • Attend business meetings and conferences
  • Sign contracts and agreements with UK businesses
  • Participate in school exchange programs
  • Take part in recreational courses for up to 30 days
  • Attend fairs, seminars, and symposiums
  • Receive medical treatment if you’re ill

Now that you know what you can do with a UK Visitor Visa, you’re probably wondering how to apply. Here are the 5 simple steps you need to follow…

Step 1: Complete the UK Visa Application Form Online

The first step in your UK visa application is to fill out the visa form online.

Before you start, make sure you have all the necessary documents and details on hand. This includes your passport, proof of travel history, recent bank statements, tax assessment records, and accommodation information for your stay in the UK.

You can complete the online form in one go, or if you prefer, you can save your progress and return to it later.

One important thing to note: You’ll need a credit card to pay the visa fee, as all payments must be made online. VFS Global in Dhaka no longer accepts cash payments for UK visitor visas, so be prepared to pay digitally.

Step 2: Gather Your Documents for Submission

Once you’ve completed your visa application online, the UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) system will automatically generate a document checklist tailored to your specific situation. These are the mandatory documents you’ll need to submit as part of your application for a UK visa from Bangladesh.

To give your application a stronger chance of approval, however, it’s advisable to include additional supporting documents. Here’s a list of documents you may need:

General Documents:

  • Passport with at least 6 months of validity
  • Any previous passports
  • Recent visa photograph
  • Travel itinerary or tour plan
  • Cover letter explaining your purpose of visit
  • Personal bank statements
  • Personal Income Tax Return (ITR) certificate
  • Civil documents, such as marriage or birth certificates
  • Financial proof, including FDR (Fixed Deposit Receipts) or Sanchaypatro (Savings Certificates)
  • Title deeds or details of assets
  • Airline ticket itinerary
  • Hotel reservations

For Business Visits:

  • Invitation letter from a UK-based company or organization
  • Forwarding letter from your employer
  • Office ID card or business card
  • Company incorporation certificate
  • Memorandum of association of the company
  • Company bank statements
  • Company ITR certificate

If You’re a Student:

  • Proof of enrollment or studentship

Make sure all your documents are up-to-date and properly formatted to avoid any delays in processing.

Step 3: Submitting Biometrics at VFS Global

After completing your visa application and paying the required fee, the next step is to schedule a biometric appointment with VFS Global.

How the Process Works:

The UKVI online portal will direct you to the VFS Global website, where you will be automatically logged in using your existing credentials. From there, you can choose an appointment slot at a convenient location, such as Dhaka or Sylhet.

Once your appointment is scheduled, make sure to print a copy of the appointment confirmation. You will need to bring this document with you on the day of your biometric submission.

Submitting Your Required Documents:

There are two ways to provide the necessary documents:

  1. Upload Online: Scan your documents and upload them directly to the VFS Global portal.
  2. Submit In-Person: Bring your documents to the VFS Global office, where staff will scan and forward them to UKVI on your behalf. Note that this service incurs an additional fee of BDT 1,200.

We recommend uploading the documents yourself to save costs and streamline the process. Once your biometrics are submitted, UKVI will officially begin processing your application, marking the start of your processing timeline.

Step 4: Waiting for Visa Approval

The processing time for a United Kingdom Visitor Visa typically takes up to 3 weeks, as stated on the UK government’s official website. However, actual timelines can vary depending on factors such as the workload at UKVI and the complexity of your application.

For many applicants from Bangladesh, visa decisions generally take around 3 to 6 weeks. If your case is more complex or requires additional evaluation, it may take longer.

Checking Your Application Status

Currently, there is no direct way to track your UK visa application through VFS Global in Dhaka. However, you can inquire about the status of your application through the following options:

  1. Email UKVI: You can send an email to UKVI with your queries. This service costs £2.74 per email.
  2. Call UKVI Hotline: You may also call the UKVI customer service line, but the cost will depend on the duration of your call.

Both options provide a way to get updates, but they come with associated fees.

Step 5: Collecting Your Passport from VFS Global Dhaka

After your UK visa application is processed, you will receive a notification from UKVI confirming that a decision has been made. VFS Global Dhaka will follow up with instructions on the next steps.

If Your Application Is Refused

Once UKVI has notified you, VFS Global Dhaka will send an email outlining the schedule and location for passport collection. To collect your passport, make sure to bring:

  • A valid proof of identity.
  • The passport collection receipt you received during your biometric appointment at VFS.

Having these documents ready will ensure a smooth and timely collection process.

UK Visa Fees from Bangladesh

The cost of a UK visa from Bangladesh depends on the type and duration of the visa. Below is a summary of the government fees:

  • Short-term visa (up to 6 months, single or multiple entry): BDT 13,085
  • Longer-term visa (up to 2 years): BDT 49,198
  • Longer-term visa (up to 5 years): BDT 87,667
  • Longer-term visa (up to 10 years): BDT 109,519
  • Visiting academic (6 to 12 months): BDT 26,169
  • Marriage visitor visa: BDT 13,085
  • Permitted paid engagement visa: BDT 13,085
  • Private medical treatment (6 to 11 months): BDT 26,169
  • Short-term student visa (studying English for 6 to 11 months): BDT 26,169

Note: Visa fees may change based on currency exchange rates.

Additional Costs

  • Priority Services: Opting for Super Priority or Premium Services will incur additional charges beyond the standard visa fee.
  • VFS Global Service Fees: Extra fees apply if you use optional services provided by VFS Global.
  • Consultancy Fees: Seeking assistance from a consultancy agency may cost between BDT 12,000 and 25,000.

All payments must be completed online through the UKVI website before your biometric appointment at VFS Global Dhaka.

UK Visa Consultancy Services in Bangladesh

The Visa Processing Center is a highly regarded and experienced consultancy for UK visa applications in Bangladesh. Over the years, we have successfully managed hundreds, if not thousands, of visa applications.

Why Choose the Visa Processing Center?

We simplify the UK visa application process from start to finish. When you choose us, our team thoroughly reviews your documents and assigns a dedicated visa expert to handle your case. Our priority is to minimize the risk of rejection while ensuring a hassle-free experience.

Our Process

  • Comprehensive Profile Analysis: We assess your travel and professional history to create a strong application.
  • Financial Document Review: Our experts ensure your financial records meet the required standards.
  • Strategic Application Planning: We craft a tailored plan to maximize your chances of obtaining a UK visa.

Why We Stand Out

As a leading visa consultancy service in Bangladesh, we offer a full-spectrum, personalized approach to UK visa applications. Our professional expertise ensures you have the best possible chance of success.

Get in Touch

Take the first step toward your UK visa with confidence. Contact us today to book our premium consultancy services!

British High Commission in Bangladesh

British High Commission, Dhaka

United Nations Road, Baridhara, P.O. Box: 6079, Dhaka 1212, Bangladesh.

  • Phone: +880 2 55668700
  • Fax: +880 2 9843437
  • Email: press.dhaka@fco.gov.uk,
  • Counsulor Mail: consular.bangladesh@fco.gov.uk

UK Visa Biometric Center in Bangladesh

VFS United Kingdom, Dhaka

Delta Life Tower, 4th Floor Plot #37, Road #45 Gulshan North Commercial Area Dhaka, Bangladesh

  • Phone: (+88) 02 9895 894
  • Helpline Hours: Sun-Thu, 8:30 AM to 2:00 PM and 3:00 PM to 4:00 PM
  • Application Submission: Sunday to Thursday, 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM
  • Passport Collection and Document Submission: Sun-Thu, 9:30 AM-3:30 PM

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How can I get a UK visa from Bangladesh?

To apply for a UK visa from Bangladesh, you must submit your application online and provide your biometric details at the UK Visa Application Centre (VAC) in Dhaka. The visa fee should be paid through the UKVI website. After submitting all necessary documents, the UK government will review your application and make a decision, typically within 3-6 weeks.

Is the UK visit visa available for Bangladeshi citizens?

Yes, the UK visit visa is open for Bangladeshi citizens who wish to travel to the UK. To apply, you need to complete the online visa application form and schedule an appointment at VFS Global in Dhaka for biometrics submission.

How can I expedite my UK visa application? How long does it take to get a UK visa from Bangladesh?

The processing time for a UK visa from Bangladesh depends on the type of visa you apply for. Generally, a Standard Visitor Visa takes around 3-6 weeks. However, if you opt for a priority service, you may receive a decision within 3-5 working days for an additional fee.

What is the guarantee of visa approval if I use the Visa Processing Center service?

While we assist with the visa application process at the Visa Processing Center, the final decision regarding visa approval rests solely with the embassy. We cannot influence the outcome. Our role is to ensure your application complies with government regulations, and we help present your documents in the best possible way, which can increase your chances of visa approval.

Can I apply for a multiple-entry UK visa?

Yes, you can apply for a multiple-entry UK visa. This visa allows you to stay in the UK for up to 6 months. If you travel frequently, the UK government also offers Long-Term Standard Visitor Visas with durations of 2, 5, or 10 years.