How to Get a United Kingdom Visa – Step-by-Step Guide for Pakistani Applicants (2025)

 

The United Kingdom remains a top destination for students, skilled professionals, tourists, and entrepreneurs from around the world, including Pakistan. Whether you're planning to study, work, visit, or reunite with family, the UK visa process can seem complex — but it’s manageable with the right information and preparation.

This blog provides a comprehensive overview of UK visa types, eligibility criteria, required documents, fees, and application procedures, especially for Pakistani applicants.

Types of UK Visas and Their Purposes

Visa Type	Purpose	Duration Allowed	Extension Possible?
Standard Visitor Visa	Tourism, visiting family/friends	Up to 6 months	No
Student Visa (Tier 4)	Study at a UK university/college	Course duration + 4 months	Yes
Skilled Worker Visa	Employment in eligible skilled occupation	Up to 5 years	Yes (leading to PR)
Spouse/Partner Visa	Join a partner/spouse living in the UK	2.5 years	Yes
Start-up / Innovator Visa	Set up a new business in the UK	2 years / 3 years	Yes (if successful)

Documents Required for a UK Visa (General List)

Regardless of visa type, applicants must usually provide the following documents:

• Valid Passport (at least 6 months validity)

• Visa Application Form (filled online at: www.gov.uk)

• Passport-sized Photos (as per UKVI standards)

• Proof of Finances (bank statement, salary slips)

• Letter of Invitation / CAS (for students) / Job Offer Letter

• Accommodation Details (if applicable)

• TB Test Certificate (for stays over 6 months)

• English Language Proof (for study/work visas)

• Biometric Enrollment Confirmation

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UK Visa Fee Structure (2025 - Indicative)

Visa Type	Application Fee (PKR Equivalent)*	Processing Time
Standard Visitor Visa	~38,000 PKR (£115)	15–30 working days
Student Visa	~99,000 PKR (£490)	15–30 working days
Skilled Worker Visa	~198,000 PKR (£1,140)	3–6 weeks
Spouse/Family Visa	~277,000 PKR (£1,846)	2–3 months
Priority Processing (optional)	~73,000 PKR extra (£250)	5–7 working days

*Note: Exchange rates vary; confirm latest fees at www.gov.uk/visa-fees

 Step-by-Step UK Visa Application Process

1. Choose the Right Visa Type

   • Visit: https://www.gov.uk/check-uk-visa

2. Create an Online Application

   • Fill out your visa application online at https://www.gov.uk/apply-to-come-to-the-uk

3. Pay the Visa Fee

   • Pay online using credit/debit card in GBP

4. Book Biometrics Appointment

   • Use TLScontact in Pakistan (Karachi, Lahore, Islamabad) to submit fingerprints and photo

5. Submit Your Documents

   • Upload online or bring to VAC (Visa Application Centre)

6. Track Your Application

   • Get updates by email/SMS; collect passport once decision is made

 Applying for a UK Student Visa (Tier 4)

Requirement	Details
CAS (Confirmation of Acceptance)	Issued by a licensed UK institution
Proof of Funds	Tuition + £1,334/month for living cost in London (up to 9 months)
IELTS / English Language Test	Minimum CEFR B2 level for most courses
Tuberculosis Test Certificate	Mandatory if staying over 6 months

Tip: Always apply at least 3 months before your course starts.

Applying for a Skilled Worker Visa (Job Offer Required)

Requirement	Details
Job Offer	From a licensed UK employer (Sponsor)
Occupation Code	Must be on UK’s shortage occupation list
Salary Threshold	At least £26,200/year or £10.75/hour (2025 rate)
English Proficiency	IELTS or equivalent (UKVI approved test)

 Where to Apply and Attend Biometrics in Pakistan

City	Visa Application Centre (VAC) Address	TLScontact Website
Islamabad	14-B, I&T Center, G-8/1	pk.tlscontact.com
Lahore	20 Ex-American Center, Opp. Ganga Ram Hospital
Karachi	37-D, Block 6, PECHS

Tips for a Successful UK Visa Application

• ✅ Ensure all documents are translated into English if in Urdu

• ✅ Maintain a healthy bank balance for 28 consecutive days (for study/work visas)

• ✅ Write a clear cover letter explaining your intent and travel history

• ✅ Double-check your CAS or offer letter for accuracy

• ✅ Avoid submitting fake documents – leads to a 10-year UK ban

Common Reasons for UK Visa Refusal

• 🔴 Incomplete or forged documents

• 🔴 Insufficient financial proof

• 🔴 Failure to demonstrate return intent (for visitor visa)

• 🔴 Misrepresentation of facts in application

Always review the UKVI guidance and seek help from registered consultants when needed.