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? |
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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:
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Valid Passport (at least 6 months validity)
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Visa Application Form (filled online at: www.gov.uk)
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Passport-sized Photos (as per UKVI standards)
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Proof of Finances (bank statement, salary slips)
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Letter of Invitation / CAS (for students) / Job Offer Letter
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Accommodation Details (if applicable)
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TB Test Certificate (for stays over 6 months)
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English Language Proof (for study/work visas)
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Biometric Enrollment Confirmation
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
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Choose the Right Visa Type
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Create an Online Application
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Fill out your visa application online at https://www.gov.uk/apply-to-come-to-the-uk
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Pay the Visa Fee
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Pay online using credit/debit card in GBP
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Book Biometrics Appointment
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Use TLScontact in Pakistan (Karachi, Lahore, Islamabad) to submit fingerprints and photo
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Submit Your Documents
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Upload online or bring to VAC (Visa Application Centre)
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Track Your Application
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Get updates by email/SMS; collect passport once decision is made
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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
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✅ Ensure all documents are translated into English if in Urdu
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✅ Maintain a healthy bank balance for 28 consecutive days (for study/work visas)
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✅ Write a clear cover letter explaining your intent and travel history
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✅ Double-check your CAS or offer letter for accuracy
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✅ Avoid submitting fake documents – leads to a 10-year UK ban
Common Reasons for UK Visa Refusal
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🔴 Incomplete or forged documents
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🔴 Insufficient financial proof
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🔴 Failure to demonstrate return intent (for visitor visa)
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🔴 Misrepresentation of facts in application
Always review the UKVI guidance and seek help from registered consultants when needed.
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