FAQs 3 - After I Get My Visa?

Q: Does the visa guarantee my entry to the UK?
A: You should not experience any problems on arrival in the UK, providing that:
you have given the entry clearance officer all information relevant to your visit to the UK
you have not, with or without your knowledge, given false information to support your application, and
there has been no change to your circumstances, or reasons for going to the UK, since the visa was issued.

Q: What is the latest date that I can arrive in the UK with my visa?
A: The expiry date will be shown on the visa, but remember that this is also the last day on which you are permitted to stay in the UK.

Q: How long can I stay?
A: The last day on which you may enter or be in the UK is the expiry date on the visa. For visitors this is normally a maximum of six months.

Q: Can I use the visa to enter the UK more than one time?
A: UK visas are normally valid for multiple entries to the UK, until the expiry date shown on the visa.

Q: If my travel plans are delayed, can the validity of my visa be changed?
A: No, except where there are compelling compassionate circumstances. At the discretion of an entry clearance officer, the expiry date of a visa can be extended for up to 3 months, provided there has been no change in your circumstances. Otherwise you should apply for another visa.

Q: What if my reason for going to the UK changes?
A: A visa is normally issued for a specific purpose. If your reason for going to the UK changes, you should inform the visa office, preferably the one that issued your visa. You may be asked to make another visa application.

Q: Do I need to bring any documents with me?
A: On arrival, an immigration officer may ask you to show evidence of your reasons for coming to the UK. This may include travel tickets, evidence of funding, letters from your sponsor or businesses you are visiting, or schools you will study at. You should carry in your hand luggage copies of documents that you showed to the entry clearance officer.

Q: I am already in the United Kingdom? Who should I contact for advice about immigration matters?
A: UK visa offices deal with the issue of visas to foreign nationals who want to come to the UK.

Q: What do I do if my passport and visa are lost?
A: You must first apply for a replacement passport and then reapply to a UK Overseas Mission with a visa office for another entry clearance. You will have to pay the fee again and produce all supporting documents.