If you find yourself in a situation where you need to transfer or replace your UK visa, this comprehensive guide will help you navigate the process.
There are various scenarios in which you might need to take action, such as when your passport expires, your personal details change, or your visa vignette (the 90-day sticker in your passport) expires.
Scenario 1: Your Passport Has Expired
- Travel to and from the UK: If your passport has expired, and you use your visa to travel to and from the UK, you can still use the valid visa in your expired passport. However, there are specific steps you should follow:
- Travel with Both Passports: When traveling to and from the UK, you must carry both your expired and your new passport.
- Replace Your Visa (Optional – If inside the UK): If you are currently inside the UK, you have the option to replace your visa with a biometric residence permit. The cost of this replacement depends on your visa status.
- Transfer Your Visa (If Outside the UK): If you are outside the UK, you can choose to transfer your visa to your new passport online. This service costs £154. However, to complete your application, you’ll need to prove your identity at a visa application centre.
- Decision Time: Typically, you’ll receive a decision on your application within 3 weeks after proving your identity.
Prove Your Right to Work in the UK
If you are using your visa to prove your right to work in the UK, it’s important to note that you cannot use a valid visa in your expired passport for this purpose. Instead, you must replace your visa with a biometric residence permit.
Scenario 2: Your Name or Personal Details Have Changed
If your name or personal details have changed, and your overall stay in the UK is longer than 6 months, you must replace your visa with a biometric residence permit. This applies when any of the following details change:
- – Name
- – Nationality
- – Facial appearance
- – Date of birth
- – The sex listed on your passport
You usually need to ensure that your passport reflects your new details when applying for a visa. However, some exceptions apply. You do not need to show your new name on your passport if:
- – You are a victim of crime (e.g., domestic violence)
- – You are a witness to a crime
- – You have changed gender (and your country of origin’s laws do not recognize or permit a change in name or gender marker)
- – You are a dual national and cannot change the name on your non-British passport
- – You are a recognized refugee, stateless person, or are under humanitarian protection, and you cannot approach your national authorities for a name change.
If your passport does not have your new details, it’s crucial to contact UK Visas and Immigration. Failing to do so may result in your application being refused. If your stay in the UK is less than 6 months, you do not need to obtain a biometric residence permit or report any changes.
Scenario 3: Your 90-Day Visa Vignette Has Expired
The 90-day visa vignette in your passport allows you to travel to the UK and collect your biometric residence permit once you are in the UK. If your 90-day vignette expires before you travel to the UK, follow these steps:
- Replace Your Vignette: You will need to replace your vignette by transferring your visa to a new passport online. This service costs £154.
- Provide Biometric Information: To complete your application, you’ll need to provide your biometric information at a visa application centre.
- Decision Time: You can typically expect a decision on whether your visa can be transferred within 3 weeks after proving your identity.
In summary, transferring or replacing your UK visa can be necessary for various reasons, including passport expiration, personal details changes, or expired vignettes.
By following the appropriate steps outlined in this guide, you can ensure a smooth process and continue to enjoy your stay in the UK. Remember that each situation is unique, and it’s essential to adhere to the specific requirements based on your circumstances.
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