Planning a trip to the UK from Bangladesh? Whether you’re going for a holiday, a family visit, or a business meeting, navigating the UK visit visa process can seem daunting. Don’t worry, though; this guide will walk you through each step to ensure your application goes smoothly.

Types of UK Visit Visas

Understanding the type of visit visa you need is crucial. Here are the most common options:

Standard Visitor Visa

This is the most common type of visa for tourists, family visits, short business trips, or medical treatments.

Marriage Visitor Visa

If you’re visiting the UK to get married or register a civil partnership, this visa is for you.

Permitted Paid Engagement Visa

For those visiting the UK to do specific paid work without being sponsored under the points-based system.

Transit Visa

Required if you’re passing through the UK on your way to another country.

Eligibility Criteria for a UK Visit Visa

Before applying, ensure you meet the general eligibility criteria:

General Requirements

• Proof of sufficient funds to support yourself during your stay.
• Proof of your return or onward journey.
• Evidence of your travel itinerary and accommodation.

Specific Conditions for Different Visa Types

Each visa type may have specific requirements, such as proof of the purpose of your visit (e.g., a wedding invitation for a Marriage Visitor Visa).

Documents Required for a UK Visit Visa

(For Tourist & Business VISA):

Personal Documents:

• Current passport (minimum validity for 06 months until the planned date of return and minimum two blank pages and unmarked visa pages) with all old passports. If the immediate previous passport is lost, then a G.D (English) copy for that passport is required.
• Birth certificate / National ID card copy of applicants.
• Marriage certificate or Divorce certificate copy (as per religion). In case of Divorce, Child Custody Letter from court in respect of the child is required. A Death certificate copy requires for widows. 
• For non-Bangladeshi applicants: Bangladeshi Residence Permit valid at least 3 months beyond the intended date of departure from the territory of the Member States.
• In case of minors (Under 16 Years of age):
• A copy of the child’s Birth Certificate showing both the parents’ name.
• Consent letter addressed to the London or respective consulates signed by both the parents.
• Photocopy of Parent’s passports.

Professional Documents:

• For Businessperson: Trade license (renewal) and company’s letterhead pad (2 blank pages) require for proprietorship, partnership, and limited company. (i) Additional documents for partnership: Business Agreement/Deed copy.  (ii) Additional documents for the limited company: Memorandum of the article, certificate of incorporation, form 12 (For limited company), VAT, IRC, and Membership certificate (If any). (iii) Business card:  02 pcs. 
• For Employee: Original No objection certificate (NOC) mentioned. (i) Address, telephone, and fax number of the company. (ii) Name and position of the countersigning officer in the company. (iii) Name and position of applicants, number of years of service, pay slip / original salary statement/Government order (GO) & original note verbal (for official passport holders). (iv) Visiting card:  02 pcs.
• For Student: Student ID copy, original school leave letter/ permission of absence mentioned full address, telephone number, name, and function of the person granting permission. If school trips then the purpose, the duration, and the destination must be mentioned in the letter of the school.
• For Retired Person: Retirement documents.

Financial Documents:

• Bank statement & solvency certificate (original with bank seal and signature) of Last 06 months for both company & personal.
• Other financial documents such as FDR, saving certificate, share statement (If available).
• Income tax certificate copy (last 3 years), E-TIN certificate copy.
• Valuation of other assets such as land, buildings (If any).

Overseas Documents:

• For Tourist Purpose: Personal Invitation letter & evidence of your inviter’s passport and status in UK (If available).
• For Business Visit: A letter of invitation from the host organization in UK. Including conference registration details, reasons for applicant’s visit, itinerary with contact details of the business parties involved, and applicant’s employment contract details.

Travel Documents:

• Air Booking Copy.
• Hotel Booking.

Step-by-Step Guide to Applying for a UK Visit Visa

Creating an Online Account

Start by creating an account on the UK government’s visa application website.

Filling Out the Application Form

Fill in your personal details, travel plans, and reasons for visiting the UK. Be thorough and honest.

Paying the Visa Fee

Pay the required visa fee using a credit or debit card. Fees vary depending on the type and duration of the visa.

Visa Fee & Service Charge:

• Aro Tours and Travels service charge is 5,000 BDT.
• Note: Notary and translation charges are additional – if needed.

Scheduling and Attending the Biometric Appointment

Book an appointment at the nearest visa application center to provide your fingerprints and photo.

Tips for a Successful Visa Application

Ensure Accuracy:

Double-check all the information before submitting your application.

Provide Detailed Supporting Documents:

Include all necessary documents and make sure they are clearly legible.

Importance of a Cover Letter:

A well-written cover letter explaining the purpose of your visit can strengthen your application.

Common Reasons for Visa Rejection

Incomplete Application:

Missing information or documents can lead to rejection.

Insufficient Financial Proof:

Show clear evidence of your ability to fund your trip.

Lack of Proper Travel Itinerary:

Provide a detailed travel plan, including accommodation bookings and return flights.

What to Do if Your Visa Is Rejected

Understanding the Refusal Notice

The refusal notice will outline the reasons for rejection. Read it carefully to understand what went wrong.

Steps to Reapply

Address the issues mentioned in the refusal notice and submit a new application.

Appealing the Decision

If you believe the refusal was unjust, you can appeal the decision. However, this process can be lengthy.

Visa Processing Time and Tracking Your Application

Average Processing Times

Visa processing times can vary.

• Aro Tours and Travels file processing time 3/4 working days.
• Embassy processing time: Approx: 3 weeks to depends on the embassy.

How to Track Your Visa Status Online

Use the reference number from your application to track the status on the UK government’s visa application website.

Interview Process and Preparation

When an Interview Is Required

Not all applicants will need an interview, but if you do, it’s crucial to prepare.

Common Interview Questions

Be ready to answer questions about your travel plans, financial situation, and purpose of visit.

Tips for a Successful Interview

• Be honest and clear in your answers.
• Bring all relevant documents.
• Dress appropriately.

Travel Insurance and Health Requirements

Importance of Travel Insurance

Travel insurance can cover medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and lost luggage.

Health Checks and Requirements

Ensure you meet any health requirements, such as vaccinations, and carry necessary medications.

Travel Tips for Bangladeshi Visitors to the UK

Cultural Insights

Understanding British customs and etiquette can enhance your visit.

Navigating Public Transport

Familiarize yourself with the UK’s public transport system for easier travel.

Key Tourist Attractions

Don’t miss iconic sites like the Tower of London, Buckingham Palace, and the British Museum.

Staying Compliant with Visa Conditions

Duration of Stay

Adhere to the duration specified on your visa to avoid legal issues.

Activities Allowed on a Visit Visa

Ensure your activities align with those permitted under your visa type (e.g., no working on a tourist visa).

Consequences of Overstaying

Overstaying can lead to fines, deportation, and difficulties obtaining future visas.

Applying for a UK visit visa from Bangladesh may seem complicated, but with the right information and preparation, it becomes manageable. Ensure you meet all the requirements, provide thorough documentation, and follow the application steps carefully. Safe travels!

Remarks:

• Aro Tours and Travels exclusively offer consultancy services and do not furnish any assurances or guarantees regarding visa outcomes.
• The initiation of visa-related file processing will commence once we have received all required documents.
• The Embassy reserves the right to alter processing time, requirements, and fees without advance notice.
• The embassy may require additional documents not included in the checklist mentioned above at its discretion.
• All documents in Bengali must undergo translation into English and subsequent notarization.
• At the time of the interview, applicants should have all original documents with them when visiting the embassy or application center.

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