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Evidence of Funds UK Visitor Visa

All About Evidence of Funds UK Visitor Visa

One of the key requirements for your UK visitor visa application is demonstrating you have sufficient funds to support yourself throughout your visit. This blog post dives deep into everything you need to know about providing evidence of funds UK visitor visa, making the application process smooth sailing.

What is Considered Evidence of Funds for a UK Visitor Visa?

The UK government wants to ensure you won’t become a burden on their resources while visiting. To achieve this, they require proof that you have enough money to cover your living expenses during your stay. This evidence can come in various forms, including:

• Bank Statements:  Generally, the UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) recommends providing at least  six months’ worth of bank statements . These statements should clearly show your regular income and sufficient balance to cover your trip.
• Payslips:  If you’re employed, include recent payslips as proof of your income.
• Savings Statements:  If you’re relying on savings to fund your trip, provide statements showcasing the available funds.
• Sponsorship Letter:  If someone else is sponsoring your visit, you’ll need a letter from them outlining their financial commitment and providing proof of their funds. This could be a parent, spouse, or close relative.

Beyond Bank Statements: Strengthening Your Application

While bank statements are crucial, consider including additional documents to strengthen your application:

• Proof of Accommodation:  Show confirmed hotel bookings, hostel reservations, or a letter from a friend or family member if you’ll be staying with them.
• Travel Itinerary:  A well-structured itinerary outlining your planned activities and estimated costs demonstrates you have a budget and won’t overstay your visa.
• Proof of Employment:  An employment contract or letter from your employer can solidify your ties to your home country and confirm your intention to return after the visit.

Key Tips for Presenting Evidence of Funds

• Ensure Clarity:  Bank statements should be translated into English if necessary and highlight your name and account details.
• Maintain a Healthy Balance:  Aim to show a consistent balance that comfortably covers your planned expenses in the UK.
• Address Large Deposits:  If you have substantial unexplained deposits, include a brief explanation to avoid raising red flags.
• Meet the Minimum Requirements:  While there’s no set amount, research average daily living costs in the UK and ensure your funds demonstrably cover them for your visit duration.

Remember: Providing strong evidence of funds significantly improves your chances of a successful UK visitor visa application. By following these tips and gathering the necessary documents, you’ll be well on your way to exploring the wonders of the UK!

Ready to Apply?

For the most up-to-date information and a comprehensive application guide, head over to the official UK government website: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/visitor-visa-guide-to-supporting-documents .

Do you have any questions about obtaining a UK visitor visa or evidence of funds UK visitor visa? Share them in the comments below!

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How much bank statement is required for UK visit visa

Updated: September 8, 2023

When it comes to how much bank statement is required for UK visit visa, there is a lot of confusion out there. Mainly because UKVI does not provide proper guidelines on bank statements. Not just on how many months of statements, but how much cash should you have, what kind of transactions are allowed, etc.

In this article, you will learn everything about bank statements for UK visit visa.

How much bank statement is required for UK visit visa?

You must submit 6 months of bank statements that clearly show your monthly salary and financial commitments. There must not be any large deposits of cash other than your salary. Total savings must be at least twice your proposed UK trip expenses.

After examining hundreds of UK visa refusal letters from my readers, I have figured that there are a few things that you must definitely satisfy in your bank statements. Let’s look at these in more depth.

BANK STATEMENT FOR UK VISA

The Entry Clearance Officers (ECOs) must make sure that the UK visit visa applicant has sufficient funds to support and maintain themselves for the entire duration of their stay in the UK. Bank statements work as evidence to prove that the applicant has sufficient funds. 

The ECOs pay close attention to the total cost of the trip, monthly income, monthly expenses and any other financial commitments such as mortgage, dependents, etc. They want to see that you are a genuine traveler, you will travel within your means and you will not exhaust all your savings.

The ECOs are primarily looking at the following criteria in your bank statements.

Let’s look at each of these criteria in detail. 

How much money per day do you need for UK visitor visa?

The UK is an expensive country. A hotel room would cost at least £50 per night. Food is about £10-20 per meal. Add transportation, entry tickets to attractions, shopping, etc. So, total expenses can range from £100-150 per day per person.

DAILY BUDGET REQUIREMENT £100-150 per day per person

This £100-150 per day per person is only for the visa. When you actually travel, you can minimize your daily expenses and spend a lot less than that.

How much do you need to earn to get a UK visitor visa?

UKVI does not provide guidance on acceptable monthly income. But, after going through hundreds of refusal letters, I figured that your monthly income must be at least half of your total UK trip expenses. 

INCOME REQUIREMENT Your monthly income must be at least half of your proposed total UK trip expenses

EXAMPLE: Say your proposed UK trip expenses excluding the airfare is £2,000. Your monthly income must be at least £1,000. Anything less than that can lead to ECO assuming that it’s not realistic for you to take this trip.

Make sure your monthly salary is directly deposited into your bank account. This results in a salary deposit transaction in your statements. This proves that you have a consistent monthly income.

If you are paid in cash or check, deposit the cash or check in your bank account on a specific date every month. You can withdraw again from your bank account for your expenses, but that consistent salary deposit every month must definitely be there in your bank account. 

How much do you need to save to get a UK visitor visa?

Apart from monthly net income, your monthly disposable income is also important. Monthly disposable income is basically your savings. If you save too little per month, that’s an indicator that a UK trip is not realistic for your financial situation.

SAVING/DISPOSABLE INCOME REQUIREMENT Your monthly savings/disposable income must be a good percentage of your net monthly income

EXAMPLE: Say your proposed UK trip expenses is £2,000. Your monthly net income is £1,000. Your monthly living expenses are £950. That means you can only save about £50 a month. Even if you have enough savings for your trip, your savings per month (£50) are too small. ECOs will assume that a UK trip is too expensive and not realistic for your financial situation.

How much bank balance do you need to show for UK visitor visa?

You must show that you have sufficient funds in your bank account. As a rule of thumb, you must have more than twice your proposed total UK trip expenses in your bank account. 

FUNDS REQUIREMENT Your funds must be more than twice your proposed total UK trip expenses

EXAMPLE: Say your proposed UK trip expenses excluding the airfare is £2,000. You must have at least £4,000 in your savings. Anything less than that can raise questions and lead to visa refusal.

Again, UK Visas and Immigration does not specify what is acceptable in terms of funds. So this is something I understood from referring to many visa refusal letters. 

What cash saving patterns ECOs are looking for?

You must show that your savings are continually growing and that too consistently. If they are not, then the ECO may assume that you might have borrowed the money to make it look like you saved it yourself. 

EXAMPLE: Say your salary is £2,000 per month. After all expenses, you save around £500 a month. Sometimes more, sometimes less, about usually around £500. You are saving continually but also consistently.

One more thing to keep in mind is that your savings must be large enough or at least a good percentage of your income.

What is funds parking and how to avoid it?

Funds parking refers to borrowing money from someone to show as if it’s your own money. ECOs suspect any large deposits in your bank account other than your salary as parked funds. 

EXAMPLE: Say your ending balance in your bank account has been £4,000 for the last 6 months. That means, your savings haven’t grown at all. This makes the ECO suspect that you might have borrowed money 6-7 months ago just to show that you have sufficient savings in your bank account.

If you had a large cash deposit from the sale of a property, investment, etc., you must provide documentary evidence to prove that it’s your money. 

Also, if you had unexpected expenses such as hospitalization, purchase of property, investment in stocks or fixed deposits, etc. you must explain them properly in your cover letter for UK visa as well. 

What to do if you DO NOT have sufficient funds? 

If you do not have sufficient funds for your UK trip, I suggest the following.

• Delay your trip until you have saved up enough. If you plan to travel to the UK next year, start saving up from now and you will have enough saved up by then.
• Shorten your trip to manage within the funds you have. If you plan to travel for 10 days, shorten it to 7 days or even 5 days. Try to cram in more sightseeing every day so you can manage your 10-day itinerary in just 5 days. 
• Lastly, use a sponsor to cover some of your expenses. Keep in mind that sponsorship from family members and immediate relatives can work well. Sponsorship from unrelated, distant relatives, friends, people who met on the internet, acquaintances, etc. will not work.

What to do if your salary is too low?

Should you put away your dream of traveling to the UK just because your salary is too low? Not really, but here are a few things you can do.

• Delay your trip until your salary goes up. Yearly salary hikes are common in most places. Or ask for a pay raise.
• Shorten your trip to manage within your salary limits. If your salary is £500, then plan to stay only 7 days, not more.
• Use a sponsor. As I mentioned above, sponsorships from family members or immediate relatives work well.

Why do you need 6 months of bank statements?

Bank statements are not just about how much cash you have in your bank. They tell a lot about your financial and personal circumstances. From your bank statements, ECOs can assess your sources of income, financial commitments and current lifestyle. 

This information is extremely important for ECOs to decide whether they can support themselves during their UK trip. At least 6 months of bank statements are necessary to assess this formation. 

If you lay down 6 months of bank statements in front of you, you can clearly see patterns such as your spending habits and saving goals. 

Keep in mind that these 6 months of bank statements must start from the latest and go backward 6 months. Let’s look at an example.

Say you are applying for your UK visa on 14 Nov 2021 and your latest statement was for October. You must submit statements from May to October. 

Does UK embassy verify bank statement?

If UKVI suspects fraudulent bank statements, they can contact the bank to verify the authenticity of the statements. They have built relationships with banks over time and can take the help of third-party agencies to verify such information.

Manipulating or providing fraudulent bank statements will lead to visa refusal and a permanent ban from entering the UK. 

Illegal migration and human trafficking are on the rise. Therefore, ECOs do their due diligence with visa applications. Document verification costs them money and time. There is a reason why the UK tourist visa is the most expensive and time-consuming visa process. 

Is online bank statement acceptable for UK visa?

Yes, online bank statements downloaded from the bank website are perfectly acceptable. Online bank statements are a norm in most countries these days. I assume UKVI has connections with major banks in the world either directly or through third-party agencies. If need be, they can make inquiries and verify the authenticity of your bank statements. 

A mere download of a list of transactions from your account will not work. Your online bank statements must include all the necessary information such as the bank name, bank address, bank phone numbers, full name, address, statement dates, transactions, balances, etc.

If any of the information is not included, you must request bank statements from the bank that include all necessary details.

Keep in mind that providing fraudulent bank statements will lead to a permanent ban from entering the UK.

Do bank statements need to be stamped for UK visa?

If you are applying from a country with high UK visa refusal rates, I advise providing certified bank statements. These are bank statements printed on the bank letterhead, stamped and signed by the bank authorities. Sometimes instead of signing and stamping, a cover letter signed by the head of the bank branch is provided.

Certified bank statements help to convince the ECO that your bank statements are authentic.

What if you have multiple bank accounts, one for salary and one for savings? 

If you have multiple bank accounts, you will have to submit 6 months of statements from each bank or account. If done incorrectly, this could lead to document bloat, which means the ECOs may overlook the most important bank statements. 

Try to use only one bank account for salary, expenses and savings. If you have to use two banks or accounts, mention this clearly in your cover letter so ECOs do not overlook important bank statements.

Do bank statements in foreign language need to be translated for UK visa?

Yes. If your bank statements are in a foreign language, you must provide a certified translation of them in English. If you have several pages of bank statements that need translating, it can get quite expensive. This is usually the case when downloading monthly statements from the bank’s website.

One way to handle this is to ask the bank to print the last 6 months of transactions as one statement. This will remove any repeated information such as bank address, etc. that usually appears on each monthly statement. This will reduce the bank statements to only a few pages. Translating and certifying these pages shouldn’t be that expensive.

Can you show joint account for UK visa?

A joint account is acceptable when both account holders are applying for UK visas together. The income and saving limits must also be doubled in that case. This is usually the case with couples, either both or one of them is earning. Either way, you must explain that your account is a joint account in your cover letter to avoid ECO making any decisions with partial information.

If only one account holder is applying for the visa, the ECO may assume that the applicant does not have sole access to the funds and may refuse the visa. Again, this is a tricky situation and must be clearly explained in the cover letter.

How to show bank statement if you are self-employed?

All the above rules apply to self-employed as well. Make sure to get paid from your clients directly in your bank account. If you earn cash, deposit your cash into your bank account first before using it for personal expenses. You can withdraw later for your expenses.

If you receive small cash several times a month, consolidate all the cash and deposit once a week or month. If you have multiple bank accounts, consolidate them too.

How to show bank statements if you are a business owner?

ECOs assume that business funds are for business purposes and not available for personal use. This is especially true if you are traveling to the UK on a personal holiday trip. Therefore, you must have a clear distinction between your business funds and personal cash. 

Make sure to separate your business and personal accounts. Pay yourself a monthly salary into your personal account. Maintain a consistent financial pattern in your personal account. As a business owner, you must submit your business bank statements and personal bank statements for your UK visa.

Alternatively, you can provide a letter from you or any other business partners that the business funds are available for your personal use. In this case, just your business bank statements are sufficient.

UKVI does not provide proper guidelines on how much bank statement is required for UK visit visa. After referring to hundreds of UK visa refusal letters, I figured that ECOs are looking for certain patterns in your bank statements. ECOs are primarily looking for your sources of income, spending habits, financial commitments and saving goals. These factors are essential for ECOs to decide whether you are a genuine visitor and have sufficient funds for your trip.

There you have it. Everything you need to know about bank statements for UK visit visa. If you have any questions, leave a comment below. I will answer them as soon as I can.

WRITTEN BY THIRUMAL MOTATI

Thirumal Motati is an expert in tourist visa matters. He has been traveling the world on tourist visas for more than a decade. With his expertise, he has obtained several tourist visas, including the most strenuous ones such as the US, UK, Canada, and Schengen, some of which were granted multiple times. He has also set foot inside US consulates on numerous occasions. Mr. Motati has uncovered the secrets to successful visa applications. His guidance has enabled countless individuals to obtain their visas and fulfill their travel dreams. His statements have been mentioned in publications like Yahoo, BBC, The Hindu, and Travel Zoo.

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LEGAL DISCLAIMER We are not affiliated with immigration, embassies or governments of any country. The content in this article is for educational and general informational purposes only, and shall not be understood or construed as, visa, immigration or legal advice. Your use of information provided in this article is solely at your own risk and you expressly agree not to rely upon any information contained in this article as a substitute for professional visa or immigration advice. Under no circumstance shall be held liable or responsible for any errors or omissions in this article or for any damage you may suffer in respect to any actions taken or not taken based on any or all of the information in this article. Please refer to our full disclaimer for further information.

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UK Visitor Visa Sponsor Document Requirements and Proof Of Funds

By Amar Ali, Immigration Solicitor

As a prospective visitor to the UK, there are a number of requirements you will need to meet before you are permitted entry into the country. Primarily, Home Office entry clearance officers are most concerned with ensuring that only those who are genuine and credible visitors are given entry. Another aspect of the checks carried out by the Home Office on visitors to the UK is to ensure that they have both accommodation and sufficient money while they are here. In this article, we will outline the evidence required to show that a third-party is able to sponsor a visitor to the UK.

The Adequate Maintenance & Accommodation Requirement

When applying for a visitor visa , you will need to demonstrate that you have the financial means to cover your maintenance and accommodation needs while in the UK, for yourself and your dependants. The Home Office will take into account whether you have sufficient funds for:

• your return or onward journey
• any planned activities in the UK
• your overall costs while in the UK (e.g. shopping, accommodation, food).
• your income and cash savings
• your financial commitments
• the income you will still receive while in the UK
• your costs in relation to your dependants

If you do not have adequate funds to cover your stay in the UK, however, it is possible to be sponsored by a person in the UK; this is referred to as sponsorship by a third-party.

What Checks Does The Home Office Carry Out In Relation To The Sponsor Of A Visitor To The UK?

Section V4.3 of the Immigration Rules Appendix V : visitor rules clarifies that travel and maintenance, and accommodation can be provided by a third party. It is not sufficient to show that the sponsor has the financial means to sponsor a visitor, they must also have a genuine relationship and intention to sponsor. Case Officers are required to check those sponsors:

• have a genuine professional or personal relationship with the visitor; and
• are not, or will not be, in breach of UK immigration laws at the time of decision or the visitor’s entry to the UK; and
• can and will provide support to the visitor for the intended duration of their stay

It is important to note that the sponsor does not have to be based in the UK, they can be outside (in which case the second of the three requirements above does not apply).

The Home Office guidance states that case officers “may want to check with the applicant or third party, where they met, and how often and by what method they communicate. If the third party is an individual such as a friend or family member providing financial support for the visitor, they must satisfy you that they have enough funds available to adequately support themselves and anyone normally dependent on them, as well as the visitor. Where you have doubts around the intentions of the third party to provide this support, you must refuse the application”. This shows the extent to which case officers may investigate the genuineness of the relationship and suitability of the sponsor to provide financial support to a UK visitor. As such, it is essential that if you are relying on a sponsor to come to the UK for a short visit, you provide all of the information upfronts as part of your application.

What Evidence Should Be Provided To Satisfy The UK Visitor Visa Sponsorship Requirements?

There is a section on the UK visitor visa application to declare that you are being sponsored during your time in the UK, to explain the genuineness of your relationship, and their ability to sponsor you, but it is always advisable to include a covering letter to allow you to elaborate. It is advisable to include a supporting letter from each party (i.e. applicant and sponsor). The applicant’s supporting letter should include:

• A declaration that you are being sponsored
• Your sponsor's name, address, and personal details
• A break-down of all of your expected costs while in the UK, including those of your dependants
• An explanation of your relationship with your sponsor, including how you met, how often you meet and/or speak, and why they are sponsoring you

Your sponsor should also provide a written undertaking which includes details of their income/savings, and hence ability to sponsor you – this may be in the form of bank statements and proof of income. It should also clarify that they willing to support the applicant (and their dependants) with maintenance and accommodation costs during the whole time they are in the UK.

As stated in V4.4 in appendix V of the visitor rules, “The third party may be asked to give an undertaking in writing to be responsible for the applicant’s maintenance and accommodation. In this case, paragraph 35 of Part 1 of these Rules applies also to Visitors. An applicant will normally be refused where, having been requested to do so, the applicant fails to provide a valid written undertaking from a third party to be responsible for their maintenance and accommodation for the period of any visit”.

Final Words

If you are planning to come to the UK as a visitor, but you do not have sufficient funds to cover the costs of your stay, you can be sponsored by a third-party from inside the UK or outside. The key to ensuring you receive a positive decision is providing as much information upfront proving that your relationship with your sponsor is genuine, and they can fully support you financially while in the UK. Rather than rely on the Home Office case officer to respond back to you with any questions or points of clarification, your aim (and that of your sponsor) should be to pre-empt any questions and provide as much detail as possible.

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UK Visitor Visa (Tourist Visa Advice!)

Anne morris.

• 2 October 2022

IN THIS SECTION

There are many reasons why you might require a UK visitor visa to come to the UK, from seeing the sights to seeing friends or family.

If you’re from outside the European Economic Area (EEA) or Switzerland, the Standard Visitor Visa allows you to visit the UK, usually for a period of up to 6 months.

The UK Visitor visa requires an application to be made from outside the UK, which will be assessed to assess whether you meet the requirements under the visitor rules and qualify as a genuine visitor. You will need to provide supporting documents that prove you qualify for a visitor visa. Failure to show that you meet the visa requirements will result in a refusal and loss of your application fee.

What is a UK visitor visa?

The UK Standard Visitor visa replaced a number of previous categories of visitor visas. It allows visitors to come to Britain for a short stay for a number of permissible reasons, including leisure (for tourism, visiting family and friends), for  business-related activities or sporting or creative events, and other reasons such as receiving private medical treatment.

It is not possible to switch into a different visa category from the visitor visa once you are in the UK; you would need to return to your home country and apply from there for a different visa.

How long does a UK visitor visa last?

The visitor visa generally lasts for 6 months.

You can apply to stay longer if you’re coming to the UK for private medical treatment (up to 11 months) or you’re an academic on sabbatical and coming to the UK for research (up to 12 months) but you will also need to apply for a biometric residence permit.

Under the Approved Destination Status (ADS) agreement, Chinese nationals are allowed to enter the UK with an approved tour group for up to 30 days.

Long term visitor visa 

The long-term visitor visa may be available if you are looking to make frequent visits over a longer period, such as 2, 5 or even 10 years, however you can only stay in the UK for up to 6 months at a time.

What are the permitted activities for visitors?

The visitor rules specify activities that are allowed under the route. The following are permissible activities:

• Tourism, for example on a holiday
• Visit family or friends
• Volunteering for up to 30 days with a registered charity
• Transiting through the UK to travel to another country
• Certain business activities, for example attending a meeting or interview
• Taking part in a school exchange programme
• Undertake a recreational course of up to 30 days, for example a dance course
• Study, do a placement or take an exam – this cannot be the main purpose of the visit and is limited to a maximum of 30 days
• Visiting as an academic, senior doctor or dentist
• For medical reasons

You are not allowed to do the following under a visitor visa:

• Undertake paid or unpaid work for a UK company or as a self-employed person
• Claim benefits or access public funds
• Reside in the UK for long periods using frequent and/or successive visits
• Get married or register a civil partnership, or give notice of marriage or civil partnership (instead, apply for the  Marriage Visitor Visa )

It may be that the visitor visa is not appropriate and alternative immigration options will need to be considered. For example, the permitted paid engagement visa may apply if a UK company is paying you to come to the UK as an expert in your profession.

Visitors should also prepare to travel with supporting documents as they may be asked to present proof of eligibility by UK border officials.

UK visitor visa requirements

The visitor visa is limited in its eligibility. Your stay must generally be for no longer than 6 months and you have to leave the UK by the expiry date.

Your reason for travel will also be critical to your eligibility and it will be important that you understand what is allowed under the UK visitor visa to ensure you do not breach these conditions for the duration of your stay in the UK.

Applying for the UK visitor visa

Applicants must ensure they comply with the regulations and evidence their eligibility through the visa application process.

To apply for the UK visitor visa, you will need to be outside the UK. You complete the online application form and provide supporting documents to evidence your status as a genuine visitor. You will be required to attend an appointment at a visa appointment centre in your country of residence, where you will be interviewed about your application and your biometric information will be taken.

As part of your visa application you will need to prove to the caseworker that you will not be staying for more than 6 months and that you have enough money to maintain yourself (and any dependants travelling with you) during your time in the UK and to fund your return travel.

Supporting documents

Your circumstances will dictate the exact documents to provide with your application to support your case. As a minimum, you will need to verify your identity with your current passport or other valid travel identification, valid for the whole of your stay in the UK and with a blank page for the visa.

Additional supporting documents should also be provided to prove:

• Planned travel dates and itinerary including accommodation details
• Personal information such as home address and parents’ names
• Travel history (past 10 years)
• Work information such as your employer’s name and address
• Contact information of the people you will visit
• You have a genuine relationship with the person you are visiting
• Details of any convictions
• Intention to leave the UK on visa expiry. Evidence could include proof of a job or studies in your home country, or family living in your home country.
• Sufficient funds to support you and your dependants in the UK for the duration of your visit. This could be funded by you of the person you are visiting in the UK. You will not be allowed to access public funds. Proof should include recent bank statements and payslips. An estimate of the total cost of the trip should be provided, as well as details of your income.

Any documents not in English or Welsh must be provided as certified translations.

After completing the form, you will need to attend a visa application centre overseas to have your fingerprints and photograph taken.

Visitor visa processing times

Under normal Home Office processing standards , visitor visa applications from overseas usually takes around 3 weeks. However, ongoing delays in processing services mean visit visa applications are currently taking 6 weeks, and in some cases longer.

You can apply up to three months before your intended date of travel. Fast tracked processing within 5 working days is available in some visa application centres for a premium fee.

How much does a visitor visa cost?

Currently, the UK visitor visa costs £100 for the standard 6 month stay. If you are travelling for medical reasons, the cost is £200 for six months, or £200 for academic visitors .

Longer-term visit visas cost £376 for the 2-year visit visa, £670 for the 5-year visit visa or £837 for the 10-year visit visa.

Can you stay in the UK for longer than six months? 

Generally speaking, all Standard UK visitor visas are short-term visas with a six-month maximum stay cap. Immigration regulations also prevent you from getting around this restriction by utilising a guest visa or making many, frequent, or consecutive trips, although you are free to enter and exit the UK whenever you like while your visa is still in effect.

However, citizens of China, Pakistan, India, and other non-EEA nations can apply for a long-term visit visa in order to go to the UK. These are chargeable extras that can be reserved for terms of two, five, or 10 years.

Be aware that you are still limited to a single visit lasting no longer than six months with these visas. You may, however, enter and exit the UK more than once throughout the permitted time. If you know you’ll need to visit the UK repeatedly over the course of a set amount of time, applying for a long-term visitor visa in the UK is a terrific option.

Academic visits from outside the EEA and people seeking private medical care in the UK do have another option for a longer stay. The Biometric Residence Permit is what it is called (BRP). You will need to provide biometric data about yourself, including your fingerprints, a photo, your immigration status, and more, but doing so will extend your stay in the UK over six months. This procedure, called biometric enrolment, still necessitates the presentation of proof of adequate financial support for your stay.

Visitor visa application refused?

If your UK visitor visa application. has been refused, your options could include reapplying and making a new application; submitting an appeal, where the grounds are on human rights; applying for a Judicial Review of the decision.

Your options will depend on your specific circumstances. Take professional advice to decide what you should do next.

Need assistance?

Travellers to the UK should note that even with a valid visitor visa in place, you may still be questioned at the UK border by immigration officials, to verify that you are a genuine visitor and will comply with the visitor visa rules. Where officials are concerned that you may stay longer than your visa date, or if your activities are prohibited under the visitor rules, you may be denied entry.

As a team of immigration lawyers and former Home Office employees, we have an established reputation for advising on the most appropriate immigration route for your needs, and supporting you with effective and efficient processing of your visa application. We also understand the stresses involved with making a visa application, and take great pride in playing a supportive role to ease the pressure.  Contact us  for advice.

Visitor visa FAQs

How much funds are required for uk visitor visa.

You will need to show you have sufficient funds to cover the cost of tickets, travelling, living and accommodation expenses while you are in the UK.

What documents do I need for UK visitor visa?

Your visitor visa application will need to include your current passport or other valid travel identification, as well as other documents that prove you meet the visa requirements, such as your intention to leave the UK and that your planned activities come within the visitor visa permissible activities.

Last updated: 2 October 2022

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She is a recognised by Legal 500 and Chambers as a legal expert and delivers Board-level advice on business migration and compliance risk management as well as overseeing the firm’s development of new client propositions and delivery of cost and time efficient processing of applications.

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Getting a visitor visa for family and friends

This advice applies to England. See advice for See advice for Northern Ireland , See advice for Scotland , See advice for Wales

Your friend or family member can apply for a visitor visa so they can visit you in the UK. Visitor visas are usually for up to 6 months.

Bringing your partner to the UK to get married or register a civil partnership

Your partner can’t use a standard visitor visa to come to the UK to get married or register a civil partnership.

If you and your partner want to live in the UK after you get married or register a civil partnership, check if they can apply for a partner visa .

If you and your partner don’t want to stay in the UK together, your partner can come to the UK on a marriage visitor visa. This means they’ll have to leave the UK within 6 months. Check how to get a marriage visitor visa on GOV.UK .

Check if your visitor needs a visa

You’ll need to check if they need a visitor visa on GOV.UK if you don’t already know - it depends on their nationality.

If your visitor doesn't need a visa, they might need to get an electronic travel authorisation (ETA) before they travel to the UK. You can check if your visitor needs an ETA on GOV.UK .

Some visitors can scan their own passport at an ‘eGate’ instead of speaking to an immigration officer. Check who can use the eGates on GOV.UK .

If they can't use an eGate, they should still be prepared to explain why they’re visiting when they get to the border. If the Border Force thinks they might try to stay longer, they can refuse them entry

If you’re helping your visitor apply for a visitor visa

They’ll have to apply online .

Make sure your visitor puts their information in where it asks for the applicant’s details .

After you fill in the form, the visitor will need to have their fingerprints and photograph taken at a visa application centre. Check where their nearest visa application centre is  before you apply, because it might be in a different country.

The online form asks you some questions to get to the visa you need. 

If you need more support with your application 

You should consider getting specialist advice if you’re unsure about the application. It might cost you money but it can save you time and hassle. Your local Citizens Advice can either help you or let you know where to get expert advice.

Documents you’ll need to include

You’ll need to include documents that support their application when you send it off. The online form will give you guidance on what to include, but here are some things to keep in mind.

If your documents aren’t in English or Welsh, you’ll need to provide certified English translations of your documents with the originals. Each translation has to include:

confirmation from the translator that it’s an accurate translation of the original

the date of the translation

the translator's full name and signature

the translator's contact details

Prove they’ll be returning to their country after their visit

You could show proof your visitor has a job or studies to go back to in their home country. You can also show they have family who depend on them in their home country.

Prove there’s enough money for the trip

You’ll have to provide evidence to show that the visitor’s trip can be afforded, whether it’s being paid for by them or by you. 

If the visitor is paying for themselves, they’ll have to include documents proving that they can afford it, for example bank statements or payslips.

If you’re paying for their visit (eg for their flights and accommodation), you’ll need to prove that you can afford the visitor’s trip as well as your own costs - for example your rent, mortgage and general expenses.

an estimate of how much the trip will cost - this needs to be as accurate as possible

proof of your income and where you work, for example payslips or an employment contract

proof that you have enough money to pay for the visitor’s stay, for example recent bank statements

proof that you’re in the UK legally, for example a copy of your passport or visa

Prove you have a genuine relationship

You’ll have to show how you’re connected to the person visiting you.

If the person visiting you is a friend, boyfriend or girlfriend, you might need to give stronger proof they’ll be returning to their country after their visit.

If your visa is refused

You can read the government’s guidance on reasons for refusing visas on GOV.UK, if you're concerned the visa you're applying for might be refused.

You can’t usually appeal if the visitor visa is refused. It's quicker and easier to apply again. Make sure you deal with the reasons your first application was refused.

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Page last reviewed on 13 May 2019

How much money do visitors need for their visit to the UK?

An individual who needs a visa to come to the UK as a visitor must have sufficient funds in order to cover reasonable costs for their visit. Nick Gore takes a look at this requirement.

When making an application for a visa to visit the UK , an applicant must meet several key requirements that are contained in Appendix V of the Immigration Rules (HC395, as amended). These include satisfying the Home Office that they are a ‘genuine visitor’ and that they intend to leave the UK at their end of their visit – we looked at those provisions here .

Under Appendix V, the applicant must also satisfy the Home Office that they have ‘sufficient funds’ in relation to:

‘Reasonable costs in relation to their visit without working or accessing public funds. This includes the cost of the return or onward journey, any costs relating to dependants, and the cost of planned activities such as private medical treatment’.

Unfortunately, failure to demonstrate this requirement can lead to a refusal of a visit visa application. We cover some of the most common reasons for refusal here .

As set out in the Home Office visit visa guidance , there is no minimum level of funds that applicants need demonstrate, unlike the spouse and partner visa requirements . However, the Home Office increasingly expects a large number of documents detailing both how the applicant intends to finance their stay in the UK, as well as the source of these funds.

Every application is different, depending on the applicant’s lifestyle, background and the activities they intend to undertake in the UK. We have therefore explored the most common ways of meeting this requirement below.

Employment Evidence of regular earnings from employment can be helpful, as demonstrated by payslips and also bank statements that show the salary entering the applicant’s bank account. It is also useful to have a letter from the employer confirming the salary, when the salary is paid, how the salary is paid as well as details regarding the applicant’s role.

Applicants should ensure if they submit evidence of employment, this shows that they earn enough to be able to afford their visit to the UK.

Non-employment sources of income If the applicant has other sources of income, such as dividends, proceeds from rent or a pension, this must be clearly demonstrated.

Evidence of the money entering the bank account should be provided, as well as any documentary evidence of the source of the funds, such as share and rental agreements or a letter from the pension provider. Ideally this will show a history of regular payments, and indicate that payments should continue. If evidence of a business is being provided, documents which demonstrate the business’ profits and activity may also be considered.

Savings If the applicant has amassed savings for the trip, through employment or otherwise, this should be demonstrated. Bank statements showing the amount of money available, and the source should be provided. If the money has been provided from another person, this may amount to third party support.

Third party support It is possible for a third party to pay for the applicant’s visit to the UK. Appendix V confirms that a third party can provide support providing the Home Office is satisfied that they:

(a) have a genuine professional or personal relationship with the visitor; and

(b) are not, or will not be, in breach of UK immigration laws at the time of decision or the visitor’s entry to the UK; and

(c) can and will provide support to the visitor for the intended duration of their stay.

The third party can be a family member or friend, or an organisation or colleague professionally connected to the applicant. They should provide evidence of their relationship with the applicant, such as birth certificates, or a letter from the organisation or colleague regarding how they know the applicant and details of their trip. It may also be helpful to provide evidence of how well the applicant and third party know each other, such as pictures or evidence of communication.

If a third party is providing support, they will also have to provide an undertaking, and they should be aware of the responsibility of this. The Home Office may consider the third party’s history of providing support as well as their immigration status.

The source of income of the third party should also be provided, and if the third party is an individual there should be sufficient evidence that they can support themselves as well as the applicant and any dependants.

Home Office assessment The Home Office will also consider the financial commitments of any applicant and their dependants, and potentially the third party’s outgoings. Ideally, the main financial commitments of the applicant will be demonstrated and shown to be less than the applicant’s source of income or savings.

It may also be helpful to outline and demonstrate the main financial costs of the visit to the UK, and if these are particularly unusual strong evidence must be provided.

How we can help We have significant experience in assisting individuals with complex circumstances or who have previously received a refusal to make successful visit visa applications.

If you require advice on an application for a UK visit visa one of our team would be happy to have an initial discussion and can be contacted here .

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By Nick Gore | 16 January 2020 | Personal .

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How do I Sponsor a Visitor to the UK?

The UK Visit Visa or Standard Visitor Visa makes the visitor eligible to stay in the UK for a maximum period of 6 months. UK Visit Visa can be issued for shorter periods also. The UK Visit Visa is meant for those who travel to the UK for tourism, to visit members of a family who are in the UK, or for medical treatment or professional purposes.

For more information on how to sponsor a visitor to the UK, including what you need to do to be eligible for it, how to apply, and expert advice for your application, reach out to us today on  0333 305 9375  or contact us online.

Overview of the UK Visit Visa

As a prospective visitor to the UK, there are several requirements you will need to meet before you are permitted entry into the country. Primarily, Home Office entry clearance officers are most concerned with ensuring that only those who are genuine and credible visitors are given entry. Another aspect of the checks carried out by the Home Office on visitors to the UK is to ensure that they have both accommodation and sufficient money while they are here.

This category of visitors may qualify for any of several visa types which include: General Visitor Visa, Family Visitor Visa, Child Visitor Visa, Business Visitor Visa including Visas for doctors, dentists and academics, Sports Visitor Visa, Entertainer Visitor Visa, Prospective Entrepreneur Visa, Private Medical Treatment Visa and Approved Destination Status (ADS) Visa are replaced with the UK Visit Visa.

In this article, we will outline the evidence required to show that a third party can sponsor a visitor to the UK.

Eligibility Requirements to Sponsor a Visitor to the UK

Third-parties who wish to invite their friends and relatives to the UK on a visit visa are required to:

• have a genuine professional or personal relationship with the visitor.
• Ensure that their visitors are not, or will not be, in breach of UK immigration laws at the time of decision or the visitor’s entry to the UK.
• To provide support to the visitor for the intended duration of their stay
• Note that the sponsor does not have to be based in the UK, they can be outside (in which case the second of the three requirements above does not apply).
• To prove that they have enough funds available to adequately support themselves and anyone normally dependent on them, as well as the visitor.

Supporting Documents to Sponsor a Visitor to the UK

The documents required to sponsor UK Visitor Visa include:

• Proof of accommodation and the sponsor’s bank balance.
• Also, the sponsor should provide a letter of invitation for the trip to be undertaken by the visa applicant.
• The letter of invitation should be following Paragraph 35 Part I of the Immigration Rules.
• As proof of accommodation, the sponsor is required to furnish evidence of the residential property where the visitor will be staying during his UK visit.
• The sponsor may also provide the latest bank statement to prove that he/she can maintain the visitor during his/her stay in the UK.

Main Legal Aspects of the UK Visit Visa

Those who want to visit a family member in the UK can apply for a UK family visitor visa. The applicant for a UK family visitor visa should be outside the European Economic Area (EEA) and Switzerland. The applicant should also meet all other eligibility requirements. Those who have a UK family visitor visa can stay in the UK for up to 6 months.

Don’t let the process of sponsoring a visitor to the UK overwhelm you. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and get started on your journey.

UK Visit Visa Application Procedure

If the applicant is a visa national or they have chosen to apply for a Standard Visitor visa before travelling to the UK, they must:

• Pay to submit a Standard Visitor visa application online; and
• Attend an appointment at a Visa Application Centre to provide their biometrics (fingerprints and photograph) and documents.
• They should upload their documents online before attending the Visa Application Centre to avoid added fees.

The earliest they can apply is 3 months before their intended date of travel.

Standard applications take 15 working days (3 weeks) from when they attend their appointment at a Visa Application Centre. They should also allow an extra week for their passport to be endorsed with an entry clearance vignette (visa sticker).

They may be able to pay extra to upgrade their application to the priority service (5 working days) or super priority service (end of the next working day). Please check what services are available directly with the Visa Application Centre they apply through.

UK Visit Visa Application Requirements

The visa applicant should meet the following requirements:

• The visitor should be able to understand English.
• The UK Visit Visa applicant should produce proof of his/her confirmed return ticket as well as confirmed hotel booking.
• The applicant should show a clear reason for his/her visit to the UK and should also show his capability to support his/her dependents along with himself/herself.
• The applicant should keep ready all the documents that are necessary to apply for UK Visit Visa.

Supporting Documents Required to Acquire a Visit Visa to the UK

Those who apply for UK Visit Visa are required to submit the following documents:

• Filled up a manual application form or the completed online Form from the Visa4UK website
• Two colour photographs taken within the last 6 months
• A passport. Should be valid for 3 more months from the date the applicant plans to leave the UK after the visit. The passport must have one blank page for the Visa.
• Bank statements or payslips for the last 6 months to prove that the applicant is financially sound to meet all expenses during his/her stay in the UK.
• Document to show where the applicant will be staying during his/her visit to the UK
• Detailed travel itinerary including how, when and what the applicant plans to do in the UK, dates of travel, places he/she will be visiting, details of booked tours, details of arranged meetings, festivals that he/she will be attending, etc.
• Tuberculosis Test Results
• If the applicant will be staying with a friend or family member during his/her visit to the UK, a letter of invitation should be submitted. The host must be either a UK national or a legal resident of the UK.
• Receipt confirming payment of Visa fees
• Certified translations of documents that are not in either English or Welsh
• Applicants who are under the age of 18 should submit a birth certificate and adoption papers, if applicable. In case those under 18 are travelling alone or with somebody other than parent or parents they are required to produce a signed letter from the parent confirming details of the person who accompanies the minor and should also submit a copy of the biographical page of the passport of parent/legal guardian.

Financial Requirements To Sponsor a Visitor to the UK

Those who apply for UK Visit Visa should prove that they have sufficient funds to manage all reasonable expenses in connection with their UK visit without accessing public funds. The expenses include:

• Their onward/return journey, expenses incurred by dependents and the costs of specified activities like private medical treatments.
• In cases in which the visit is sponsored by a friend or family member, the sponsor documents should show that the travel expenses, living expenses and accommodation costs will be covered by the sponsor.
• The supporting documents to be enclosed by the applicant include bank statements, pay slips, dividend vouchers and tax documents.
• The applicant need not show that he/she has a prescribed level of funds to meet living expenses, travel expenses and costs of accommodation.

Who can Write a Sponsor Letter?

The consular office can consider a visa sponsorship letter in support of a visa application when the letter is written by a UK citizen. The letter can also be written by a lawful UK permanent resident. The resident is required to have a well-defined relationship with the visa applicant. They could be relatives or friends, or partners.

The UK resident should have a registered place of residence in the UK. They should also have enough room to accommodate the visitor to which they issue an invitation letter. They must cater for their visitor in terms of accommodation for the entire period of their visit. The only exception to this is when the visitor can provide clear evidence of alternative accommodation.

Our team of immigration experts has extensive experience in helping sponsors like you bring visitors to the UK.

How to Write a Sponsor Letter?

The process of writing a visit visa sponsor letter is not that complicated. Especially if you already have experience in writing sponsor letters, either for a visit visa or a visa to any other country.

The letter should be short and clear, giving all the necessary information on the sponsor’s identity as well as the expenses of the applicant that they will be covering, and their relationship. Do not give any information that you cannot support with documents, which you have to submit alongside the letter of sponsorship.

Structure of a Sponsor Letter

• The letter should be addressed to the staff of the embassy with the opening salutation ‘Dear sir/madam’. Next, give your name and other personal details as to where you live and what you work, the reason why you are writing the letter and for whom.
• Give information on the expenses you are going to cover and how you will be doing that. Give the dates when the trip of the applicant will take place, and if he/she will be staying over at your place in one of the Schengen states, mention that, giving the address of the place.
• If you will be spending time with the applicant, while in Schengen, it would be nice if you wrote just a few words on the places you are planning to visit together, kind of like a short one-paragraph travel itinerary.
• Do not forget to mention that you “have attached supporting documents” to the letter of support you are sending. Sign the letter at the end, under your name. Do not leave out details like the date when you wrote the letter.
• Despite the guideline given above, you need to take into account some small pieces of advice when writing the letter. Below find the ultimate tips on how to write a sponsorship letter for a Schengen visa.
• Do not make it too personal – it is one thing to explain in the letter your relationship with the applicant, and another to tell throughout the whole letter how much you have missed them, love them, and want to see them. The consular officer does not care about that, he just wants to make sure you will be paying the expenses of the applicant. Besides, such details will make the letter longer, which you are strongly advised not to do.
• Do not give unnecessary details – above we advised you to explain why you are sponsoring the applicant, as well as to give details on the expenses you have to cover. However, do not go way too much into details giving unnecessary information such as, where you will be eating breakfast each day and how much each breakfast will cost you. The consular officer is not interested to hear that. Instead, just show the available amount of money that you are sponsoring the applicant with, and explain the expenses he or she will be able to cover with that money, i.e. accommodation and food.
• Do not make it too long – as we said a few times now, try to avoid unnecessary information and keep your letter short and clear. The consular officers do not have the time, nor the wish to read a two-page letter, which could have instead been shortened to a few paragraphs.

Another important thing you shall not forget, aside from your name, occupation and home address, take care to also submit your phone number and email, so in case of need, the embassy will be able to contact you and you will have the chance to clarify any of the information if needed.

Supporting Documents for the Sponsor Letter

There are no general rules guiding what documents sponsors providing an invitation letter should submit. Inviting someone to live with you in the UK may require the following documents:

• A scanned copy of your passport or ID to confirm your identification
• Evidence of your immigration status in the UK, such as a visa
• Proof of your residence in the UK, such as a mortgage statement or tenancy agreement
• Proof of funds where you undertake to financially support the applicant during their stay in the UK, such as bank statements or pay slips
• If you are arranging accommodation for the applicant, you will need to provide evidence of this in the form of a letter from the landlord/agent, or confirmation of a bed and breakfast/hotel booking
• If the visit is for a special family occasion, for example, celebrating a wedding, birth or important anniversary, consider including an invitation giving details of the event, as well as when and where it is to take place
• Any other document that you believe will help the applicant in getting their visa, for example, a short travel itinerary of the places you plan to visit together in the UK.

If you’re looking to sponsor a visitor to the UK, our team of immigration advisors is here to assist you.

How IAS Can Help

Sponsoring a visitor to the UK or acquiring a UK visit visa can be a reasonably daunting procedure. There are a handful of documentation submissions to be done which may prove time-consuming as you progress.

If you require any assistance with your visit visa application such as if you’re unsure or uncertain about the application method and what you need to do to be granted a visit, IAS can help.

We are a formidable team of professional and knowledgeable immigration lawyers who have years’ worth of experience working in UK immigration law. We have helped countless people overcome hurdles to come and settle in the UK, and we can help you to do the same, too.

For more information about how to sponsor a visitor to the UK, including what you need to do to be eligible for it, how to apply for a visit visa, and expert advice for the application, reach out to us today on  0333 305 9375  or contact us online.

We offer immigration advice sessions as face to face appointments at all of our UK offices, or via the phone.

Table of Contents

Need help with an immigration issue? Book a one-to-one advice session with one of our legal caseworkers.

We can complete your visa application on your behalf, taking the stress and hassle out of the process.

Need to submit an application quickly? We can help you complete and send it off in as little as 24 hours.

Ensure you have the greatest chance of a successful appeal with our legal support and guidance.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the visitor visa valid.

It is usually valid for 6 months. i.e you are allowed to stay up to 6 months at a time.

What is the processing time for a UK visit visa?

This can take up to a month. It usually depends on the time and place of application.

Can I work on a visitor visa?

No. This is not permitted.

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• Student Hub
• Support for international students
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• Applying for a student visa
• Current location: Proving you have funds to study

Proving you have funds to study

To apply for a visa, you may need to prove you have the money for your course.

Types of funds

The types of funds a student can use to show they meet the financial requirement are one, or a combination of:

• funds belonging to you or a parent/legal guardian (not a business account)
• official financial sponsorship
• student loans (only from a provider approved by UK government).

Read our guidance, as well as these UK government rules on the amount, evidence and type of funds:

• Appendix Student
• Appendix Finance
• Financial requirement caseworker guidance
• Financial evidence for Student and Child Student route applicants.

If you’re already in the UK

You will automatically meet the financial requirement for a Student visa if you:

• are applying for a Student visa inside the UK , and
• have been in the UK for at least 12 months with valid permission on the date of application – holidays and short absences from the UK do not break the 12-month period, but if you have been away for a significant time (three months or more), you will not meet the requirement.

If you do not meet this requirement, or you’re applying from outside the UK , read more below.

Nationals who don’t need to provide financial documents

You won’t need to submit financial documents if you:

• are from one of the countries listed in appendix ST 22.1 (includes all EU nationals), and
• apply from your country of nationality, the country where you’re resident or from within the UK.

You don’t need to send evidence of your finances to UKVI (UK Visas and Immigration) when you apply for a visa. However, unless you are applying in the UK and meet the requirements above, you still need to have it available. UKVI may ask you for proof of funds, including the amount and how long you have had the money.

If UKVI does request to see documents, they’ll send an email to the email address you provided at the beginning of the application process.

It’s important you regularly check your emails (including your junk folder) for any messages from UKVI.

Proof of funds

You must show UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) you can pay:

• course fees as stated on your CAS .
• £1,023 for each month of your course, up to nine months (a maximum of £9,207). This includes part months.

If any of your documents to show the proof of funds are not in English, they will need to be translated .

You can show you have these funds through:

Money in your or your parents’ bank account

You need to show this money has been in the account for a consecutive 28-day period. This 28-day period should end no more than 31 days before you submit your application.

You can’t use a business account to show funds (even if the business is owned by you or your parents/legal guardian) or an account held by any other family members outside of you, your parents or your spouse.

If your spouse or partner is applying at the same time as you for a dependant visa , you can use money in an account in their name. They will also need to show that they have enough funds to support themselves.

You must sign a declaration which states the funds are genuinely available for funding your study and living costs. UKVI reserves the right to check the availability of these funds.

If you're relying on funds where the source of income/money isn't clear (e.g. large deposits in a short timeframe), it will be helpful for the decision maker if you provide further details of the source of this money.

If you don't have obvious evidence to include (e.g. evidence of a property sale), contact us to discuss what can be used.

• Example bank statement [PDF 3.1 MB]
• If you’re using money held by your parents, you must also provide your original birth certificate and a parental consent letter –  download a sample parental consent letter [PDF 176 KB].
• A certificate of deposit (documents issued by a bank confirming you’ve deposited or invested some money) – download an example certificate of deposit [PDF 1 MB] .
• A bank letter to prove how much money you have – download a sample bank letter [PDF 260 KB ].

Funds from overseas bank accounts

You can use funds from an overseas bank account. These funds will not be considered if the:

• UKVI cannot verify the overseas bank, or
• overseas bank is not regulated by the appropriate body in its respective country, or
• overseas bank does not use electronic record keeping.

UKVI may contact your bank to establish that your financial documentation is accurate. Be aware that UKVI have their own list of contacts (usually this is the head office or other central point) they will use when verifying an account. If they cannot verify your documents with the bank, your application may be refused.

If your funds are in a currency that is not British pounds (GBP, £), you need to convert it using Oanda  and make sure it remains above the required amount on the date you submit your application online.

Official financial or government sponsorship

Financial sponsorship is where you’re given money to pay for:

• some or all of your course fees
• living costs.

Defining a sponsor

UKVI defines an official financial sponsor as:

• UK government-sponsored programmes
• your national government
• the British Council
• an international organisation
• an international company
• a university
• an independent school.

If you are sponsored by one of these you will need a letter to show your proof of funds.

If Sussex is your financial sponsor, this information is on your CAS statement.

If you’re applying to extend your visa for a new course and you’re sponsored by a government or international scholarship agency, you must get your sponsor’s consent. You will not need this consent if we are your sponsor.

See UK government student guidance about official financial sponsorship.

Download a sample official sponsorship letter [PDF 142 KB] .

Money paid to Sussex

You can pay some or all of your fees and accommodation costs in advance.

If you pay your fees in advance, this will be reflected on your CAS so that the total you need to show will be less.

Up to £1,334 of University-managed accommodation costs can be deducted from the amount of maintenance required. This reduces the total amount you need to show as part of your visa application.

If you have made these payments to Sussex, they appear on your CAS statement. If they’re not included, contact the office that issued your CAS.

If you’re a self-funded Masters student, you need to pay a tuition fee deposit of £2,000.

See our information about Masters deposits for international students .

Student loans

If you intend to use a loan as your financial evidence, you must ensure the loan and confirmation letter meet UKVI requirements – see financial requirement casework guidance, page 13 [PDF 503KB] .

Learn more about making a student visa application:

• outside the UK
• inside the UK .
• Applying outside UK for student visa? See more
• Applying inside UK for student visa? See more

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UK Visa for PLAB: Financial Sponsorship Documents

Getting a UK visa for PLAB is a mammoth task for many International Medical Graduates (IMGs). It is very confusing sometimes regarding what financial sponsorship documents you have to gather and how should you present your case. Let’s try to break it down!

Table of Contents

Let’s look at the IMMIGRATION RULES

Financial sponsorship documents in your UK Visa application is one of the core things to get straight. Before commencing, let’s have a look at a few paragraphs of Appendix V: Immigration rules for visitors :

V 4.2 The applicant must satisfy the decision-maker that they are a genuine visitor. This means that the applicant: (e) must have sufficient funds to cover all reasonable costs in relation to their visit without working or accessing public funds. This includes the cost of the return or onward journey, any costs relating to dependants, and the cost of planned activities such as private medical treatment.

And also for people who may not have sufficient funds of their OWN:

V 4.3 A visitor’s travel, maintenance, and accommodation may be provided by a third party where the decision-maker is satisfied that they: (a) have a genuine professional or personal relationship with the visitor; and (b) are not, or will not be, in breach of UK immigration laws at the time of decision or the visitor’s entry to the UK; and (c) can and will provide support to the visitor for the intended duration of their stay.

V 4.4 The third party may be asked to give an undertaking in writing to be responsible for the applicant’s maintenance and accommodation. In this case, paragraph 35 of Part 1 of these Rules applies also to Visitors. An applicant will normally be refused where, having been requested to do so, the applicant fails to provide a valid written undertaking from a third party to be responsible for their maintenance and accommodation for the period of any visit.

In plain English, a visitor, if a visitor can’t support own self, can have a financial sponsor and the sponsor will have to give an undertaking in writing that they will support the visitor financially. And on top of that, naturally, the sponsor will have to provide proof that they themselves have enough funds for maintenance of any costs that may arise for the visitor during the entire trip.

Who can be my financial sponsor?

To reiterate the rule – “a third party where the decision maker is satisfied that they have a genuine professional or personal relationship with the visitor” . Yes, the relationship with the third party is important. But, nowhere in the rules, it is stated that it has to be an immediate family, as parents or sibling. So, it can be anyone who you can prove that you have a professional or personal relationship. It can be a business even, not a person if you can prove you have a professional relationship with them. But, that being said,  it’s easier to prove that you have a personal relationship with your immediate family.

It’s always better if you, yourself can be your financial sponsor. But for you to become your own financial sponsor there are a few tick-boxes to fill.

What makes a financial sponsor suitable?

The sponsor should have the ability to prove that they are financially stable . I can’t emphasize enough on  financially stable. It doesn’t mean the amount of money they have in the bank account, it is not only the amount of money they earn every month. It’s the proper balance among money in the bank, money spent and money earned. The whole nine yards!

To break it down:

• [Important] They have a stable income (from a job or pension or business)
• [Important] They have ‘ enough liquid asset ’ i.e readily withdraw-able cash in a bank / financial institution which is being maintained for at least 6 months.
• [Optional] They have other forms of assets (Land/ house/ car – fixed asset) to put more emphasis on their statement of being financially stable.

How much should the sponsor have in their account?

The burning question.

It depends on how much you’ve shown your total cost of the trip will be. Your cost of the trip again depends on how many days you are showing your visit will be.

The more days stay you state in your application, the more expenses you will have to show. The more expenses you show, the more you will have to have in your/your sponsor’s account.

In my opinion, your whole expense should not be more than 1/3rd of the liquid assets your sponsor has to show in their bank account. That being said,  the question remains- how do I calculate how much money I’ll need to show?

How can I calculate my cost of the trip?

Let me just show you my breakdown of the cost of the trip. I showed my stay of 30 days,  and the cost of my trip was broken down as follows:

Now I want to make some more points:

• It is highly discouraged by the UK Visa office to pay for a plane ticket or any accommodation before obtaining your visa, so logically these should go into your expected expenses during your stay in the UK.
• And if you haven’t paid your PLAB 2 course yet (i.e you will pay on arrival), I would suggest to not add that to your expenses. Ideally, you should’ve paid ahead of time as you’ve already booked a spot (as in the PLAB 2 exam itself). Some academies take cash, but you shouldn’t add as I said before, since it is expected that you’ve already paid for it.
• If you provide any provisional booking for your plane ticket or accommodation (e.g booking.com, kayak.com), make sure the cost in the breakdown matches as it is in the booking.

You can just put your expected dates (as you’ve mentioned in your travel itinerary in your cover letter) in skiplagged to find out a reasonable price for air-tickets. You can round it up. And for accommodation, the cost is variable, and it depends on where you have shown you’re going to stay.

Just remember one golden rule, things should be similar as per the papers you’re submitting.

What financial sponsorship documents should I provide?

If you are self-sponsoring the trip.

If you state in your visa application that you ARE EMPLOYED , you MUST explain your own financial circumstances with the following papers:

• Proof of regular income [Important]
• Bank Statement for the last 6 months [Important]

I can not emphasize enough how important this is to explain your own financial circumstances if you state that you are employed.

You still can add a third party as a sponsor if you are employed. It is very acceptable as your financial circumstances may reflect that you yourself are not capable of funding this trip, even though you are employed.

If you are NOT sponsoring the trip

If you are NOT EMPLOYED , you still can add your work experience certificates which mention your termination date, if you had worked before. If you are not earning anything now, your financial circumstances hardly matter. Be careful when putting this info in the online application. They should make sense.

What financial sponsorship documents should my sponsor provide?

Here also the uniqueness of every case makes it quite impossible to give one single guideline on financial sponsorship documents. But let’s talk generally what a sponsor should provide-

• [Important]  Bank statement for the last 6 months (6 months isn’t mandatory but highly recommended)
• [Optional] Solvency Certificate
• [Important]  Proof of regular income
• [Important] Letter of support
• [Optional] Affidavit declaring financial sponsorship
• [Optional]  Papers related to proving fixed assets (If any is mentioned)

The rule to follow – always adds up what you’re stating, with official papers . Just because you mentioned and explained something in your cover letter/letter of support doesn’t mean anything, if any official paper doesn’t back it up.

Here, UK Visa Guidance: Supporting Documents , you will find my cover letter and see what other papers I attached with my visa application.

1. Bank Statement for the last 6 months

Most of the banks have their automated system of providing their customers with the bank statement. Previous 6 months statement is needed and as I have mentioned earlier, this should be the money that is readily withdraw-able i.e liquid asset. If the money is not in any conventional bank rather in any other type of financial institution, that can also be shown, as long as proper papers with accurate explanations are made. For example, savings can be in bonds/saving certificates. They are seen as readily withdraw-able cash at any moment, and thus a copy of the said bond/saving certificates along with a letter from the financial institution should serve the purpose too. And, importantly, any big transaction in the aforementioned account should be explained in the letter of support by the financial sponsor, which is discussed below.

2. Solvency Certificate

This is a letter issued by the bank or any financial institution stating explicitly how much money the account holder has, in which accounts, and how the institution thinks he is solvent enough to sponsor you for your UK trip. This letter comes along with the bank statement if you ask the bank officials about this. Here is an example.

You can download a PDF copy of this here.

DISCLAIMER : The above template of a solvency certificate is what my financial institution agreed to follow. For different banks, they have their own template and they may not be willing to follow exactly what it is here. It’s alright . As long as they are providing a “Solvency Certificate” or a “Certificate of Investment”, that serves the purpose. Make sure the paper has the following things:

• Logo of the Bank / Institution
• Contact details of the Bank / Institution
• Official Memo no with the date the certificate is being issued
• Account holder’s name
• Date of opening of the account(s) (Since when it was active)
• Amount of money in the account(s)
• Signature and details of the authorized individual.

3. Proof of regular income

This can simply be an income certificate in the official letterhead. Or, again, a letter from the bank ascertaining monthly flow in an account from a source like pension, business, investment or anything that brings money into the account regularly. Or if it is evident in the bank statement, there’s no need of letter from the bank, but the income certificate from the source, in that case, will be required.

The income tax return will also serve the purpose of proving regular income if the monthly/yearly income is mentioned there. This is useful if the monthly income is irregular like in a business. Bottom line, any official paper which demonstrates the monthly flow of money under the name of the sponsor, will do.

Note that, the amount of regular income shown should reflect the circumstances of the sponsor’s and his dependents. For example, if someone earns £50 per month and runs a family of 5 people and says they are capable of giving you £3000 for your visit- it doesn’t sound believable without further explanation of their previous employment and how they have accumulated their savings. And these explanations of circumstances should be explained in the letter of support.

4. Financial Sponsorship Letter

This letter is basically your sponsor discussing their circumstances to the entry clearance officer regarding the financial base they have, and how they can provide you with the sponsorship for your UK visit. Most of the explanations about money should be here to make your cover letter less cluttered. Here is my father’s letter of support –

My Sponsor’s (Father) Letter of Financial Support

Date To Entry Clearance Officer UK Visas & immigration

Re: Letter of support for my son, —–Full Name—-, DOB –/–/—-.

Dear Sir/Madam,I, —SPONSOR’S NAME—, am a —–occupation—–. My son, —-YOU—- is intending to sit in PLAB Part 2 examination in Manchester, UK on —–PLAB 2 DATE—–. I will be his financial guarantor for his visit to the UK for this purpose. His details are as below:

Here my dad explained his sources of regular income and the number and relations to the dependents on him. (In my case it was dad, mom, and me)

Here my dad explained his sources (e.g. savings) of his liquid assets (deposit in a bank/ saving certificates).

Please note that I can withdraw this amount any time I want as per the bank rules. A Solvency Certificate with the details of the account is issued from the bank and attached for your consideration. I also own the following land assets. The translated copies of the record of rights/deeds of the land assets marking the type and amount of land is attached to the application. The present market value of the land assets in the locality is added for your kind perusal.

I have already paid the booking fee of —Yours—- PLAB Part 2 examination along with the course fee for PLAB 2 preparatory course in —-Your course’s name and address—. For his visit to UK, he intends on spending a total 2300 GBP  (I showed my duration of stay for 30 days)  which includes:

I am capable and willing to provide my son, —Your name—-, financially for his UK trip. I have attached the following documents for your consideration.

1. Affidavit of Financial Sponsorship to my son. 2. Solvency Certificate. 3. Income Certificate. 4. Translated copy of the deeds / record of rights of the land assets that I own.

Thanking you,

(Signature) ___________________

—-Name—- —Occupation—-

P.S. All BDT to GBP conversions were taken from the rate in https://www.oanda.com/currency/converter/ on DATE [1 BDT= 0.0___ GBP].

Please note that the conversions are to be done from the www.oanda.com . Make sure wherever in your application you talk about any amount of money, you don’t forget to convert that to GBP according to the current rate in that mentioned website.

5. Affidavit of financial sponsorship

Having an affidavit signed in the presence of a notary is NOT mandatory. But some are of the opinion that it solidifies your application, even though there is no documented proof.

The abridged version of the letter of support, excluding the explanations of the transactions and other circumstances, including the number of assets and their values, written in legal stamp papers, signed in the presence of an advocate will serve the purpose. Remember to take 1 copy passport-sized photos of you and your sponsor’s for the affidavit.

6. Papers related to proving fixed assets

A fixed asset can be so many things- land, house, car, jewelry, etc. There are professional evaluation services who can evaluate the asset for you and give you the proper documentation to prove how much it is worth. These can then be attached with your visa application. Or if you present other documents like deeds/record of rights of land assets, the price will be mentioned there or you can put an estimated value in the affidavit as it will be signed in the presence of an advocate, thus making it  legal .

And all the documents you are submitting, if any of it is NOT in ENGLISH (even a single seal, NOT logo), you have to translate and notarize it. These translation centers will be able to provide you with the affidavit of financial sponsorship too according to the pattern of your country’s own.

Common ERRORS & FAQs

My sponsor has transferred all the money after printing the statement before even i got the visa. will it be a problem.

Yes. The visa officer may check with your financial institution and when they are considering your application the bank account will have no money then. If you have already done it, the best solution would be to deposit it all back and stay hopeful.

I transferred the amount I need from my sponsor’s account to my account

There is no absolute harm if you do that. But the problem is not explaining the credit in your account from your sponsor’s account. Both statements have to be explained well in this case. On the other hand, if the financial sponsor has stated they will support you, they can even not transfer the money. Just follow the above guidance to prove their sponsorship.

I am unemployed now, but I will travel liquidating all of my savings

That also doesn’t portray that you are financially stable. If you say that you are unemployed, it is always a good idea to show a financial sponsor for your trip.

I will sponsor my trip completely, but my father/someone else will pay for my ticket

Well, they can. But in that case, his circumstances should be explained too. He can add a letter of support stating as to how he can pay for that and also how he supports other dependents on him with documentary evidence of his income and savings,  as stated above.

What if I do not add a letter of support?

It’s always a good idea to add a letter of support from your sponsor. That makes your cover letter less cluttered, and explanations of things are easier this way.

What is ‘Funds Parking’?

Making a large deposit in a bank account just prior to your application is a big red flag. Even if the money comes from a well-explained source, chances are it will be seen as “funds parking” which proves little to no connection to the local economy, thus not a  genuine visitor.  It’s always a better idea to wait for a few months after the transaction has happened.

Do I have to explain my OWN finances?

If you state in your application that you are employed, you  MUST  explain your own financial circumstances with your income certificate/payslip and your OWN bank statement. If it’s evident that you can’t support this visit by yourself from your financial circumstances then comes the sponsor and explanation of theirs.

Can I show my uncle/father-in-law/family friend as my financial sponsor?

I think I have already answered that. Just a statement about how he is close to you i.e  personal relationship  and show all the things that are stated above.

How do we explain the transactions that are in the bank statement?

Simply explain the big transactions one by one, where it came from or where it went and provide the evidence of that. For example, if someone bought a car, obviously there should be documents to prove how much was the car, thus the debit from the account can be explained. In the same way, if someone sells anything, the appropriate documentation to prove that credit should also be added.

If I have the money to sponsor myself, do I need to show a financial sponsor?

That’s the best case if you are employed, taken a leave from your workplace for the purpose of taking PLAB 2, have your own account that you have to maintain for a quite a long time, and have sufficient balance in it. But still, you can add a sponsor to strengthen your case. Absolutely no harm in that.

My sponsor’s account is there for a long time, but there’s no activity in the account.

No problem at all. If the source of the money can be explained by the sponsor – savings from a job, business or earned by selling property, jewellery, etc then it is well and good.

Final Thoughts

In the end, the basic thing is to prove to the entry clearance officer that you have access to enough funds for your trip to the UK for the time you have mentioned in your application. And all the papers you have added accounts for the claims that you made in your cover letter or throughout your application. Despite this long discussion, if you have any queries, there is always a helping community in social media. ASK AROUND. You will definitely find someone who was in your shoes and can give you proper guidance.

Related Articles

How to Plan for PLAB 2 and Course/Academy

UK VISA for PLAB : Online VISA application

Uk visa for plab : supporting documents, stay in the know.

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Financial Requirements and the 28-day rule

If you are applying for a Student visa you must have enough money to pay for your course fees and your living costs, known as the maintenance or financial requirement. You are normally required to submit financial documents to show that you meet the financial requirement.

Who does not need to meet the financial requirements?

You do not need to meet the financial requirements described below nor submit financial documents if you are applying for permission to stay in the UK and have been living in the UK with a valid permission (visa) for 12 months or more on the date of your visa application. This only applies to those extending their visa or switching to the Student route in the UK.

You will, however, need written consent if a Government or International Scholarship Agency sponsored you for a course completed in the last 12 months. See our Official Financial Sponsorship page for more information.

Who must meet the financial requirements but does not need to submit financial documents?

If you are a national of a country listed in Appendix ST paragraph 22.1 of the Immigration rules , you must meet the financial requirements described below but do not need to submit your financial documents as part of a Student Visa Application. To benefit from the Differentiation Arrangements as a ‘low risk national’, you must be applying in the UK or the country you live in.

If you rely on the differentiation arrangements, you must still have the financial documents available and in the required format as the Home Office may request evidence that you do meet the financial requirements whilst processing your application. Failure to provide these documents when asked will lead to your application being refused.

Though you do not need to show your other financial documents, you will need written consent if a Government or International Scholarship Agency sponsored you for a course completed in the last 12 months. See the Official Financial Sponsorship page for more information. 

Who must meet the financial Requirements and submit Financial Evidence?

All other Student Visa Applicants must meet the financial requirements and submit financial documents.

The financial requirements

Your financial documents must meet the specific financial requirements to prevent a visa refusal. You must have the correct funds for the required period before you submit your online visa application form. The Student Visa Guidance gives detailed information on the requirements for supporting documents.

How much money do I need?

Course/tuition fees.

You must have enough money to pay for the course fees for the first year of your course. If your course is less than one year long, you are required to have the funds for your entire course fees. Your fee amount will be confirmed on your Confirmation of acceptance of studies (CAS) .

You will normally need to pay a deposit of £4,000 towards your tuition fees in order to be issued with a CAS. You can deduct this £4,000 plus any extra fees you have paid towards your tuition fees (if applicable) from the total amount you need to show for your fees. Any payments you have made towards your course fees must be stated on your CAS.

Some applicants are not required to pay a CAS deposit. For information about the CAS deposit and to check if you need to pay, visit the International Student Deposits page.

For example, if you are applying for a visa to study a 1-year Master's course and:

• Your fees are £14,000
• You have paid the £4,000 deposit plus an extra £2,000 towards your fees
• Your CAS states: Course Fees for the Year: £14,000, Course Fees Paid so far: £6,000
• Your remaining course fee is £8,000

You must have £8,000 in your account or your parent(s)' account for your tuition fees in addition to the funds for your living costs.

The Home Office will use your CAS to confirm how much money you need for your course fees. It is important that you check the information on your CAS thoroughly before you make your visa application. You should check that your CAS states your total fee amount and any fees paid correctly. If there is a discrepancy on your CAS, you should email [email protected] .

Living costs

You must have enough money to support yourself while you are studying in the UK.

You will need to show that you have £1,334 for each month, or part of a month, of your course for a maximum of nine months. The maximum amount you will need for your living costs is £12,006.

The Home Office have set a fixed amount for the living cost requirement, irrespective of whether you intend to live with family in the UK or you if you have paid for your accommodation in part or in full already.

If your course or the remainder of your course is less than 9 months, then you will need to look at your CAS to assess the length of your course. Look at the CAS start date and calculate the months and part of months until the course end date. Use a date calculator if this helps. Remember that if you are applying in the UK and you have been in the UK with permission for a period of 12 months or longer, you are exempt from the financial requirement

Worked examples for living costs:

If you are going to study on a 3-year undergraduate course, you will need to show (£1334 × 9 months) £12006 for your living costs.

If you are a current student and are not exempt from the financial requirements as described earlier and you have 3 months remaining of your course, you will need to show (£1334 x 3) £4,002 for your living costs.

A worked example for total finances:

If you are studying on a 1-year Master's course, your tuition fees are £14,000 and you have paid your £4,000 deposit plus an extra £2,000 towards your fees.

You must show £8,000 (£14,000 - £4000 - £2000) for your tuition fees and £12,006 (1334 x 9 months) for your living costs. The total maintenance amount you are required to show is £20,006 (£8,000 + £12,006).

The 28-day rule

Any money you use for maintenance (course fees and living costs) must be in your account or your parent(s)' account for a consecutive period of 28 days (finishing on the date of the closing balance).

During the 28-day period this money cannot drop below the required amount for even 1 day or you will not meet the Home Office requirements and your application will be refused.

28 days will be counted back from the closing balance and the closing balance cannot be more than 31 days old on the date of application. 

If your finances are confirmed in a letter then the letter and the closing balance cannot be more than 31 days old on the date of application.

The date of application is usually the date you submit and pay for your online Student Visa Application and not the date you may be required to show your financial documents (eg not the date of your appointment at the Visa Application centre or the date the Home Office asks you to show your evidence of finances whilst processing your application).

University halls of residence

If you have paid up to £1,334 to the University for a room in one of the University managed halls of residence (these include: Harrow, Marylebone Road and Alexander Fleming) and this is confirmed in your CAS, you can deduct a maximum of £1,334 (even if you have paid more) from the amount of money you need to show for your maintenance. Money paid to private landlords or to halls of residence which are not owned by the University of Westminster will not reduce the maintenance amount you need to show.

Financial evidence – which bank account?

The money you are required to show can be in:

• your bank account
• your parent(s)' bank account
• your partner's account if they are applying at the same time or they already have permission
• a joint account with anyone you are named on the account.
• a joint account with both your parents' names.

If you are relying on funds in your parent(s)' account, you must include the following documents in support of your application:

• a letter from your parent(s) confirming that you are their child and that they consent to you using their funds to study in the UK. See an example of a parent's letter: Example of parent consent letter (PDF) 251.38 KB
• your birth certificate with your name and your parent(s)' names (with a translation if not in English). Please visit our Translations page for information about translations.
• your parent(s)' financial documents

If you are being funded by a family member other than your parents or your partner (who is applying at the same time as you or already has permission), they will need to transfer the required funds into your bank account or use a joint account with your name on it, as their bank statements will not be accepted. Please note that in such a case you will need to wait for the funds to mature in your account – see the 28-day rule above. If you are living with relatives while in London, you will still have to show the full amount of money for living costs.

The only exception is if you have received official financial sponsorship for your full fees and living costs from a recognised sponsor. If this is the case, please visit our official financial sponsorship page for further information. You can also apply using a Student Loan that meets the UK Visa and Immigration Requirements. 

Required financial documents

The key documents that are accepted by the Home Office include:

• Personal bank statements
• Building society pass books
• Letter from the bank. See an example bank letter: Example bank letter (PDF) 247.14 KB
• Letter from an official financial sponsor  
• Letter from a regulated financial institution confirming a loan. The loan must be provided by your national government, their state or regional government, a government-sponsored student loan company or part of an academic or educational loan scheme
• Certificates of deposit

The UK Visas and Immigration Office will not accept funds if they are held in a financial institution where any of the following apply: 1. (a) the immigration officer assessing the visa is unable to make satisfactory verification checks; or 2. (b) the financial institution is not regulated by the appropriate regulatory body for the country in which that institution is operating; or 3. (c) the financial institution does not use electronic record keeping. If your money is not in pound sterling, you must convert the funds into pound sterling to ensure that the closing balance meets the minimum level required using the OANDA currency converter . 

Do not forget to include translations if any of your documents are not in English. There are specific requirements for translations – if you need anything translated, please ensure you read the requirements carefully. See our translation guidelines for more information.

Bank and financial statements

Bank statements.

Funds may be held in any form of personal bank or building society account (including current, deposit, savings, pension from which the funds can be withdrawn or investment account) provided the account allows the funds to be accessed immediately.

Funds held in other accounts or financial instruments such as shares, bonds, credit cards, pensions from which the funds cannot be withdrawn immediately, regardless of notice period, will not be accepted as evidence of funds.

Funds will not be considered if they are held in a financial institution where the Home Office is unable to make satisfactory verification checks; or the financial institution is not regulated by the appropriate regulatory body for the country in which that institution is operating; or the financial institution does not use electronic record keeping.

Bank or building society statements must cover a 28-day period ending no more than 31 days before the date of your application.

The Home Office would normally expect a banking or building society record to:

• be on official stationery or an electronic record
• be printed or electronic (not hand written)
• include the account holder(s) names
• include the account number
• include the date of the statement
• include information about the bank, such as contact details or a branch code

A statement will show transactions and amount held over time (although this is not the norm in all countries and would not apply to a letter).

A letter would in addition to the above criteria confirm the balance and length of time funds were held rather than providing a record of transactions and:

• Be on headed paper
• Be signed by an official from the financial institution

Certificate of deposit

This is a certificate issued by a bank to confirm that you or your parent have deposited a specific amount of money. Certificates of deposit will normally be accepted if the certificate shows:

• that the certificate of deposit was issued no more than 31 days before your date of application (the date you pay the online visa application fee) and 
• that at least 28 days have elapsed between the date of the deposit and the date of issue of the certificate

Certificates of deposit should also include the following details:

• your name or your parent's name
• The account number
• The financial institution’s name and logo
• The amount of money available

Please note

You will need to provide scans of the financial evidence you plan to use to the visa compliance office at the University before your CAS can be issued. This is so that the University can check that, to the best of their knowledge, your financial evidence shows the correct funds for the 28-day period and is in the correct format. Once you have emailed scanned copies of correct financial evidence and this has been checked, your CAS will be issued. You will be given further information about what you need to do when you have accepted your place at the University. You are not required to send scans of your documents to the University if you are a national of a country that is part of the differentiation arrangements.  See  Appendix ST paragraph 22.1 of the Immigration rules .

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Blog Home Office in the media

https://homeofficemedia.blog.gov.uk/2024/04/17/media-factsheet-evisas/

Media factsheet: eVisas  

eVisas are a key part of delivering a border and immigration system which will be ‘digital by default’ by 2025. This process is already underway, and millions of people in the UK who applied for their visa through the EU Settlement Scheme or used the ‘UK Immigration: ID Check’ app already have an eVisa (digital proof of their immigration status). These changes bring significant benefits to customers, deliver excellent value, and increase the UK immigration system’s security and efficiency.     

An eVisa is an online record of a customer’s immigration permission in the UK, and any conditions which apply. It can be viewed by logging into the online ‘View and prove your immigration status’ service using their UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) account. It is usually linked to a customer’s passport to facilitate straightforward international travel.  

Using a phased approach to implementing digital services, the intention is that by 2025 most customers will have a secure and seamless digital journey when they interact with the UK’s immigration system.    

Over time this will see physical and paper-based products and services replaced with accessible, straightforward online and digital services (such as the ‘view and prove’ service) and products such as the eVisa.    

The Home Office has launched a phased rollout of eVisas to biometric residence permit (BRP). Initially this is to BRP holders by email invitation only, being sent in phases. The service will open to all BRP holders from summer 2024. Customers with BRPs do not need to do anything unless they receive an email, and don’t need to contact the Home Office if they do not receive an email immediately because the service will open to all in the summer.   

The latest information on eVisas is available at www.gov.uk/evisa .  Holders of other physical immigration documents, including (for those who hold indefinite leave to enter or indefinite leave to remain) passports containing vignette visa stickers or ink stamps, and biometric residence cards (BRCs), can also find information there on how to create a UKVI account to access their eVisa. It is free, and straightforward for customers who hold physical and paper documents to create a UKVI account to access their eVisa. Creating a UKVI account will not change, impact or remove customers’ current immigration status or their rights in the UK.    

Customers who already have an eVisa, including anyone granted status through the EU Settlement Scheme, do not need to do anything. This is also the case if a customer holds both a physical document, such as a BRP, and an eVisa. Customers who are not sure if they already have a UKVI account and eVisa can either check here on GOV.UK or refer to their original grant email or letter.   

Further information and future updates, including details of the support available, is available at www.gov.uk/evisa . This will be updated throughout 2024.  

An eVisa partner pack comprising further information and factsheets for stakeholders is also available here to download.     

What is an eVisa?  

An eVisa is an electronic record of a person’s immigration status.    

It removes the need for physical documents such as the biometric residence permit (BRP), ink stamps or vignette visa stickers in passports, or the biometric residence card (BRC).     

It explains the immigration status of the holder, including the conditions of the immigration permission such as any limitations on their right to work.   

Customers can view their eVisa by logging into the view and prove service using their UKVI account and share relevant information about their status securely with third parties, such as employers or private service providers such as letting agencies.  

What are the benefits of eVisas?  

eVisas bring significant benefits, deliver excellent value and increase the UK immigration system’s security and efficiency.  

They will also bring significant benefits to customers who hold an immigration status in the UK:  

• An eVisa cannot be lost, stolen or damaged.  
• Customers can prove their rights instantly, accurately and securely to anyone who requests it while sharing only necessary information.  
• With an eVisa, fewer customers will need to leave their passport with the Home Office while awaiting a decision. eVisas also mean that customers do not need to collect documents like BRPs or wait for these documents to be sent to them.  
• With a UKVI account, customers can easily keep the Home Office updated with any changes in their details or documentation. For example, customers can tell us about changes to their name and nationality, travel document (such as passport), email, telephone and postal address contact details.  
• Customers can access many UK government services and benefits without needing to present proof of immigration status. This is because selected government departments and authorities including the Department for Work and Pensions and the National Health Service in England and Wales, can securely access immigration status information automatically through system to system checks. Immigration data is held securely, and government will never sell customer data. Further information on how the Home Office handles customer data can be found here on GOV.UK .  

It is also simpler for those who need to check someone’s UK immigration status (such as employers and landlords), to use online services, rather than having to maintain awareness of, and look through, different types of physical immigration documents, some of which may be in bad condition, or even fraudulent. As more and more customers create UKVI accounts, checkers can increasingly conduct one quick and simple check using a secure online service on GOV.UK  

When are eVisas launching?   

Although millions of customers already have and use eVisas, including everyone granted status under the EU Settlement Scheme, throughout 2024 customers who currently use physical immigration documents to prove their status and rights in the UK, will be asked to take action to create a UKVI account to access their eVisa.   

This process launched in April 2024, with BRP holders emailed directly with instructions on how to create UKVI account to access their eVisa. These email invitations are being sent in phases, before the service is made available to all BRP holders in the summer. BRP holders who have not yet received an email should not worry as the process will soon be opened to all without an invitation, and there is no need to contact the Home Office in the meantime.  

As we rollout the online process for BRP holders to create a UKVI account to access their eVisa we will send emails to BRP holders when they are able to take action. BRP holders who have not yet received email instructions but have been made aware of the process by friends, family or online forums may find the process does not yet work for them. There is no need to contact the Home Office in this case as the online process will be open for all BRP holders in summer 2024 at www.gov.uk/evisa .  

Holders of other physical immigration documents, such as a passport containing ink stamps or vignette visa stickers, or BRCs can take steps to acquire an eVisa now, and further instructions are available at www.gov.uk/evisa .   

Will this impact British citizens?  

British passport holders and Irish citizens, including those who previously held an immigration status but have since acquired British citizenship, do not need to do anything. British citizens who do not have a British passport because they are dual nationals (excluding Irish passport holders) may need to take action in future regarding how they prove their right of abode. Updates on this will be provided in due course.    

Will the Home Office be communicating about eVisas?   

A comprehensive range of communications activity on the implementation of eVisas is underway and will be delivered throughout 2024.   

This includes a range of direct emails which will be sent, in phases, to BRP holders with instructions on how to create a UKVI account to access their eVisa. We are also proactively engaging with a wide range of targeted stakeholders to engage those impacted by the move to eVisas, and have developed a range of partner pack content (see above) to equip them to communicate widely about eVisa changes.   

We will also be using official communication channels, including videos and regularly updated content on gov.uk to communicate these changes.   

What is a UKVI account? How is it different to an eVisa?    

A UKVI account is a secure way for customers to log into online services such as view and prove, whereas an eVisa is an electronic record of a person’s immigration status.   

Using their UKVI account, customers can view their eVisa and share the relevant information via the online view and prove service, by generating a share code, which provides time-limited access to the relevant data. A person can have a UKVI account but no eVisa, for example, where the application for permission to stay in the UK was refused or expired.   

A customer can also update personal details such as address and contact details in their UKVI account. This service is free, unlike updating physical immigration documents for which customers may be charged. This service is available at: www.update-your-UK-Visas-and-immigration-account-details .  

The UKVI account is currently created automatically for everyone who uses the ‘UK Immigration: ID Check mobile App’ to make an immigration application.    

Customers who already hold a physical document will need to create a UKVI account to access their eVisa and to be able to use the full range of online services.   

As physical documents that evidence immigration status expire, the view and prove service, accessed via the UKVI account, will be the way people can view and prove their immigration status and associated rights in the UK.  

Can you still use a physical document if it expires, and you don’t get an eVisa?    

The expiry of a physical document, for example, a BRP card, does not affect a customer’s immigration status. However, how they prove their status will change from 2025. Customers will have to use our online services to prove their rights in the UK and to do so they will need to create a UKVI account.   

What do customers need to do if they hold a BRP that expires at the end of 2024?  

Customers who have a BRP and are living in the UK will need to create a UKVI account to access their eVisa unless their immigration leave expires before 31 December 2024. From April 2024, BRP holders are being emailed directly with instructions on how to do this. These email invitations are being sent in phases, before the service is made available to all BRP holders in the summer. BRP holders who have not yet received an email should not worry as the process will soon be opened to all without an invitation, and there is no need to contact the Home Office in the meantime. BRP holders should visit www.gov.uk/evisa for the latest information.  

For now, customers should continue to use their BRP as they have previously and visit www.gov.uk/evisa for updates. This includes taking their BRP with them when they travel internationally.     

The expiry of their BRP card does not affect their immigration status. However, how they prove their status will change from 2025.   

Customers who already have an eVisa (a digital immigration status) as well as a BRP, will not need to create a UKVI account, as they already have one. Customers can find out if they already have a UKVI account by checking the email or letter that they were given when they were granted immigration status in the UK or go to www.gov.uk/evisa for further information.   

Should customers whose BRP expires on 31 Dec 2024 before their immigration leave is due to expire, apply now to renew their BRP?    

No, customers should not apply to renew their BRP, as all BRPs issued to customers who hold immigration leave beyond 2024, including renewals, are due to expire on 31 Dec 2024 and will be replaced by the eVisa.    

What should customers do if they’ve lost their BRP?   

If a customer has lost their valid BRP then they should apply for a replacement in the usual way. As with all BRPs, if their leave extends beyond the end of 2024, their replacement BRP will expire on 31 December 2024, and they will need to create a UKVI account to access their eVisa to prove their rights.    

Once you have received your replacement then you should visit www.gov.uk/evisa for details of how to create a UKVI account and access your eVisa.   

If a customer has a BRP but it expires before the end of 2024 what do, they need to do?    

If a customer’s BRP expires before 31 Dec 2024 then their immigration leave may also expire at that point. If it does, and if they plan to remain in the UK then they should make a visa renewal application in the usual way.    

Will a BRP holder be able to use an expired BRP to generate a share code after it has expired but while they still have immigration leave?      

How a customer proves their status will change from 2025 and they should take action to create a UKVI account to access their eVisa before their BRP expires.   

Information on what steps a BRP holder will need to take to create a UKVI account and access their eVisa is available at www.gov.uk/evisa .    

We would encourage all BRP holders to create an account and access their eVisa as soon as it is possible for them to do so.  Where individuals have not created an account before their BRP expires at the end of 2024, we will put in place mechanisms to ensure they are still able to prove their rights while they create an account. Holders of expired BRPs will still be able to use these to create an account.  

BRP holders should take steps to create a UKVI account and access their eVisa before it expires to prevent any unnecessary delays in proving their rights.   

What do legacy paper document holders need to do to evidence their rights in the UK – and what do they need to do to get an eVisa?    

Customers who have indefinite leave to enter or indefinite leave to remain and prove their rights using a passport containing an ink stamp or vignette visa sticker or use another type of legacy paper document should make a ‘No Time Limit’ application.  

As part of the application process customers may need to travel to a UK Visa and Citizenship Application Services Centre (known as a UKVCAS) to provide a photograph, and in some cases provide fingerprints.   

Once an application has been processed successful No Time Limit applicants will be issued with a biometric residence permit (BRP), which can then be used to prove the customer's rights and to create a UKVI account.  

By the end of 2024 No Time Limit applicants will receive an eVisa, rather than a BRP. Further updates on this change will be available in due course.

It is free to make a No Time Limit application, and information on how to do so is available at http://www.gov.uk/biometric-residence-permits/replace-visa-brp  

Why do holders of legacy documents such as passports containing ink stamps or vignette visa stickers need to get an eVisa?    

The border and immigration system is becoming ‘digital by default’, a change that will enhance the customer experience, deliver excellent value, and increase the immigration system’s security and efficiency. This move also reflects a broader societal move towards a digital approach.    

The phasing out of legacy documents, such as passports containing ink stamps or a vignette visa sticker, is a key part of this process, but will bring a range of benefits to customers. This includes the fact that an eVisa cannot be lost or damaged, like a vignette, and there is no need for a potentially costly replacement.   

Customers who replace their legacy document with an eVisa will benefit from the automated access that public bodies, including the Department for Work and Pensions and the National Health Service in England and Wales will securely have to their immigration status, which will streamline access to key services.    

Creating a UKVI account to access an eVisa will also help to prevent unnecessary delays when travelling internationally (if travelling on the document linked to the UKVI account).    

If legacy document holders do not acquire an eVisa by 2025, then they may experience challenges and delays in proving their rights and when travelling internationally.    

What do eVisas mean for international travel?   

Customers should continue to carry their in-date physical immigration documents with them when they travel internationally. Customers who already have an eVisa should tell the Home Office about any travel document on which they intend to travel using the Update your UK Visas and Immigration account details’ service at www.gov.uk/update-uk-visas-immigration-account-details .‘ if this is not already linked to their account.   

During 2024, the Home Office is taking steps to allow carriers, including transport operators such as airlines, ferry, and international train operators, to securely and automatically access the immigration status of passengers travelling on their services when they present their travel document which is linked to their UKVI account.   

This will automate the existing routine checks completed whenever a passenger presents their travel document when travelling internationally. This will provide a more convenient customer journey, and enhanced border security.   

While the UK government is delivering a digital border and immigration system including plans to trial contactless entry using facial recognition only, there are no current plans to replace physical passports with digital equivalents.  

Will all international carriers have automatic access to immigration details? Or will it just be airlines?    

From later this year, carriers operating across air, rail & sea will be able to securely access passenger immigration information. Further updates will be provided in due course.  

Is there help and support for vulnerable groups?   

We are developing our digital products and services for use by all, including vulnerable users.     

Customers can contact the UK Visas and Immigration Contact Centre, which provides telephone and email support to those using the online immigration status services.    

This includes supporting users through the online journey by:    

• helping them to access or recover their account.  
• helping them to update their personal details.   
• sharing status on behalf of individuals if they are unable to do so themselves.

The UK Visas and Immigration Contact Centre will also be able to assist users who are experiencing technical issues with their online immigration status, and where necessary, enable individuals’ status to be verified through alternative means.  

Individuals can nominate a ‘helper’ and give them limited access to their account, so that they can assist with creating a UKVI account, completing details to access an eVisa, and with any immigration application. Where a person is unable to manage their own affairs due to, for example, age or disability, a ‘proxy’, who is authorised, can create and manage the account on behalf of the person.  

Our Assisted Digital service is also available to provide individual support by phone and email to individuals who require assistance with IT-related aspects of creating a UKVI account.    

Additionally, we work collaboratively with a range of third-party stakeholders on the move to eVisas. Many of these organisations offer support to individuals requiring assistance in creating a UKVI account and accessing their eVisa.    

We are exploring options to provide additional eVisa support and will provide further updates in due course.   

What support is there for those who are digitally excluded?   

Assisted Digital is a free service provided by UKVI to support customers in the UK who are digitally excluded to create a UKVI account and access their eVisa. Customers are classified as being digitally excluded if they have access needs or if they have low or no digital skills.     

Access needs can include any disability that requires support to use online services, a lack of device or a lack of internet access.   

Will children be impacted by the move to eVisas?   

In the case of children, the expectation is that their parent or guardian will have access to their UKVI account and use the online services on their behalf, as they would have looked after and used a BRP/C on the child’s behalf. They can subsequently transfer ownership of the account and access to the online services when the child reaches majority.   

Parents and guardians can create a UKVI account for their children at the same time they create an account for themselves.   

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Immigration system to change for all UK visa holders

The home office is phasing out all physical immigration documents by 2025.

Border control at Gatwick Airport, south of London. The UK Is phasing out physical immigration status documents. Getty Images

People living in the UK who have physical immigration documents called Biometric Residence Permits (BRPs) are now required to create a UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) account to access their eVisa, a digital proof of their immigration status.

As part of Home Office plans to modernise the border and introduce a digital immigration system, all people with BRP will be invited to change over their paperwork in summer 2024, with eVisas being required for nearly all visa holders living in the UK by 2025.

Most physical documents, such as biometric residence permits and cards (BRPs/BRCs) are being gradually phased out, with BRPs expiring at the end of 2024 and physical immigration documents will be gradually halted by 2025.

The UK government says the process straightforward for people who hold physical and paper documents to create a UKVI account to access their eVisa.

Creating a UKVI account will not change, impact or remove people's current immigration status or their rights in the UK, the Home Office says.

UK officials say the introduction of eVisas are central to making the UK safer by reducing the risk of fraud, loss and abuse of physical documents, strengthening border security , and providing a more secure way to prove immigration status. It will also meet government plans to create a contactless border.

“We’ve already taken really significant steps to digitally transform the border and immigration system, and this wider roll-out of eVisas is a key part of that process,” Tom Pursglove, Minister for Legal Migration and the Border, said on Wednesday.

“Replacing physical immigration documents with eVisas will ensure firm control over who comes here to live, work or study, strengthening border security and preventing abuse of the immigration system, while delivering cost-savings for UK taxpayers.”

Henley Passport Index: World's most powerful – in pictures

1. Singapore has the world's most powerful passport, according to the latest Henley Passport Index. Photo: Unsplash

People who already have an eVisa don’t need to do anything as the Home Office will automatically make the change but they should continue to update their UKVI account with any changes to personal information such as new passport or contact details.

The process is free, something which will come as a relief for UK visa holders who have seen costs rise rapidly in recent years amid a changing system of rules that requires applicants to prove higher earnings.

Last week, the minimum income threshold for a UK resident to be able to bring their spouse to the country is set to rise from £18,600 to £29,000, and will increase to £38,700 next spring.

People are also being advised to continue to carry their in-date physical immigration documents with them when they travel internationally, until they expire.

To avoid delays when travelling, people who already have an eVisa should tell the Home Office about any passport on which they intend to travel using the online ‘Update your UK Visas and Immigration account details’ service on Gov.uk , if this is not already linked to their account.

An eVisa is securely linked with the holder’s unique biometric information in the same way as a BRP/BRC, to protect against identity fraud. Also, unlike a physical document, they cannot be lost, stolen or tampered with.

They can be accessed anywhere and in real time, putting people in control of their own data and allowing them to swiftly update the Home Office with new contact or passport details.

The eVisa also allows government departments to check a person's immigration status to determine their eligibility for access to public services.

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eVisa rollout begins with immigration documents replaced by 2025

Millions are being invited to switch from physical immigration documents to an eVisa – a key step in creating a modernised and digital border.

Photo: Getty Images

The next stage in the government’s plan to modernise the border and introduce a digital immigration system is under way, as the Home Office moves closer to the implementation of eVisas for nearly all visa holders living in the UK by 2025.

From today (17 April 2024), the Home Office will begin to send emails to all those with physical immigration documents, called biometric residence permits (BRPs), inviting them to create a UK Visas and Immigration ( UKVI ) account to access their eVisa, a digital proof of their immigration status.

Invitations will be issued in phases before the process opens to all BRP holders in summer 2024.

eVisas are central to making the UK safer by reducing the risk of fraud, loss and abuse of physical documents, strengthening border security, and providing a more secure way to prove immigration status. This will pave the way for increased automation to deliver the government’s vision for a contactless border.

It is free and straightforward for customers who hold physical and paper documents to create a UKVI account to access their eVisa. Creating a UKVI account will not change, impact or remove customers’ current immigration status or their rights in the UK.

Minister for Legal Migration and the Border, Tom Pursglove MP, said:  

We’ve already taken really significant steps to digitally transform the border and immigration system, and this wider rollout of eVisas is a key part of that process.  Replacing physical immigration documents with eVisas will ensure firm control over who comes here to live, work or study, strengthening border security and preventing abuse of the immigration system, while delivering cost savings for UK taxpayers.

eVisas bring substantial benefits to the UK public and to visa customers. They are secure, and, unlike a physical document, cannot be lost, stolen or tampered with. They can be accessed anywhere and in real time, putting customers in control of their own data and allowing them to swiftly update the Home Office with new contact or passport details.

An eVisa is securely linked with the holder’s unique biometric information in the same way as a BRP or BRC , to protect against identity fraud.

People checking immigration status will be able to conduct one quick and simple check using a secure online service on GOV.UK. Selected public bodies are already able to access immigration status to determine eligibility for public services automatically through system to system checks.

eVisas are tried and tested, with millions of customers already using them across routes including the EU Settlement Scheme ( EUSS ). Most physical documents, such as biometric residence permits or cards (BRPs or BRCs), are being gradually phased out, with most BRPs expiring at the end of 2024.

This move to eVisas is in line with other countries which have replaced, or are planning to replace, their physical immigration documents with digital forms of immigration status.

Customers who already have an eVisa do not need to do anything as we make this change, but should continue to update their UKVI account with any changes to personal information, such as a new passport or contact details. Customers should continue to carry their in-date physical immigration documents with them when they travel internationally, until they expire.

Physical immigration documents will be gradually phased out by 2025, as we transition to a fully digital border and immigration system for new and existing customers. This will deliver enhanced security and cost savings for the UK public and greater convenience for customers and status checkers. 

Customers who already have an eVisa should tell the Home Office about any passport on which they intend to travel using the online Update your UK Visas and Immigration account details service on GOV.UK, if this is not already linked to their account, to avoid delays when travelling.

As part of the wider transformation of the UK border and immigration system, the government has already introduced the Electronic Travel Authorisation ( ETA ) scheme. ETA is a digital permission to travel to the UK for those wanting to visit but who do not need a visa. It gives the government greater ability to screen travellers in advance of travel and prevent those who pose a threat from coming here.

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