UK Visa and Citizenship Application Services

When you apply for a visa, settlement (‘indefinite leave to remain’) or citizenship in the UK, you’ll usually need to use UK Visa and Citizenship Application Services (UKVCAS).

Use UKVCAS to provide:

  • your biometric information (fingerprints and photo)
  • supporting documents for your application

You’ll be told if you need to use UKVCAS when you apply.

What you need to do

You’ll usually need to attend an appointment at a UKVCAS service point to provide your biometric information.

You can provide your supporting documents either by:

  • uploading them into the UKVCAS online service
  • having them scanned at your UKVCAS appointment

If you’re applying to the EU Settlement Scheme, you must upload your supporting documents when you apply. You will not be able to scan them at your UKVCAS appointment.

When you do not need an appointment

You may not need to attend a UKVCAS service centre if all of the following apply:

  • you’re in the UK
  • you have a valid biometric residence permit (BRP) or a biometric residence card (BRC)
  • you’ve previously provided your biometric information
  • you’re applying for a specific visa - for example a Graduate visa, Student visa or Skilled Worker visa

If you do not need an appointment, you’ll get an email explaining how to submit a photo and your supporting documents. If you cannot send the information, you’ll be able to book an appointment.

Making your appointment

You’ll need to create a UKVCAS account when you apply and make your appointment online.

Service point locations and costs

You can only attend a service point if you have an appointment. 

Check service point locations.

How much you pay depends on the type of service point and whether you need extra services.

You can pay extra for:

  • out of hours or weekend appointments
  • next day or same day appointments if your application is urgent
  • extra services, for example document translation or an interpreter

Your appointment

When you go to your appointment, you’ll need to bring:

  • a printed copy of your appointment confirmation document with a QR code
  • your passport or travel document
  • other supporting documents (unless you’ve already uploaded them online)

You’ll get a list of supporting documents you need to provide when you submit your application.

Family members

If your application includes family members, you must all go to an appointment together.

Children under 16

Children under 16 must go to the appointment with the person named as the ‘responsible adult’ on their application.

The responsible adult must bring photo ID with them. This must be a:

  • passport
  • photo driving license
  • national identity card
  • UK Biometric Residence Permit

If the responsible adult is not the parent or legal guardian (for example they are a member of staff from the child’s school) they must also bring written proof of responsibility for the child from:

  • the parent or legal guardian
  • a registered foster carer or social services representative

Getting a decision

You will not get a decision on your application at your appointment. How long a decision takes depends on what you applied for.