Guidance

Information on processing visa applications to the UK from The Gambia

Published 28 November 2022

This guidance was withdrawn on

It is out of date.

From 15 November 2021 most entry clearance visa applications from Gambian nationals will be subject to additional checks and it may take longer than usual to get a decision.

If you are not a Gambian national or you are a Gambian national applying on one of the following visa routes your decision waiting time won’t be affected:

  • all routes: compassionate grounds
  • Appendix FM
  • certificate of entitlement to the right of abode
  • family reunion
  • replacement BRP (biometric residence permit)
  • returning resident
  • transfer of conditions
  • visit: organ donor
  • visit: private medical treatment
  • Windrush

The priority visa service is currently suspended at Banjul visa application centre. If you’re applying from The Gambia you will not be able to use this service.

If you need to travel urgently to the UK for compassionate reasons, you will need to apply for a visa in the usual way including submitting biometrics at the visa application centre. Contact UK Visas and Immigration for help.