Introduction
Many Pakistanis dream of visiting, studying, or working in the United Kingdom. The UK is home to top universities, good jobs, and family ties for many people in Pakistan. But getting a UK visa can feel confusing because there are many visa types, each with different rules, fees, and steps.
This easy guide explains 10 common ways to get a UK visa from Pakistan, with clear costs, requirements, and practical tips so you don’t waste time or money.
Why This Guide Matters
Every year, thousands of visa applications from Pakistan are delayed or refused due to mistakes or missing documents. By following this guide, you’ll know:
✅ Which visa suits you best
✅ What documents you need
✅ How much each visa costs
✅ Tips to avoid common errors
1. Standard Visitor Visa
Who can apply?
Tourists
Visiting family or friends
Short business trips
Steps:
Apply online: www.gov.uk/standard-visitor
Pay the visa fee: £115 (~PKR 40,000) for up to 6 months.
Book your appointment at a UK Visa Application Centre in Pakistan.
Submit documents and biometrics.
Wait for a decision (usually 3 weeks).
Practical Tip:
Show you have strong ties to Pakistan — like a job, family, or property.
Common Mistake:
Booking flights before your visa is approved — it’s not needed!
2. Short-Term Study Visa
Who can apply?
Students taking a short course (up to 6 months).
English language courses up to 11 months.
Steps:
Get a course acceptance letter from the UK school.
Apply online: www.gov.uk/visa-to-study-english
Pay the fee: £200 (~PKR 70,000) for 6 months / £200–£400 for longer English courses.
Book biometrics and submit documents.
Tip:
Show proof you can pay for your stay and your return ticket.
3. Student Visa (Tier 4)
Who can apply?
Students enrolled in full-time courses longer than 6 months.
Steps:
Get a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) from your UK university.
Apply online: www.gov.uk/student-visa
Pay visa fee: £490 (~PKR 170,000).
Pay Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS): £776/year (~PKR 270,000).
Book biometrics and submit documents.
Tip:
Maintain enough bank balance for tuition + living expenses for at least 28 days.
4. Skilled Worker Visa
Who can apply?
Skilled professionals with a job offer from a UK employer.
Steps:
Get a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) from your employer.
Apply online: www.gov.uk/skilled-worker-visa
Pay visa fee: £719–£1,500 (~PKR 250,000–520,000) depending on your job length.
Pay IHS: £1,035/year (~PKR 360,000).
Book biometrics and attend an interview if asked.
Tip:
Check if your job is on the UK Shortage Occupation List to get lower fees.
5. Health and Care Worker Visa
Who can apply?
Qualified doctors, nurses, and health professionals.
Steps:
Get a CoS from an approved UK employer.
Apply online: www.gov.uk/health-care-worker-visa
Pay visa fee: £284–£551 (~PKR 100,000–190,000).
IHS is free for health workers!
Submit biometrics.
Tip:
Use official NHS job sites or approved care companies — avoid scams.
6. Family Visa (Join Partner or Parent)
Who can apply?
Spouse, fiancé(e), or children of UK citizens or residents.
Steps:
Check your partner’s income meets the minimum requirement.
Apply online: www.gov.uk/uk-family-visa
Pay visa fee: £1,846 (~PKR 650,000).
Pay IHS: £1,035/year (~PKR 360,000).
Tip:
Provide genuine relationship proof — photos, chats, calls.
Warning:
Fake documents lead to bans.
7. Graduate Visa
Who can apply?
Students who completed a UK degree.
Steps:
Must apply while your student visa is still valid.
Apply online: www.gov.uk/graduate-visa
Pay visa fee: £822 (~PKR 290,000).
Pay IHS: £1,035/year (~PKR 360,000).
Tip:
This visa lets you work in the UK for 2–3 years after graduation.
8. Start-Up Visa
Who can apply?
Entrepreneurs starting a new, innovative business.
Steps:
Get an endorsement from an approved UK endorsing body.
Apply online: www.gov.uk/start-up-visa
Pay visa fee: £378 (~PKR 135,000).
Pay IHS: £624/year (~PKR 220,000).
Tip:
Your business idea must be unique and different from existing markets.
9. Innovator Founder Visa
Who can apply?
Experienced business founders with an approved business idea.
Steps:
Secure endorsement and funding.
Apply online: www.gov.uk/innovator-founder-visa
Pay visa fee: £1,191 (~PKR 420,000).
Pay IHS.
Tip:
This route can lead to settlement after 3 years if your business succeeds.
10. Temporary Work Visa (Charity, Seasonal, Creative)
Who can apply?
For short-term work like charity, farming, or creative jobs.
Steps:
Get a CoS from your UK sponsor.
Apply online: www.gov.uk/temporary-worker-visa
Pay visa fee: £298 (~PKR 105,000).
Pay IHS: Depends on length of stay.
Tip:
Popular for farm work or charity placements.
✅ Practical Tips for Any UK Visa
Always apply through official UK government sites: www.gov.uk
Do not submit fake bank statements — they are checked!
Double-check all forms before submitting.
Keep copies of all documents.
Don’t book flights or hotels until your visa is approved.
Be honest in your interview.
✅ Conclusion
Getting a UK visa from Pakistan is possible if you choose the right visa, prepare well, and follow each step carefully. Now you know 10 practical ways, with fees and helpful links.
If you have any questions or want to share your experience, feel free to comment below or visit the official UK visa site at www.gov.uk/browse/visas-immigration.
Good luck with your UK journey!
✅ 100 Questions & Answers: How to Get a UK Visa from Pakistan
📌 GENERAL QUESTIONS
1️⃣ Q: Who needs a visa to visit the UK from Pakistan?
A: All Pakistani citizens need a valid UK visa before travelling.
2️⃣ Q: Can I get a UK visa on arrival?
A: No, you must apply and be approved before travelling.
3️⃣ Q: How long does it take to get a UK visa from Pakistan?
A: Standard processing is around 3 weeks, but it can vary.
4️⃣ Q: Can I track my UK visa application?
A: Yes, you can track it online via www.gov.uk/visa-processing-times.
5️⃣ Q: Where do I apply for a UK visa from Pakistan?
A: Online at www.gov.uk/apply-uk-visa and submit biometrics at a visa centre.
6️⃣ Q: Which cities have UK Visa Application Centres in Pakistan?
A: Islamabad, Karachi, Lahore, Mirpur.
7️⃣ Q: Do I need an agent to apply for a UK visa?
A: No, you can apply yourself on the official site.
8️⃣ Q: Is the visa fee refundable if rejected?
A: No, visa fees are non-refundable.
9️⃣ Q: Can I reapply if my UK visa is refused?
A: Yes, but fix the reason for refusal first.
🔟 Q: How early should I apply for my UK visa?
A: At least 3 months before travel.
📌 TOURIST & VISITOR VISAS
1️⃣1️⃣ Q: What is a UK Standard Visitor Visa?
A: For tourism, family visits, short business trips.
1️⃣2️⃣ Q: How long can I stay on a UK visitor visa?
A: Up to 6 months per visit.
1️⃣3️⃣ Q: How much is the Standard Visitor Visa fee?
A: £115 (~PKR 40,000).
1️⃣4️⃣ Q: What documents do I need for a visitor visa?
A: Valid passport, bank statement, invitation (if visiting family), travel plan, ties to Pakistan.
1️⃣5️⃣ Q: Do I need confirmed tickets to apply?
A: No, not required.
1️⃣6️⃣ Q: Can I extend my visitor visa in the UK?
A: Rarely. It’s possible only in special cases.
1️⃣7️⃣ Q: Can I work on a visitor visa?
A: No, working is not allowed.
1️⃣8️⃣ Q: Can I study on a visitor visa?
A: Only for a short course up to 30 days.
1️⃣9️⃣ Q: Do I need hotel bookings to apply?
A: Not required but showing accommodation plans helps.
2️⃣0️⃣ Q: What if I overstay my visitor visa?
A: Overstaying can get you banned for future visas.
📌 STUDENT VISAS
2️⃣1️⃣ Q: Which visa is for long-term study in the UK?
A: The Student Visa (formerly Tier 4).
2️⃣2️⃣ Q: How long is a Student Visa valid?
A: For the duration of your course + extra time after.
2️⃣3️⃣ Q: What is a CAS?
A: Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies — issued by your UK university.
2️⃣4️⃣ Q: How much is the Student Visa fee?
A: £490 (~PKR 170,000).
2️⃣5️⃣ Q: What is the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS)?
A: A fee for healthcare — £776/year for students.
2️⃣6️⃣ Q: Can I work on a Student Visa?
A: Yes, part-time up to 20 hours/week during term time.
2️⃣7️⃣ Q: Can my spouse come with me?
A: Yes, but only if you study at a postgraduate level or higher.
2️⃣8️⃣ Q: How much money must I show for a Student Visa?
A: Tuition fees + £1,023/month for living costs (London: £1,334/month).
2️⃣9️⃣ Q: How old can my bank statement be?
A: Funds must be held for at least 28 days.
3️⃣0️⃣ Q: Can I apply without IELTS?
A: Many universities require it — check your offer letter.
📌 WORK VISAS
3️⃣1️⃣ Q: What is the Skilled Worker Visa?
A: For professionals with a UK job offer.
3️⃣2️⃣ Q: Do I need sponsorship for a work visa?
A: Yes, your UK employer must sponsor you.
3️⃣3️⃣ Q: How much does a Skilled Worker Visa cost?
A: £719–£1,500 depending on your stay length.
3️⃣4️⃣ Q: How much is the IHS for workers?
A: £1,035/year (~PKR 360,000).
3️⃣5️⃣ Q: Can my family join me on a work visa?
A: Yes, dependants are allowed.
3️⃣6️⃣ Q: Can I switch jobs on this visa?
A: Yes, but your new employer must sponsor you.
3️⃣7️⃣ Q: What is a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS)?
A: A unique reference number given by your employer.
3️⃣8️⃣ Q: What is the Health and Care Worker Visa?
A: For doctors, nurses, and health workers.
3️⃣9️⃣ Q: Is IHS free for health workers?
A: Yes, you don’t pay the surcharge.
4️⃣0️⃣ Q: Can seasonal farm workers go to the UK?
A: Yes, with the Seasonal Worker Visa.
📌 FAMILY VISAS
4️⃣1️⃣ Q: Can I join my husband or wife in the UK?
A: Yes, with a Family Visa.
4️⃣2️⃣ Q: How much is the Family Visa fee?
A: £1,846 (~PKR 650,000).
4️⃣3️⃣ Q: How much is the IHS for family visas?
A: £1,035/year per person.
4️⃣4️⃣ Q: What proof do I need for a spouse visa?
A: Marriage certificate, photos, chats, call logs, proof of genuine relationship.
4️⃣5️⃣ Q: Can I work on a spouse visa?
A: Yes, you can work full time.
4️⃣6️⃣ Q: Can my fiancé(e) come to the UK before marriage?
A: Yes, with a fiancé(e) visa — valid for 6 months.
4️⃣7️⃣ Q: Do I have to marry in the UK?
A: Yes, if you use the fiancé(e) visa.
4️⃣8️⃣ Q: What is the financial requirement for a spouse visa?
A: UK partner must earn at least £18,600/year.
4️⃣9️⃣ Q: Can my children join me?
A: Yes, children under 18 can apply as dependants.
5️⃣0️⃣ Q: Can my parents visit me?
A: They can visit on a Standard Visitor Visa.
📌 BUSINESS & INVESTMENT VISAS
5️⃣1️⃣ Q: What is the Start-Up Visa?
A: For people starting an innovative business.
5️⃣2️⃣ Q: Do I need money for the Start-Up Visa?
A: No minimum funds but you need endorsement.
5️⃣3️⃣ Q: What is the Innovator Visa?
A: For experienced founders with an endorsed business idea.
5️⃣4️⃣ Q: How much does the Innovator Visa cost?
A: £1,191 (~PKR 420,000).
5️⃣5️⃣ Q: Do I need investment funds for the Innovator Visa?
A: Yes, at least £50,000 investment.
5️⃣6️⃣ Q: Can I get permanent residence through the Innovator Visa?
A: Yes, after 3 years if conditions are met.
5️⃣7️⃣ Q: What is a Temporary Work Visa?
A: For charity work, creative jobs, seasonal work.
5️⃣8️⃣ Q: How long is a Seasonal Worker Visa valid?
A: Up to 6 months.
5️⃣9️⃣ Q: Can I extend a Seasonal Worker Visa?
A: No, you must return after your stay.
6️⃣0️⃣ Q: Can I switch to another visa from Seasonal Work?
A: Usually not. You must apply from your home country.
📌 VISA INTERVIEW & BIOMETRICS
6️⃣1️⃣ Q: Do I need an interview for a UK visa?
A: Not always, but you must submit biometrics.
6️⃣2️⃣ Q: What are biometrics?
A: Fingerprints and a photo at the visa centre.
6️⃣3️⃣ Q: What questions can they ask?
A: Reason for visit, ties to Pakistan, funds, travel plans.
6️⃣4️⃣ Q: How should I dress for the visa centre?
A: Formal or smart casual — be neat.
6️⃣5️⃣ Q: What if I miss my appointment?
A: Reschedule as soon as possible.
6️⃣6️⃣ Q: Can I take someone with me?
A: No, except for children or special needs.
6️⃣7️⃣ Q: How long does the appointment take?
A: Usually 15–30 minutes.
6️⃣8️⃣ Q: Do I get my passport back immediately?
A: No, it stays with UKVI until your decision.
6️⃣9️⃣ Q: How do I collect my passport?
A: You’ll get an email or SMS when it’s ready for pickup or delivery.
7️⃣0️⃣ Q: Can I get my visa faster?
A: Yes, priority services are available for extra fees.
📌 DOCUMENTS & EVIDENCE
7️⃣1️⃣ Q: Should my documents be in English?
A: Yes, or provide certified translations.
7️⃣2️⃣ Q: How recent should my bank statement be?
A: Within the last 28 days for most visas.
7️⃣3️⃣ Q: Can I use my parents’ bank account?
A: Only if you provide proof of relationship and support.
7️⃣4️⃣ Q: Do I need travel insurance?
A: Not required but recommended.
7️⃣5️⃣ Q: What if I don’t have enough funds?
A: Your application may be refused.
7️⃣6️⃣ Q: Should I buy tickets before my visa?
A: No. Wait until your visa is approved.
7️⃣7️⃣ Q: How many photos do I need?
A: Usually none — biometrics include a digital photo.
7️⃣8️⃣ Q: Can I submit fake documents?
A: Never — it can lead to bans and blacklisting.
7️⃣9️⃣ Q: How do I prove my relationship for a family visa?
A: Marriage certificate, photos, chats, visits, children’s birth certificates.
8️⃣0️⃣ Q: How do I prove accommodation?
A: Hotel booking, invitation letter, rental agreement.
📌 AFTER ARRIVAL
8️⃣1️⃣ Q: Can I open a bank account in the UK?
A: Yes, with proof of address and ID.
8️⃣2️⃣ Q: Can I change visa types while in the UK?
A: Some visas allow switching, but check before.
8️⃣3️⃣ Q: Can I bring my pet to the UK?
A: Yes, but strict rules apply — check www.gov.uk/take-pet-abroad.
8️⃣4️⃣ Q: Can I apply for permanent residency?
A: Some visas lead to settlement after 5 years.
8️⃣5️⃣ Q: Can I apply for UK citizenship?
A: Yes, after settlement and living legally for a certain period.
8️⃣6️⃣ Q: What is BRP?
A: Biometric Residence Permit — your UK ID card.
8️⃣7️⃣ Q: Do I need to register with the police?
A: Some nationalities do — check your visa letter.
8️⃣8️⃣ Q: Can I switch employers?
A: On some work visas, yes — new sponsor needed.
8️⃣9️⃣ Q: Can I do multiple jobs?
A: Depends on visa type — check conditions.
9️⃣0️⃣ Q: What if I lose my BRP?
A: Report it and apply for a replacement immediately.
📌 OTHER IMPORTANT QUESTIONS
9️⃣1️⃣ Q: What if my visa expires while I’m in the UK?
A: Apply to extend or switch — don’t overstay.
9️⃣2️⃣ Q: What if my visa is refused?
A: You can appeal or reapply if eligible.
9️⃣3️⃣ Q: Are there age limits for UK visas?
A: Some have minimum age (like fiancé(e) visas: 18+).
9️⃣4️⃣ Q: Is biometric data stored?
A: Yes, it’s kept by the UK Home Office.
9️⃣5️⃣ Q: Do children need visas too?
A: Yes, all ages must have a visa.
9️⃣6️⃣ Q: Can my child study while I’m on a work visa?
A: Yes, dependent children can attend school.
9️⃣7️⃣ Q: What is a vignette sticker?
A: A 30-day sticker in your passport to enter the UK.
9️⃣8️⃣ Q: What is a visa refusal letter?
A: A letter explaining why your visa was refused.
9️⃣9️⃣ Q: Can I appeal a refusal?
A: Some visas allow appeals; others only allow new applications.
1️⃣0️⃣0️⃣ Q: Where can I get official UK visa information?
A: Always use the official site: www.gov.uk/browse/visas-immigration.
