Guide to Residency in England

Obtaining a residency visa in England is not always easy, but our Guide to Residency in England gives newcomers an overview of the steps involved and advice from others who have already navigated the process.

Obtaining Residency Status in England

• Determine the Type of Visa Required
  • Visit the official UK Visas and Immigration website to understand the different types of visas.
  • Common visa types include work visas, student visas, family visas, and investor visas.
• Check Eligibility
  • Use the Check if you need a UK visa tool to confirm your eligibility.
  • Review the specific requirements for the visa category you have chosen.
• Gather Required Documents
  • Passport or other valid travel identification.
  • Proof of financial means to support yourself in the UK.
  • Evidence of accommodation.
  • Any additional documents specific to your visa type (e.g., job offer letter for work visas, acceptance letter for student visas).
• Apply for a Visa
  • Visit the Apply for a UK visa page.
  • Fill out the online application form.
  • Pay the visa fee online.
  • Print out the application form and book an appointment at a visa application center.
• Attend Visa Application Center Appointment
  • Submit your application form and required documents.
  • Provide biometric information (fingerprints and photograph).
• Wait for a Decision
  • Processing times vary; check the visa processing times for your country.
• Arrive in the UK
  • Ensure you have your passport and any other required documents with you.
  • Go through immigration control at the airport, where your passport will be stamped with your leave to enter.
• Apply for a Biometric Residence Permit (BRP)
  • If your visa is for more than 6 months, you will need a BRP.
  • You will receive instructions on how to collect your BRP after you arrive in the UK.
• Apply for a National Insurance Number (NIN)
  • Call the National Insurance number application line on 0800 141 2075 to arrange an appointment.
  • Attend the 'Evidence of Identity' interview at your local Jobcentre Plus.
  • Bring required documents such as your passport, BRP, and proof of address.
• Register with a Local GP
  • Find a local GP surgery and check if they are accepting new patients.
  • Complete a registration form and provide proof of address and identification.
• Open a Bank Account
  • Choose a bank and make an appointment to open an account.
  • Bring your passport, BRP, proof of address, and any other required documents.
• Consider Applying for Settled or Pre-Settled Status
  • If you are an EU, EEA, or Swiss citizen, you may need to apply for the EU Settlement Scheme.
  • Visit the EU Settlement Scheme page for more information.

This list provides a general overview of the process. Always refer to the official UK government website for the most accurate and up-to-date information.

What tips do expats have about residency and visas in UK?

"E.U. residents have no problem staying in England, and Commonwealth countries have an easier time getting a visa, but a huge crackdown on many nationalities have made visa applications difficult for them," commented one expat living in Sheffield, England.

"Visa requirements for England differ depending on the individual’s nationality, the purpose of travel and the length of stay. When planning a visit to the UK, the first step is to check the visa requirements and make sure that you have the right visa by the time of entry. There are several types of visas available, including visitor visas and student visas, which must be obtained before arrival. The application process involves completing an online application and providing the necessary documentation, such as a valid passport, past travel documents and a current photo, to verify the purpose of travel. The process for applying for permanent residency in England varies depending on the individual’s particular circumstances. In general, an applicant is usually required to have lived and worked in the country for at least five years before applying. The process begins with the submission of a permanent residence application alongside supporting documents, such as a valid passport and documents that prove an employment history in the UK. Further evidence to support an individual’s long-term commitments and intentions to remain in the UK ,Such as property ownership, may also be requested," mentioned one expat living in England.