April 1st, 2020
If you are in the UK and your leave expires between 24 January 2020 and 31 May 2020, you can apply to switch to a long-term UK visa from within the UK.
This includes those who would not normally be able to switch to a visa from within the UK, and would normally need to apply from abroad.
Unfortunately, it seems that others who do not meet these requirements will need to apply from abroad. There is currently great difficulty in applying for an UK visa from abroad as many UK visa centres around the World are either closed or are offering a limited service.
You will need to meet the same visa requirements and pay the UK application fee.
You can apply online. The terms of your leave will remain the same until your application is decided.
UK Visa and Citizenship Application Centres (UKVCAS) and Service and Support Centres (SSCs) are temporarily closed because of coronavirus (COVID-19). You cannot book an appointment.
If you’ve already made an appointment
If you’ve already made an appointment to attend a UKVCAS service point, or a Service and Support Centre (SSC), you’ll be contacted and told what to do next.
Your immigration status will not be negatively affected as a result of you not being able to attend an appointment.
If you are considering submitting an application or your application is currently with the Home Office and you require advice or assistance, please do not hesitate to contact us.
