People from around the world can now make faster applications for British visas with the roll out of the UK’s online programme.

The digital system, called Access UK, takes applications from over 180 countries in 10 languages on any mobile device.

Computer and Mobile Devices
The process began back in 2014 when the Home Office introduced a new digital application service for customers in China to apply for visitor visas online.

Since then it has been introduced for different countries and is now fully open with over half a million visitor visa applications received so far by the new service.

It promises to make visa applications quicker using easy to follow check lists and steps which list the documents required to make an application and is so flexible that any mobile device can be used.

‘I’m delighted to report that this global roll out has been achieved on time and without compromising on the quality of the service,’ said Simon Peachey, UK Visas and Immigration’s director of International Visa Operations.

The service will be rolled out to a further 13 lower volume locations over the coming weeks. Locations such as the Falkland Islands have unique application processes and are not yet able to use Access UK.

Applicants must be outside of the UK, the Channel Islands and the Isle of Man and work for those applying to visit, work, study or join a family member or partner in the UK. Those applying for a certificate of entitlement to prove their right of abode in the UK can also use the digital system. It replaces the Visa4UK website.

The online programme allows applicants to check what kind of visa to apply for and what documents they will need. It involves filling in an application from in English, paying the visa fee, printing out the application form and also booking an appointment as an appropriate visa application centre.

All form can be saved and finished at another time.