VAT25 - Visitors seeking visas or settlement for other countries

This is internal guidance for use by entry clearance (visa) staff on the handling of visa applications made outside the UK for visit and transit visas. It is a live document under constant review and is for information only.

VAT25.1 Visitors seeking visas for other countries

Applicants seeking entry in order to obtain visas for travel to other countries should be treated as visitors and all the provisions of the Rules should be strictly applied. The ECO must be satisfied that the applicant is genuinely seeking leave for the purpose stated and that the duration of the visit will not exceed 6 months.

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VAT25.2 Visitors seeking settlement visas for a third country

Where an applicant is seeking entry to the UK in order to obtain a visa for settlement in a third country, the applicant must show that:

  • their visa application for that third country will be decided in a short and clearly defined period; and
  • the applicant has returnability to another country valid until or beyond the period of the proposed stay in the UK.

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