UK Visa from Bangladesh (2026): VFS Dhaka Guide, Requirements, Fees, Processing Time

🇬🇧 Contact goFLY for UK Visa Assistance

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WhatsApp +880 1713-289175
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Office 1 Shukrabad Road, Motiur Nibash, Beside New Model Degree College, Opposite Metro Shopping Mall, Dhaka 1207

Last updated: January 2026 | Author: Md Bangir Hossian (Bablu) • Senior Visa Consultant (10+ Years, 3,000+ Visas) | ✅ Verified against official GOV.UK & VFS sources on January 21, 2026

Service Scope

goFLY Limited — a trusted visa processing agency in Bangladesh — provides comprehensive support for UK visa applications via VFS Global (Dhaka/Sylhet/Chattogram). Our experienced team assists with Visitor Visa (tourist/family/business), Student Visa, Family/Partner routes, and guidance for Work/Skilled Worker employer-led routes.

❌ We Do NOT Process

Direct job placements or sponsor work permits. UK work visas require a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) from a licensed UK employer. Any agency promising "guaranteed UK work visa package" without a real job offer is running a scam. goFLY only outlines the work visa process after you have genuine employer sponsorship.

⚠️ Our Honest Approach

We declined 60+ visa applications in 2025 during free consultations because those cases had weak documentation or unrealistic expectations. We would rather lose the sale than take your money for a likely refusal. This honest approach has earned us 90%+ success rate on cases we accept.

🛠 Free Smart Tools for UK Visa Applicants

Use These Before You Apply

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⚡ Quick Answers

Visa required?
✅ Yes — Bangladeshi passport holders must obtain visa before travel
Where to apply?
GOV.UK online form + VFS Global biometrics (Dhaka/Sylhet/Chattogram)
Biometrics required?
Yes — Face and fingerprints at VFS centre
Processing time
Visitor/Student/Work: ~3 weeks | Priority: ~5 days | Family: 12-24 weeks
Visitor visa fee
6-month: £115 | 2-year: £432 | 5-year: £771 | 10-year: £963
Student visa fee
£490 + Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS)
TB test required?
Yes — for visas longer than 6 months (Student/Work/Family)
Tracking
GWF reference via VFS "Track Your Application"; UKVI emails decision
Need help now?

Where to Apply — UK Visa from Bangladesh

❌ Direct Embassy Applications NOT Accepted

You MUST apply online via GOV.UK and book a biometrics appointment at VFS Global. All applications go through VFS centres in Bangladesh — direct embassy submission is not available for standard applicants.

Application Process Overview

UK visa applications follow a two-step process: online application on GOV.UK followed by in-person biometrics at VFS Global centres.

  • Step 1 - Online: Complete application and pay visa fee on GOV.UK
  • Step 2 - VFS: Book biometrics appointment at VFS Global (Dhaka, Sylhet, or Chattogram)
  • Documents: Upload via portal or use VFS Document Scanning Assistance service
  • Tracking: Use GWF reference number on VFS tracker; UKVI emails final decision

VFS Global Centres in Bangladesh

  • Dhaka: Main centre with full services including Priority options
  • Sylhet: Available for applicants in northeastern regions
  • Chattogram: Available for applicants in southeastern regions
⚠️ Always Verify Before Visiting

VFS locations, hours, and available services may change. Always check the official VFS UK Bangladesh website for current information and appointment booking.

UK Visa Types for Bangladeshi Citizens

Visa TypePurposeDurationKey Documents
Standard VisitorTourism, family/friends, business meetings, medical6 months to 10 yearsCover letter, bank statements, accommodation, travel plan
StudentDegree programs, courses at licensed sponsorsCourse duration + wind-downCAS, finance proof, English test, TB certificate
Skilled WorkerEmployment with licensed sponsorUp to 5 years (extendable)Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS), salary proof, English
Health & Care WorkerNHS and care sector jobsUp to 5 years (extendable)CoS, job in eligible occupation, English
Family/SpouseJoin partner/spouse in UK33 months initialRelationship proof, income threshold, English, TB
TransitPassing through UK24-48 hoursOnward ticket, visa for destination (if required)

Standard Visitor Visa — Step-by-Step Process

The Standard Visitor visa is the most common visa type for Bangladeshi travelers visiting the UK for tourism, visiting family/friends, business meetings, or medical treatment.

1

Choose Your Category

Determine if Standard Visitor is correct for your purpose: tourism, family visit, business meetings, medical treatment, or academic activities. Different sub-categories may apply.
2

Apply Online on GOV.UK

Complete the application form on GOV.UK, create a UKVI account, and pay the visa fee online. Save your GWF reference number.
3

Book VFS Biometrics Appointment

Select a VFS UK Visa centre in Bangladesh (Dhaka/Sylhet/Chattogram). Choose optional services like Priority processing, document scanning, or courier if needed.
4

Prepare & Upload Documents

Gather all required documents (see checklist below). Upload via the online portal or purchase VFS Document Scanning Assistance service.
5

Attend Biometrics Appointment

Arrive at VFS with passport and appointment confirmation. Provide fingerprints and photo. VFS captures your biometric photo on-site.
6

Track & Collect

Track application using GWF on VFS website. UKVI emails your decision. Collect passport from VFS or via courier service.
💡 goFLY Expert Tip

Dates, funds, and purpose should align across your application form, flight bookings, hotel reservations, leave letter, and bank statements. Inconsistencies are one of the most common refusal reasons. First-time visitors should apply for 6-month visa; long-term visas are easier to obtain with previous UK travel history.

Visitor Visa — Document Checklist

🪪 Application & Identity

  • Online Form: Completed on GOV.UK with GWF reference
  • Passport: Valid with at least one blank page; previous passports if available
  • Photo: VFS captures at biometrics; carry 45×35 mm only if specifically instructed

✈️ Purpose & Travel Plan

  • Cover Letter: Purpose, dates, cities, accommodation, cost bearer, ties to Bangladesh
  • Accommodation: Hotel bookings or host address in UK
  • Travel Plan: Provisional flights (avoid non-refundable until visa approved)
  • Itinerary: Day-by-day plan if tourism; meeting agenda if business

💰 Financial Evidence

  • Bank Statements: Last 6 months, stamped by bank, showing salary trail/savings
  • Solvency Certificate: From your bank
  • Sponsor Funds: If someone else is paying, their bank statements and sponsorship letter

💼 Employment/Status Proof

  • Employed: NOC/leave letter, payslips, tax documents, employment ID/contract
  • Self-employed: Trade licence/registration, TIN, business bank statements
  • Students: Enrollment letter, student ID, vacation approval if applicable

👨‍👩‍👧 Visiting Family/Friends (Additional)

  • Invitation Letter: From UK-based host with relationship explanation
  • Host's Status: UK passport/BRP/share code + proof of address
  • Relationship Proof: Photos, communication records, relationship documents
  • Sponsorship Evidence: If host is covering costs, their financial documents

🏥 Medical Visitor (If Applicable)

  • Hospital Letter: Appointment confirmation, treatment plan, cost estimate
  • Payment Proof: Funds or insurance to cover medical costs
❌ Common Document Red Flags
  • Bank statements without regular transaction pattern — raises questions
  • Large sudden deposits before application — looks like borrowed money
  • Dates mismatch between form, flights, and leave letter — inconsistency concern
  • Weak ties to Bangladesh — no property, job security, or family obligations shown

Student Visa — UK Student Visa from Bangladesh

Core Requirements

  • CAS (Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies): From a licensed UK sponsor institution
  • Unconditional Offer: Must have unconditional offer before CAS is issued
  • Finance Proof: Fees + living costs for 28 days (typically £1,334/month London, £1,023/month outside London — verify current rates)
  • TB Test: Required for stays over 6 months at UK-approved clinic
  • English Language: IELTS or approved test, or exemption per sponsor requirements

Fees & Costs

  • Visa Fee: £490 (outside UK)
  • Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS): £776/year (student rate) — verify current tariff
  • TB Test: Clinic fee (varies by provider)
  • VFS Services: Optional add-ons as needed
⚠️ Dependant Rules Changed

Rules changed in 2024/25 — most taught course students cannot bring dependants unless on a research postgraduate programme. Always confirm the latest policy on GOV.UK before making family plans.

💡 Student Visa Success Factors

UKVI evaluates genuine study intent, clear academic progression (why this course after your previous studies), transparent funding sources, and sponsor institution integrity. Gap years should be explained clearly.

Work Visa — Skilled Worker & Employer-Led Routes

Key Requirements

  • Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS): Your UK employer (licensed sponsor) must issue a CoS
  • Salary Threshold: Must meet minimum salary for your SOC code (thresholds increased significantly in 2024/25)
  • English Language: Must prove English ability (unless exempt)
  • TB Test: Required for stays over 6 months
  • Funds: May need to show £1,270 in savings (unless sponsor certifies maintenance)

Fees (Guide)

  • Skilled Worker (up to 3 years): From ~£719
  • Skilled Worker (over 3 years): Higher fee band applies
  • Immigration Health Surcharge: £1,035/year (Health & Care workers discounted/exempt)
  • Priority: May be available depending on location and capacity
❌ Beware of Job Scams

goFLY does NOT provide job placement or sponsor applications. We can only outline the work visa process after you have a legitimate CoS from a licensed UK employer. Any agency promising "guaranteed UK work visa" without a real job offer is a scam.

Family/Partner Visa — UK Spouse Visa from Bangladesh

Key Requirements

  • Relationship Proof: Marriage/civil partnership certificate; cohabitation history if applicable
  • Minimum Income: Sponsor must meet income threshold (increased in 2024 with staged rises — verify current threshold on GOV.UK)
  • English Language: Applicant must meet requirements unless exempt
  • TB Test: Required at UK-approved clinic
  • Accommodation: Proof of adequate housing in UK

Fees & Timeline

  • Visa Fee: Approximately £1,846 (outside UK) — confirm current tariff
  • Immigration Health Surcharge: For visa duration (£1,035/year)
  • Processing Time: Often 12-24 weeks — plan accordingly
⚠️ Income Threshold Changes

The minimum income requirement increased significantly in 2024 with further staged rises planned. Always verify the current threshold on GOV.UK before applying. Savings can sometimes be used to supplement income.

Fees & Processing Times

Visitor Visa Fees

Visa TypeFee (GBP)
Standard Visitor — 6 months£115
Standard Visitor — 2 years (long-term)£432
Standard Visitor — 5 years (long-term)£771
Standard Visitor — 10 years (long-term)£963
Priority (add-on)~£500 (where available)
Super Priority (add-on)~£1,000 (where available)

Processing Times

RouteTypical Timeline
Visitor (standard)~3 weeks after biometrics
Visitor (Priority)~5 working days (limited slots)
Visitor (Super Priority)Next working day (limited slots)
Student~3 weeks (standard) after biometrics
Work (Skilled Worker)~3 weeks (standard) after biometrics
Family/SettlementOften 12-24 weeks
Emergency/medicalCase-by-case; no guaranteed fast track
⚠️ Always Verify Current Fees

Fees and IHS rates increased in 2024 with more changes possible. Pay visa fee in GBP online; VFS services charged in BDT. Always verify on GOV.UK Visa Fees before paying. All fees are non-refundable regardless of outcome.

TB Test Requirements

Who Needs TB Test?

  • Required: All visas for stays over 6 months (Student, Work, Family/Settlement)
  • Not Required: Standard Visitor visa (6 months or less stay)

Where to Get Tested

  • Approved Clinics Only: Use UK-approved clinics in Bangladesh (IOM and other approved providers)
  • Certificate: Upload the official TB certificate with your application
  • Validity: TB certificate valid for 6 months from issue date
💡 TB Test Tip

Book your TB test early as appointments can be limited. Get tested after receiving your CAS (for students) or CoS (for workers) but before your biometrics appointment. Check GOV.UK TB Test page for approved clinics in Bangladesh.

Appointments, Upload & Tracking

Booking Your Appointment

  • VFS Appointment: Book slot during your GOV.UK application journey
  • Centres: Choose Dhaka, Sylhet, or Chattogram based on your location
  • Optional Services: Priority processing, document scanning, courier, SMS updates

Document Upload

  • Self-Upload: Use the upload portal after payment on GOV.UK
  • VFS Assistance: Purchase Document Scanning Assistance if you prefer in-person help
  • Format: PDF format, clear scans, organized by category

Tracking Your Application

  • GWF Number: Your unique reference starting with GWF
  • VFS Tracker: Track on VFS website with your GWF
  • Decision Email: UKVI emails your decision directly
  • Collection: Collect passport from VFS or via courier (if purchased)

eVisa & Vignette After Approval

  • Visitor/Short-stay: Visa vignette placed in your passport
  • Long-stay routes: 90-day vignette to enter UK, then immigration status moves to UKVI eVisa (digital) replacing BRP cards
  • UKVI Account: Create account and keep contact details updated

Common Mistakes That Cause Refusal

MistakeWhy It's a ProblemSolution
Non-refundable tickets before visaFinancial loss if refusedUse reservations/holds until visa approved
Funds without transaction trailRaises questions about sourceMaintain consistent banking; explain large deposits
Wrong visa categoryApplying for Visitor when intending to work/studyChoose correct route for your true purpose
Weak ties to BangladeshSuggests immigration intentShow property, job security, family obligations
Missing TB test/IHSApplication incomplete for long-stay visasComplete both before biometrics appointment
Inconsistent informationForm vs documents don't matchCross-check all dates, names, and figures
Unclear purposeVague reasons for visitProvide detailed cover letter and supporting evidence

Official Resources

ResourceLinkPurpose
Apply for UK Visagov.uk/apply-uk-visaOnline application and payment
Check if You Need Visagov.uk/check-uk-visaVisa requirement checker tool
VFS Global Bangladeshvisa.vfsglobal.com/bgd/en/gbrAppointments, tracking, services
Visa Feesgov.uk/visa-feesCurrent fee schedule
Immigration Health Surchargegov.uk/healthcare-immigration-applicationIHS calculator and payment
TB Test Clinicsgov.uk/tb-test-visaApproved clinics list
UKVI Guidancegov.uk/browse/visas-immigrationAll visa routes and guidance

Frequently Asked Questions

Apply online on GOV.UK, pay the visa fee, book VFS biometrics appointment, upload documents via portal or use VFS scanning service, attend biometrics, then track with your GWF reference. UKVI emails decision and you collect passport from VFS or via courier.

Cover letter explaining purpose, hotel/host accommodation, travel plan, 6-month bank statements, employment/student documents, invitation letter (if visiting family/friends), and proof of strong ties to Bangladesh. Travel insurance is recommended but not mandatory.

Standard Visitor 6-month: £115. Long-term: 2 years £432, 5 years £771, 10 years £963. Student: £490 + IHS. Priority add-on ~£500, Super Priority ~£1,000 when available. Always verify current fees on GOV.UK.

Visitor/Student/Work standard: ~3 weeks after biometrics. Priority: ~5 working days (limited slots). Super Priority: next working day. Family/Settlement: often 12-24 weeks. Times vary by volume and additional checks.

Use your GWF reference number on the VFS tracking page. UKVI also emails decisions directly. Keep your contact details updated in your UKVI account.

Yes, for visas over 6 months stay (Student, Work, Family). Use a UK-approved clinic in Bangladesh and upload the certificate with your application. Not required for Standard Visitor visa.

No. Work routes are employer-led requiring a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) from a licensed UK sponsor. Beware of agencies promising work visas without real job offers — these are scams.

Processing: ~3 weeks standard after biometrics. Cost: £490 visa fee + IHS (student rate ~£776/year) + TB test + any VFS services. You also need to show funds for tuition + living costs for 28 days.

Bangladeshi nationals may need a Direct Airside Transit Visa (DATV) or Visitor in Transit visa depending on route and airline. Use the GOV.UK visa checker tool for your exact situation.

VFS captures your photo at biometrics appointment. Carry a 45×35 mm photo only if you are specifically instructed. Unlike some countries, you typically don't need to bring photos to your VFS appointment.

Ready to Apply for Your UK Visa?

goFLY's experienced team maintains 90%+ success rate on accepted cases. We provide honest assessment, GOV.UK form guidance, VFS appointment strategy, document review, and step-by-step guidance for Visitor, Student, and Family visa applications.

Free consultation available — we will honestly tell you your chances before you pay.

📍 1 Shukrabad Road, Motiur Nibash, Opposite Metro Shopping Mall, Dhaka 1207
🕐 Sun-Thu & Sat: 10 AM – 6 PM | Fri: Closed | Directions

Disclaimer

⚠️ Important Notice

This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or immigration advice. UK visa policies, fees, forms, appointments, and processing times can change without notice. All decisions remain at UKVI discretion.

goFLY Limited is NOT affiliated with UK government, UKVI, or VFS Global. We do not arrange employment or sponsor work permit applications. Always verify on official sites:

Verified: January 21, 2026 | Next review: April 2026