UK Visas and Immigration

What Does UKVI Stand For?

IELTS for UKVI is a Secure English Language test (SELT) approved by the United Kingdom Visas and Immigration (UKVI) for visa applications to the United Kingdom. It is required for UKVI applicants whether seeking a student (previously known as Tier 4), work or immigration visa.

The following tests are required by the UKVI:

• IELTS for UKVI Academic

• IELTS for UKVI General Training

• IELTS for UKVI Life Skills A1

• IELTS for UKVI Life Skills B1

IELTS for UKVI is a key requirement to apply for any type of visa in the UK.

What is the purpose of IELTS for UKVI?

IELTS for UKVI is an approved Secure English Language Test (SELT) for visa applications to the UK. You need a valid English Language test for UK Visa to study, work or migrate to the UK. If you wish to get a UK Family Visa, you will also need to sit IELTS for UKVI test.

What is the difference between IELTS and IELTS for UKVI?

The only difference between IELTS and IELTS for UKVI is that the IELTS for UKVI test is approved by the UKVI for work, education and immigration purposes. Your test result document is issued slightly different to show that you have taken the IELTS for UKVI test at an approved test centre.

Scores required by UKVI visa applicants

The score you will need for UKVI applications, known as the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) level, will depend on the visa you are applying for. (Visit GOV.UK for further guidance on proving your English language abilities).

•  Understand your IELTS score and see how IELTS helps you to prepare.

What are the UKVI requirements?

Living in the UK:

• British citizenship

Find out more at

GOV.UK: British citizenship overview

• Family route

Find out more at

GOV.UK: Indefinite leave to remain (UK family) overview

• Family visa (extension)

Find out more at

GOV.UK: Family visa (extension) overview

• Indefinite leave to remain

Find out more at

GOV.UK: Indefinite leave to remain overview

Working in the UK:

• Health and Care Worker visa

Find out more at

GOV.UK: Health and Care Worker visa overview

• Innovator Founder visa

Find out more at

GOV.UK: Innovator Founder visa overview

• International Sportsperson visa

Find out more at

GOV.UK: International Sportsperson visa overview

• Minister of Religion visa (T2)

Find out more at

GOV.UK: Minister of Religion visa (T2) overview

• Representative of an Overseas Business visa

Find out more at

GOV.UK: Representative of an Overseas Business visa overview

• Skilled Worker visa

Find out more at

GOV.UK: Skilled Worker visa overview

Studying in the UK

If you're studying with a Higher Education Provider, please refer to the GOV.UK: Student visa overview.

Student visa:

• Below degree level

Find out more at

GOV.UK: Student visa overview

• Degree level or above

Find out more at

GOV.UK: Student visa overview

How long is the UKVI visa processing?

UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) starts processing your application once you either:

• verify your identity and submit your documents and application online using the UK Immigration: ID Check app. (You’ll be notified if you can use this).

• attend your appointment at a visa application centre (VAC) to provide your fingerprints and a photograph (biometric information).

UKVI visa processing time depends on the type of visa you apply to. Visit GOV.UK: Visa processing times: applications outside the UK to learn more about UKVI visa processing times.

Common mistakes to avoid in UKVI applications

When applying for a UK visa, even small errors can lead to delays or rejections. Here are some of the most common mistakes applicants make and how to avoid them:

• Submitting the wrong English test

Always confirm the specific English language test required for your visa category. Make sure it is a UKVI-approved IELTS test (for example, IELTS for UKVI Academic or General Training).

• Not booking through an approved centre

Book your IELTS for UKVI test only through UKVI-approved test centres. Booking through an unapproved centre will invalidate your results for immigration purposes.

• Incorrect documentation

Double-check the list of required documents for your visa category. Use a checklist or consult an immigration advisor to ensure you don’t miss critical items like passport copies, proof of funds or your English test results.

• Misunderstanding visa categories

Carefully read about each visa type or get professional advice if you’re unsure to avoid rejection or complications down the road.

UKVI contact and support

You can contact UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) for support regarding visa applications, immigration status or other related inquiries through their official website here.

Contact us for more information or personalised guidance—we’re here to help!