If you have applied for a UK visa, there are instances where you might be eligible for a refund. The UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) has laid down certain criteria that you must meet to be eligible to get a refund for your unused visa fees. In this guide, we will provide you with all the information about UK visa refunds that you need to know.

Key Takeaways

• If your visa application gets rejected, you may be eligible for a refund of your visa fee.
• If you have applied for a visa but did not provide your biometric data, you can request a fee refund.
• You may also be eligible for a refund if you have paid more than once for the same application.
• The refund process may take up to 28 days or more, depending on the payment method you used.

Who is eligible for a UK visa refund?

The UKVI has laid down criteria for those who are eligible for a UK visa refund. Here are some of the circumstances that might make you eligible for a refund:

Refused visas

If your visa application gets refused or rejected by the UKVI, you can claim a refund of your visa fee. The refund is usually made to the person who paid for the visa, and the process may take around 28 days.

Biometric residence permit (BRP) refunds

If you have applied for a UK visa but did not provide your biometric data, you can request a fee refund. This includes cases where:

• You applied for a visa but did not enrol your biometric information.
• You withdrew your application before attending an appointment to enrol your biometric information.

Other refunds

You may also be eligible for a refund if you have paid more than once for the same application. In some cases, you may also be eligible for a refund of the Immigration Health Surcharge.

How to request a UK visa refund?

The process to request a UK visa refund depends on how you made the payment for your visa application. Here are the steps to follow:

Paid Online

If you paid for your visa online, you would need to complete the refund form available on the UK visa application center website. Make sure you have the following information before you start:

• Your payment reference number
• Your online application reference number
• Your email address
• The reason for your refund request

Once you have all the information, you need to complete the application and attach all supporting documentation. The process may take around 28 days, depending on the payment method you used.

Paid by cash or check

If you paid your visa fee by cash or check, you would need to apply by post. You will need to fill in the refund request form, attach all supporting documentation, and post it to the address mentioned on the form. The process may take around 28 days or more.

Frequently asked questions

Can I get a refund if I cancel my application?

No, if you cancel your application, you will not be eligible for any refund.

How long does the refund process take?

The refund process may take around 28 days or more, depending on how you made the payment for your visa application.

Can I request a refund if I have already used my visa?

No, if you have already used your visa, you will not be eligible for any refund.

Conclusion

Getting a UK visa refund can be a straightforward process if you meet the eligibility criteria set by the UKVI. If you think you are eligible for a refund, make sure you collect all the required documents before applying. This guide has provided you with all the information you need to know about UK visa refunds, and we hope it has been helpful to you.