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You can apply and pay for most visas online, but you must get your visa approved before you travel to Scotland.
If you have family members who want to come to Scotland with you, they must fill out their own application forms. Each person needs a separate application.
You can apply for your child if you have parental responsibility for them. You can apply for a family member if you have their permission.
Find out how to apply for a visa (gov.uk)
Check our advice on finding the right visa.
When to apply for your visa
The earliest you can apply is normally:
- Three months before your planned travel date for Visitor visas
- Three months before your work start date for most Work visas
- Six months before your course start date for Student visas
Find out when to apply for a visa (gov.uk)
How much applying for a visa will cost
The cost of your visa depends on the type you need.
Work out the cost of your visa application (gov.uk)
How long a visa application takes
How long the application takes depends on the type of visa. Check the visa processing times (gov.uk)
You may be able to pay for a faster decision on a visa. Find out how to get a faster decision on your visa (gov.uk)
eVisas
Most physical immigration documents are being replaced by eVisas.
When you apply for a visa, the Home Office will ask you to create an online UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) account. You will access your eVisa on your UKVI account.
You might need to create your online account during or after the application process. It depends what kind of visa you’re applying for.
Check our advice on finding the right visa.
The content on this page is provided by Citizens Advice Scotland.
Header image photo credit: Scottish Enterprise