5. The WHM Visa Application Procedure

Interested in WHM visa? Don't know where to start? Take a deep breath…we will go though it step by step.

STEP 1: Research about the visa
Different countries have different procedures. Let’s look at the UK procedure (I can talk about it because I have applied!)… We will assume that you are applying to UK as a holidaymaker.

The first step is reading about the visa itself. Go to the Official website, and read everything that is written about the visa. After reading it, you should know whether you qualify, whether you have (or can arrange) enough funds, and if you are excited enough to start preparing the documents.

If possible, take time to talk to a few visa consultants about this visa... I did, and it helped me a great deal.

I cannot stress enough on the importance of research. The Internet is your new best friend. Google the terms "Working Holidaymaker" and gobble up the results in the first 10 pages. Thoroughly read all websites and forums on the internet about this visa. One great forum link to read is Travellerspoint.com. (it's quite a lengthy thread, you might need days to read it fully, but it's worth it... only if you read the recent messages)


STEP 2: Preparation of mandatory documents
There are six basic documents you need to prepare first. To know what they are, go to the next post OR click at http://whmvisa.blogspot.com/2008/10/6-six-basic-documents-you-need-to-apply.html

Finished reading the post? Those are the basic documents you need to apply. In that order, start preparing documents.

Get your bank balance in order – no sudden deposits or withdrawals. Start taking printouts of pay slips. If you are friendly with your superior, get a NOC letter from him. This time is mainly to make decisions – are your ready to apply? What are the dates you want to travel? When do you want to make an appointment at the consulate?

Once you are sure about your plans, start researching about destinations in UK. Check out a cheap flight and a good hostel… using a credit card, you can block the rooms on tentative dates. All these will go into your application package, and prove that you are serious about holidaying in UK.


STEP 3: Making an appointment
Based on your country of residence, you can either make an online appointment or submit the application in person. Fore more details, go to http://www.visa4uk.fco.gov.uk/ApplyNow.aspx

You might or might not be called for an interview. It is better to expect it though, and not make any sudden travel plans in the next 3 months.


STEP 4: Preparation of application package
Documents needed to apply for a non-immigrant UK visa, as listed in the UK Home Office website:

- Clean, injury free thumbs (yours) – for the biometric

- A Valid passport, with at least one blank page

- A 45mm x 35mm color photo of yourself

- Completed application form (INF 15)

- Proof of finance available

- Detailed Holiday Plan

- Other supplementary, pertinent information (confirmed Flight tickets and hostel/hotel rooms, NOC from Current employer, Job offer after you return back, Property documents/FDs in your name etc.)

If your passport has limited validity, it is best to extend it before applying for the visa.

Some consulates have photo studio facilities (Chennai has one). You can get a passport sized photo there… if you don’t want to, you can find the UK visa photo specifications in THIS LINK and take one yourself.

Write a nice covering letter. Introduce yourself to the visa officer and write honestly about your intent to holiday in UK. Don't forget to give a declaration that you will be back to your home country when the visa expires.

First take a rough printout of the application form and practice writing on it with a pencil. You will lose your initial nervousness in this way, and you can start writing the original copy after you are relaxed.

All bank statements must be original and taken 2-5 days before your appointment date. Payslips are compulsory, you got to include them in the application package. IT forms, previous job history / reliving letters and sometimes, even degree certificates may be asked.

Your holiday plan needs to be 2 pages (minimum) and 4 pages (maximum). Be as detailed as you can.


STEP 5: Submit Application at local BHC
Put all documents in a folder and submit it at your local BC. Now, it is all over! You just need to wait for interview call. You can also check your visa application status online.

Processing times vary, depending on the country. India has horrible waiting period… months, sometimes even up to a year, I heard. Australia issues working visas in 2 working days (am so jealous!). It’s better not to put too much hope on this visa… if you get it, well and good, if not, you should not be heartbroken. And please don’t resign your job or sell your house before you get the visa!

The idea is to take it easy and enjoy the process of applying. ALL THE BEST!

Lastly, I would like to say that these are not exclusive to UK alone… you can follow these five steps to ease the application procedure, irrespective of the country you are applying to.

LINKS

Lisa's tips about applying to WHM visa

Old link about the WHM visa in UK

Official link about the new Youth Mobility Scheme in UK