Where do I apply?

Generally, you should apply for an Entry Clearance at the UK mission in the country where you are normally and legally resident. This is particularly important if you are applying to come to stay in the UK for a long time, or for settlement. If you are staying only temporarily in the country where you apply, the visa office may not accept your application, or there may be a long delay before a decision on your application is made.

When do I apply?

We recommend that you apply at least six weeks, but not more than three months, before your proposed date of travel, especially if you are travelling on business or planning to study in the United Kingdom.

How do I apply?

Step 1:  

Complete an online application form at Visa4UK

Step 2:  

E mail us at appointments.tehran@fco.gov.uk  to make an appointment to submit the necessary supporting documents, pay the fee and provide biometric data. Your e mail must give your full name, passport number, GWF application reference number from your online application, and the type of visa you are applying for. The visa section is open for submissions by appointment only from Sunday to Thursday between 07:30 and 10:30 hrs. We will allocate you the next available appointment - we regret we will not be able to meet requests for particular dates or times. At your appointment you will need to submit your application and supporting documents and we will also take electronic fingerscans and a digital photograph. Only the individual making the application will be allowed entry to the visa section, unless the applicant is a child under 18,or needs assistance due to a physical or other disability.

Please also note the following:

• You will not be admitted before your appointment time
• If you arrive more than 30 minutes late for your appointment this will be cancelled and you will need to re-schedule;
• Sponsors can only accompany applicants where they are under the age of 18, elderly or infirm and requiring assistance.

Step 3:

The British Embassy Visa Section is on Jomhuri-e Eslami. On the day of your appointment to submit your biometric data and supporting documents present your e mail appointment confirmation to the security staff at the entrance to the British Embassy Visa Section. They will give you a bank payment slip.Take the payment slip and pay the correct visa fee in cash at Bank Tejarat, Naderi Branch, on Bobby Sands Street, opposite the Embassy.

Step 4:

Take your stamped payment receipt back to the Visa Section where you will enter for your submission appointment. You will also need to bring your printed online application form, passport, photo and supporting documents. All documents must be originals and in English. Documents not in English must be provided with a certified English translation signed and dated by an official translator. You must provide an additional photocopy of each document you submit. Originals will be returned once your application is decided.

Step 5:

Submit your application and enrol your biometrics. Once this is done we will give you a collection slip with a date to return to pick up your decision. We will call you if we need any more information to decide your application, but we hope to reach a decision on the majority of cases based on the papers you provide.