Can I apply for and recieve a UK visa if I have a South African passport, while living in Russia?
I'm studying in Krasnoyarsk (Siberia) and I want to visit a friend in the UK. How can I go about getting a visa, without traveling all the way back to SA?
Best Answer
There is no requirement to apply for a UK visa from a country you're a citizen of. Applying from a country where you are resident and not a citizen is common, but it is not mandatory even to be resident for visit visas. Since you will need to give evidence of your studies in Russia, it will be easier to apply from Russia, since the visa application centre will be familiar with whatever documentation you provide.
You can make applications for a visit visa, a short-term study visa, an EEA family permit, Tier 5 or Tier 1 (Exceptional Talent) entry clearance in any visa application centre, British diplomatic mission or consular post overseas where entry clearance applications are accepted.
You should be present legally in the country or territory you’re applying from.
It seems to me that your closest option will be the application centre in Novosibirsk, a mere 800km away!
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Can I apply for a UK visa while in another country?
You can apply for a UK visit visa in any country, whether you are resident there or not. Note however, that it may take a longer to process your application, if you are not resident.Can you apply for UK visa from Russia?
At present, VFS Global is working in partnership with the UK Border Agency (UKBA) and together they operate five Visa Application Centres in Russia, where Russian citizens and those with residence in Russia can submit their UK visa applications.Can a South African get a UK visa?
South African passport holders need a visa to visit the UK. Fortunately, the entire UK visa application process is explained in this detailed guide. You need to first apply online and continue your visa application at your nearest UK visa application centre. Processing time can take up to 3 weeks.What visa does a South African need to work in the UK?
Those who are from South Africa or any other country outside the EEA (European Economic Area) and Switzerland and have been offered a skilled job in the UK, can apply for a UK Skilled Worker Visa. To be eligible, you need to be employed by a UK-based sponsor, that holds a valid Sponsorship Licence.5 Countries You Can Visit with Valid UK Visa on Pakistani Passport
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