UK Visa for Nepalese: The 2026 Comprehensive Guide

Popular UK Visa Routes for Nepalese Citizens

1. Student Visa (Tier 4)

With huge numbers of Nepalese students heading to UK universities, this is a primary route.

• Requirement: Unconditional Offer (CAS) from a UK university.
• Financial Requirement: Must show tuition fees + living costs (£9,207 outside London or £12,006 inside London) held for 28 days in a recognized Nepalese bank.
• English Language: IELTS for UKVI (usually 6.0 overall) or university assessment.
• Post-Study Work: Allows you to stay for 2 years (Graduate Route) after completing your degree to find work.

2. Skilled Worker Visa (Health & Care)

Many Nepalese nurses and care workers are recruited by the UK's NHS and private care homes.

• Requirement: Job offer from a UK employer with a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS).
• Salary: Must meet the minimum threshold (typically £23,200 for care workers, higher for others).
• English: IELTS UKVI or OET (for nurses).
• Benefit: Lower visa fees and exemption from the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS).

3. Standard Visitor Visa

For tourism, visiting family ("Gurkha" families especially), or short business trips.

• Validity: 6 months usually.
• Key challenge: Proving you will return to Nepal (job, property, family ties in Nepal).

The Application Process: Step-by-Step

Step 1: Online Application

Complete the form at gov.uk. You will pay the visa fee and the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) online unless exempt.

Step 2: Biometrics at VFS Global

You must book an appointment at the VFS Global center in Thamel, Kathmandu.

• Location: Chhaya Center, Charsibari Marg, Thamel, Kathmandu.
• Service Options: Standard service (free appointment) or Premium Lounge (extra NPR cost).
• Document Scanning: You can upload documents yourself online (free) or pay for scanning assistance at VFS.

Step 3: Financial Evidence (The #1 Rejection Trap)

For Nepalese applicants, proving funds is where many applications fail.

• Bank Statements: Must be from a bank regulated by Nepal Rastra Bank.
• 28-Day Rule: The required money must have been in the account for 28 consecutive days ending no more than 31 days before your application date.
• Source of Funds: If a parent is sponsoring, you need their consent letter and birth certificate proving relationship. Large recent deposits need explanation.

Common Rejection Reasons for Nepalese Applicants

1. "Funds Not Generally Available"

The UKVI officer may doubt that the money in your bank is genuinely yours to spend. This often happens if there's a huge "borrowed" deposit right before the 28-day period.

2. Non-Genuine Student (Credibility Interview)

You may be interviewed via video link. If you cannot explain your course details, why you chose that specific university, or how it helps your career in Nepal, you may be refused as a "not genuine" student.

3. Discrepancy in Documents

Differences in name spellings between academic transcripts, passport, and TB certificate can cause delays or refusals. Ensure consistency.

Related Details for Gurkha Families

Nepal has a unique connection to the UK via the Gurkha regiments. Family members of serving or retired Gurkhas often have specific settlement routes.

Ensure you are applying under the correct specific category (e.g., "Settlement: Armed Forces" vs Standard Visitor), as mixing these up is a common error.

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