Frequently asked questions for life in the UK and new arrivals, plus trusted links
Short, sourced answers to the questions our community asks most. Newest first.
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The Schengen country to apply to is the one of the main destination; if that cannot be determined, the country of first entry is responsible. Long multiple-entry visas are given in steps: 1 year, 2 years, 5 years. The length can be shortened. Appointment bots are not official.
As of October 2026, GOV.UK: the 6-month visa is £135; long-term visas are £506 for 2 years, £903 for 5 years and £1,128 for 10 years. Each visit can last up to 6 months. A shorter visa than requested can be given and the fee is not refunded. A decision usually takes about 3 weeks.
As of October 2026, GOV.UK says you do not need to pay to set up a UKVI account. You need a passport, the application number and a smartphone; the person or someone helping them can set it up. If someone else opens it, the details must be updated later.
As of October 2026, GOV.UK: a passport, the details in the online form and biometrics at an appointment. Certified translations are required for documents not in English or Welsh. The page does not ask for flight or hotel bookings. An adviser is not required; you apply on GOV.UK.
GOV.UK says that to change job or employer on a Skilled Worker visa you must apply to update your visa. From inside the UK a decision usually takes up to 8 weeks. The page does not require you to leave the UK. If a new employer says "apply from abroad", check the official page and an adviser.
The GOV.UK guidance says that if you have limited leave, apply before it expires and the decision will come after it ends, Section 3C continues your leave until a decision. From 8 October 2026, changing route after a fee waiver request can affect 3C protection. Personal cases need an adviser.
GOV.UK says that for a Graduate visa you must be in the UK, apply before your Student visa expires, and your provider must have reported your course as complete. Applications up to 31 Dec 2026 get 2 years, from 1 Jan 2027 get 18 months. A decision usually takes about 8 weeks.
As of October 2026 common routes are: bank transfer, digital accounts such as Wise and Revolut, HSBC Premier's free transfers between your own accounts, and cash-pickup firms. Which is cheapest changes by day and amount: compare the total the recipient gets.
The UK is an exception that allows for voluntary social security contributions in Turkey without the requirement of residency in Turkey. However, this must be evaluated alongside retirement conditions, healthcare rights, and employment status.
As of October 2026, official pages say Section 21 no-fault evictions have ended in England (since 1 May 2026). Rent can rise once a year with at least 2 months' notice. Deposits must be protected within 30 days. Right to rent applies in England only.