Apply and wait

I have finally applied for my new Tier 4 student visa. Yes, finally. It’s something I had expected to do more than a month ago, but plans don’t always work out the way we want them to!

The delayed application was caused by several small glitches and frustrations, but there’s no point in dwelling on it all so I won’t. (Well, not here; not today.) Instead, I’ll let you know what happens next!

Now that I’ve submitted my electronic application (Cost: $492) I need to attend a biometrics appointment. That appointment will consist of being fingerprinted and photographed at the Yakima USCIS office next Tuesday, as the UK government contracts with other countries to process those important little things. (Well, assuming the government shutdown doesn’t mean I get turned away at the door!)

After my biometrics are done, I will send in my hardcopy supporting documents along with an additional $150 to prioritise my case. (I know that sounds like bribery, but it’s a legitimate service upgrade!) Documents, if you wondered, will include passports, bank statements, biometrics receipts, passport photos, and a few other bits-and-bobs.

And then I wait. Again.

Because I had a wee visa glitch when in Scotland (as promised, I will tell you about that in detail later) my application may take a bit longer to process. Generally, I could expect a decision in just a couple of days with the priority service, but now I might be waiting for a couple of weeks – or more.

I hope I’m still on track to begin my PhD studies on November 1st. As soon as I know more about my visa, travel dates, and PhD start date, I will be sure to share with you!