How to Check United Kingdom Visa Online (2026)
The official way to check a United Kingdom visa: where to check, what you need, step by step — and how to spot a fake visa before you travel or pay.
Check your visa onGOV.UK — UK Visas and ImmigrationOpen www.gov.uk ↗Type the address yourself — beware look-alike sites.- Open the official portal
Go to www.gov.uk — GOV.UK — UK Visas and Immigration.
- Enter your details
GWF or application reference · Email used to apply
- Check every detail
Name, passport number, nationality, visa type, sponsor/employer and validity dates must match exactly.
- Save the result
Download or print it and carry it with your passport.
Also: UK Immigration: ID Check app / UKVI account
Your eVisa and status are shown in your UKVI account.
Is your United Kingdom visa fake? Warning signs
- It cannot be found on www.gov.uk with your passport number.
- Your name, date of birth or passport number is spelled differently.
- You were given a different website or a PDF only, and no official reference.
- The sponsor/employer shown is not the one in your job offer.
- You are asked to pay again to “activate”, “stamp” or “verify” the visa.
United Kingdom visa check — FAQ
How can I check my United Kingdom visa online?
Use the official portal — GOV.UK — UK Visas and Immigration (www.gov.uk). Enter gwf or application reference, email used to apply and check that the details shown match your passport.
How do I know if my United Kingdom visa is real or fake?
A genuine United Kingdom visa can be found on the official government portal with your details. If it is not found, the name or passport number differs, or you were sent to a non-government website to "verify" it, treat it as fake and contact the embassy before travelling or paying anything more.
Is United Kingdom visa checking free?
Yes. Checking a visa on the official government portal is free. Anyone charging a fee just to check or 'activate' a visa is not an official service.
What do I need to check a United Kingdom visa?
GWF or application reference, Email used to apply.