Below are some questions that are often asked by our visa applicants.  If you have a particular query and need more information, please contact our Visa Staff who will be happy to assist.

I am a PNG passport holder, do I need a visa to visit the UK?    No, you can travel to the UK and stay for a maximum period of six (6) months.  However, visas for other long-term categories are required and you should ensure you have the correct type of visa before travelling.

Can I work or study whilst visiting the UK?   Employment is not allowed on a visitor's visa.  If you are a Non-Visa national and visiting, you can take up studies not exceeding six (6) months.   Visa nationals must obtain a student visa for study purposes.

How long does it take to process a visa application?   Straight-forward applications normally take one (1) working day.  Therefore, it is important that all requirements and relevant supporting documentation are submitted to avoid delays.

Do I have to apply in person?   Yes.  Effective from December 2007, the British High Commission in Port Moresby started issuing Biometric visas.  All applicants except for children under five (5) years of age and Diplomatic passport holders, must register their Biometric details.

Will I be interviewed?   Not all applications require interviews.   Upon initial assesment of an application, the visa officer will tell you whether an interview is required depending on the nature of your application. 

My child is also included on my passport, will I have to pay a separate fee for their visa?   Yes.  Children travelling on a parent's passport will have to pay as an individual visa for the child will be inserted in parent's passport.

What if my visa is refused?   The Visa Issuing Officer will tell you in writing why you have been refused and whether of not if you have the right of appeal against a refusal.  Please see our appeals section of the website for more details.

Will my money be refunded if my application is refused?  Unfortunately, visa fees are non-refundable.

I wish to study in the UK. Which sort of visa should I apply for? You need to apply for one of the three visas below:

1)  Student Visitors
You should apply for this visa if:
*       You are over 18 years
*       You wish to take a short course of study lasting less than 6 months.
*       You do not wish to work during your stay
*       You will not need to extend your stay in the UK.
*       Your course is for less than 15 hours per week or is in the evening or at weekends. However, the training provider must be on the DIUS Register of Education Providers.

You should not choose this if:
*       You are taking a sandwich course or any short course with a work placement element.

2)  Student  
You should apply for this visa if:
*       You wish to take part time employment during your studies
*       You may need to extend your stay in the UK
*       You are undertaking a short term English course before going on to long term studies in the UK. Give details of both courses in your application.

3)  Child Visitor
You should apply for this visa if:
*       You are a child under the age of 18 travelling to the UK for a short course of study lasting less than 6 months.
*       Please note there is a requirement to demonstrate that adequate arrangements have been made for care in the UK. This means that you must give the name and address of the person you will stay with. You must also submit the necessary signed consent forms from both parents, and the name and passport number of who is accompanying you to the UK.