How Do I Check the Status of My Work Visa Application?

 Once you've submitted your work visa application, the waiting period can feel uncertain. One of the most common questions applicants ask is, “How do I check the status of my work visa application?” Fortunately, most countries offer multiple ways to track your application progress—whether you're applying online or through a consulate.

In this blog, we’ll walk you through the most common methods of checking your visa status, what documents you’ll need, what different status updates mean, and tips for staying updated throughout the process.

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1. Check Online Through Official Immigration Portals

Many countries offer official government portals where applicants can log in and track their visa status in real time. This is often the fastest and most reliable way to check your work visa status.

Common Steps:

• Visit the immigration or visa application portal of the country where you applied

• Log in using your reference number, passport number, or application ID

• View your visa status, updates, or any additional requests

Examples:

• USA: USCIS Case Status Online – enter your 13-character receipt number (e.g., EAC1234567890)

• Canada: IRCC Online Portal

• UK: UKVI Visa and Immigration services – track through your email or login if you applied online

• Australia: immiAccount – official tracking system for all visa applications

• Germany: Federal Foreign Office portal or local German embassy websites

• India: Indian Visa Online Portal

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2. Use Your Application or Reference Number

When you apply for a work visa, you usually receive a unique reference number or case ID. This number is critical when checking your visa status.

Where to Find It:

• Confirmation email after submitting your application

• Receipt from a visa application center (VAC) like VFS Global or TLScontact

• Printed application form or acknowledgment letter

You’ll often be asked to provide:

• Your passport number

• Your date of birth

• Your visa application/reference number

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3. Contact the Embassy or Consulate Directly

If you applied through a local embassy or consulate, especially for paper-based applications, you can check your status by:

• Calling or emailing the embassy's visa section

• Visiting the embassy website for contact info and tracking services

• Booking an appointment if in-person follow-up is required

Make sure to have:

• Your passport

• Application reference or barcode number

• Submission date and visa type

Note: Response times vary depending on the country and volume of applications.

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4. Track Through Visa Application Centers (VACs)

In many countries, embassies outsource application processing to VACs like VFS Global, TLScontact, or BLS International. These centers offer:

• Online tracking tools

• SMS or email notifications

• Customer service hotlines

Example:

• VFS Global: Visit the Track Your Application page, select your country, enter your reference number and last name

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5. Enable Email and SMS Notifications

Most application portals or VACs offer the option to receive real-time updates via email or SMS. This keeps you informed of:

• Application received

• Under review

• Decision made

• Passport dispatched or ready for collection

Be sure to:

• Opt-in when filling your application

• Pay any notification service fees if applicable

• Whitelist their email address to avoid missing updates in your spam folder

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6. Understand the Status Terms

Once you check your status, you may see terms like:

Status	Meaning
Application Received	Your application was submitted and is now in the system
Under Review	Officials are verifying your documents and background
Additional Info Needed	You must provide extra documents or attend an interview
Approved	Your visa has been granted, and next steps will be provided
Rejected/Refused	Your visa application was not successful
Dispatched	Your passport is on its way back or ready for pickup
Decision Made	A decision has been made but may not be disclosed online

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7. How Long Should You Wait Before Checking?

Most portals update status within 48–72 hours after application submission. If you don’t see an update:

• Wait at least 1 week before contacting officials for updates

• For high-volume countries (like the US, UK, or Canada), delays are normal

• Always check estimated processing times on the country’s immigration website

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8. What to Do if You Can't Find Your Application

If you’re unable to track your status:

• Double-check your reference number and spelling of personal details

• Try using an alternative portal (VAC site vs government site)

• Contact customer support with proof of submission

• Ensure your application was completed and successfully submitted

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9. Avoid Scams and Fake Tracking Sites

Only use official government portals or authorized visa service providers. Here are some safety tips:

• Never enter personal details on unknown websites

• Don’t pay third-party agents for visa status updates

• Double-check URLs for official domains (like .gov, .gc.ca, .gov.uk, .immigration)

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10. FAQs

Q: How often is the status updated?
A: This varies by country, but most systems update within a few days after changes. Check once a week unless told otherwise.

Q: What if the status hasn’t changed in weeks?
A: This could mean your application is in a background check phase or delayed. Contact the visa authority if it's been longer than the typical processing time.

Q: Can someone else check on my behalf?
A: Only if you authorize them or if they’re listed as your representative or agent.

Q: Is it possible to expedite the application?
A: Some countries offer premium or priority services for faster processing, but not all applications qualify.

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Final Thoughts

Tracking your work visa application status is easier than ever thanks to online portals and email alerts. By using your reference number, logging into the correct platform, and staying alert to updates, you’ll stay in the loop without the stress of waiting blindly.

Always use official websites, keep your confirmation number safe, and reach out to the appropriate authority if you face delays or need help. Knowing how to check your visa status gives you peace of mind and helps you plan your move with confidence.