How to Check Your Visa Application Status: Best Approaches

Did you know that more than 11.5 million visa applications were processed by the United States alone last year (2024)? For students in the Philippines planning to study abroad, being able to apply and check their student visa application status is not just a matter of convenience, but peace of mind. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of how to check visa application status for countries like the US, UK, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and Ireland.

How to Check Student Visa Status With Passport Number?

Several countries allow applicants to track their visa application status using their passport number. This is especially helpful if you do not remember your application ID. However, candidates are advised to keep all payment receipts and application numbers with them until the entire application process is over. These are important documents and serve as proof of payment.

Check Visa Application Status

1. Go to the official visa website of the destination country.
2. Look for the option to track your visa application online. Not all countries provide this method. Always cross-verify on the official embassy website.
3. Enter your acknowledgement number or passport number, along with your date of birth.
4. Fill in the captcha code and click 'Submit'.
5. Your visa application status will appear on the next screen.

How to Check USA Visa Status Online?

Tracking your US visa application status is a straightforward process that helps you stay updated on where your student visa application stands. Whether you are applying for an immigrant or nonimmigrant visa, the US Department of State provides an online portal, Consular Electronic Application Center (CEAC) to check the progress in real-time.

Follow these steps to check your USA visa status online:

1. Visit the Visa Status Check portal: Go to the U.S. Department of State Consular Electronic Application Center (CEAC) Visa Status Check page.
2. Choose your visa type: Select whether you applied for an immigrant or nonimmigrant visa. (Student visa is a non-immigrant visa)
3. Select your location
4. Enter your case details: Input yourApplication ID or Case Number
5. Add your Passport Number and First 5 letters of your Surname
6. Submit the information: Enter the captcha code as shown, then click 'Submit'
7. View your visa application status: Your current visa status will be displayed on the screen.

How to Check UK Visa Status Online?

To check your UK visa status online you will need to access your eVisa. This is a digital record of your immigration status in the UK. This is linked to your UKVI account and replaces the need for a physical visa document.

Follow these steps to check your UK visa status online:

1. Create a UKVI account: Go to the official UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) website and sign up. There's no fee to create a UKVI account or access your eVisa
2. Verify your identity: You may be asked to confirm your identity through an app or in person.
3. Link your eVisa: Connect your visa details to your UKVI account so you can view and manage your immigration status. You must link your passport to your UKVI account before you travel
4. Use the 'View and Prove' service: Log in to your account to check your student visa status and get a share code if needed, for example, to show your right to work or rent in the UK. A share code is valid for 90 days and may be requested by airlines or employers

How to Check Australia Visa Status Online?

If you have applied for a Australia Student Visa and want to check your Australia Visa application status, you can do it online using the Visa Entitlement Verification Online (VEVO) system. However, the tool is only limited to your current visa status, and does not include any past visas or new visa applications under review.

Follow these steps to check your Australia visa status online:

1. Go to the VEVO website: Visit the official VEVO portal to begin.
   
2. Have your travel document and reference number ready: You will need your passport or ImmiCard, and one of the following:
   • Transaction Reference Number (TRN) – found in your online application
   • Visa Grant Number – found in your grant notification letter
   • Visa Evidence Number – if you have a visa label in your passport
     
3. Choose 'Check your own visa details with VEVO': This will take you to the visa holder enquiry screen.
   
4. Select your travel document type: Choose from: passport, ImmiCard, Titre de Voyage, DFTTA, or PLO56 card.
   
5. Enter your reference number: Pick the correct reference type and fill in your TRN, visa grant number, or visa evidence number.
   
6. Fill in your personal details: Enter your date of birth and make sure all details match your travel document.
   
7. Enter your travel document number: Double-check the number and make sure 0s and Os, 1s and Is are typed correctly.
   
8. Enter your country of document: For most, this is your passport's country. If using an ImmiCard, this step is skipped.
   
9. Agree to terms and submit: Tick the box to accept the VEVO terms and click 'Submit' to view your visa status.

How to Check New Zealand Visa Status Online?

After submitting your visa application for New Zealand, you can check its progress online through your immigration account. Whether you have applied for a New Zealand Student Visa, work visa, or any other type, the process to track your application is simple if you have applied online. Here is how you can do it:

Steps to check your New Zealand visa status:

1. Go to the official immigration website: Visit www.immigration.govt.nz and find the visa type you applied for.
   
2. Click on 'Apply Online': This button is available on most visa information pages. It will take you to the login screen for your Immigration New Zealand account.
   
3. Log in to your online account: Use the same username and password you created when you applied for your visa.
   
4. Find your submitted application: Once logged in, locate the visa application you submitted. You will be able to see its current status and any updates.
   
5. Check for requests or messages: Immigration New Zealand will contact you through your account if they need more information. You may also receive updates via email or phone.
   
6. No updates yet? Stay patient: Visa processing times vary depending on the visa type, the completeness of your application, and your personal situation.

Points to note:

• You do not need to take any action after submitting your application unless requested.
• If you applied using a paper form, through an immigration adviser, or at a Visa Application Centre, contact them directly or check your email for updates.
• If your application is taking longer than expected, you can reach out to Immigration New Zealand for more information.
• The ability to track your application online applies to most visa categories, including student, visitor, work, NZeTA, and residency visas.

The student visa processing is an entirely independent process. And the outcome is based on the preparation leading up to your student visa application. Filipino students looking to study abroad are advised to get in touch with our AECC Counsellors. We will ensure that your documentation is in order for a positive outcome. Moreover, if you are looking for the best universities or courses to study abroad based on your profile, get in touch with us for a free consultation, today. 

How to Check Canada Visa Status Online?

Once you have applied for a Canada visa, such as a study permit, work permit for students, or a permit extension, you can track the status of your application online. Whether you applied online or by paper, there are simple ways to check for updates.

Steps to check your Canada visa status:

• Your Unique Client Identifier (UCI)
• Your application number

• Log in to your online account
• Go to "View my submitted applications or profiles"
• Click "Check status and messages" to see updates

• Link your paper application to an online account to track its status.
• Once linked, you can view updates and receive messages about your application in your IRCC account.

How to Check Ireland Visa Status Online?

If you have applied for a long-term study visa to Ireland and want to check your application status, there's a step-by-step process to follow. Ireland's visa system uses an online tracking tool connected to your visa application. You will need to use the same details you entered during the application process.

Steps to check your Ireland visa status:

1. Apply using the AVATS system

If you haven't already, your visa application must be made through the Automated Visa Application and Tracking System (AVATS). This system allows you to:

• Complete your application
• Receive a Visa Application Summary Form
• Submit your supporting documents
• Check the status of your application

2. Pay the Visa Application Fee

After completing your AVATS online application, you will receive an Application Summary Form. This form will guide you on how to submit your documents and pay the required visa fee. The visa fee covers the administrative cost of processing your application.

It is non-refundable, even if your application is withdrawn or refused. Some applicants may not have to pay the fee.

You can check if you are exempt from paying by referring to the official list of exemptions. Payment methods and accepted currencies can vary depending on the visa office. In some cases, additional charges like consular fees may apply.

3. Follow up with the visa office

If it has been a while since you submitted your documents and you haven't received any update, contact the visa office mentioned in your summary form. They will guide you on the current status or next steps.

• AVATS does not provide live tracking like courier services. You will be contacted directly by the visa office if more documents are needed or when a decision is made.
• Providing complete and truthful information is important. Incomplete or false documents may result in rejection and a possible 5-year visa ban.
• Processing times can vary, so check the visa office's website or contact them if your application is delayed.

What If You Do Not Remember Your Visa Application ID?

Losing your visa application ID is not the end of the road.

• Check your email inbox/spam for confirmation emails
• Log in to the visa portal using your account credentials
• Contact the support centre or the embassy
• Always save a screenshot or email copy of your visa application ID for future reference.

Contact the Embassy for Visa Status Updates via Email, SMS, or Phone

If online tracking fails, reach out to the embassy directly. Here's a list of common contacts:

Note: Contact numbers are subject to change without prior notice. Candidates are requested to visit the official website for updated contact information.

Mobile Apps to Track Visa Application Status

In this section, we are going to be talking about using mobile applications to track visa application status in real-time. Check out mobile applications (apps) that allow visa application status check.

• US Immigration Case Tracker – USA
  • Uses data analytics to track U.S. immigration case status. Offers auto-tracking, push alerts, visa bulletin updates, interview prep tools, and case timeline view.
• myVEVO – Australia (official)
  • Let's Australian visa holders check expiry dates, work/study rights, and travel conditions. New updates from June 2024 include a refreshed look and improved features.
• ImmiTrack – Canada
  • Designed for students, skilled workers, families, and investors. Tracks Canadian immigration progress and keeps users informed at every step.

• NZeTA – New Zealand (official)
  • Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment
  • Official app to request your NZeTA and pay the IVL in under 5 minutes. Used by over 2 million travellers.

Apps explicitly marked as 'official' are provided by government agencies. For other third-party applications, users are advised to review their terms of service and privacy policies before use.

Visa Application Status Terms Explained

First time student visa applicants may not be familiar with visa application status terms that are used on the official websites of countries. These are the terms that you would mostly see during your visa application status check.

What to Do If Your Visa Was Denied?

Facing a visa denial can be discouraging, but it is not the end of the journey.

• Review the reason for denial
• Reapply with stronger documentation
• Consult an immigration lawyer
• Wait for the stipulated period before reapplying
• Request an official review if allowed
• Always keep a record of the rejection notice for future reference.

Staying informed about your visa application status removes uncertainty and helps you plan ahead. Whether it is the US visa application status, the Australia visa application check status, or the New Zealand online visa application status, the steps are increasingly streamlined. Use official portals, trusted apps, and embassy contacts for updates. Always keep your application ID safe, and remember: a delay isn't a denial.

Check visa application status regularly and don't hesitate to follow up. Your future could be one status update away. Ready to make your study abroad dream a reality? Explore top courses, connect with leading universities, and get full support from AECC Philippines. Start your journey today!

How to Check Visa Application Status FAQs