The Visa Section of the British High Commission aims to provide a fast, effective, fair and courteous service to all applicants. Our overriding objective is to issue quickly to genuine visitors, decide applications from those wishing to settle in the UK and to prevent the entry of those who are ineligible.

We currently receive in excess of 8,000 visa applications each year and the number is rising. Consequently, we have systems in place to ensure that each application is dealt with on its own merits and in accordance with our service goal as stated above. Details of these systems, and information on all aspects of applying for a visa to the UK, are given in the following pages. We trust that you will find the information useful and that all of your questions will be answered. However, should you require further information please feel free to contact us direct. Details on how you can do this are also given in the following pages.

Application submission:

The British High Commission presents its compliments to all Embassies and International Organisations accredited to the Republic of The Gambia and has the honour to inform them that from 6 April 2009 all UK visa applications must be made online (www.visa4uk.fco.gov.uk). The information requested is similar to that currently requested on the paper application forms. After completing the application form online applicants will be able to select an appointment time to come to the British High Commission to make payment and submit their biometric data. Applicants should bring a printed copy of the form and supporting documentation to their appointment.

We endeavour to decide standard non-settlement visa applications in 15 working days and premium service applications in 48 hours, however in our peak periods visa application processing may take a little longer.

Please remember to submit original supporting documents accompanied by photocopies your original documents will be returned to you when you collect your passport.

Enquiries:

We accept enquiries by email (bhcbanjulvisa@fco.gov.uk), but please note we will not accept any supporting documents sent directly to us by fax, email or post. We will endeavour to answer enquiries as soon as possible, but please note that Public Service Agreements allow 20 working days for a response.

Telephone enquiries can only be dealt with in the following times:
Monday to Thursday – 1pm to 2.30pm
Friday – 11am to 12.30pm