Tracking visa applications for the United States, United Kingdom, and Canada can often be a time-sensitive and critical process. One of the most efficient ways to monitor application progress is by using a passport number.
Understanding how to check Visa Status with Passport Number for US, UK & Canada is crucial for staying informed and making timely decisions related to travel plans, accommodation bookings, or educational arrangements.
From knowing where to look, to understanding what each status means, this guide breaks down everything in a clear and easy-to-follow way, so nothing important slips through the cracks on the journey toward approval..
How to Check US Visa Status Using Passport Number
If you're applying for a US visa, whether for tourism, MS courses, work, or immigration, tracking your visa status with your passport number has never been easier. The US has a structured and transparent system for visa tracking, which allows applicants to stay informed about their status at every stage.
Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of the available methods:
1. Step-by-Step Guide to Using the CEAC Website
The Consular Electronic Application Center (CEAC) is the official platform provided by the US Department of State for tracking immigrant and non-immigrant visa applications.
Follow these steps:
Step 1: Visit the CEAC Website
Go toceac.state.gov/CEAC and click on “Check My Visa Application Status.”
Step 2: Select Your Visa Type
Choose either “Nonimmigrant Visa (NIV)” or “Immigrant Visa (IV)” depending on your application.
Step 3: Enter Your Details
Select the appropriate Embassy/Consulate where you applied.
Enter your DS-160 or DS-260 confirmation number.
Enter your passport number and CAPTCHA code if required.
Step 4: Click “Submit” to View Your Status
You will be shown one of several status categories such as “Administrative Processing,” “Issued,” “Refused,” or “Ready for Interview.”
Note: CEAC doesn’t always allow you to check status using only the passport number, but it’s a vital part of the verification process, especially during identity recovery or cross-checks.
2. Step-by-Step Guide to Using the USTravelDocs Website
USTravelDocs is the official partner site used in many countries (like India, UAE, etc.) for managing appointments and tracking US visa status.
Here’s how to check using this method:
Step 1: Go to Your Country-Specific USTravelDocs Website
For example, in India: ustraveldocs.com/in/
Step 2: Click on “Track My Passport” or “Check Visa Status”
Navigate to the relevant link from the main menu or homepage.
Step 3: Enter Required Information
Passport Number
Date of Birth
Visa application location
CAPTCHA code for verification
Step 4: Submit and View Status
You will see whether your passport has been dispatched, is ready for pickup, or if the visa is still under process.
Pro Tip: USTravelDocs often updates more frequently than CEAC for passport dispatch and delivery information.
3. Contact the US Embassy or Consulate
If online tracking doesn't return useful information or if you encounter technical issues, you can directly contact the US Embassy or Consulate where you applied.
How to do this:
Visit the Embassy/Consulate website for your country and look for their “Contact Us” or “Visa Inquiry” section.
Use your passport number along with your application receipt number to request a status update via email or contact form.
Some embassies offer chat support or local helpline numbers for assistance during working hours.
Pro Tip: Make sure your email includes your full name, passport number, and visa type to avoid delays.
The UK Home Office, along with its third-party partners like TLScontact and VFS Global, offers streamlined options to track the progress of your visa application. Though direct tracking via passport number alone is not always available, your passport number remains a key identifier when paired with reference IDs. This is especially important for international students applying for programs like a Masters in data analytics in the UK, where timely visa updates are crucial.
Let’s explore the most reliable ways to check your UK visa status using passport number
1. Step-by-Step Guide to Using UKVI Online Application Portal
The UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) portal is the primary source for tracking visa applications submitted online.
Here’s how to track your status:
Step 1: Visit the Official UKVI Portal
Go to gov.uk/ and search for “UK visa application status” or directly access your UKVI account used during the application.
Step 2: Sign In with Your Login Credentials
Use the email and password you registered with, along with any two-factor authentication as prompted.
Step 3: Access Your Application
Once logged in, click on the relevant visa category (e.g., student visa, skilled worker visa) to view its current status.
Step 4: Check for Messages and Updates
You’ll find key milestones such as “Application Submitted,” “Biometrics Enrolled,” “Decision Made,” and “Passport Ready for Collection.”
Note: The system doesn’t support tracking using only a passport number, but it’s tied to your application file and may be used in support tickets or follow-ups.
If you submitted your biometrics and documents through TLScontact (for Europe, the Middle East) or VFS Global (for Asia and Africa), you can track your visa status via their portals.
Steps for TLScontact:
Step 1: Go to the Website
Visit tlscontact.com/en/ and select your country and city Or download the app from the Google Playstore or the App Store.
Step 2: Log In to Your Account
Use the email and password you created when booking your appointment or submitting your application.
Step 3: Access “Track Application” Section
After logging in, look for a “Track My Application” or “Track Your Application” tab on your dashboard.
Step 4: View Status Using Your Passport Number (if prompted)
Some country-specific portals allow tracking by just entering your passport number and application reference (GWF number).
Reminder: It may take up to 3–5 business days to receive a response, depending on the complexity of your query.
How to Check Canada Visa Status Using Passport Number
The Canadian immigration process can be complex, but thankfully, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) and its affiliated partners like VFS Global have streamlined the process for checking application updates. This is super important for international students applying to MBA programsor Engineering programs at top universities abroad, where staying informed about visa status is crucial for timely planning.
1. Step-by-Step Guide to Using IRCC Portal (Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada)
If you applied online through the Canadian government’s official immigration website, you’ll be tracking your application via the IRCC secure portal (GCKey or Sign-In Partner).
Here’s how to check your visa status:
Step 1: Visit the IRCC Login Page
Go to canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship and click on “Sign in to your account.”
Step 2: Login to Your Account
Choose between “GCKey” (a Government of Canada login) or “Sign-In Partner” (your banking partner). Enter your credentials.
Step 3: Navigate to “View My Submitted Applications or Profiles”
Once inside, click on this link to see a list of applications you’ve submitted.
Step 4: Select the Application You Want to Track
Find your application by category (e.g., study, work, PR) and click “Check Status and Messages.”
Step 5: View the Status Updates
You’ll see a status bar indicating your application’s progress (e.g., submitted, biometrics received, processing, decision made).
What if you want to search using your passport number?
While IRCC’s official portal doesn’t offer a direct passport-number search, your passport number is tied to your application profile, and once you log in, it verifies your identity and links it to the correct application(s).
2. VFS Global Canada Tracking (for Paper Applications)
If you submitted a paper-based application, your status will not appear on the IRCC portal immediately. Instead, you’ll use the VFS Global tracking portal, which is the official visa application center (VAC) partner for Canada in many countries.
Here’s how to track your Canada visa application through VFS using your passport number:
Step 1: Go to the VFS Canada Tracking Page:
Visit visa.vfsglobal.com and select your country of residence.
Step 2: Access the “Track Your Application” Tool:
Click on “Track your application” and enter the required details.
Step 3: Enter the Following Information:
Your Reference Number (starts with CAN followed by digits)
Your Last Name or Date of Birth
In some cases, you may be prompted to enter your passport number to cross-reference and validate.
Step 4: Submit and View the Status:
Once submitted, the system will display the status update, such as “Visa Application Received,” “Under Process,” “Passport Dispatched,” or “Visa Issued.”
Note: Status updates are usually synced with IRCC updates, but sometimes there can be a short delay between VFS and IRCC portals.
General Methods to Check Visa Status Using Passport Number
While every country has its own tracking systems, some universal methods apply when it comes to visa status with passport number for US, UK & Canada with minimal documentation, like your passport number.
Whether you're a student awaiting your F1 visa, a professional checking your UK Skilled Worker visa, or a traveler applying for a Canadian PR, this section will guide you through the general principles and methods. It's a handy option for students who have just submitted language proficiency scores like TOEFL or IELTS and are in the early stages of their visa journey.
What is Passport Number-Based Tracking?
Passport number-based tracking allows applicants to view their visa status by entering their passport number as a primary identifier. This is especially useful when you don’t have access to your full application reference number but still need to verify progress.
Passport numbers are tied to your visa record from the moment you apply.
While not always the only credential required, it's often used along with date of birth, visa category, or application ID for validation.
It’s commonly accepted across platforms like USTravelDocs, VFS Global, TLScontact, and IRCC.
Key Government Portals and Online Tracking Systems
To effectively track visa status with passport number for US UK & Canada, you'll need to access the correct online platforms. Here are some of the key ones:
US CEAC Portal:
ceac.state.gov: For DS-160/DS-260 applications for non-immigrant and immigrant US visas.
USTravelDocs:
Country-specific portals like ustraveldocs.com/in let you track appointments and visa dispatch status using passport number.
UKVI Online Portal:
www.gov.uk: Tracks UK visa status via UK Visas and Immigration login.
VFS Global & TLScontact:
These authorized third-party centers allow you to track your application by entering your passport number and application reference code.
IRCC (Canada):
canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship: Canada's immigration portal supports both online and paper-based status tracking linked to your passport.
Important Tip: Always check that you are on an official or authorized site to avoid phishing scams.
Required Documents and Information
To check visa status with passport number for US, UK & Canada, you’ll typically need a few pieces of information to authenticate your identity. These include:
Passport Number: The unique identifier issued by your home country.
Application Reference Number: For example, DS-160 number for US, GWF number for UK, or UCI/Application number for Canada.
Date of Birth: Used as a secondary form of identification across most portals.
Email ID (sometimes): Particularly if you need to log into a profile or receive OTPs.
Security Captcha: Most websites use CAPTCHA to verify human input before showing sensitive information.
Having all this ready will make the tracking process smoother and faster.
Across visa status with passport number for US UK & Canada, you’ll encounter several recurring status categories. Understanding these will help you interpret what each update really means:
Submitted: Your application has been received but not yet processed.
Under Process: The reviewing authority is currently examining your documents and background.
Administrative Processing (US): Additional security clearances or verification needed.
Decision Made: A final decision has been reached—either approval or rejection.
Approved: Your visa has been granted and may be under printing or dispatch.
Issued: Your passport with the visa stamp is ready or already sent.
Rejected/Refused: The application has been declined and reason typically follows in the letter or email.
Ready for Collection: Particularly in VFS/TLS, this means your passport is available for pickup.
Note: Not every platform will use all of these categories, but most will offer similar equivalents.
Common Messages or Updates and What They Mean
Tracking your visa status with passport number for US, UK & Canada will often show vague or confusing messages. Here’s a cheat sheet to decode them:
No Record Found: Your information may not have been entered correctly, or the application hasn't been uploaded into the system yet.
Administrative Processing(US): Your application is undergoing additional checks, possibly due to document verification or background review.
Passport Dispatched: Your visa decision has been made, and your passport is on the way.
Decision Enveloped (UK/Canada): Your passport includes the visa outcome and is ready for pickup or delivery.
Your application is being processed at the Visa Office: You’re in the standard evaluation queue.
Processing Completed: The immigration officer has made a decision; check your email or wait for the physical dispatch.
Quick Tip: Take a screenshot of each update for your records, especially if there are sudden changes.
What to Do If You Cannot Track Your Visa Status?
Encountering issues while tracking your visa status can be frustrating, especially when you're anxiously awaiting a decision. Fortunately, there are several steps you can take to resolve common tracking problems quickly and efficiently, including:
Double-Check Your Details
Before assuming there’s an issue with the tracking system, take a moment to review the details you’ve entered. Ensure that your passport number, application reference (like GWF or UID numbers), and date of birth exactly match the information you submitted in your application.
Even a small typo or formatting error such as an extra space or incorrect digit, can result in a failed search or "No Record Found" message.
Wait for System Updates
After submitting your visa application or completing biometric procedures, it may take several hours or even a few days for the system to reflect any changes. Visa status updates are not always instantaneous and can vary depending on the country, visa type, or workload at the processing center.
If your application is fresh, waiting 24 to 72 hours before checking again is usually a good idea.
Clear Browser Cache or Try a Different Device
Sometimes the problem lies not in the application status, but in your browser. Technical issues such as cached data, expired cookies, or script errors can prevent the tracking page from displaying the correct information.
Try clearing your browser cache, refreshing the page, or opening the portal in a different browser or device (e.g., switch from mobile to desktop).
Contact the Visa Processing Center or Support Helpdesk
If the issue persists despite accurate entries and waiting for updates, your next step should be to reach out directly to the visa processing center, embassy helpline, or the customer service of VFS/TLScontact (whichever service you used).
Be ready to provide your full name, passport number, and application reference number so that the support team can locate your records and assist accordingly.
Seek Help from an Authorized Consultant
For complex issues or urgent timelines, especially if you're applying for a study, work, or PR visa, it's wise to consult a licensed immigration or visa consultant. These professionals are familiar with visa processing systems and often have direct channels for escalation.
They can help verify your documents, communicate with visa authorities on your behalf, and ensure that your application status is tracked accurately and timely.
Country-Specific Timelines and Processing Insights
Understanding typical processing times can help set expectations:
US Visa Processing Timelines
F1 (Student Visa): Typically processed within 3-5 weeks.
H1B (Work Visa): Processing can take 3-6 months.
B1/B2 (Tourist/Business Visa): Usually processed within 2-4 weeks.
UK Visa Processing Timelines
Tourist Visa (Standard Visitor Visa): Typically processed within 15 working days.
Student Visa: Usually takes 3 weeks from the date of biometric appointment.
Work Visa (Skilled Worker): Standard processing is 3-8 weeks, but it can vary depending on the country and additional checks.
Canada Visa Processing Timelines
Visitor Visa: Takes approximately 14-30 days, depending on the location of the application.
Study Permit: Generally processed in 1-3 months, with Student Direct Stream (SDS) offering faster processing (around 20 calendar days) for eligible countries.
Work Permit: Processing time varies widely but usually takes 2-4 months, depending on the job category and country of residence.
Note: These timelines are general estimates. Always refer to the official immigration websites for the most up-to-date processing times.
Final Checklist Before You Track Your Visa Status
Before logging in to any tracking portal, make sure you have:
Your passport number
Your application/reference number (e.g., GWF for UK, UCI for Canada, DS-160 ID for US)
Date of birth and email used during the application
Access to your application portal (IRCC, CEAC, VFS, etc.)
Keeping these details handy can speed up the process and reduce errors.
Conclusion
Tracking your visa application using your passport number is a smart way to stay updated and avoid surprises. It does not matter if you're applying to the US, UK, or Canada; each country provides official channels that make it easy and secure to check your status.
Dreams are never impossible. All it takes is proper guidance and planning. That is where upGrad Abroad helps you navigate the whole process with elan. And yes, it doesn’t cost a thing! .
Stay informed, stay prepared.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I check my visa status if I only have my passport number and not the application reference?
Yes, for some portals like VFS and CEAC, your passport number alone can retrieve your visa status, especially if it’s linked to your application automatically. However, most systems still recommend or require your application reference number for the most accurate and complete tracking results.
How frequently should I check my visa status online to stay updated?
It’s advisable to check your visa status once every 3–5 days to stay informed without overloading the system or panicking over minor delays. Frequent status changes don’t occur daily, but timely checking ensures you don’t miss an important update.
What does “Administrative Processing” mean in the context of US visa applications?
"Administrative Processing" indicates that your visa application needs additional security clearance or further review before a final decision is made. This status can extend processing time by several weeks or even months depending on the case.
Can my visa status change after it has already been marked as “Approved”?
Yes, although rare, statuses can change post-approval if there are sudden issues such as documentation mismatches, background checks, or procedural reviews. It's important to monitor your application until your passport is returned with the visa stamp.
Why does the tracking portal say “No Record Found” even after I submitted my visa application?
This message usually means the system hasn't updated yet or your details were entered incorrectly. It can also occur if the application is very recent and hasn't been logged into the online tracking database.
Is the visa tracking process different for online versus paper-based applications?
Yes, online applications are typically tracked through government portals like IRCC or CEAC, while paper-based applications are tracked through third-party services like VFS or TLScontact. The tracking steps and reference numbers may differ depending on the method used.
What should I do if the visa status portal is down or not loading properly?
Try accessing the site from a different browser or device, or clear your cache and cookies before retrying. If the problem persists, check the official immigration website or social media for maintenance alerts or contact support.
Can multiple visa applications under the same passport number affect my status updates?
Multiple simultaneous applications can sometimes create confusion or delays in tracking, especially if submitted to different countries or consulates. Always keep track of the reference number associated with each application to avoid mixing up details.
How long does it usually take for status updates to appear after submitting biometrics?
Status updates generally take between 24–72 hours after biometrics, but it may take longer in high-volume periods. Some systems update only after batch uploads, so don’t worry if it takes a few days.
Is it safe to use third-party websites to check my visa status using my passport number?
Only use authorized third-party sites like VFS Global or TLScontact, which are officially affiliated with embassies and consulates. Avoid unofficial or unverified platforms, as they may compromise your personal data and security.
With over 12 years of experience in the education sector, Harjeet specializes in study abroad counseling and visa management. She has a proven ability to guide students through university applications...
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