UK Visa Supporting Documents: Digital Upload Guide (2025)
This page has been reviewed and verified by Michael Gibbons, UK Solicitor and Regulated Immigration Advisor, to ensure accuracy under current UK immigration policy. Confirm your visa requirements via Our Official UK Visa Guidance.
Applicants for a UK Standard Visitor Visa and most other UK visa categories must submit supporting evidence digitally. The Digital Document Upload Process allows applicants to scan, upload, or have documents scanned at a Visa Application Centre (VAC) before their biometric appointment.
This 2025 guide explains what documents you need, how to prepare digital copies, and how to upload them correctly via VFS Global or TLS Contact to avoid delays or refusals.
Overview: The Digital Upload Process
- Complete your UK visa application and pay the required fee online.
- Book your biometric appointment.
- Gather and scan all supporting documents.
- Upload your documents online using your VAC provider’s portal or mobile app.
- Attend your appointment — or use “Document Scanning Assistance” if you prefer staff to handle uploads.
Accepted File Types and Formats (2025)
The UK Home Office and its commercial partners (VFS Global and TLS Contact) accept most standard file types, including:
- PDF, JPG, PNG, DOCX
- Maximum file size: 2 MB per upload (recommended)
- All documents must be clear, legible, and in English or Welsh (or accompanied by a certified translation).
Where to Upload Your Documents
VFS Global Applicants
If your Visa Application Centre is managed by VFS Global, use the VFS Global UK Document Upload Portal to upload your files. You can also use the VFS Global Mobile App to scan and upload directly from your phone.
TLS Contact Applicants
If your application is processed through TLS Contact, upload your documents through the TLS Contact Portal. Log in using the same email you used for your visa application to access your case dashboard.
Document Categories to Upload
Upload your supporting evidence under the correct category headings. Misplaced or missing uploads are among the top reasons for UK visa refusals.
- Travel Evidence: Passport, travel history, itinerary, and flight bookings.
- Financial Evidence: Bank statements, payslips, and sponsor letters (see Proof of Funds for UK Visitor Visa).
- Accommodation: Hotel bookings, tenancy agreement, or invitation letter.
- Employment or Study: Employer letter, student status letter, or enrolment proof.
- Relationship Documents: Birth or marriage certificates if visiting family or a sponsor.
Common Upload Errors (and How to Fix Them)
- Blurry or cropped scans: Use flatbed scanners or camera apps with auto-crop disabled.
- Wrong category: Double-check before final submission — category names differ slightly between VFS and TLS portals.
- Multiple files per field: Merge related documents into one PDF per category (e.g., combine all payslips).
- Missing translations: Upload translated versions alongside the original file.
Using “Document Scanning Assistance” at VACs
If you cannot upload documents online, you may request scanning assistance at your appointment. This paid service (usually around £40–£60) allows VAC staff to scan and upload your documents for you. Ensure you bring originals and any required translations.
After You Upload Documents
- Check your confirmation email or on-screen message for “Document Upload Successful.”
- Bring physical copies to your appointment in case staff need to verify authenticity.
- Your application cannot be processed until biometrics are provided and uploads are complete.
Top Tips for 2025 Applications
- Use filenames that clearly describe each document (e.g., “Bank_Statements_Jan–Mar2025.pdf”).
- Do not zip or password-protect files, they will not upload correctly.
- Upload all documents at least 48 hours before your appointment.
- Keep digital copies of all files for your records in case you reapply or appeal.
Related Guidance
- UK Visa Application Centres (VFS & TLS Contact)
- UK Visa Biometric Enrolment Process (2025)
- UK Visitor Visa Documents Checklist (2025)
- UK Visa Priority & Super Priority Services (2025)
- UK Visa Refusals & Reapplication Guidance (2025)
About This Page
Author: UK Visa Applications Editorial Team
Reviewed by: Michael Gibbons, UK Solicitor and Regulated Immigration Advisor
Last Updated: October 2025
Did this advice help?
Is there anything wrong with this page?
If so let us know!