I thought to share as this post may help new applicants joining the forum or applicants from August and onwards.
Also it may answer some frequently asked questions.
Steps to follow after completing the form online:
Step 1: Pay and submit application via UKVI.
Tip: Date of application is the date you pay and submit online, biometrics date is irrelevant.
Step 2: After payment, you will reach “further actions page.” If you click on “book an appointment,” system will reroute you to create an account on UKVCAS where you can upload your documents and book an appointment.
Tip: You are sent an access code to set up an account on UKVCAS which usually lands up in Junk folder.
Booking an appointment is opening up in phases. Check the UKVCAS flash message for updates. As of now, it is only open for applicants who submitted applications before 31st July.
https://www.ukvcas.co.uk/flash-message- ... geId=74833
Step 3: Booking system is not open for August applicants as of now.
Next step will be communicated to you via email; either you will be chosen to attend the biometrics appointment OR UKVI will reuse your biometrics from a previous application.
If you fall under the latter group, you will have to wait for IDV app to launch to provide your facial image (which is expected to launch in August).
Tip: You are given a deadline to submit your biometrics on the further actions page. Ignore that, you will not be penalised even if you can not fulfil it.
Step 4: Now you can submit your documents to UKVI via UKVCAS portal even before your biometrics. The option usually appears when you have uploaded all your documents, sign out and sign in again. The option can be found on the “document upload page” right at the bottom.
Note: You can only submit once, so make sure your documents are complete before you submit.
You will be able to add more documents via your appointment/IDV app on a later stage whatever your circumstance be.
Tip: The best approach would be to benefit from the new feature.
Note: For certain categories/cases, the CW may request for the documents to be submitted via email. It does not matter if you already have submitted via UKVCAS portal, you can still submit documents via email if requested.
Step 5: Once the process as stated above is completed, you should wait for a decision.
Tip: Be vigilant and regularly check your email as all communication for next steps will be sent via email.