Guidance for Applicants (ATAS)

I’m already in the UK as a researcher, do I need an ATAS certificate?

You do not need to apply for an ATAS certificate if you:

You do need to apply for an ATAS certificate if you:

 

As an applicant, will I be notified if I need an ATAS certificate?

Yes. 

 

Do I need a new certificate if I am extending my visa?

Yes, a new ATAS certificate will be required.  The ATAS guidance recommends that you apply for your ATAS certificate at least 4 months before your current visa expires.

 

How much does it cost?

There is no cost for an ATAS certificate.

 

When should I apply?

 

What route do I chose?

You should choose ‘Researcher’ on the application unless you will be coming to the UK to work and study for a PhD at the same time.  In that case, choose ‘Taught/Research student’.

 

What do I need to apply?

To apply online you need:

You will also need to provide information on:

 

I’m going to be a researcher and will also be undertaking a period of study, what do I need to include?

Researchers also undertaking a period of study should include both the research project and study activities in their application.

 

How do I apply?

You should apply for an Academic Technology Approval Scheme (ATAS) certificate online.

 

What is my CAH3 code?

This will be confirmed on the ATAS Research Statement Form you will receive.

 

What start date should I enter on the form?

Start dates must be in the future, retrospective applications are not permitted.

 

Who is my named supervisor?

 

How will I get the research statement?

 

Where do I find information about my sponsor?

This relates to your financial sponsor i.e. research funder.

 

How long does it take?

ATAS applications take at least 20 working days (4 full weeks) to process. If you apply between April and September, it can take at least 30 working days to complete.

To ensure fairness and consistency applications are processed in order of receipt. There is no ‘fast track’ service therefore, you should submit your ATAS application as early as possible.

 

How long does an ATAS last?

An ATAS certificate is valid for 6 months from the date it is issued, to enable applicants time to apply for their visa.

 

What will I receive?

If your ATAS application is successful, you will receive a certificate by email. You should check your junk folders regularly to ensure the email has not been filtered out. When you receive your certificate, you should:

 The University will also receive an email if your application has been successful.

 

Can I use one ATAS for another institution?

An ATAS certificate is applicable to one HEI/research institute. If you are conducting research at more than one institute, you need to apply for an ATAS certificate for each, which includes information on the research you will undertake at each HEI/research institute.

 

What happens if I enter the incorrect information, or the information on my ATAS certificate is incorrect?

ATAS applications with incorrect information will cause delays to processing your application.

Contact the ATAS unit at ATAS@fcdo.gov.uk if there are mistakes or inaccuracies.  You may be required to re-apply for another ATAS certificate.

 

How do I contact the ATAS team?

Email ATAS@fcdo.gov.uk if you have a query about your application.  They will not reply to any query on an application that is not at least 20 working days old.

The ATAS team usually works from Monday to Friday, 9.00 am to 5.00 pm and they aim to answer emails within 5 working days but this may not be possible during busy times.