A1.6 Applying for UK ATAS¶
How to Apply for UK ATAS (Academic Technology Approval Scheme) – September 2025 Update
Key Reminders
ATAS is required only for specific sensitive subjects. Check if you need it at:
https://www.academic-technology-approval.service.gov.uk/Do not use Gmail for applications – technical issues may prevent delivery of confirmation emails. If already used, contact your institution to forward the certificate or email ATAS@fcdo.gov.uk.
Free application – no fees or priority services available.
Processing typically exceeds 20 working days (longer during peak season: April–August). Allow 3–6 months for delays.
One certificate per course/institution. Changing either requires a new application.
Certificates are valid for 6 months from issue but cover your entire course if you hold a valid UK visa.
Apply before your visa application. Renewals require a new ATAS certificate if your visa expires.
Who Needs ATAS?
You must apply if you are:
A student/researcher in sensitive fields (e.g., engineering, sciences)
Applying for these visas:
Student, Skilled Worker, Intra-Company Transfer, Global Business Mobility, Scale-up, Temporary Work (International Agreement/Government Authorised Exchange)
Exemptions
Nationals of exempt countries (e.g., EU, US, Australia, Japan, South Korea – see full list in original text)
Dual nationals holding a valid passport from an exempt country
Holders of Indefinite Leave to Remain or immigration exemption (e.g., diplomats)
PG Diploma/PGCE students
Application Process
Check requirement:
https://www.academic-technology-approval.service.gov.uk/Create an account:
https://www.academic-technology-approval.service.gov.uk/create-an-accountSubmit application with:
Ø CAH3 code from your institution
Ø Full educational/work history
Ø Passport details
Ø Two referees (known ≥3 years)
Ø Research/course description matching your institution’s records
Ø Funding details
Triple-check all information – only email, phone number, and marital status can be updated after submission.
Application Statuses
Submitted: Awaiting review
Requires Changes: Errors detected
Decided: Outcome emailed
Granted: Certificate issued
Refused: No certificate issued
Special Cases
Multiple applications: Allowed for different courses/institutions, but duplicate applications are blocked.
Course changes: New ATAS required if:
Course content changes
Supervisor changes
Research field changes
Delayed courses: Reapply if end date extends by ≥3 months
Researchers & Visiting Academics
Select "Researcher" in the application
Provide:
Ø Institution name
Ø Research supervisor/manager
Ø Agreed research statement
Can start work on or after the certificate’s start date
After Submission
Approved: Email your certificate to your institution and include it in your visa application
Refused:
Ø Wait 90 days to reapply for the same course/institution
Ø Immediate applications allowed for different courses/institutions
Ø Request a review via ATAS@fcdo.gov.uk
Important Contacts
Email: ATAS@fcdo.gov.uk
Response time: 5 working days (longer during peaks)
Operating hours: Mon–Fri, 9:00–17:00 UK time
Monitor spam folders for ATAS emails. Report lost/expired passports to ATAS immediately.
