Is Form 16 Really Necessary for My UK Business Visa, and What If It's Incorrect?

I have joined a UK-based organization a few weeks ago. I have to travel to the UK (Business Visitor Category). I have received a visa processing checklist from my HR where they mentioned that 3 years of Form 16 is mandatory. I have received Form 16 with an incorrect PAN ID/Name from my previous employer. When I raised a concern, they said it will take 3 months to correct the same. I request you to let me know if Form 16 is mandatory to apply for a visa or if it will take 3 months to correct my name in TDS.

First of all, congratulations on the new job. To obtain a VISA, your income tax papers must be clear for the past 3 years, indicating that you have paid your income tax. Your company requests compliance with this requirement. You can file income tax returns for the past 3 years to demonstrate that there are no outstanding income tax dues.

Regarding your previous company, they need to file a revised TDS return for the previous year, a process that should take around 10-15 days depending on the volume. However, it may be challenging to obtain this information since you have already left the company.

Thanks,
CA Vikas Goel

Dear Venky, You are going to the UK for the company's business, and your company is sponsoring all your expenses. In that case, your income documents (3 years IT returns) will not be required. The company has to submit their financial documents along with a sponsor letter in your favor. Please check with your travel agent for more details.

Regards,
Sunil Purohit
[Phone Number Removed For Privacy Reasons]

Since you are traveling to the UK under a Business Visa, the following are the documents to be submitted:

1. Filled Online Visa Application form.
2. Valid Passport (must have a minimum of 2 blank pages).
3. Evidence of Occupation from the current employer (i.e., from India).
4. Invitation Letter from the UK (sponsorship letter).
5. Evidence of sufficient funds (covered by the employer).
6. Valid Passport with 2 photos (UK standard).

Note: Form 16 and IT-Return are not required for a Business Visa since you are traveling to the UK under "Sponsorship." Please keep in touch with your Internal Immigration Dept/Travel Desk for more details.

Hope this information helps you a lot.