The UK Border Agency (UKBA), which was formed in 2008, was abolished in early 2013 and split into two new organizations, the Border Force and UK Visas and Immigration.

UK Visas and Immigration is responsible for processing applications for permission to enter and stay in the country. Officials are located in the UK and at British embassies, designated application centers and consular posts abroad to process visa applications. The Border Force is responsible for enforcing and securing the UK border by carrying out immigration and customs controls.