UK Tourist - Explore Our FAQ Page

Multiple-entry visas allow repeated visits within the visa validity. They are suitable for frequent travelers.

• Single-entry visas allow only one trip.
• Multiple-entry visas last 6 months to 10 years.
• Each stay must comply with duration limits.

UK visa officers need evidence of strong ties to your home country to ensure you return after your visit.

• Employment or business contracts in UAE.
• Property ownership or rental agreements.
• Family commitments or ongoing studies.

No, a UK tourist visa strictly prohibits any form of employment. Violating this rule can lead to visa cancellation.

• Tourism, family visits, and short courses allowed.
• Paid or unpaid work is prohibited.
• Engaging in business activities requires a separate visa.

Eligibility focuses on your purpose of travel, financial capacity, and ties to the UAE. Strong documentation is critical.

• UAE residency and valid passport.
• Proof of financial stability and accommodation.
• Clear travel itinerary showing temporary stay intent.

Yes, you can apply for family members traveling together, but each member must have their own visa.

• Children under 18 require parental consent and documents.
• Spouse and dependents need separate applications.
• All applicants must attend biometric appointments individually.

Visa fees depend on the type and duration of your stay. Payments are made online during the application process.

• Standard 6-month visa: £100–£120 approx.
• Long-term visas (1–2 years): Higher fees.
• Priority services incur additional charges.

Tourist visas are generally non-extendable beyond 6 months. Planning your trip carefully ensures compliance with UK immigration rules.

• Extensions are only granted in exceptional circumstances.
• You must leave the UK before your visa expires.
• Overstaying can impact future visa applications.

Processing times may vary, but most applications are processed within 3 weeks. Early application is recommended, especially during peak travel seasons.

• Standard processing: 15–20 working days.
• Priority visa service: 5–7 working days (additional fee).
• Delays may occur due to incomplete documentation or additional checks.

Documents are essential to prove your purpose of travel and your ties to the UAE. Proper preparation reduces the chance of refusal.

• Valid UAE passport with at least six months’ validity.
• Proof of accommodation and travel itinerary.
• Bank statements showing sufficient funds for the trip.
• Employment or business proof in the UAE.

Applying involves submitting an online application, booking a biometric appointment, and attending a visa center. Preparation is key to avoid delays.

• Complete the online visa form on the official UK government website.
• Schedule your biometric appointment at the VFS Global center in Dubai.
• Provide all required documents, including financial statements and travel plans.

A UK tourist visa allows UAE residents to visit the United Kingdom for leisure, tourism, or family visits. It is a short-term visa, usually valid for up to 6 months.

• Available for single or multiple entries.
• Requires proof of accommodation and return travel.
• UAE passport holders must apply through the official UK visa application centers.

Yes, students can apply, but they must show proof of enrollment and financial ability to fund their travel.

• Current student ID or enrollment certificate.
• Bank statements showing sufficient funds.
• Letter from educational institution granting leave for travel.

If you are transiting through the UK to another country, you may need a transit visa depending on your nationality and layover duration.

• Short layovers may require a direct airside transit visa (DATV).
• Longer stopovers or leaving the airport may require a standard visitor visa.
• Always check transit requirements before booking flights.

UK tourist visas are primarily for leisure and family visits. Limited business activities like meetings or conferences are allowed, but work is strictly prohibited.

• Attend short business meetings or consultations.
• Cannot engage in paid employment or full-time work.
• Business courses longer than 6 months require a separate visa.

Abroad Routes is a registered UAE immigration consultant specializing in UK visas, offering end-to-end support.

• Assistance in document preparation.
• Guidance for filling online applications.
• Booking biometric appointments and tracking visa status.

Applications must be submitted through approved visa centers in the UAE. Proper selection ensures smooth processing.

• VFS Global is the official UK visa processing partner.
• Biometric appointments must be booked in advance.
• Payment of fees is done online before submission.

Travel insurance is recommended to cover emergencies and medical expenses during your visit. It also strengthens your visa application.

• Covers medical emergencies and hospitalization.
• Provides proof of return in case of unforeseen events.
• Not mandatory but highly advised by UKVI.

Yes, the initial application is fully online, though biometric submission must be done in person.

• Fill out the visa application on the official UK government portal.
• Pay visa fees securely online.
• Schedule biometric appointments at the VFS center.

Visa rejection can occur due to incomplete documents or insufficient ties to UAE. Knowing reasons can help in reapplication.

• Common reasons: inadequate funds, unclear itinerary, missing documents.
• Appeals are rarely accepted; reapplication is preferred.
• Correct documentation increases chances significantly.

Yes, short recreational or non-degree courses are allowed, provided they don’t exceed your visa duration.

• Courses must be under 6 months.
• Paid degree programs require a student visa.
• Show proof of enrollment and payment for the course.

Typically, visas are valid for 6 months, but longer-term options exist for frequent travelers.

• Short-term: 6 months.
• Long-term: 2, 5, or 10 years for frequent visits.
• Duration depends on applicant profile and purpose.

Yes, previous refusal does not permanently bar you, but you must address the reasons clearly in your new application.

• Explain past refusal honestly.
• Submit additional supporting documents.
• Demonstrate stronger ties to UAE than before.

Conversion is generally not allowed. Applicants must leave the UK to apply for a different visa type.

• Tourist visas cannot be upgraded to work or student visas in-country.
• Separate application is required outside the UK.
• Planning ahead avoids legal issues.

Yes, a detailed itinerary shows your planned activities and strengthens your application.

• List of cities and dates of travel.
• Accommodation details for each stop.
• Planned activities like sightseeing or events.

A family visit falls under the standard UK tourist visa category but requires additional proof of relationship.

• Invitation letter from the UK relative.
• Proof of relationship (birth or marriage certificates).
• Financial proof of visitor and host in the UK.

Peak seasons often require earlier planning due to higher demand and longer processing times.

• Summer (June–August) and Christmas periods are peak.
• Apply at least 6–8 weeks in advance.
• Booking flights and accommodation early is recommended.

Yes, treatment visits are allowed but require proper documentation.

• Doctor’s referral letter or appointment confirmation.
• Proof of financial ability to cover treatment and stay.
• Short-term visits only; long-term treatment may require a medical visa.

UKVI needs evidence that you can cover your travel and living expenses during the stay.

• Bank statements from the last 6 months.
• Salary certificates or business income proof.
• Evidence of property or other assets in UAE.

Priority visas are processed faster for applicants who need urgent travel.

• Standard visa: 15–20 working days.
• Priority visa: 5–7 working days (extra fee).
• Super priority: 24 hours in exceptional cases (additional fee).

Yes, long-term visitor visas are available for frequent travelers but are issued based on eligibility and purpose.

• 2-year, 5-year, and 10-year multiple-entry visas.
• Each visit under long-term visa is limited to 6 months.
• Suitable for frequent UAE travelers visiting the UK.

Yes, you can apply for multiple visits, especially if holding a long-term multiple-entry visa.

• Each visit must comply with stay limits.
• Long-term visas allow multiple visits within validity.
• Frequent travelers must show strong ties to UAE.

Proof of accommodation demonstrates your stay plans in the UK. It strengthens your application significantly.

• Hotel bookings or Airbnb confirmations.
• Invitation letter from UK family or friends (with address).
• Multiple accommodation options for different cities if traveling widely.

Biometrics (fingerprints and photo) are mandatory for all applicants to verify identity.

• Must attend VFS Global center in Dubai.
• Children under 5 are usually exempt from fingerprints.
• Biometric submission is scheduled after online application.

Yes, previous visas strengthen your new application by showing travel history and compliance.

• Include old passport copies with UK visas.
• Demonstrates adherence to visa rules.
• Frequent lawful travel can boost approval chances.
• Helps UKVI assess your credibility and travel intentions.

Yes, each application, including renewals, requires a biometric appointment regardless of prior visas.

• Fingerprints and photograph taken at VFS Global center.
• Children under 5 may be exempt.
• Appointments must be scheduled after online form submission.
• Biometrics are mandatory for visa processing and identity verification.

Yes, sightseeing is one of the primary purposes of a UK tourist visa. Planning your itinerary increases visa approval chances.

• Provide a detailed travel plan with city visits.
• Include hotel bookings and entry tickets if possible.
• Evidence of return travel shows temporary visit intention.
• Tourist activities may include cultural or recreational sites.

There is no minimum age for a UK tourist visa. However, minors require parental consent and additional documentation.

• Children under 18 must be accompanied by a guardian letter.
• School enrollment or family details may be required.
• Biometric submission required for children over 5 years old.
• Adults must provide employment or business proof.

A sponsor is not mandatory, but having a host in the UK can strengthen your application. Sponsors provide proof of accommodation and support during your stay.

• Invitation letter from host in the UK.
• Host’s proof of residence and employment.
• Host may provide financial support if necessary.
• UKVI still expects applicant to show own financial stability.

Yes, UAE residents can apply from other countries, but applications from outside the UAE may require additional documentation. UKVI needs proof of legal residence in the country of application and ties to your home country.

• Provide valid visa/residency proof of the country you are applying from.
• Include financial documents and return ticket evidence.
• Follow UKVI rules for the specific country of application.
• Appointment must be booked at a local UK visa application center.

They are essentially the same; a standard visitor visa covers tourism, family, and short courses.

• Covers leisure, visiting friends/family, and medical treatment.
• Maximum stay usually 6 months per visit.
• Work or long-term study not allowed.

Yes, but it is recommended to book refundable tickets or hold reservations until approval.

• Non-refundable bookings carry risk if visa is denied.
• Travel insurance recommended to cover cancellations.
• Documented flight plan strengthens visa application.

After submission, applicants receive a tracking ID to check visa status online.

• Use VFS Global tracking portal.
• Status updates include biometric submission, decision pending, or collection.
• Abroad Routes monitors application progress and provides updates.

Yes, self-employed applicants must show proof of business and income stability.

• Business license and registration documents.
• Bank statements and tax returns.
• Clear travel purpose and return intent.

Children above 5 usually need biometric submission, while younger children are exempt.

• Fingerprints and photo for children over 5.
• Parents must accompany minors.
• Separate applications required for each child.

Yes, registered immigration consultants like Abroad Routes streamline the process.

• Assistance in filling forms and document checklist.
• Appointment scheduling and tracking.
• Guidance on priority or standard applications.

No, visa approval is at the discretion of UKVI, but proper preparation increases success.

• Complete and accurate documentation is essential.
• Clear ties to UAE reduce refusal risk.
• Early application allows time to address potential issues.

Yes, minor business activities like meetings can be included, but paid employment is prohibited.

• Attend short conferences or consultations.
• No work for UK companies allowed.
• Must provide clear itinerary for both tourist and business activities.
• Business activities must align with visa type limitations.

Yes, property ownership in UAE demonstrates strong ties and supports return intent.

• Include property deed or rental agreement.
• Financial documents showing property value may help.
• Property evidence increases credibility with UKVI.
• Supports overall visa application by showing ties to UAE

Most applicants do not require interviews, but UKVI may call some for clarification or additional questions.

• Rare cases include incomplete documentation or prior visa refusals.
• Interviews are conducted at the visa application center.
• Prepare supporting documents and statements in advance.
• Clear answers increase approval chances.

It is advised to apply at least 8–12 weeks before planned travel to allow processing and unexpected delays.

• Standard visa: 3–4 weeks processing.
• Priority visa: 5–7 working days.
• Super-priority: 24 hours in exceptional cases.
• Early applications reduce stress and avoid last-minute issues.

Generally, health certificates are not required unless coming from countries with specific health risks.

• Travel insurance is highly recommended.
• Proof of vaccinations may be requested in rare cases.
• Medical documents may be required for treatment visits.
• Routine tourist visits rarely need health clearance.

Yes, applicants can request a shorter visa if planning a brief trip.

• Duration may be granted according to travel plans.
• Shorter trips reduce documentation burden.
• Maximum stay still limited by UKVI regulations.
• Align visa length with accommodation and itinerary.

Yes, a UK standard visitor visa allows travel to all parts of the UK, including England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland.

• Single visa covers multiple regions.
• Itinerary can include cities across UK.
• Compliance with visa duration is required in all regions.
• Must follow UKVI rules during travel.

Yes, with proper documentation and strong ties to UAE, multiple applications are allowed.

• Each application must comply with visa rules.
• Previous compliance increases approval chances.
• Long-term visas reduce the need for multiple applications.
• Ensure financial and accommodation proof for each trip.

Proof of return travel demonstrates your intention to leave the UK after visiting.

• Include confirmed flight bookings or reservation emails.
• Ensure travel dates align with visa validity.
• Avoid non-refundable bookings until visa is approved.
• Return tickets strengthen temporary visit claims.

Yes, attending exhibitions, festivals, or shows is allowed under a standard tourist visa.

• Provide event tickets or invitations.
• Include accommodation and itinerary for event duration.
• Show financial ability to cover expenses.
• Maintain temporary visit intent.

Yes, self-employed applicants must provide business registration and financial proof.

• Business license and tax records required.
• Bank statements showing sufficient funds.
• Clear travel plan demonstrating temporary visit.
• Return intent supported by UAE business ties.

Employment proof demonstrates strong ties to UAE and assures return after travel.

• Letter from employer confirming leave and position.
• Salary certificate and bank statements.
• Employment contract if applicable.
• Clear explanation of job stability and duration.

Yes, first-time travelers can apply, but strong supporting documents are crucial.

• Bank statements showing financial stability.
• Proof of accommodation and return flight.
• Ties to UAE, such as employment or family.
• Detailed travel itinerary strengthens credibility.

Yes, retirees can apply, but they must provide proof of financial stability and ties to the UAE. Retirement status does not prevent visa approval.

• Pension statements or savings account proof.
• Property ownership or other assets in UAE.
• Travel itinerary and accommodation bookings.
• Evidence of return intent to UAE.

Standard applications usually take 15–20 working days, but priority options shorten processing times.

• Standard visa: 3–4 weeks.
• Priority visa: 5–7 working days.
• Super-priority: 24 hours in exceptional cases.
• Delays can occur if additional documents are required.

Yes, attending weddings and family events is a valid purpose under the UK tourist visa.

• Provide wedding invitation or host letter.
• Show accommodation arrangements.
• Evidence of funds to cover expenses.
• Clear plan to return to UAE after the event.

Yes, but applicants must address previous refusal reasons and provide additional supporting documents.

• Explain prior refusal honestly.
• Provide new evidence of financial stability and ties to UAE.
• Strengthen travel itinerary and accommodation proofs.
• Avoid repeating previous mistakes in the application.

Yes, a standard UK tourist visa allows travel to multiple cities during your stay, as long as you respect visa duration.

• Include detailed multi-city itinerary.
• Book accommodation for each city visited.
• Provide financial proof covering all stops.
• Ensure return ticket aligns with visa expiry.

UKVI requires proof of funds to cover all expenses during your stay, showing financial independence.

• Bank statements for last 6 months.
• Salary certificates or business income proof.
• Property or other assets may be included.
• Travel insurance showing coverage for emergencies.

Each applicant must submit a separate visa application, but group applications can be processed simultaneously.

• Children and adults require individual applications.
• Families can submit together to schedule biometric appointments closely.
• Each applicant must meet eligibility criteria.
• Documents should reflect joint travel plans.

No, conversion is generally not allowed; a student visa must be applied for from outside the UK.

• Must leave UK before applying for a student visa.
• Separate online application and fee required.
• Acceptance from a UK educational institution is necessary.
• Planning ahead ensures smooth visa transition.

Short-term volunteer work is allowed only if unpaid and aligns with visitor visa restrictions.

• Work must be strictly voluntary with no payment.
• Documented invitation from host organization is required.
• Volunteer activities must not exceed visa duration.
• Paid work is prohibited under a tourist visa.

UKVI requires evidence that you will return home after visiting the UK.

• Employment or business documents.
• Family ties or dependents in UAE.
• Property or long-term lease agreements.
• Memberships or social commitments in UAE.

Yes, non-degree or recreational courses under 6 months are allowed under a standard tourist visa.

• Enrollment proof and payment receipt required.
• Courses must not exceed visa duration.
• Paid degree programs require a student visa.
• Detailed itinerary of course schedule recommended.

Children under 5 are generally exempt from fingerprints, while those above must provide biometrics.

• Photograph required for all applicants.
• Fingerprints for children above 5.
• Parental consent letters may be necessary.
• Biometric submission is scheduled after online application.

Yes, visiting religious sites or attending ceremonies is allowed under a standard tourist visa.

• Provide evidence of religious event or pilgrimage.
• Accommodation and travel itinerary should be included.
• Financial proof required for the visit duration.
• Must demonstrate temporary visit intent.

Proof of host accommodation strengthens the visa application.

• Invitation letter from friend or relative.
• Host’s UK address and contact details.
• Letter confirming duration and purpose of stay.
• Financial support from host if necessary.

Yes, self-employed individuals can apply, but must provide strong financial proof.

• Business registration and license documents.
• Bank statements showing consistent income.
• Travel itinerary and accommodation.
• Evidence of ties to UAE, like property or contracts.

Yes, attending conferences or professional events is allowed under a visitor visa.

• Provide conference invitation or registration details.
• Include travel and accommodation proof.
• Must not involve paid employment in the UK.
• Ensure visit aligns with visa duration.

Proper preparation, complete documentation, and accurate information increase approval chances.

• Submit all required documents correctly.
• Provide detailed travel and financial proof.
• Follow UKVI guidelines strictly.
• Seek professional guidance if necessary.

Yes, registered consultants like Abroad Routes can handle end-to-end visa processing.

• Assistance in completing online forms.
• Document checklist and submission guidance.
• Appointment booking and tracking support.
• Priority and super-priority service advice.

Yes, attending multi-day events like festivals or exhibitions is allowed under a standard visitor visa.

• Include event tickets and schedule.
• Proof of accommodation for all days.
• Financial proof to cover stay.
• Ensure temporary visit and return intent.

Yes, attending sports events in the UK is allowed on a standard visitor visa. It requires proper documentation to demonstrate purpose.

• Provide event tickets or invitation letters.
• Accommodation proof for the event duration.
• Financial proof to cover travel and stay.
• Clear return plans to UAE after the event.

Yes, but you must explain past overstays honestly and provide evidence of compliance since.

• Include explanation letter for previous overstays.
• Submit updated financial and travel documents.
• Strong ties to UAE strengthen reapplication.
• Previous non-compliance may lead to extra scrutiny.

Yes, but only one passport should be used for the UK application to avoid confusion.

• Submit the passport with strongest travel history.
• Include copies of all other passports if relevant.
• Ensure visa validity and entry/exit stamps are clear.
• UKVI reviews consistency in travel history.

Yes, provisional bookings are accepted but must be verifiable by UKVI.

• Use refundable hotel reservations.
• Include confirmation emails or booking vouchers.
• Avoid non-refundable reservations before visa approval.
• Detailed itinerary should reflect hotel stays.

Yes, tourist visas allow group travel, but each traveler must submit an individual application.

• Separate applications required for each participant.
• Submit joint travel itinerary if traveling together.
• Include accommodation and return flight details.
• Financial proof for each applicant is mandatory.

No, financial proof is mandatory to demonstrate the ability to fund your trip.

• Include at least 6 months of bank statements.
• Salary certificates or business income proof can complement.
• Travel insurance may add credibility.
• UKVI evaluates applicant’s financial stability carefully.

Yes, but applicants must clearly show the purpose of the visit is temporary tourism.

• Short-term travel plan distinct from study intent.
• Proof of return to UAE before study starts.
• Financial proof covering the visit.
• Previous visa history can be included for credibility.

Yes, visiting exhibitions or trade shows is allowed under the visitor visa as long as work is not performed.

• Provide event registration or invitation.
• Accommodation and travel details for duration.
• Financial proof for all expenses.
• Temporary visit intent must be clear to UKVI.

Yes, unemployed applicants must provide alternate proof of financial stability and strong UAE ties.

• Savings accounts or property ownership.
• Family support letters if applicable.
• Travel itinerary and accommodation proofs.
• Return intent clearly documented.

Yes, priority and super-priority services are available for urgent travel, with additional fees.

• Priority: 5–7 working days.
• Super-priority: 24 hours in exceptional cases.
• Documentation must be complete before requesting.
• Early booking recommended to secure slots.

Yes, a standard visitor visa covers travel for honeymoon trips in the UK.

• Provide travel itinerary and accommodation proof.
• Include return flight confirmation.
• Financial proof to cover all expenses.
• Optional: event bookings or sightseeing plans.

Yes, attending short university events or open days is allowed, provided no study takes place.

• Provide official invitation or event schedule.
• Include travel and accommodation proofs.
• Duration of visit must be within visa limits.
• Financial proof covering the trip.

Yes, elderly family members can apply, but they must meet biometric and health requirements.

• Children and elderly must attend biometric appointments if applicable.
• Medical or health documents may be requested.
• Clear itinerary and accommodation required.
• Strong UAE ties demonstrated for all applicants.

Yes, visiting friends and family is one of the main purposes of a UK visitor visa.

• Include invitation letter from UK friends.
• Accommodation arrangements and travel itinerary.
• Financial proof covering visit duration.
• Demonstrate clear return intent to UAE.

Yes, but applicants must disclose any criminal convictions and provide supporting documents.

• Include police clearance or court documents.
• Honest disclosure to UKVI is mandatory.
• Strong financial and travel ties to UAE strengthen the application.
• Failure to disclose may result in refusal or ban.

Yes, attending concerts or music events is permitted under a standard visitor visa.

• Provide tickets or event confirmations.
• Accommodation and travel arrangements included.
• Financial proof for expenses.
• Duration of stay must comply with visa limits.

Yes, shopping and leisure activities are allowed under a UK tourist visa.

• Include travel itinerary and accommodation details.
• Proof of funds to cover shopping expenses.
• Temporary visit must be clear.
• Return ticket confirmation recommended.

Yes, short-term cultural exchange visits are allowed, provided no employment is involved.

• Include invitation or program confirmation.
• Accommodation and itinerary proof required.
• Financial proof covering stay and travel.
• Activities must comply with visitor visa limitations.

Yes, the application process is online, but biometric submission must be done in-person.

• Complete official UK visa form online.
• Pay fees securely through the portal.
• Schedule biometric appointments at VFS Global.
• Track application status online for updates.

Abroad Routes is a leading UAE immigration consultant, providing expert guidance for UK visa applications.

• Assistance with complete document preparation.
• Online form completion and biometric scheduling.
• Priority and super-priority application guidance.
• Personalized support for families, students, retirees, and first-time travelers.

Yes, property ownership in UAE demonstrates strong ties and supports return intent.

• Include property deed or rental agreement.
• Financial documents showing property value may help.
• Property evidence increases credibility with UKVI.
• Supports overall visa application by showing ties to UAE.

Yes, minor business activities like meetings can be included, but paid employment is prohibited.

• Attend short conferences or consultations.
• No work for UK companies allowed.
• Must provide clear itinerary for both tourist and business activities.
• Business activities must align with visa type limitations.

Proof of return travel demonstrates your intention to leave the UK after visiting.

• Include confirmed flight bookings or reservation emails.
• Ensure travel dates align with visa validity.
• Avoid non-refundable bookings until visa is approved.
• Return tickets strengthen temporary visit claims.

Yes, with proper documentation and strong ties to UAE, multiple applications are allowed.

• Each application must comply with visa rules.
• Previous compliance increases approval chances.
• Long-term visas reduce the need for multiple applications.
• Ensure financial and accommodation proof for each trip.

Yes, a UK standard visitor visa allows travel to all parts of the UK, including England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland.

• Single visa covers multiple regions.
• Itinerary can include cities across UK.
• Compliance with visa duration is required in all regions.
• Must follow UKVI rules during travel.

Yes, applicants can request a shorter visa if planning a brief trip.

• Duration may be granted according to travel plans.
• Shorter trips reduce documentation burden.
• Maximum stay still limited by UKVI regulations.
• Align visa length with accommodation and itinerary.

Generally, health certificates are not required unless coming from countries with specific health risks.

• Travel insurance is highly recommended.
• Proof of vaccinations may be requested in rare cases.
• Medical documents may be required for treatment visits.
• Routine tourist visits rarely need health clearance.

Yes, priority and super-priority services are available for urgent travel.

• Priority: 5–7 working days.
• Super-priority: 24 hours in exceptional cases.
• Fees are higher than standard processing.
• Early bookings required for available slots.

Most applicants do not require interviews, but UKVI may call some for clarification or additional questions.

• Rare cases include incomplete documentation or prior visa refusals.
• Interviews are conducted at the visa application center.
• Prepare supporting documents and statements in advance.
• Clear answers increase approval chances.

It is advised to apply at least 8–12 weeks before planned travel to allow processing and unexpected delays.

• Standard visa: 3–4 weeks processing.
• Priority visa: 5–7 working days.
• Super-priority: 24 hours in exceptional cases.
• Early applications reduce stress and avoid last-minute issues.