Overview
The UK Standard Visitor Visa allows non-UK residents to enter the UK for tourism, visiting family or friends, short-term business, or medical reasons for up to 6 months.
🧳 Tourist Visa
For sightseeing, holidays, and travel around the UK. You must show intent to return home and enough money to cover your stay.
👪 Family Visit Visa
For visiting family or close friends. You may be asked to provide an invitation letter, proof of relationship, and host’s documents.
💼 Business Visitor Visa
Allows business-related activities such as meetings, interviews, or attending conferences. Paid work is not permitted.
🏥 Medical Treatment Visa
Applies to those receiving private treatment in the UK. You must provide a medical referral and payment proof from a UK hospital.
📚 Short-term Study Visa
For study courses under 6 months (e.g. English language or training). You must provide an enrolment letter and explain accommodation plans.
Who Can Apply
- You intend to leave the UK at the end of your visit
- You have enough funds to support yourself without working
- You have a valid reason to visit (tourism, family, business, etc.)
- You can demonstrate ties to your home country (job, family, property)
Required Documents
- Valid passport (6 months+ recommended)
- Completed online visa application form
- Proof of accommodation (hotel booking or invitation)
- Bank statements showing sufficient funds
- Letter of invitation (if visiting family/friends)
- Travel itinerary or return ticket
- Employment or study letter
- Property or family ties proof (optional but useful)
Visa Fees & Processing
- 💳 Standard 6-month Visit Visa: £115
- 🕒 Processing Time: Usually 3 weeks from biometric appointment
- ⏱ Priority Service (optional): Decision in 5 working days (£500 extra)
Common Refusal Reasons
- Weak financial documents or insufficient funds
- Unclear travel purpose or inconsistent travel history
- Lack of strong ties to home country
- Submitting fake documents (can lead to 10-year ban)
- Failure to explain travel plans or sponsorship clearly
Tips to Avoid Rejection
- Ensure your bank statements are genuine and updated
- If someone is sponsoring you, attach their ID, job proof, and letter of support
- Explain why you’re visiting and how it fits into your life
- Submit a travel history if you’ve visited other countries
- Do not hide past refusals—be honest if asked