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UK Visitor Visa
A short-term visa to visit the UK
A UK Visitor Visa allows visa nationals to enter the UK for a short period of up to 6 months for reasons such as tourism, visiting family, certain business activities or medical treatement.
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Eligibility
To be eligible for a UK Visitor Visa , you must meet the following requirements:
- Purpose of visit:You must demonstrate a valid reason for visiting the UK
- Intention to leave:You must intend to return leave the UK at the end of your visit
- Financial stability:You must show evidence of sufficient funds to cover the cost your trip
Meeting these requirements is essential for securing a UK Visitor Visa. Accurate documentation and clear evidence of your intent will improve your chances of approval.
Costs
A UK Visitor Visa costs £115. Prices are always changing so it is important to check the latest fees at the time of application. In addtion to these fees the application centre may charge a fee to utilise their site.
How to apply
You must make an online application for a UK Visitor Visa . After filling in the online application form, you must book a biometrics appointment where your fingerprints and photograph will be taken. This is a mandatory step in the application process.
Once your biometrics are completed, you will need to gather and submit supporting documents, including your valid passport, proof of sufficient funds for your stay, and evidence of ties to your home country, such as employment or property ownership. These documents help demonstrate your intent to return after your visit.
After submission, your application will be processed by UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI). Processing times vary depending on whether you opt for standard, priority, or super-priority service. It’s crucial to check the latest requirements and guidelines before submitting your application.
Processing time
UK Visitor Visa processing times can vary depending on the application type and circumstances. Standard applications submitted from outside the UK typically take up to 3 weeks. Priority services are available, which can shorten the processing time to 5-7 working days. However, factors like document accuracy and the complexity of your case may affect the overall timeline.
Length of stay
A UK visitor visa permits the holder to visit the UK.
According the rules a visitor must not make the UK their permanent home. Whilst the 180 day rule has since been re-worded we advise all visitors to try and stick to this figure.
Most UK Visitor Visas are granted for 6 months. Long term visas of 2, 5 and 10 years are also applicable.
Conditions of stay
A UK Visitor Visa allows you to visit the UK for tourism, family visits, short-term business activities, or other permitted purposes. However, there are specific conditions attached to this visa:
- You cannot work or take up any paid or unpaid employment during your stay
- You cannot access public funds, including benefits or housing assistance
- You must leave the UK before your visa expires, typically within six months of entry
- You cannot study for more than 30 days, and the study must not be the main purpose of your visit
- You must maintain sufficient funds to support yourself during your stay without relying on public resources
- You cannot marry or register a civil partnership unless you apply for a specific visa permitting this
Adhering to these conditions is essential to ensure compliance with UK immigration rules and to avoid any issues with future visa applications.
How we can help
Visa Positive provides completed, ready-to-ship UK Visitor Visa applications which stand the highest chance of approval. As immigration experts we can asses your eligibility for this visa and support you with all aspect of the application process. Simply get started with our always available questionnaire.
Guarantee
We stand behind our work. In the unlikely event your application is refused, we’ll lodge a reconsideration request.
FAQ’s
You don’t necessarily need a visa. Check the GOV.UK website to see if you qualify for visa-free travel. Otherwise, you’ll likely need a Standard Visitor visa.
UK Visitor Visa s come in various lengths, from 6 months to 10 years. Whilst the 180 day rule per stay has since been re-worded we advise all visitors to try and stick to this figure to satisfy the immigration official that you do no intend to make the UK your permanent home.
In certasin circumstances you can apply to extend your visitor visa if there are extenuating circumstances. Extensions are typically granted for up to 6 months, provided you can show the requesite evidence..
When your visa is approved, you’ll receive a visa allowing you to enter and stay in the UK for the specified duration. You can travel to the UK and enjoy the purpose of your visit, whether for tourism, business, or family visits.
If your visa is refused, you can appeal the decision or apply for a reconsideration if there is a legal error. Alternatively, you can reapply, addressing the reasons for refusal and providing additional supporting documents to strengthen your case.