uk online visit visa

Do you need a visa to go to the United Kingdom?

Jun 25, 2022 • 3 min read

Here's the visa info you need for a visit to Scotland, Wales, England and Northern Ireland © Andrew Merry / Getty Images

Traveling between England , Scotland , Wales and Northern Ireland reveals both the shared culture and distinct local flavors that contribute to the UK . Save for the occasional inconvenience of long lines at passport control and security, entering and leaving the UK was fairly straightforward in the past. Now, due to Brexit, information on visa requirements has changed for EU citizens and immigration restrictions are often on the news in the UK. It's essential to check with your local British embassy, high commission or consulate before leaving home.

What you need to know about visas in the UK

The UK government has a handy online guide to help you check if you need a UK visa . Britain is not a member of the Schengen Zone, so you will need to show your passport when arriving and leaving from a UK border point.

Visas are generally not needed for stays of up to six months for tourism or visiting friends and family. This applies to citizens of the EEA (European Economic Area) nations, Switzerland, Australia, Canada, New Zealand, Japan, Israel, and the USA.

Following Brexit, the EU Settlement Scheme is the system that EU citizens who are already living in the UK need to follow, but there is also a family permit you can apply for if you’re a family member of someone from the EU, Switzerland, Norway, Iceland or Liechtenstein. ​​It lets you come to the UK for up to 6 months. You can work and study, and come and go as many times as you want before the permit expires.

Anyone wishing to work, do business or academic research in the UK will need to apply for a visa, as will students wishing to study for longer than six months. The Youth Mobility Scheme , for Australian, Canadian, Japanese, Hong Kong, Monégasque, New Zealand, Sammarinese and Icelandic citizens aged 18 to 30, allows working visits of up to two years, but must be applied for in advance. Those coming from Hong Kong (if you have a SAR passport), Japan, South Korea and Taiwan must be selected in the Youth Mobility Scheme ballot before they can apply.

Tourists from China, India, Kenya, Nigeria, South Africa and many other destinations , will need to apply for the Standard Visitor visa . It lasts six months, costs £100 and must be applied for online in advance of travel. A decision is usually provided within three weeks. Applications to extend your stay must be made before your visa runs out, but there are strict limitations. If you know you want to be in the UK beyond six months, it's best to apply for the more costly long-term Standard Visitor visa, which lasts for two (£376), five (£670) or ten (£837) years.

Commonwealth citizens with a UK-born parent may be eligible for Right of Abode , which entitles them to live and work in the UK. You can only get the right to abode through marriage if you’re a female Commonwealth citizen. Commonwealth citizens with a UK-born grandparent could qualify for a UK Ancestry visa, allowing them to work full-time for up to five years in the UK. You should get a decision on your visa within three weeks when applying from outside the UK and the fee is £531.

British immigration authorities have always been tough; you may be required to demonstrate proof of onward travel or an outbound departure date (for example, a flight booking home), and possibly evidence that you have sufficient funds to support yourself while in Britain.

This article was first published March 2021 and updated June 2022

Explore related stories

Family Travel

Mar 28, 2024 • 6 min read

With its bounty of natural attractions, outdoor adventures and cultural sites, Ireland is packed with family-friendly activities. Here are our top picks,

Mar 22, 2024 • 9 min read

Mar 2, 2024 • 7 min read

Feb 8, 2024 • 7 min read

Jan 31, 2024 • 6 min read

Jan 30, 2024 • 9 min read

Jan 19, 2024 • 11 min read

Jan 11, 2024 • 4 min read

Jan 5, 2024 • 20 min read

Jan 2, 2024 • 8 min read

• 02074940118
• [email protected]

UK Visitor Visa (Tourist Visa Advice!)

• Anne Morris
• 2 October 2022

IN THIS SECTION

There are many reasons why you might require a UK visitor visa to come to the UK, from seeing the sights to seeing friends or family.

If you’re from outside the European Economic Area (EEA) or Switzerland, the Standard Visitor Visa allows you to visit the UK, usually for a period of up to 6 months.

The UK Visitor visa requires an application to be made from outside the UK, which will be assessed to assess whether you meet the requirements under the visitor rules and qualify as a genuine visitor. You will need to provide supporting documents that prove you qualify for a visitor visa. Failure to show that you meet the visa requirements will result in a refusal and loss of your application fee.

What is a UK visitor visa?

The UK Standard Visitor visa replaced a number of previous categories of visitor visas. It allows visitors to come to Britain for a short stay for a number of permissible reasons, including leisure (for tourism, visiting family and friends), for  business-related activities or sporting or creative events, and other reasons such as receiving private medical treatment.

It is not possible to switch into a different visa category from the visitor visa once you are in the UK; you would need to return to your home country and apply from there for a different visa.

How long does a UK visitor visa last?

The visitor visa generally lasts for 6 months.

You can apply to stay longer if you’re coming to the UK for private medical treatment (up to 11 months) or you’re an academic on sabbatical and coming to the UK for research (up to 12 months) but you will also need to apply for a biometric residence permit.

Under the Approved Destination Status (ADS) agreement, Chinese nationals are allowed to enter the UK with an approved tour group for up to 30 days.

Long term visitor visa 

The long-term visitor visa may be available if you are looking to make frequent visits over a longer period, such as 2, 5 or even 10 years, however you can only stay in the UK for up to 6 months at a time.

What are the permitted activities for visitors?

The visitor rules specify activities that are allowed under the route. The following are permissible activities:

• Tourism, for example on a holiday
• Visit family or friends
• Volunteering for up to 30 days with a registered charity
• Transiting through the UK to travel to another country
• Certain business activities, for example attending a meeting or interview
• Taking part in a school exchange programme
• Undertake a recreational course of up to 30 days, for example a dance course
• Study, do a placement or take an exam – this cannot be the main purpose of the visit and is limited to a maximum of 30 days
• Visiting as an academic, senior doctor or dentist
• For medical reasons

You are not allowed to do the following under a visitor visa:

• Undertake paid or unpaid work for a UK company or as a self-employed person
• Claim benefits or access public funds
• Reside in the UK for long periods using frequent and/or successive visits
• Get married or register a civil partnership, or give notice of marriage or civil partnership (instead, apply for the  Marriage Visitor Visa )

It may be that the visitor visa is not appropriate and alternative immigration options will need to be considered. For example, the permitted paid engagement visa may apply if a UK company is paying you to come to the UK as an expert in your profession.

Visitors should also prepare to travel with supporting documents as they may be asked to present proof of eligibility by UK border officials.

UK visitor visa requirements

The visitor visa is limited in its eligibility. Your stay must generally be for no longer than 6 months and you have to leave the UK by the expiry date.

Your reason for travel will also be critical to your eligibility and it will be important that you understand what is allowed under the UK visitor visa to ensure you do not breach these conditions for the duration of your stay in the UK.

Applying for the UK visitor visa

Applicants must ensure they comply with the regulations and evidence their eligibility through the visa application process.

To apply for the UK visitor visa, you will need to be outside the UK. You complete the online application form and provide supporting documents to evidence your status as a genuine visitor. You will be required to attend an appointment at a visa appointment centre in your country of residence, where you will be interviewed about your application and your biometric information will be taken.

As part of your visa application you will need to prove to the caseworker that you will not be staying for more than 6 months and that you have enough money to maintain yourself (and any dependants travelling with you) during your time in the UK and to fund your return travel.

Supporting documents

Your circumstances will dictate the exact documents to provide with your application to support your case. As a minimum, you will need to verify your identity with your current passport or other valid travel identification, valid for the whole of your stay in the UK and with a blank page for the visa.

Additional supporting documents should also be provided to prove:

• Planned travel dates and itinerary including accommodation details
• Personal information such as home address and parents’ names
• Travel history (past 10 years)
• Work information such as your employer’s name and address
• Contact information of the people you will visit
• You have a genuine relationship with the person you are visiting
• Details of any convictions
• Intention to leave the UK on visa expiry. Evidence could include proof of a job or studies in your home country, or family living in your home country.
• Sufficient funds to support you and your dependants in the UK for the duration of your visit. This could be funded by you of the person you are visiting in the UK. You will not be allowed to access public funds. Proof should include recent bank statements and payslips. An estimate of the total cost of the trip should be provided, as well as details of your income.

Any documents not in English or Welsh must be provided as certified translations.

After completing the form, you will need to attend a visa application centre overseas to have your fingerprints and photograph taken.

Visitor visa processing times

Under normal Home Office processing standards , visitor visa applications from overseas usually takes around 3 weeks. However, ongoing delays in processing services mean visit visa applications are currently taking 6 weeks, and in some cases longer.

You can apply up to three months before your intended date of travel. Fast tracked processing within 5 working days is available in some visa application centres for a premium fee.

How much does a visitor visa cost?

Currently, the UK visitor visa costs £100 for the standard 6 month stay. If you are travelling for medical reasons, the cost is £200 for six months, or £200 for academic visitors .

Longer-term visit visas cost £376 for the 2-year visit visa, £670 for the 5-year visit visa or £837 for the 10-year visit visa.

Can you stay in the UK for longer than six months? 

Generally speaking, all Standard UK visitor visas are short-term visas with a six-month maximum stay cap. Immigration regulations also prevent you from getting around this restriction by utilising a guest visa or making many, frequent, or consecutive trips, although you are free to enter and exit the UK whenever you like while your visa is still in effect.

However, citizens of China, Pakistan, India, and other non-EEA nations can apply for a long-term visit visa in order to go to the UK. These are chargeable extras that can be reserved for terms of two, five, or 10 years.

Be aware that you are still limited to a single visit lasting no longer than six months with these visas. You may, however, enter and exit the UK more than once throughout the permitted time. If you know you’ll need to visit the UK repeatedly over the course of a set amount of time, applying for a long-term visitor visa in the UK is a terrific option.

Academic visits from outside the EEA and people seeking private medical care in the UK do have another option for a longer stay. The Biometric Residence Permit is what it is called (BRP). You will need to provide biometric data about yourself, including your fingerprints, a photo, your immigration status, and more, but doing so will extend your stay in the UK over six months. This procedure, called biometric enrolment, still necessitates the presentation of proof of adequate financial support for your stay.

Visitor visa application refused?

If your UK visitor visa application. has been refused, your options could include reapplying and making a new application; submitting an appeal, where the grounds are on human rights; applying for a Judicial Review of the decision.

Your options will depend on your specific circumstances. Take professional advice to decide what you should do next.

Need assistance?

Travellers to the UK should note that even with a valid visitor visa in place, you may still be questioned at the UK border by immigration officials, to verify that you are a genuine visitor and will comply with the visitor visa rules. Where officials are concerned that you may stay longer than your visa date, or if your activities are prohibited under the visitor rules, you may be denied entry.

As a team of immigration lawyers and former Home Office employees, we have an established reputation for advising on the most appropriate immigration route for your needs, and supporting you with effective and efficient processing of your visa application. We also understand the stresses involved with making a visa application, and take great pride in playing a supportive role to ease the pressure.  Contact us  for advice.

Visitor visa FAQs

How much funds are required for uk visitor visa.

You will need to show you have sufficient funds to cover the cost of tickets, travelling, living and accommodation expenses while you are in the UK.

What documents do I need for UK visitor visa?

Your visitor visa application will need to include your current passport or other valid travel identification, as well as other documents that prove you meet the visa requirements, such as your intention to leave the UK and that your planned activities come within the visitor visa permissible activities.

Last updated: 2 October 2022

About DavidsonMorris

As employer solutions lawyers, DavidsonMorris offers a complete and cost-effective capability to meet employers’ needs across UK immigration and employment law, HR and global mobility .

Led by Anne Morris, one of the UK’s preeminent immigration lawyers, and with rankings in The Legal 500 and Chambers & Partners , we’re a multi-disciplinary team helping organisations to meet their people objectives, while reducing legal risk and nurturing workforce relations.

Contact DavidsonMorris

Sign up to our award winning newsletters, we're trusted, trending services.

DavidsonMorris Ltd t/a DavidsonMorris Solicitors is a company Registered in England & Wales No. 6183275

Regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority No. 542691

Registered Office: Level 30, The Leadenhall Building, 122 Leadenhall Street, London, EC3V 4AB

© Copyright 2024

Website design by Prof Services Limited . 

UK Visitor Visa (Tourism or Leisure) - Top 10 FAQs

Most visitors to the UK will need to make an application for a UK visit visa from their country of residence, before travelling. In this post we answer some of the questions that are most frequently asked by individuals who wish to visit the UK as a Standard Visitor for the purpose of tourism or leisure .

What are the eligibility requirements for a UK Visitor Visa application?

In making an application for a UK Visitor Visa you will be required to prove:

• You will leave the UK at the end of your visit;
• You will not live in the UK for extended periods through frequent or successive visits, or make the UK your main home;
• You’re able to support yourself and your dependants during your trip (or have funding from someone else to support you);
• You are able to pay for your return or onward journey (or have funding from someone else to pay for the journey);
• You have proof of any business or other activities you want to do in the UK, as allowed by the Visitor Rules .

What can I do as a Standard Visitor in the UK?

As a visitor to the UK for the purpose of tourism or leisure, you will be permitted to:

• Visit friends and family and/or come to the UK for a holiday; 
• Take part in educational exchanges programmes;
• Attend recreational courses for a maximum of 30 days;
• Volunteer with a registered charity for a maximum of 30 days.

What does it mean to be a “Genuine Visitor”?

In order to succeed with an application for a UK Visit Visa, you will need to satisfy UK Visas and Immigration that you are a genuine visitor. This means that you will need to show you are genuinely seeking entry to the UK for a purpose permitted by the visitor routes, will not undertake any prohibited activities during your stay in the UK, will not live in the UK for extended periods through frequent or successive visits and will not make the UK your home

The Visit guidance lists factors which will be considered by a Caseworker in assessing whether an applicant is a genuine visitor. Theses include your:

• Previous immigration history to the UK and other countries;
• Financial circumstances as well as your family, social and economic background;
• Personal and economic ties to the UK.

In assessing your genuineness, the Caseworker will also consider the cumulative period of time you have spent in the UK over the last 12 months and the duration of your previous visits compared to what was stated on your visa application form or on arrival to the UK. 

If you intend to visit the UK for any other reason including to marry or form a civil partnership , to receive private medical treatment , or to undertake business activities , you must apply for the specific visit corresponding to the purpose of your visit.  

What reasons could a Caseworker have for doubting that I am applying as a Genuine Visitor?

The Visit Guidance provides a non-exhaustive list of reasons a Caseworker may doubt whether you are a Genuine Visitor. This includes whether or if:

• There are discrepancies between the statements made by you and your sponsor in your application; 
• You, your sponsor or other immediate family member has, or has attempted to, deceive or mislead the Home Office in a previous application to enter the UK;
• It has not been possible to verify the information you have provided. 

Although the existence of any of the above reasons will not result in the automatic refusal of your application, it will be essential to address each of these circumstances in your application. 

How much funds do I need to show for a UK Visitor Visa?  

You must have access to sufficient resources to maintain yourself adequately for the duration of your visit to the UK. There is no set level of funds you need to show this.

Some thought should be given to the activities you intend to undertake, and your living expenses, in the UK. This is because, when assessing your application, a Caseworker will consider the likely cost of your stay and assess any source of revenue that will continue to be available to you whilst visiting the UK. A Caseworker will take into consideration your income or savings against any financial commitments you have in your country of residence in deciding whether you are able to support yourself financially during your visit. 

What does it mean to make “frequent or successive visits” to the UK?

Although there is no specific maximum period of time which you can spend in the UK in any period, as long as each visit does not exceed 6 months, your application for a Standard Visitor Visa will be refused if a caseworker has reason to believe that you are living in the UK through frequent or successive visits. In assessing your application a Caseworker will consider your travel history including, how long you spend in the UK on each visit and how frequently you are returning to the UK. 

How do I make an application for a UK Visitor Visa?

An application for a UK Visitor Visa must be made online . A Standard Visitor may apply for a visit visa of 6 months, 2.5 years or 10 years validity. This allows multiple visits to the UK within the period of validity, unless the visa is endorsed as single or dual-entry), but if it is a ‘multiple entry’ visa, you still cannot remain in the UK as a visitor for more than 6 months on any individual visit. 

As part of the application process you will be required to attend a Visa Centre to enrol your biometrics and have your passport scanned as part of the application process. Once your application form is submitted online, you will be able to upload your supporting documents online and book an appointment to enrol your biometrics.

How much does it cost to make a UK Visit Visa application?

The Home Office application fee for a Standard Visitor Visa is £95. You may need to pay an additional fee for a biometric appointment at a Visa Centre. 

How long will it take for my UK Visit Visa application to be decided?

An application for a UK Visitor Visa is typically decided within 3 weeks of making the application and attending a visa application centre. It may be possible to apply for a priority service to speed up the process depending on the country you are applying from. Due to the Covid-19 pandemic, there may be delays in processing your applications and priority services may be limited. 

What happens if my application for a UK Visitor Visa is refused?

You are unlikely to have a right of appeal if your application for a Standard Visitor Visa is refused.  If you need to challenge a refusal, it is likely you will have to do so by way of judicial review. 

You may wish to speak to our barristers for expert legal advice on making a fresh application following the refusal of your visitor visa. It will be essential for you to make a carefully prepared application which addresses each reason from your refusal to be addressed in order to succeed with a fresh application. 

Contact Our Immigration Barristers

For expert advice and assistance with an application for a UK Tourism and Leisure Visitor Visa , contact our Immigration Barristers on 0203 617 9173 or complete our enquiry form below.

SEE HOW OUR IMMIGRATION BARRISTERS CAN HELP YOU

To arrange an initial consultation meeting, call our immigration barristers on 0203 617 9173 or fill out the form below.

Want to keep up to date with the latest immigration news, events and legal developments?

Sign up and receive our latest expert briefings, case-law alerts and immigration guides. We’ve got our finger on the pulse, making sure you’re up-to-date.

DOWNLOAD OUR BROCHURE

Expert advice & representation from immigration barristers that you can rely on..

Read the 600+ five out of five star Google reviews of our immigration barristers.

Visa Traveler

Exploring the world one country at a time

UK tourist visa: Requirements and application procedure

Updated: September 9, 2023

The UK tourist visa requirements are clear and easy to understand. UK tourist visa application is online but the rest of the process requires an in-person appointment for biometrics.

The UK or the United Kingdom is comprised of England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland. To visit any of these four countries, you would need a UK tourist visa. UK tourist visas are valid for 6 months and you can stay up to 180 days in the UK.

The UK tourist visa application process is long and there is no status tracking. Make sure to start your UK visa process at least two months from your intended date of travel to the UK.

Table of Contents

BONUS: FREE eBOOK

Enter your name and email to download the FREE eBOOK: The Secret to VISA-FREE Travel

Opt in to receive my monthly visa updates

You can unsubscribe anytime. For more details, review our Privacy Policy.

Your FREE eBook is on it’s way to your inbox! Check your email.

UK TOURIST VISA REQUIREMENTS BY NATIONALITY

Minimum passport validity required to enter the UK

• Passport must be valid for the entire stay in the UK

Visa EXEMPT nationalities

Unlimited entry.

• This requirement will change from 01 Jan 2021 when UK will no longer be part of the EU
• Czech Republic
• Liechtenstein
• Netherlands
• Switzerland

6-month entry

• You must carry all documents needed for a visitor visa to show at the port of entry if asked
• Visa is REQUIRED if you have a criminal record or refused entry into the UK before
• Anguilla (British territory)
• Antigua and Barbuda
• Bermuda (British territory)
• Bonaire, St Eustatius and Saba (Dutch territory)
• British Virgin Islands (British territory)
• Cayman Islands (British territory)
• Costa Rica
• El Salvador
• Falkland Islands (British territory)
• Hong Kong
• Marshall Islands
• Montserrat (British territory)
• New Zealand
• Papua New Guinea
• Pitcairn Island (British territory)
• San Marino
• Solomon Islands
• South Korea
• St Kitts and Nevis
• St Lucia
• St Maarten
• St Vincent and The Grenadines
• Timor Leste
• Trinidad and Tobago
• Turks and Caicos Islands (British territory)
• United States of America
• Vatican City

Visa REQUIRED nationalities

• Afghanistan
• Bosnia and Herzegovina
• Burkina Faso
• Cape Verde
• Central African Republic
• Congo, Dem. Rep. of
• Congo, Rep. of
• Cote d’Ivoire
• Dominican Republic
• Equatorial Guinea
• Guinea-Bissau
• North Korea
• North Macedonia
• Palestinian Territories
• Philippines
• Saudi Arabia
• Sierra Leone
• South Africa
• South Sudan
• Sri Lanka
• São Tomé and Principe
• Turkmenistan

Electronic Visa Waiver (EVW) required nationalities

• United Arab Emirates

24-hour VISA-FREE entry at Heathrow airport

• Eligible to request a 24-hour VISA-FREE entry at London’s Heathrow airport if holding a valid visa from the US, Canada, Australia, New Zealand or any EU/Schengen country
• Must be in transit to/from the country of visa (Ex: if holding a Canada visa, you must be in transit to/from Canada only)
• Onward flight must be within 24 hours (on the same day or next day before midnight)
• Granting the 24-hour entry is at the sole discretion of the immigration officer
• Applies to all nationalities

BONUS (FREE eBook Download): Travel 56 countries VISA-FREE with a visa from the US, Canada, Schengen, UK, Australia, New Zealand, Japan or Singapore

UK TOURIST VISA APPLICATION PROCESS

First, check if you need a visitor visa to travel to the UK in the “UK tourist visa requirements by nationality” section above.

Alternatively, you can check your eligibility and requirements on the UK gov website .

Validity of UK tourist visa

UK tourist visas are valid for 6 months from the date of visa issue.

Example: If your UK visa was issued on January 15, the visa will be valid until July 15. 

NOTE There have been instances where visas were issued with validity starting from the date of travel mentioned in the visa application. 

When to apply for UK visa

You can apply for a UK visa up to 3 months in advance.

Example: If you plan to visit the UK on April 15, you can apply for your UK visa on or after January 16.

Also, keep in mind that you must apply for your UK visa at least 3 weeks prior to your travel, otherwise, you may not receive your visa on time. There are no refunds if you receive your visa after your travel date. 

IMPORTANT The UK visa process can take up to 3 weeks and even longer in some cases. I strongly recommend applying for your UK visa at least 2 months in advance.

How long can you stay in the UK?

The UK tourist visa allows you to stay up to 180 days in the UK. But if you stay that long continuously in the UK on a tourist visa, you will have serious trouble getting another UK visa in the future or entering the UK next time.

Here is my advice. Stick to the days you have mentioned in your UK visa application. A few days more or less is fine. But staying months on your UK tourist visa will pretty much look like you “live in the UK” rather than “vacation/holiday”. 

Application procedure

The UK visa application is online. You must apply for the visa online at the UK Visas and Immigration website

Below are the steps you will go through for your UK tourist visa application

• Go to the UK Visas and Immigration website
• Select your preferred language, type of visa, your country, nearest visa application center, etc
• Create a login using email and password
• Complete in the application form
• Sign the declaration
• Pay visa fee
• Submit the application
• Download and print the submitted visa application form
• Make an appointment at your nearest UK visa application center
• Attend the appointment at your nearest UK visa application center
• Submit your passport, visa application and supporting documents at the visa application center
• If applying from the US, Australia or New Zealand, mail your passport, visa application and biometrics receipt to your nearest visa application center
• Pickup/receive the passport when the visa decision is made

Below are some of the information you will provide in the application form

• Your travel dates to the UK
• Your hotel address and telephone number in the UK
• Your total estimated cost for the trip
• Your present home address and how many years you’ve lived there
• Your parents’ names and their dates of birth
• Your annual income
• Your travel history for the past 10 years
• Your employer details including the address and telephone number

Documents required

The following are the documents required for UK visitor visa application 

• Completed online visa application form with GWF number
• A passport-size photo (optional)
• If employed – an employment letter on company letterhead indicating your length of employment, salary, role, etc.
• If self-employed – a business registration document indicating your business name, date of business, etc.
• If student – a letter from the school/university on the letterhead indicating your enrollment, leave of absence, etc.
• Proof of funds ( bank statements or payslips for the last 6 months)
• Proof of legal residence (if applying from a 3rd country. you must submit a copy of your visa or residence permit of that country)

Do you need flight tickets and hotel bookings for the UK visa application?

UKVI has stopped asking for flight tickets and hotel bookings for UK visa applications. But some nationalities are still being asked to submit flight tickets and hotel bookings.

When you complete your online UK visa application, you will see a checklist of documents to be uploaded. Check if you are asked to submit flight tickets and hotel bookings.

Even if you are asked to submit your flight tickets and hotel bookings, you should not book any flights/hotel until your UK visa is approved.

For flights, get a price quote from British Airways which can be used as a flight itinerary for your UK visa application. Visa ticket booking agencies such as DummyTicket offer flight itineraries for the UK visa for $19, valid for 2-3 weeks.

For hotel, book a refundable or pay at check-in hotel on booking.com or Expedia . Cancel the booking after your visa is approved.

For more options, check out my detailed flight itinerary and hotel reservation articles.

Photo requirements

A passport-size photo is only required if are exempt from biometrics. All tourist visa applicants MUST give their biometrics. Your fingerprints and digital photos are taken during your biometrics appointment.

Since all tourist visa applicants MUST give their biometrics, a passport-size photo is not required. But, I suggest bringing one with you on the day of your biometrics appointment just in case.

Visa application fee

The UK tourist visa application fee is £95 GBP. You will pay this fee in your local currency. Due to exchange rates, you may end up paying about £2 – £5 GBP more.

You can use the UK home office visa fee wizard to find out the exact visa fee that you would need to pay in your local currency. 

If you are applying for a long-term UK tourist visa, below is the visa fee for 2, 5 and 10-year tourist visas. 

• 2 years: £361 GBP
• 5 years: £655 GBP
• 10 years: £822 GBP

Visa appointment

As part of the online application process, you will be prompted to make a visa appointment at your nearest UK Visa Application Center . Visa Application Centers are run by either VFSGlobal or TLSContact in conjunction with UK Visas and Immigration.

On the day of the appointment, you will give your biometrics (fingerprints and photo) and submit your original documents. You must bring all your original documents along with one photocopy of each including your passport.

Applicants from the USA, Australia (Adelaide and Hobart only) and New Zealand

You must give your biometrics at your nearest Biometric Enrollment Center and later send/post your documents to the nearest UK Visa Application Center.

During your online UK visa application, you will be prompted to make a biometrics appointment at your nearest Biometric enrollment center.

• Biometric enrollment centers in the USA are run by the US Homeland Security.
• Biometric enrollment centers in Australia are run by the Department of Immigration and Border Protection.
• Biometric enrollment centers in New Zealand are run by Immigration New Zealand.

The biometrics appointment takes about 10-15 minutes. You will give your fingerprints and photo. You will receive an acknowledgment stamp on the biometric appointment confirmation.

You must then mail your original passport, visa application, biometric confirmation with the stamp, supporting documents and return postage to the UK Visa Application Center you have selected during your online visa application.

You will be notified via email when the UK Visa Application Center receives your documents.

Visa processing time

The UK tourist visa processing takes up to 3 weeks. There have been incidents where UKVI has taken over 2 months to process, especially when the visa applications are “not straightforward”.

UKVI considers a visa application “not straightforward” if additional information is required to process the visa. Additional information can be, verifying information, background check or requesting additional documents. UKVI usually notifies you in such cases and requests any additional documentation necessary.

Keeping such incidents in mind, ALWAYS apply for your UK visa at least 2 months prior to your travel.

If you have to travel sooner, you should purchase the “Priority Visa Service” while applying online. Or at least before you mail/submit your documents. This way your visa application will be processed within 5 working days.

PERSONAL EXPERIENCE When I applied for my UK visa, the visa processing time was about 2 weeks. I had a planned trip to Canada before my trip to the UK. My trip to Canada was in 4 weeks, so I thought I had enough time to apply for my UK visa. However after I submitted my passport, the email confirmation said the visa process would take up to 4 weeks. I panicked. I went ahead and paid for the priority visa service. I panicked again. Then I emailed a formal visa withdrawal request, so I could at least get my passport back and make my trip to Canada. However, my visa was processed within 2 days of paying the priority visa service fee. Please do not make the same mistake as I did. Apply for your UK visa at least 2 months prior to your travel.

Visa application status tracking

Online visa application tracking is NOT AVAILABLE on the UK Visas and Immigration website. To track your UK visa application status, you must use UK Visas and Immigration’s email or phone option, which unfortunately is NOT FREE.

UKVI charges for all phone and email inquiries. 

Below are UK Visa and Immigration phone, email details and charges.

PHONE Telephone: +44 2034811736 Available 24 hours from Monday to Friday Calls cost £1.37 per minute plus any international call charges

EMAIL Email communication must be initiated via Email UK Visas and Immigration Email inquiries cost £5.48. Follow-up emails after that are not charged. You will receive a response to your email within 2 working days.

You must give out your credit card information for billing when you start the phone inquiry. For email, you must fill out the payment form and then you can submit your email inquiry.

PERSONAL OPINION Email inquiries generally receive a standard response saying that your application is “in process”. Phone inquiries are slightly better and cheaper.

Priority visa service

If you would need to travel to the UK urgently, you can opt for the “Priority Visa Service”.  This service is expensive and may not be available in all countries. If available, you will see the option in your online UK visa application. 

• Priority visa service fee: £220 GBP
• Visa processing time: Guaranteed in 5 working days

Priority visa service must be purchased during your online visa application. This will ensure your visa is processed within 5 days.

Purchasing this service after you have submitted/mailed your documents will take much longer than 5 working days. You must first pay the fee on the Visa Application Center (VAC) website and then email the receipt to the Visa Application Center where you have submitted/sent your documents. It can take more than a day for the VAC staff to locate your packet and push it into the priority queue

PERSONAL EXPERIENCE I purchased my priority service after I had mailed my documents. My visa application was approved within two days of buying the priority visa service.

Super priority visa service

If you would need to travel to the UK immediately, you can opt for “Super Priority Visa Service”. This service comes with a hefty price tag, so purchase this service only in super urgent, emergency cases. 

• Super priority visa service fee: £956 GBP
• Visa processing time: Guaranteed in 24 hours

Cancel your UK visa application

If you haven’t given your biometrics at the visa application center yet, you can cancel your UK visa application and get a full refund of your visa fee. The procedure to cancel your UK visa application depends on at what stage your application is in.

Application not submitted and fee not paid : If you haven’t paid your fee and haven’t submitted your application, there is a “Delete Application” option that will delete your current visa application.

Application not submitted but fee already paid : If you have already paid your fee and have not yet submitted your application, you can still delete your application but you may have to send a formal refund request in writing to the visa application center.

Application submitted, fee paid but haven’t given your biometrics : If you haven’t given your biometrics at VFS/BLS, you can cancel your application and request for a refund. The refunds take 4 weeks. 

Application submitted, fee paid, biometric given , and documents/passport already submitted: If you have already given your biometrics and submitted your documents/passport, you CANNOT cancel your visa application anymore. You can only WITHDRAW your visa application. You must email the visa application center a formal withdrawal request. Upon receipt of the withdrawal request, the visa application center will return/mail your passport back. Any visa fee and priority service fee paid are not refundable. 

IMPORTANT Even though UKVI says the refunds are processed in 4 weeks, it usually takes 8 weeks or even longer. There have been instances where applicants waited several weeks and some even gave up on their refunds. However, I have seen applicants having success in getting their refunds by reminding UKVI with phone calls or emails. It costs about $5 USD to email them, but it helps in getting your refund eventually. 

Withdraw your UK visa application

The UK visa application center keeps the passport for the entirety of the visa process, which could be 3 weeks or more. There may be emergencies where you need to have your passport with you. The only way to request your passport back is by formally withdrawing your visa application. 

If you withdraw your application, the visa fee and any priority service fee you have paid are NOT refundable.

To withdraw a visa application, you must submit a withdrawal request along with the reason for the withdrawal to the visa application center via email. It might take up to 72 hours for the consulate to locate your packet and send it back to you.

You must first call/email the UK Visas and Immigration mentioning your intention to withdraw your application. They will guide you through the process of withdrawing your application. Usually, the UK visa application withdrawal request should be a signed document with personal information including the GWF number. This document must be printed and signed. It must be scanned and emailed to the visa application center. Below is a sample withdrawal request letter.

Dear Sir/Madam,

I hereby request to withdraw my UK visa application. I understand that the visa fee is non-refundable. I also understand that my package may not be shipped for up to 72 hours.

Full Name of the Applicant: <name> GWF Number: <GWF number> Date of Birth: <date of birth> Nationality: <Nationality> Country of Residence: <Country of residence> Passport number: <Passport number> Type of Visa Applied: General Visit (up to 6 months) Biometric taken date:  <biometric date> Visa application centre’s address:  <address of the visa application center where you have submitted your documents> Contact number of the applicant: <Your phone number>

Priority Service Paid: <YES/NO> Priority Service Paid On: <Priority service purchased date>

Reason for Withdrawal: Emergency international travel has been scheduled. I need to have my passport in order to travel. Please return my passport as soon as possible. Thank you!

<Your signature here> Signed: <Your full name> Date: <date>

IMPORTANT Cancellation or withdrawal is NOT a refusal. It WILL NOT affect your future UK visa applications. You don’t need to mention it in your future UK visa applications either.

ENTERING AND LEAVING THE UK

Entering the UK by air

At the immigration, the officers may ask you questions about your trip, how long you plan to stay, your next destination, etc. You may be asked to show your return/onward ticket and your hotel booking. If you are traveling on a one-way ticket, you can use OnwardTicket to get proof of your onward ticket. 

PERSONAL EXPERIENCE: The immigration officer at Heathrow Airport asked me to show my return/onward ticket. I had a print of my onward ticket, so quickly took it out and gave it to the immigration officer.

Leaving the UK by air

If you are flying out of Heathrow Airport, make sure to arrive early. The airport is huge and you may have to take a bus from the gate to the flight.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What is GWF number in UK visa application ?

GWF reference number is the unique visa application number that was provided to you on your visa application submission. You must provide your GWF number when calling or emailing UK Visas and Immigration. Without the GWF number, UK Visas and Immigration will not be able to provide you with a status update on your visa application.

What to do if my UK visa application is refused?

If your UK visa application is refused, the first thing is to understand the  reasons for your UK visa refusal . If the reason is due to missing information, proof of funds or documentation, make sure to fix these the next time you apply for your UK visa.

Write a detailed cover letter explaining the reasons for your previous visa refusal, missing information/documentation and any additional information/documentation that you have provided in the new application. This will help the ECOs cut to the chase and focus on the new information/documentation.

There is no “appeal” for UK visa. So, re-apply for your UK visa by making sure you have the new information, proofs and documents that were lacking previously. You must pay the visa fee again as the fee paid for your previous application was non-refundable.

If you do not know the reason for your visa refusal/denial, give at least 6 months before you apply for the visa again. 

Can I get my UK visa application fee refund if denied?

No. The visa fee and any priority service fee paid are non-refundable if your visa application is denied. The visa fee is also non-refundable in incidents where the visa is approved for less number of days than requested.

I’m planning to visit the UK and Schengen countries on a single trip. Should I apply for my UK visa first or Schengen visa first?

If you plan to visit the UK and Schengen countries on a single trip, ALWAYS apply for your UK visa first. 

UKVI keeps the passport for the entirety of the visa process and there is no visa status tracking. Calls and emails to customer service are charged. Even if you pay and contact, you will usually get a canned response. If your UK visa is refused, there is no “appeal”. You can only re-apply, which means you have to repeat the entire process again.

On the other hand, the Schengen visa application process is much streamlined. There is application tracking, customer service and appeal. 

I highly recommend applying for your UK visa first and get done with it. After that, apply for your Schengen visa. 

When applying for your UK visa, show a “UK-only” itinerary for your UK visa. This eliminates the need for submitting your Schengen visa, flights in/out of the Schengen region, etc. 

The UK tourist visa requirements are clear and easy to understand. But, the visa application process is long and expensive. Apply at least 2 months in advance, and follow all the proper steps and documentation. Tourist visas are usually multiple-entry with 6 months validity.

WRITTEN BY THIRUMAL MOTATI

Thirumal Motati is an expert in tourist visa matters. He has been traveling the world on tourist visas for more than a decade. With his expertise, he has obtained several tourist visas, including the most strenuous ones such as the US, UK, Canada, and Schengen, some of which were granted multiple times. He has also set foot inside US consulates on numerous occasions. Mr. Motati has uncovered the secrets to successful visa applications. His guidance has enabled countless individuals to obtain their visas and fulfill their travel dreams. His statements have been mentioned in publications like Yahoo, BBC, The Hindu, and Travel Zoo.

PLAN YOUR TRAVEL WITH VISA TRAVELER

I highly recommend using these websites to plan your trip. I use these websites myself to apply for my visas, book my flights and hotels and purchase my travel insurance.

01. Apply for your visa

Get a verifiable flight itinerary for your visa application from DummyTicket247 . DummyTicket247 is a flight search engine to search and book flight itineraries for visas instantly. These flight itineraries are guaranteed to be valid for 2 weeks and work for all visa applications.

02. Book your fight

Find the cheapest flight tickets using Skyscanner . Skyscanner includes all budget airlines and you are guaranteed to find the cheapest flight to your destination.

03. Book your hotel

Book your hotel from Booking.com . Booking.com has pretty much every hotel, hostel and guesthouse from every destination.

04. Get your onward ticket

If traveling on a one-way ticket, use BestOnwardTicket to get proof of onward ticket for just $12, valid for 48 hours.

05. Purchase your insurance

Purchase travel medical insurance for your trip from SafetyWing . Insurance from SafetyWing covers COVID-19 and also comes with a visa letter which you can use for your visas.

Need more? Check out my travel resources page  for the best websites to plan your trip.

LEGAL DISCLAIMER We are not affiliated with immigration, embassies or governments of any country. The content in this article is for educational and general informational purposes only, and shall not be understood or construed as, visa, immigration or legal advice. Your use of information provided in this article is solely at your own risk and you expressly agree not to rely upon any information contained in this article as a substitute for professional visa or immigration advice. Under no circumstance shall be held liable or responsible for any errors or omissions in this article or for any damage you may suffer in respect to any actions taken or not taken based on any or all of the information in this article. Please refer to our full disclaimer for further information.

AFFILIATE DISCLOSURE This post may contain affiliate links, which means we may receive a commission, at no extra cost to you, if you make a purchase through a link. Please refer to our full disclosure for further information.

MORE VISA GUIDES

UNITED KINGDOM

VIEW ALL VISA GUIDES

• Cookie Policy
• Copyright Notice
• Privacy Policy
• Terms of Use
• Flight Itinerary
• Hotel Reservation
• Travel Insurance
• Onward Ticket
• Testimonials

Search this site

The United Kingdom is amongst the most frequently visited destinations for travellers in the world. What adds to UK’s allure is its proximity with the Schengen region that opens up seamless tourism opportunities for travellers if they combine their UK travel with a visit to continental Europe, to behold its many brilliant landscapes and landmarks. In order to make your UK visa application process hassle-free and convenient, UK Visas and Immigration and VFS Global offer you an exclusive array of value-added services.

This is in addition to the Premium Lounge facility and the On Demand Mobile Visa services available at the UK visa application centres.

Choose from any of these time-saving services:

Keep Your Passport When Applying

If you need to apply for multiple visas, such as a UK / Schengen combination, or wish to make a short trip while waiting for your UK visa to be processed,

you will find the ‘Keep My Passport When Applying’ service at the UK Visa Application Centre very helpful. After enrolling your biometrics and submitting your visa application at the UK visa application centre, if you have opted for this service, your passport is handed back to you.

This is extremely useful if you want to carry on with another country’s visa application formalities, as this service allows you to keep your passport with you.

You can keep your passport with you until the UK embassy makes a decision regarding your visa, one way or the other.

Once the decision is made, you will be called once again to complete the procedures as required by the embassy.

The visa application centres of UK and Schengen countries are often conveniently located next to each other at the VFS Global centres. This facility enables applicants to finish the visa formalities of multiple countries along with that of UK in a single day.

Super Priority and Priority Visas

Need a visa at short notice? The Super Priority and Priority Visa services are options for those who need to travel urgently.

For Priority Visa applicants, the process takes 3–5 days, while for Super Priority Visa applicants, this speeds up to a single business day. Super Priority Visa Service is available at VFS Global’s UK visa application centres in New Delhi, Mumbai and Chennai. Do note that the eligibility for application for either of these services may vary.

• Service line/administrator +44 20 7822 8535 New inquiries +44 74 1835 3951

Book consultation

• Write in WhatsApp
• Write in Telegram

Visit our office

• Temple Chambers, 3-7 Temple AvenueLondon, EC4Y 0DT

Contact our team to find out if we can help.

Book a free call to discuss your matter with us. Please leave your details and we will call you. We would also ask you to briefly describe your matter in the notes section, for the assessment before the call.

Please kindly note, we'll try to call you within the one hour slot you book, however, sometimes we'll have to reschedule the call. You call will last 15 minutes.

Please answer mandatory questions below.

• E-mail [email protected]
• Service line/administratorrr +44 20 7822 8535 --> +44 7 305 966 531 --> --> --> New inquiries +44 74 1835 3951
• Address Temple Chambers, 3-7 Temple Avenue London, EC4Y 0DT
• Working days Monday – Saturday
• PR Manager - Stepan Burov [email protected]

Corporate services

• Organisation & structuring
• Debt recovery
• Company Law or Insolvency
• Partnership Agreement
• Shareholders agreement
• Joint Ventures agreement
• Franchise agreement
• Licensing Agreement
• Service agreement
• Procurement Agreement
• Commercial Contracts
• Commercial property
• Selling and purchasing business
• Anti-Money Laundering
• Cryptoasset and NFT Regulation, Litigation and Tax
• Account Freezing and Forfeiture Orders
• Sanctions Law
• Compliance law
• Tax Investigations
• Criminal Litigation
• Business Development
• IT solutions
• Commercial liaise
• Set up a company in the UK
• Contract drafting and analysis
• Legal advising and consulting
• Claims handling
• GAFTA arbitration
• FOSFA arbitration
• LMAA arbitration
• LCIA arbitration
• ICC arbitration
• Interim injunction orders
• Recognition and enforcement of arbitral awards
• Ship arrest
• Legal seminars, webinars and workshops
• Innovator Founder Visa
• Global Talent Visa
• Sponsorship

Individual services

• British citizen & naturalisation
• Human Rights Claims
• Applications outside the immigration rules
• Asylum Appeals
• Children Law
• Cohabitation Matters
• Wills & Probate (Our fees start from £750 + VAT, an hourly rate is £138 + VAT)
• Civil Partnerships & Agreements
• Domestic Violence
• Property Matters
• Same-sex Relationships
• Employment contract
• Unfair dismissal
• Settlement agreements
• Termination of employment
• Conveyancing
• Private Client

Commercial dispute resolution

• Accreditation, Licence & Membership

Successful cases

Uk visitor visa.

Should you be considering a trip to the United Kingdom for reasons such as business, tourism, study, or other eligible pursuits, it may be necessary for you to acquire a UK Visitor Visa. This document permits a stay of up to six months in the country. The option of applying for an extension may arise in specific circumstances, such as for medical treatment.

At Sterling Law, we understand that navigating the visa application process can be overwhelming, which is why we offer expert advice and legal services to help make your UK visit as smooth and stress-free as possible.

How is the UK Standard Visitor Visa Defined?

An entry permission certificate that grants foreign nationals the right to visit the United Kingdom for a brief period is called the UK Standard Visitor Visa. This visa is intended for international citizens who want to visit friends or family in the UK, as well as for those who wish to enter the country for tourism, business, or other eligible activities like medical treatment.

When securing a UK Standard Visiting Visa, you must present credible evidence of your travel purpose, your financial stability, and your strong connections to your country of origin. Failure to do so may result in rejection of your visa. With such a visa, the length of stay is capped up to six months, and it does not allow you to engage in paid or unpaid work or get an education (except short-term courses up to 6 months) while in the UK. Therefore, foreigners, who wish to work or study in the country, must apply for a separate visa that is specific to their intended activity.

What Are The Rights and Restrictions on a UK Visitor Visa?

As an individual without UK citizenship, possessing a Visit Visa UK enables you to gain entry into the United Kingdom for numerous purposes. However, such a visa comes with certain limitations which a foreigner must be aware of to avoid any legal complications.

Permitted Activities Allowed By the UK Visit Visa

• Seeing family, friends, or relatives. With Family Visitor Visa you can visit your relatives, loved ones, or friends, who reside in the UK, to spend time with them, attend family occurrences, or simply catch up with them.
• Tourism . You may visit the UK for tourism purposes, such as going on holiday or vacation. This may involve sightseeing, exploring the country’s culture and history, or engaging in recreational activities.
• Engaging in voluntary work with a legally recognized charitable organization. If you are passionate about helping others, you are allowed to partake in volunteer work with an official charity organisation in the UK for a maximum of 30 days. This may involve participating in community projects, fundraising events, or other charitable activities.
• Transiting through the United Kingdom to reach another destination. You may visit the UK as a transit passenger if you are travelling to another foreign location. This may involve a layover or a short stopover in the UK.
• Business affairs. A UK Visiting Visa permits for business-related activities, namely attending business events, conferences, and other similar gatherings. Individuals can also negotiate and conclude business contracts, promote their products and services at trade fairs (yet without selling them), and receive work-related training if it is not available in their native country. Other acceptable activities include delivering unpaid talks, conducting site visits, overseeing delivery of goods, sharing knowledge, delivering training, and advising on computer hardware & software installation, equipment repair, servicing, or dismantling if an foreign company has a contract with a UK organization or company.
• School exchanges. If you are a scholar or student, you have the opportunity to travel to the UK for a school exchange initiative. This may involve attending classes, staying with a host family, and learning about the UK’s education system.
• Study, placement, or exam. You can visit the UK for studying, placements, exams, or work experience for up to 6 months. Eligible activities will encompass attending university or college, taking English language courses, conducting research projects, participating in optional placements (electives) if studying medicine, science, animal medicine, nursing, dentistry, or midwifery, retaking exams or course modules, participating in Ph.D. oral exams, undertaking unpaid clinical attachments, or taking OSCE or PLAB tests.
• Recreational courses. You can visit the UK to complete some leisure courses of up to 30 days, such as cooking lessons, photography workshops, or art classes. This may involve acquiring new skills or improving existing ones.
• Medical reasons. Visitors to the UK may stay for as long as 6 months for medical reasons, including private and NHS treatment if so falls under a reciprocal healthcare agreement. To qualify for a visa for private medical treatment, a person must demonstrate that they require treatment and have made arrangements for care. Sufficient funds must be available to cover medical expenses, and visitors must furnish proof of their intent to depart from the United Kingdom after treatment or when their visa expires. A person must not pose a public health risk if they have an infectious disease. If an organ donor wishes to donate, they must do so to a family relative or close friend, and documentation must confirm that the recipient is legally authorized to be in the UK.
• Academic, senior doctor, or dentist. As an academic visiting the UK, there are several appealing prospects for you. You have the option to take part in official exchange programs with UK institutions or conduct your research independently during a sabbatical. Additionally, as a senior doctor or dentist, you may partake in research, teaching (excluding permanent teaching positions), and clinical practice (excluding permanent positions).

Prohibited Activities by the UK Visit Visa

When requesting a Visit Visa to the UK, specific limitations and restrictions would apply to your visit. Firstly, a holder of a Visit Visa for the UK must not engage in any unpaid or paid work for a UK-based company or as a self-employed individual. This means that you cannot seek employment anywhere in the United Kingdom, and you also must not take up any freelance work or consulting projects during your stay.

Claiming public funds or benefits is either prohibited with a standard visiting visa UK. This includes financial assistance from the government, such as housing benefits, jobseeker’s allowance, or tax credits.

It is not permissible to reside in the UK for extended durations by frequently or repeatedly entering the country using a Visit Visa, as it is expressly designed for short stays. Getting legally married or registering for a civil partnership is also not allowed with a Visitor Visa UK. This requires a Marriage Visitor Visa .

Criteria for Securing a Visitor Visa for the UK

No matter your motives to enter the country, you must meet the basic UK Visitor Visa requirements:

• possessing a passport or travel documents that are valid for the entirety of your stay;
• having the financial resources to fund your travel back home or continuing journey, or having someone who
• can act as a sponsor and take care of these expenses for you;
• being able to demonstrate that you will depart the UK at the end of your visit;
• making sure you possess sufficient funds to cover your expenses while you are staying or having someone sponsor you with adequate financial support during your stay;
• not going to stay in the UK for extended periods by frequently visiting, neither having any intention of making it your primary residence.

To obtain a visiting visa to the UK, you may have to fulfil further eligibility criteria according to your purpose of visit.

Study, Placement, or Exam

If your intention is to take an exam, study, or attend a placement in the UK, you must provide proof of your enrolment in a course, an invitation to sit for an exam, or a confirmation from the organization facilitating the placement.

Senior Doctor, Dentist, or Academic

Individuals in senior doctor, dentist, or academic positions may be required to present proof of their professional status as well as the purpose of their visit.

Medical Treatment

In the event that you are seeking medical attention in the UK, evidence of your medical condition, the healthcare you require, and the arrangements made for your treatment will be necessary.

Different Rules for Travel from Isle of Man, Jersey, Ireland, and Guernsey

Persons from the Isle of Man, Jersey, Ireland, or Guernsey, who intend to go to the United Kingdom, may not require a visa to cross the border. This is because these countries are part of the common travel area (CTA) with the UK, which means that there are no passport controls on entry or exit between them.

If you are a resident of any of these territories and entering the UK from a location outside of the Common Travel Area, you must provide legitimate identification, like a national ID card or passport, in order to gain entrance to the country.

Although a visa may not be necessary for you to enter the United Kingdom, you may still need to apply for permission to enter the country if you are coming for a specific purpose, such as work or study. This will depend on the nature of your visit and your particular circumstances.

Essential Paperwork for Applying for a UK Visitor Visa

In order to travel to the UK as a tourist, it is necessary to obtain a Standard Visiting Visa, which grants permission to engage in a number of activities, such as attending business meetings, visiting relatives and friends, or undertaking a brief study course, for a period of up to 6 months. The application process entails providing specific personal information and documentation.

Passport or Travel Documents

The most important document for a UK Visitor Visa application is your government-issued passport or other travel documents. It is necessary for the document to remain valid throughout your entire stay in the UK and have an empty page for the visa sticker. During the application’s processing period, the passport will likely be held by the UK visa application centre. Therefore, it is imperative that your travel document does not expire during this procedure.

Online Application

Requesting a Visiting Visa UK begins with filling out a web-based form. You can apply for your travel permit as early as 3 months before your scheduled travel date. In your online UK Visit Visa application, you’ll need to disclose the below-mentioned data:

• The specific dates you have chosen for your travel to the UK
• The lodging arrangements you have made for your duration of stay
• Approximate expenses you expect to incur during your trip
• Your current residential address and the duration of your residency
• The names and birthdates of your parents (if available)
• Your yearly earnings (if applicable)
• Information regarding any criminal, immigration or civil offenses you may have committed

Supplementary Documents

Depending on your circumstances, you may require additional papers, which could include:

• A record of your travel history for the previous 10 years
• The address and phone number of your employer
• Information regarding your partner’s name, passport number, and date of birth
• Specifics about any sponsors for your trip
• Details about any family members you have residing in the United Kingdom
• A certificate verifying that you have undergone a tuberculosis test (if your stay exceeds six months)

If you’re travelling to the UK for academic, study, or medical purposes, you must provide specific documents related to your goal of travel.

Certified Translations

In the case of non-English or non-Welsh documents, it is mandatory to furnish certified translations of said documents.

Establishing Your Identity and Biometric Data

An online application for a UK Visiting Visa also requires you to set up an interview at a visa application centre . To validate your identity, you will be required to present your passport or travel documents during your appointment. To support your application, you can also supply an invitation letter for a UK Visitor Visa (if you have any). This letter can help demonstrate to immigration authorities that the visitor has a valid purpose for their trip and that they have a trustworthy host in the UK, which might contribute to a positive visa application decision.

The provision of your biometric identifiers, which includes your fingerprints and a facial photo, is also mandatory when applying for a Visitor Visa to the UK. The purpose of collecting biometric information is to authenticate your identity and confirm that you are the individual who submitted the visa application.

Taking biometric credentials is a quick and easy process, typically taking only a few minutes. You will need to attend a biometric interview at a designated location, where you will have your photograph and fingerprints collected. This data will then be stored on a secure database and used to check your identity when you enter the UK.

What is a UK Long-Term Standard Visit Visa?

Frequent visitors can apply for a long-term standard Visit Visa for the UK, with the validity for either 2, 5, or 10 years. The maximally allowed duration of each stay allowed under this visa is 6 months. If you submit an application for a long-term visa before you reach the age of 18, it will only have a validity of up to 6 months from the date of your 18th birthday.

UK Visas and Immigration may grant a visa for a shorter duration than requested if the eligibility criteria are not met by the applicant. In such cases, neither a refund nor a partial refund of the fee will be made if the application is refused or if a shorter visa is issued.

It’s worth highlighting that, if the applicant’s travel history indicates a pattern of extended stays in the UK, their long-term Standard Visitor Visa may be cancelled.

UK Visit Visa Processing: How Long to Wait?

After applying online, completing identity verification formalities, and submitting all necessary documentation, you’ll typically get a decision on your UK Visit Visa within 3 weeks. Persons who require expedited processing of their application may avail the priority service , which enables them to receive a verdict within 5 business days, in contrast to the regular processing time. However, such a service comes with an additional fee and must be booked in advance.

The priority service is not a guarantee of an approval of your UK Visiting Visa application, but it can significantly reduce the waiting time for a decision.

Regardless of the outcome, you will receive an email notification about your UK Visiting Visa application. The email will contain instructions on your next steps.

Navigating the UK Visitor Visa Application Process

Here are the common steps to follow to apply for a visiting visa for the UK:

• Find out if a Visit Visa is required for your visit to the United Kingdom. Nationals of some countries are exempt from visa requirements, so talk to an experienced immigration lawyer to clarify your options.
• Gather the necessary documents. To enter the UK, you must possess a legitimate passport or other travel documents, demonstrate your ability to financially sustain yourself for the duration of your stay, and provide proof of your UK itinerary or planned engagements.
• Complete the online application form. You can request a UK Visitor Visa online through the UK government website. Prepare to provide personal information, details about your trip, and information about your employment or education.
• Pay the fee. Receiving a standard UK Visit Visa is a paid service, and it currently costs £100.
• Schedule an interview at a visa application centre. To get a visa, it is necessary to have your biometrics (photo and fingerprint) collected at a visa application centre. You can arrange an interview by visiting the centre’s website and scheduling it online.
• Attend your interview. Bring your application form, passport, and supporting documentation to your interview. You will have your biometrics taken and may be asked additional questions about your trip.
• Wait for a decision. Upon conclusion of the visa application process, either by email or letter, you shall receive a notification regarding the decision. In the event of an approval, your passport shall receive a visa stamp.

The Price of a UK Visit Visa

The amount of visa fees required for a visit to the UK varies based on the specific type and duration of the visa needed.

The Standard Visit Visa costs £115. It permits a stay of up to 6 months. For frequent visitors, a long-term Standard Visitor Visa is available, costing more but providing greater flexibility.

For academics, the Standard Visit Visa costs £200, and it permits a stay of up to 12 months.

The medical Visitor Visa is priced at £200, allowing a stay of up to 11 months.

Long-term options include a 2-year visa priced at £400, a 5-year visa costing £771, and a 10-year visa costing £963.

All options mentioned include a stay of up to 6 months per visit.

Visa fees are ever-changing, so check the latest information on the UK government website or talk to a qualified immigration solicitor in London to inform you of the latest UK Visitor Visa tariffs.

What if an Application for the UK Visit Visa Refused?

If you are denied a Visiting Visa to the UK, you shall receive either a letter or an email that outlines the cause of the refusal. Some possible grounds for rejecting a Visiting Visa to the UK include:

• Lack of proof of intention to depart from the UK. The applicant is unable to provide sufficient evidence to show that they intend to leave the country when their visit ends.
• Insufficient funds. The applicant cannot bring evidence that they have sufficient financial assets to cover their expenses during their stay in the United Kingdom.
• Criminal history. The applicant has a criminal record or has been involved in illicit activities in the past.
• False or incomplete data. The visa application contains inaccurate or insufficient details about the applicant.
• Lack of connections to home country. The candidate fails to provide evidence of significant bonds to their country of origin, such as employment or real estate.
• Previous immigration violations. The applicant has previously violated immigration laws or overstayed a previous visa.
• Health concerns. The applicant has a health condition that may pose a risk to public health in the UK.

If your passport was kept during the application process, it will be returned to you upon a negative decision regarding your Visiting Visa UK. The refusal letter will also outline your options for appealing the decision. You may be eligible for an administrative review, which is a process where a different caseworker will review your application and make a new decision.

Alternatively, you may be able to appeal the decision through an immigration decision appeal. This process involves a hearing where an immigration judge will review your application and make a final decision. There are strict time limits for submitting an administrative review or immigration decision appeal, so it is crucial to act quickly if you wish to pursue either option.

In the event that your request for a UK Visiting Visa has been denied, you have the option to seek an administrative review of the decision within 28 days of being notified of the refusal. This review involves a separate caseworker from the Home Office who will scrutinize your application to verify that the initial decision was made accurately.

In case you are not satisfied with the result of the administrative review, you have the right to initiate an appeal with the First-tier Tribunal (Immigration and Asylum Chamber) within 14 days of receiving the administrative review verdict.

Can a UK Visiting Visa Be Extended?

If you possess a Visiting Visa that is valid for less than six months and are presently in the UK, there could be a chance for you to prolong your stay. By availing of this extension, you can stay in the country for up to a maximum of six months. Bear in mind that individuals who wish to stay longer must belong to specific categories, including those receiving medical treatment, academics, or those retaking the PLAB test or undergoing a clinical attachment as a graduate.

To apply for an extension, a fee of £1000 must be paid regardless of nationality. It is necessary to apply for an extension before the expiry date of your current visa or permission, and while you are still in the UK. Biometric information will also need to be provided, which includes fingerprints and a photo. The cost for extending stay as a Standard Visitor is £1000, and incorporating the super priority service will result in an additional fee of £800.

How Can We Help?

Sterling Law is a highly reputable and established law firm in London that provides comprehensive legal services to clients wishing to obtain a Visitor Visa to the UK. Our team of immigration lawyers has years of expertise in handling such applications with absolute professionalism and efficiency.

We understand that the visa application procedure can be complicated and stressful, which is why we offer tailored support and assistance throughout the entire process to ensure that our clients are well-informed and confident in their application. Our team is committed to providing you with exceptional legal representation, regardless of whether you’re applying for a Standard Visitor Visa UK or any other type of visa. We understand that overcoming the complexities of international travel can be arduous, which is why we’re here to guide you every step of the process. Don’t let legal hurdles stand in the way of your travel dreams – let us help you achieve them!

Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn more about how we can aid you in achieving your immigration goals.

Request consultation

Recent news

Thanks for your submission. Our team will review the information provided and get back to you as soon as possible.

Cookies on GOV.UK

We use some essential cookies to make this website work.

We’d like to set additional cookies to understand how you use GOV.UK, remember your settings and improve government services.

We also use cookies set by other sites to help us deliver content from their services.

You have accepted additional cookies. You can change your cookie settings at any time.

You have rejected additional cookies. You can change your cookie settings at any time.

• Entering and staying in the UK
• Visas and entry clearance
• Visit and transit visas
• Visit visa: guide to supporting documents
• UK Visas and Immigration

Visiting the UK: guide to supporting documents

Updated 1 February 2024

© Crown copyright 2024

This publication is licensed under the terms of the Open Government Licence v3.0 except where otherwise stated. To view this licence, visit nationalarchives.gov.uk/doc/open-government-licence/version/3 or write to the Information Policy Team, The National Archives, Kew, London TW9 4DU, or email: [email protected] .

Where we have identified any third party copyright information you will need to obtain permission from the copyright holders concerned.

This publication is available at https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/visitor-visa-guide-to-supporting-documents/guide-to-supporting-documents-visiting-the-uk

To visit the UK, you need to show that you’re a genuine visitor.

You can do this by providing evidence that:

• you’re coming to do a permitted activity – see Appendix Visitor: Permitted Activities
• you’ll leave the UK at the end of your visit
• you’re able to support yourself and any dependants for the duration of your trip
• you’re able to pay for your return or onward journey and any other costs relating to your visit

Wherever possible, digital images should be taken of original documents, not copies.

If you submit a document that is not in English or Welsh, it must be accompanied by a full translation that can be independently verified by the Home Office. Each translation must contain:

• confirmation from the translator that it is an accurate translation of the original document
• the date of translation
• the translator’s full name and signature
• the translator’s contact details

You do not need to provide multiple copies of the same documents if you’re applying as a family or group at the same time.

If you’re applying to visit the UK as part of a Chinese tour group, you should read the specific guidance for ADS visitors .

Further information about coming to the UK as a visitor can be found in Appendix V: Visitor of the Immigration Rules and in the Visitor Guidance .

Submitting or presenting any of the documents listed below does not guarantee that your application for a visit visa or entry at the border will be successful. You should bear this in mind when making any bookings, particularly if you need to apply for a visitor visa before you travel to the UK.

1. Travel document (passport)

You must provide a valid passport or other travel document with all applications and when travelling to the UK. Your passport must have at least 1 page blank if you use it to apply for a visa.

Some passport holders may need to provide alternative evidence of their identity and nationality.

2. Demonstrating personal circumstances

If you are intending to visit the UK you will need to show that you are a genuine visitor who is coming to the UK to undertake a permitted activity, that you will leave at the end of your visit and that you have sufficient funds for yourself and any dependants to cover all reasonable costs in relation to your visit.

It is recommended that you provide information about your circumstances in your home country and details of the activity that you will be doing in the UK.

The following provides information about the types of documents that you might want to provide to help us consider your application against the Immigration Rules for Visitors ( Appendix V: Visitor ). This list is not exhaustive.

• what you will be doing in the UK, the reason for your visit and whether any costs are being met, including any letters from inviting or sending organisations
• a letter from your employer on company headed paper, detailing your role, salary and length of employment
• a letter from your education provider, on headed paper, confirming your enrolment and leave of absence
• business registration documents or recent invoices that confirm on-going self-employment
• copies of previous passports showing evidence of travel to other countries
• confirmation of legal residence, if you are not a national of the country in which you are applying or your right to reside there is not included in your passport
• bank statements which detail the origin of the funds held
• building society books which detail the origin of the funds held
• proof of earnings, such as a letter from your employer confirming employment details (start date of employment, salary, role, company contact details)

3. If you have a sponsor

If someone else (your sponsor) is providing your travel, maintenance or accommodation you should provide evidence showing:

• what support is being provided and whether it extends to any dependent family
• how this support is being provided

the person supporting you has enough funds to adequately support themselves and their dependents

the relationship between you and the sponsor, for example if they’re your family member or your employer

• the person supporting you is legally in the UK (if applicable), for example if they have a British passport or residence document

4. If you’re a child (under 18)

You should show a legal document showing the relationship between you and at least 1 of your parents or guardians, for example a birth certificate or adoption papers.

You should show a copy of the photo page of at least 1 parent’s or guardian’s passport, including their signature and passport number, if they’re not also applying for a visa.

If you have a different family name to your parent/guardian, you may be asked to provide evidence of your relationship. Evidence you can provide may include:

a birth or adoption certificate showing your relationship to your parent or guardian

a divorce or marriage certificate for your parent or guardian

4.1 If you’re not travelling with your parent or guardian

You should provide additional documents to show that your parent or guardian is aware of your travel plans and that they give you permission to enter the UK. Your application may be refused if you don’t.

You should provide a signed letter from your parent or guardian confirming your travel arrangements, including:

• your parent or guardian’s consent for you to travel to the UK
• who’s travelling with you – you’ll need to provide their passport number if they’re an adult
• who’ll look after you while you’re in the UK
• how you’ll travel to the UK
• If your parent or guardian does not have a passport, you should provide another official document that includes their signature

5. Visiting for business purposes

• the relationship between you and the sponsor, for example if they’re your family member or your employer)

6. Attendees of business-related events or conferences

If you are attending a business event or conference, you should provide a letter of invitation from the organiser of the event you are attending.

7. Intra-corporate visits

If you are visiting the UK to work with your UK based colleagues you should provide a letter from your employer confirming this, and if this will involve working with clients, your employer should confirm that this is not the main purpose of your visit.

8. Wet lease arrangements

If you are a pilot or cabin crew member travelling to the UK to work temporarily under a wet lease agreement, you should provide a letter from your employer confirming that you are employed by them and that a wet lease agreement is in place.

9. Visiting for training, research or paid engagements

9.1 academics coming to undertake research (12-month visa).

You should show that you’re highly qualified and working in your field at an academic or higher education institution. For example, you could provide:

• a letter from your employer outlining the research to be undertaken
• a letter from the UK host organisation confirming the arrangements for your research or exchange

You should check if you need a TB test .

You should check if your family members need a TB test if you’re bringing them to the UK with you.

9.2 Performers at one or more permit-free festivals

You may want to provide a letter of invitation from the organisers of each event, including the dates of your performances and details of any payments you’ll receive.

9.3 Professional and Linguistic Assessment Board (PLAB) test and Objective Structured Clinical Examination (OSCE) test

You’ll need to provide a letter from the General Medical Council or Nursing and Midwifery Council confirming your test.

9.4 Work-related training – unpaid clinical attachments and dental observer posts

You’ll need to provide confirmation of your offer to undertake a clinical attachment or dental observer post, that it involves no treatment of patients and that you’ve not previously undertaken this activity in the UK.

You should provide an acceptance letter from your course provider confirming the details of the course.

9.6 Study – medical electives 

You must provide written confirmation from your UK Higher Education provider confirming you have been accepted to undertake an elective relevant to your course of study overseas.

9.7 Study – research placements  

You must provide confirmation from your overseas course provider that the research or research tuition is part of, or relevant to, the course you’re doing overseas.

9.8 Permitted Paid Engagements

You’ll need to provide an invitation letter showing why you’re carrying out the engagement and how long it’s for from a relevant UK-based organisation, such as:

• a Higher Education institution
• an organisation in the creative arts or entertainment industries
• a sports organisation, agent or broadcaster
• a research organisation
• an aviation training organisation regulated by the United Kingdom Civil Aviation Authority
• a client, if you are a lawyer
• the organiser of a conference or seminar confirming your invitation to speak at their event

You should provide evidence of professional status in your home country or expertise, depending on the engagement.

9.9 Lecturers or examiners

You can provide:

• the names or details of your publications in your field of expertise
• dates and times of lectures you’ve given in that field
• a letter from your employer confirming where you work and your area of expertise

9.10 Entertainers/artists/sports people

• dates and times of performances, screenings, concerts, talks, readings and exhibitions
• details of any awards you’ve received
• proof of recent performances

9.11 Air pilot examiners

You should provide evidence showing you’ve been invited by an approved training organisation. They must be based in the UK and regulated by the UK Civil Aviation Authority .

9.12 Lawyers

You’ll need to provide evidence that you’re a qualified lawyer, for example a practising certificate or equivalent document.

You should also show you’ve been invited to represent a client in the UK court, for example confirmation of your right to audience, or ‘temporary call’ (where required).

10. Visiting for private medical treatment

If you’re applying to visit the UK as an S2 Healthcare Visitor, you should read the specific guidance for S2 Healthcare Visitors

10.1 Private Medical Treatment

You’ll need to provide a letter written by a doctor or consultant , that includes:

• details of the condition requiring consultation or treatment
• estimated cost and likely duration of any treatment
• details of where the consultation or treatment will take place.

If you are coming to the UK to receive medical treatment as part of a reciprocal healthcare arrangement between your country and the UK, you must provide an authorisation form from that country.

You should check if you need a TB test if you’re applying for an 11 month visa.

If you’re applying to extend your stay in the UK to receive private medical treatment you must show:

• a letter explaining your medical condition from a registered medical practitioner
• you’ve met the costs of the treatment you’ve already received

If you’re applying to extend your stay in the UK to continue receiving medical treatment as part of a reciprocal healthcare arrangement between your country and the UK, you must provide an authorisation form from that country which authorises further treatment.

10.2 Organ donors

You’ll need to provide a letter from either the lead nurse of the transplant team or a GMC-registered specialist , dated no more than 3 months before you intend to arrive in the UK, confirming:

• you’re a confirmed match to the recipient with whom you have a genetic or close personal relationship, or you’re being tested to determine whether you are a potential donor
• when and where the transplant or tests will take place

You should show the intended recipient is legally resident in the UK, such as a copy of their British passport or residence permit. You should provide the intended recipient’s name, nationality and date of birth if they are not legally resident in the UK and are applying for a visa at the same time.

11. Visiting for your marriage or civil partnership

You must apply for a marriage or civil partnership visitor visa to enter the UK to marry, form a civil partnership, or give notice of this.

You should provide evidence that you intend to give notice, marry or form a civil partnership during your stay, for example an appointment confirmation with a registrar or booking confirmation for your reception. If you’ve been married or in a civil partnership before, you should provide documents to show that you are free to marry or form a civil partnership.

You must be over 18.

12. Passing through the UK in transit

You should provide evidence that:

• your outward journey from the UK has been confirmed and is within 48 hours of arrival, for example travel booking confirmation
• you can enter the country you’re travelling to, for example a valid visa or residence permit

Further information can be found on the Visitor in Transit visa pages or in the Transit Guidance .

13. Documents you should not use as evidence

Some types of documents are less useful as evidence in visit applications. These include:

• bank statements or letters issued more than 1 year before the date of application
• credit card statements
• driving licence
• educational certificates that are not listed as required for your visa
• evidence of car ownership
• personal photographs
• notarial certificates
• business cards
• hotel bookings
• flight bookings (unless transiting)
• photocopies of bank cards
• certificates relating to leisure activities, for example sports trophies
• travel insurance
• sponsor’s utility bills
• sponsor’s council tax bills

You may be asked to provide additional information by a decision maker.

Is this page useful?

• Yes this page is useful
• No this page is not useful

Help us improve GOV.UK

Don’t include personal or financial information like your National Insurance number or credit card details.

To help us improve GOV.UK, we’d like to know more about your visit today. We’ll send you a link to a feedback form. It will take only 2 minutes to fill in. Don’t worry we won’t send you spam or share your email address with anyone.

How to Fill Up the Online UK Visa Application Form – UK Visit Visa Application

Do you want to tour around or visit family and friends living in the United Kingdom? Do you want to see Buckingham Palace and the Queen? Well, you can go with a UK Visa. If you are a Philippine Passport Holder, here’s a UK Visit Visa Application Guide for Filipinos .

The United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Island is composed of 4 nations – England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Island. All have their charm and beauty. With a UK Visit Visa, you can spend up to 6 months in this lovely country. To know how to get one, read our article carefully!

Table of Contents

UK Visit Visa Application Guide at a Glance

Validity: Valid for up to 6 months Available in Single or Multiple Entries good for 2, 5, or 10 years

Application is available online and through a VFS Center. UK Visit Visa is available 15 working days after application.

Embassy Details:

British Embassy Manila 120 Upper McKinley Road McKinley Hill Taguig City Manila +63 2 8 858 2200 gov.uk

VFS Visa Centers:

VFS Global Services Philippines Pty Ltd. Mezzanine Floor Unit M01, Ecoplaza Building 2305 Chino Roces Avenue Extension Makati City, Metro Manila 1231

Visa Center: VFS Cebu 9th Floor, Keppel Center, Unit 905 Samar Loop, cor. Cardinal Rosales Avenue Cebu Business Park Cebu City 6000

UK Standard Visit Visa Applicants

• Those who want to go on a holiday or vacation as a tourist
• People who want to see family and friends
• Those with business or have a meeting in the UK
• Take part of Sports or Events
• Medical reasons

Documents you may need for a UK Visit Visa

For most documents, please submit in an A4 size paper.

• Valid Passport – valid on your stay in the UK, with a blank page (back and front for your visa)
• Previous Travel Documents – visas and stamps, old passports
• Details of Employment or Studies
• For Employees – Certificate of Employment (include start and length of employment, role, salary, and other company details)
• If Business Owners or Self-employed – Certificate of Registration with the owner’s name, the start date of business
• For Students – Letter from School confirming enrolment and leave of absence
• Financial evidence – can be Bank Statement or Certificates, Certificate of Employment (with salary), Sponsor’s Financial Documents
• Additional Documents if the Applicant is a Minor:
• Birth Certificate or Legal (Adoption) Documents
• If not accompanied by a parent or guardian, signed letter from them with a copy of their passport and signature

Visa Fees for UK Visit Visa

You can use credit, debit card, or PayPal for your payment. Please note it is non-refundable. VFS Service fees will depend on the services you will additionally render.

• Single – £ 100
• Two years (up to 6 months each visit) – £376
• Five years – £ 670
• Ten years – £ 837

Step by Step Guide on How to apply for a UK Visit Visa

STEP 1: Have your documents ready. Please scan them or take a clear picture of them before the start of the process. The files must be in JPEG, PNG, or PDF File.

STEP 2: Complete the Online Application Form (Please see below for more detailed instructions.)

STEP 3: Choose the length of your visa and Pay your visa Fee. Take note of the reference number given to you. You need to print the checklist or front page of your application form.

STEP 4: Create an appointment at a VFS Center (Manila or Cebu.)

STEP 5: You can upload your documents ahead (with the checklist and barcode separator ), to avoid paying a Document Scanning Assistance Fee of PHP 670 in VFS.

STEP 6: On your scheduled appointment, go to the VFS Center you selected. During your appointment, you will submit your documents, get your photo and fingerprints taken.

STEP 7: Wait for an e-mail about the update of your application

STEP 8: Pick-up at the VFS Center or receive your passport through a carrier.

How to Apply and Fill Up the Online UK Application Form

1. Go to this website .

2. Click Apply Now .

3. Select the language you want your questions and choices to be. Click Next .

4. Choose which country where you will be having your appointment or application.

5. Select the 1 st option if you can go to Makati or Cebu.

6. Start your application; please make sure to be active for at most 30 minutes, or you will be automatically logged out. Click Start Now .

7. Register an e-mail and create your password. You can also retrieve your application through a unique link sent in your e-mail. Click Save and Continue .

8. Answer the questions asked.

Information that may be asked:

• Telephone Number
• Relationship Status
• Address and length of stay
• Ownership Status of House
• Passport Details
• National Identity Card
• Nationality(s)
• Birth Place
• Employment – Start date, Employer’s name, address and contact details
• Job Title, Salary, and Description
• Income and Expenses – normal life and during your visit
• Planned Travel Dates
• Language Preferred
• Main Reason For Visit (with details)
• Dependent Details (if you are supporting someone)
• Parent’s Details – Complete Name, Birthdate, Nationality
• Family in the UK
• Travel Companions or Group
• Accommodation Details
• Travel History (UK and Other Countries – with dates of arrival and departure and purpose)
• Travel Refusal, Removal, Deportation, etc.
• Conviction and other penalties
• Previous Employment Organization
• Extra Information

9. Review your answers and click Continue.

10. Check the documents you must provide and tick the box to continue.

11. Read the declaration, tick the box, and continue. You’ll be on the visa fee list.

Know that you have read this UK Visit Visa Application Guide for Philippine Passport Holders, you can prepare your documents, apply online, wait for your appointment and visa. The process is pretty easy. If you need more assistance in getting a visa, we have a visa application bundle where we can do most process for you and you’ll just go to the center to get your photo and fingerprints taken. Good luck!

Are you on Pinterest? Pin these!

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

COPYRIGHT DISCLAIMER: Many of the articles on Two Monkeys Travel Group are guest posts by a number of Approved Contributors and are hosted by Two Monkeys Travel Group. Approved Contributors control their own work and post freely to our site. This includes all text and images that they use within their own work. All contributors are instructed to follow internationally recognised copyright and intellectual property guidelines. Two Monkeys Travel Group takes its own responsibilities very seriously, so if you feel that any part of this work is abusive in any way, please send us an email so that we can investigate - [email protected]

DISCLOSURE: Please note that some of the links above are affiliate links. So when you make a purchase we sometimes make a small commission, at no extra cost to you. The cost to you remains the same, sometimes even cheaper if we have negotiated a special deal for our readers.We use all of the companies we have listed here and that’s why they are in this list, but of course we need to keep Two Monkeys Travel Group running as well as it can, which is exactly what you’re helping with if you do decide to buy or book something through an affiliate link! If you have any more questions about the companies we use or any other companies you’re looking at, just email us and we’ll be happy to help. Please see our full disclaimer page for more information.

Written by Kach Umandap

Founder of Two Monkeys Travel Group. Since 2013, Kach has visited all the 7 continents (including Antarctica) and 151 countries using her Philippines Passport. In 2016, she bought a sailboat and went on sailing adventures with her two cats - Captain Ahab & Little Zissou in the Caribbean for 2 years. She now lives in Herceg Novi, Montenegro where she's enjoying her expat life and living on a gorgeous Stonehouse. She writes about her experiences traveling as a Filipina traveler with a PHL Passport. Also tips on backpacking trips, luxury hotel experiences, product reviews, sailing & adventure travel.

5 Reasons Why You Should Visit TeamLab Planets in Toyosu, Tokyo

Al hamra residence – my best stay in the uae, anavrin ras al khaimah – the perfect retreat for corporate junkies, where to stay in the gambia [best hotels and resorts in the gambia], 8 best things to do in the gambia, west africa, related posts, cruise refund policy & updated departure dates- list of cruise lines that offer rebooking and refund, valid philippines id guide – how to apply for a philippine postal id, 8 ways to prove your deep ties & rootedness in your country for visa applications, how to get a cenomar in the philippines (certificate of no marriage), previous post, how to apply for schengen hungary visa for filipinos [hungary schengen visa guide for filipinos], how to handle tourist visa overstays [covid-19 restrictions], subscribe to our newsletter.

Receive tips on how you can live a sustainable long-term travel lifestyle!

• First Name *
• Email This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.

The Economic Times daily newspaper is available online now.

Uk makes it more expensive for residents and citizens to sponsor relatives on family visas.

The UK increased Family Visa income to GBP 29,000, aligning with Skilled Worker visa levels. Measures aim to curb legal migration, ensure income sustainability, and address public services strain, impacting around 300,000 people.

UK's higher salary thresholds for skilled work visas kick in

UK's curbs on international students, foreign workers may backfire, thinks a top hedge fund founder

London calling? Not anymore. Tax tweaks worry NRIs, new migrants

Read More News on

For the times they are a-changin': Maruti’s mega reshuffle has more to it than meets the eye

12th pass: Meet Vishesh Khurana, the ‘college dropout’ who will lead Tribe Capital’s India foray

Finding MIMO: the adventures of Dr. Arogyaswami Paulraj — patriot, scientist, inventor, and visionary

At Suzlon, CEO Chalasani is powering profitability. But is the turnaround sustainable?

LTIMindtree: All eyes are on the next CEO, but investors need to reset expectations. Here’s why.

Much ado about localisation proof: Why the flagship PLI scheme failed to benefit auto companies

Find this comment offensive?

Choose your reason below and click on the Report button. This will alert our moderators to take action

Reason for reporting:

Your Reason has been Reported to the admin.

To post this comment you must

Log In/Connect with:

Fill in your details:

Will be displayed

Will not be displayed

Share this Comment:

Uh-oh this is an exclusive story available for selected readers only..

Worry not. You’re just a step away.

Prime Account Detected!

It seems like you're already an ETPrime member with

Login using your ET Prime credentials to enjoy all member benefits

Log out of your current logged-in account and log in again using your ET Prime credentials to enjoy all member benefits.

To read full story, subscribe to ET Prime

₹34 per week

Billed annually at ₹2499 ₹1749

Super Saver Sale - Flat 30% Off

On ET Prime Membership

Unlock this story and enjoy all members-only benefits.

Offer Exclusively For You

Save up to Rs. 700/-

ON ET PRIME MEMBERSHIP

Get 1 Year Free

With 1 and 2-Year ET prime membership

Get Flat 40% Off

Then ₹ 1749 for 1 year

ET Prime at ₹ 49 for 1 month

Stay Ahead in the New Financial Year

Get flat 20% off on ETPrime

90 Days Prime access worth Rs999 unlocked for you

Exclusive Economic Times Stories, Editorials & Expert opinion across 20+ sectors

Stock analysis. Market Research. Industry Trends on 4000+ Stocks

​Get 1 Year Complimentary Subscription of TOI+ worth Rs.799/-​

Stories you might be interested in