Planning a trip to the UK? Whether for tourism, business, study, or medical treatment, understanding the application process is the first step. This guide provides clear, search-engine-optimised information to help you navigate your UK Standard Visitor visa application with confidence.
While some nationalities can visit the UK for up to six months without a visa, many will need to either apply for a Standard Visitor visa or an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) before travelling. It is crucial to check if you need a visa before making travel plans.
The UK Visitor Visa Application Process
If you require a Standard Visitor visa, the process is straightforward but requires careful attention to detail.
1. Online Application: You must complete your application online via the official GOV.UK website. The earliest you can submit your application is 3 months before your intended travel date.
2. Book an Appointment: As part of the online process, you must book an appointment at a visa application centre.These centres may be in your country or a neighbouring one.
3. Attend Your Appointment: At the visa application centre, you will need to:
- Provide your fingerprints and a photograph (biometric information).
- Submit your valid passport or travel document, which must have a blank page for the visa.
- Provide all required supporting documents that prove your eligibility.
4. Await a Decision: Standard processing time is typically around three weeks from your appointment date, though this can vary.
New Requirement: Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA)
The UK is introducing an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) scheme. An ETA is a digital permission to travel for those who do not need a visa for short stays.
- Who needs an ETA? By April 2025, most visitors who are exempt from needing a visa (including those from the EU, USA, Canada, and Australia) will require an ETA to travel to the UK.
- Cost and Validity: An ETA costs £10 and is valid for multiple entries over two years (or until your passport expires).
- Purpose: It covers tourism, visiting family, business, and short study for up to six months.
UK Visa Fees
The cost of your visa depends on its type and duration. It is essential to pay the correct fee to avoid delays.
| Visa Type | Maximum Stay | Cost |
| Standard Visitor Visa | Up to 6 months | £127 |
| Standard Visitor Visa (Medical Reasons) | Up to 11 months | £220 |
| Standard Visitor Visa (Academic) | Up to 12 months | £220 |
| Long-term Standard Visitor Visa | 6 months per visit | £475 (2 years) |
| Long-term Standard Visitor Visa | 6 months per visit | £848 (5 years) |
| Long-term Standard Visitor Visa | 6 months per visit | £1,059 (10 years) |
(Note: Fees are subject to change and should be verified on the official GOV.UK website at the time of application.)
Long-Term Standard Visitor Visas
For those who visit the UK regularly, a long-term visa offers better value. These visas are available for 2, 5, or 10 years and allow multiple entries, but each stay is still limited to a maximum of six months at a time. To be eligible, you must prove you have a frequent and ongoing need to visit the UK, such as for regular business meetings or family commitments.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: How do I know if I need a visa or an ETA?
A: The official GOV.UK website has a tool to check if you need a UK visa based on your nationality and the purpose of your visit. It is the most reliable source of information.
Q: What documents do I need to provide?
A: You will typically need your passport, proof of funds (bank statements), details of your travel plans and accommodation, and evidence of your ties to your home country (like a letter from your employer). The exact documents depend on your individual circumstances.
Q: Can I work in the UK on a Standard Visitor visa?
A: No. You cannot do paid or unpaid work for a UK company or as a self-employed person. Specific exceptions exist for “permitted paid engagements,” which have their own strict criteria.
Q: Where can I find a visa application centre?
A: You can find a list of official visa application centres worldwide on the GOV.UK website. You must book your appointment after you have submitted your online application.
Contact us today to ensure your visit to the UK is safe, compliant, and stress-free.
About the Author:
Farzad Ghods is an international lawyer specialising in UK immigration law. He is regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA) and the Immigration Advisors Authority (IAA) in the United Kingdom, and is also a member of the Iran Bar Association. He brings over fourteen years of professional legal experience to his practice.