UK Visitor Visa
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Business visits
- Study visits
- Academic visits
- Visits for paid engagements or events
- Medical visits
- Applications for visitors under 18
- How to apply for a Standard Visitor visa
- Conditions for extending your stay
Your Gateway to the UK: The Standard Visitor Visa
Embark on your UK journey with the versatile Standard Visitor visa. Whether you’re planning a holiday, a business trip, a short course of study, or other permitted activities, this visa is your key to unlocking all that the UK has to offer. Typically, you can enjoy a stay of up to six months.
Not everyone requires a visa to visit the UK; your nationality will determine if you need to apply for a visa or an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) before you travel. We can help you navigate these requirements to ensure a smooth and hassle-free entry.
What You Can Do with a Standard Visitor Visa:
Our team can assist you in preparing your application for a wide range of activities, including:
- Tourism and Leisure: Experience the UK’s vibrant culture, from city breaks to scenic holidays.
- Visiting Loved Ones: Reconnect with family and friends.
- Charitable Work: Volunteer for a registered charity for up to 30 days.
- Business Ventures: Attend meetings, interviews, and other specific business-related activities.
- Expert Engagements: As a professional in your field, you may be able to undertake certain paid engagements, such as giving lectures.
- Educational Opportunities: Participate in school exchange programs or undertake a recreational course for up to 30 days.
- Academic Pursuits: We can facilitate your visit to study, take an exam, or undertake a placement.
Important Considerations:
While the Standard Visitor visa offers great flexibility, there are certain restrictions. For instance, you cannot engage in paid or unpaid work for a UK company, claim public funds, or live in the UK for extended periods through successive visits. If you intend to marry or register a civil partnership, a Marriage Visitor visa is required.
Eligibility for a Seamless Application:
To ensure a successful application, you must demonstrate that you:
- Intend to leave the UK at the end of your visit.
- Can financially support yourself and any dependents during your trip.
- Are able to cover the cost of your return or onward journey.
Visa Fees and Options:
The cost for a Standard Visitor visa for up to six months is £127. If you are a frequent visitor to the UK, a long-term Standard Visitor visa may be a more cost-effective option. These are available for 2, 5, or 10 years with fees of £475, £848, and £1,059 respectively.
For those simply passing through the UK to another destination, a Visitor in Transit visa is available for £70.
Navigating the visa application process can be complex. Our experienced team is here to provide you with expert guidance and support every step of the way. We will ensure that you meet all the eligibility requirements and that your application is prepared to the highest standard for a successful outcome. Contact us today to begin your UK journey.
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.