3 Top Tips when applying for a UK Visit Visa

Applying for a UK Visit visa can be more complex than you might expect. In this blog, we highlight 3 top tips when submitting your application to visit the UK.

1. Check you need a UK Visit visa

Not all nationalities require a Visit visa to come to the UK. You should check whether you hold a nationality which is not included on the list of Visa Nationals (i.e. nationalities which require a visa in advance of arrival in the UK). ‘Non-Visa Nationals’ (nationalities not listed as those requiring a visa to come to the UK as a visitor) do not need to apply for a Visit visa prior to travelling to the UK.

2. Check your reason to visit the UK is covered by the list of ‘Permitted Activities’

Even if you are not required to apply for a visa in advance of arriving, you must comply with the rules that apply to visitors. Holding a UK Visit visa, or visiting the UK as a non-visa national, only permits you to undertake a specific list of activities; for example, tourism, visiting family and friends, and certain limited business activities.

2. Do not assume that all the documents required for your application are listed on the Document Checklist that is automatically generated on submission of your application

Once you submit your application, a ‘Document Checklist’ is automatically generated, and you will be prompted to book a biometric appointment and upload your supporting documents to the Home Office.

It is important to note that this checklist is not exhaustive and, more often than not, does not outline all documents required for a successful application, which will depend on the circumstances of your case. You should refer to the Home Office Guidance and Immigration Rules to determine the documents required for your application, and if in doubt, seek professional immigration advice.

How Gherson can assist

Gherson’s Immigration Team are highly experienced in advising on UK visa matters. If you have any questions arising from this blog, please do not hesitate to contact us for advice, send us an e-mail, or, alternatively, follow us on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, or LinkedIn to stay-up-to-date.

The information in this blog is for general information purposes only and does not purport to be comprehensive or to provide legal advice. Whilst every effort is made to ensure the information and law is current as of the date of publication it should be stressed that, due to the passage of time, this does not necessarily reflect the present legal position. Gherson accepts no responsibility for loss which may arise from accessing or reliance on information contained in this blog. For formal advice on the current law please do not hesitate to contact Gherson. Legal advice is only provided pursuant to a written agreement, identified as such, and signed by the client and by or on behalf of Gherson.

©Gherson 2023