Planning a trip to the UK this summer? Whether you’re dreaming of afternoon tea in London, exploring the English countryside or attending a festival or family celebration, many travellers will need to apply for a UK Visitor visa before they pack their bags.
What is a UK Visitor visa and who needs one?
A UK Visitor visa, officially known as the Standard Visitor visa, allows individuals to enter the UK for up to six months for tourism, family visits, short-term study or business-related activities.
You will need this visa if you’re from a country that isn’t visa-exempt. Nationals of the US, EU, Canada, Australia and some other countries can enter the UK as visitors without a visa, but travellers from countries such as India, Pakistan, Nigeria and China will need to apply in advance.
When should I apply for a UK Visitor visa before summer travel?
You can apply for your visa up to 3 months before your intended date of travel, but don’t leave it too late as processing can take several weeks. Ideally, aim to submit your application at least 6 to 8 weeks before your departure to account for any delays or requests for further information.
What documents do I need for a UK Visitor visa application?
The documents submitted with a visitor visa application will need to satisfy the Home Office that you are a genuine visitor and have the intention to leave the UK at the end of the trip. You will be expected to provide evidence of your ties to your home country/current country of residence, as well as evidence of your plans for visiting the UK, including invitation letters where applicable, and evidence of your ability to cover the costs of your return travel and accommodation in the UK. All of your documents must be in English or Welsh, or accompanied by certified translations.
Do I need to attend a visa appointment or submit biometrics?
Yes, after submitting your application, you must book and attend a biometrics appointment at a UK Visa Application Centre (VAC). There, you will provide your fingerprints and a photograph. In some cases, you may be asked to attend an interview as well.
How long does it take to obtain a UK Visitor visa?
The standard processing time is 3 weeks from the date of your biometrics appointment, but it can vary depending on your country and volume of applications. Fast-track services may be available for an additional fee if you are in a hurry.
What is the total cost for a UK Visitor visa?
The current fee for a Standard Visitor Visa is £127, though prices may vary slightly depending on your local currency and visa application centre. Premium or priority processing options can cost significantly more. You will also need to factor in the biometrics appointment fee and any extra services you opt for.
Can I extend or switch my Visitor visa once I am in the UK?
You generally cannot extend a Standard Visitor visa beyond the six-month limit unless you have a valid reason that is acceptable to the Home Office, as discussed in our previous blog.
Please note that you cannot switch to another visa category while in the UK on a Visitor visa.
What are the common reasons for UK Visitor visa refusals?
Visitor visas can be refused for several reasons, including:
- Insufficient financial evidence
- Unclear travel purpose
- Weak ties to your home country
- Inconsistent or incomplete application information
- Past immigration violations or overstays
To avoid refusal, be honest, thorough, and provide strong documentation that shows your intention to return home.
Who can help me apply for a UK Visitor visa?
While you can apply on your own, many travellers benefit from guidance. Consider:
- Immigration lawyers for complex cases
- UK-based family or friends who can help with invitation letters or accommodation
Are you ready to start your UK summer adventure? Don’t let the visa process slow you down. With preparation and the right documents, your UK Visitor visa can be just a few clicks (and fingerprints) away.
Updated: 8 May 2025
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 X, 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.
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