What is a UK visit visa?
A Visit Visa allows non-UK nationals to enter the UK for short stays, Holders of this visa can typically stay in the UK for up to six months, for purposes such as:
- Tourism and leisure
- Visiting family or friends
- Certain business activities (e.g. meetings, conferences)
- Short courses or exams (up to six months)
- Medical treatment
- Permitted paid engagements (specific roles)
You cannot work, claim public funds, or live in the UK through repeated visits.
Who needs a visit visa?
Depending on your nationality, you may:
- Need a Standard Visitor Visa
- Require an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) for short stays
- Be able to enter visa-free for up to six months
Check your eligibility before applying.
United Kingdom visit visa requirements
To qualify for a UK visit visa, you must:
- Hold a valid passport or travel document
- Show you will leave the UK at the end of your visit
- Prove you can support yourself and any dependants during your stay
- Demonstrate you can pay for your return or onward journey
- Confirm you will not make the UK your main home
Recent updates
- Simplified documentation – fewer redundant financial documents required.
- Visa validity options – choose from six months, two years, five years, or 10 years (max six months per visit).
- Fee changes – Standard Visitor Visa now costs £127; long-term visas range from £475 to £1,059.
- Faster processing – most applications decided within 15 working days.
- Enhanced biometrics – improved identity verification for security.
- Integration with ETA system – streamlined checks for eligible travellers.
Common reasons for refusal
- Insufficient evidence of funds or return plans
- Intention to work or stay long-term
- Inconsistent information between application and documents
How we can help
Our visit visa services include:
- Eligibility checks – confirm if you need a visa or ETA
- Prepare and review the required documentation
- Visit visa application submission and tracking
- Advice on permitted activities for business travellers
- Advice on long-term visitor options
We have recently launched a dedicated visa guidelines hub which is full of clear, useful guidance to help those wishing to live, work and recruit into the UK navigate the complex legal territory that is immigration law.
Applying for a visa is a complex process. On this dedicated website, our immigration experts have cut through the mountains of regulation. We present clear answers to the frequently asked questions of those who want to move to the UK to work or study, and of businesses wishing to recruit individuals from overseas.
For details in relation to certain immigration applications, please click here.
Start your UK visit visa application today
Avoid delays and refusals. Contact one of our specialist immigration solicitors for a free initial consultation and let us help you secure your UK visit visa.