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Visa Required

United Kingdom

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The UK Standard Visitor visa covers tourism, visiting family, short business trips and certain study. Some nationalities also need an Electronic Travel Authorisation.

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Processing time
About 3 weeks
Visa fee
GBP 115 (6 months)
Validity
6 months (2/5/10-yr available)
Entry
Multiple
At a glance

United Kingdom: Standard Visitor visa for tourism, family and business. Fee: GBP 115 (6 months). Processing: About 3 weeks. Validity: 6 months (2/5/10-yr available). Requirements vary by nationality and can change — always verify with the official embassy before you apply.

Do I need a visa?

Many nationalities need a Standard Visitor visa applied for online in advance. Visa-national requirements depend on your passport — check before booking.

Required documents

Valid passport (6+ months validity, 2 blank pages)
Completed and signed visa application form
Recent passport-size photographs (per spec)
Proof of accommodation or hotel bookings
Confirmed return or onward flight itinerary
Proof of sufficient funds (recent bank statements)
Travel insurance covering the full stay
Proof of ties to home country (employment / studies)

How to apply for a United Kingdom visa

Follow these steps to apply for a United Kingdom Visa Required. Exact requirements depend on your nationality, so confirm each step with the official mission before you start.

  1. Check if you need a visaMany nationalities need a Standard Visitor visa applied for online in advance. Visa-national requirements depend on your passport — check before booking.
  2. Choose the right visa typePick the category that matches your trip. For short visits most travelers use the Visa Required.
  3. Prepare your documentsGet your passport ready (valid for 6+ months) along with photos, proof of funds, accommodation and onward travel, and insurance where required.
  4. Submit your applicationComplete and sign the application form, then book an appointment at the embassy or visa application centre.
  5. Pay the visa feePay the fee of GBP 115 (6 months). Additional service, biometric or courier charges may apply on top.
  6. Attend biometrics or interviewAttend your appointment to provide biometrics (fingerprints and photo) and, if requested, a short interview.
  7. Wait for a decision and travelAllow About 3 weeks for processing. Once approved, travel with your visa or authorisation and a passport that matches your application exactly.

Entry rules

Multiple entry within the visa validity. Single stays are normally limited to six months.

Special notes

You must apply online and attend a visa application centre to provide biometrics. Long-term visitor visas reduce per-trip cost for frequent travelers.

Frequently asked

Do I need a visa to visit United Kingdom?
Many nationalities need a Standard Visitor visa applied for online in advance. Visa-national requirements depend on your passport — check before booking.
How long does processing take?
Typical processing is about 3 weeks. Plan well ahead of your travel date and account for appointment availability.
How much does the visa cost?
The standard fee is GBP 115 (6 months). Additional service, biometric or courier charges may apply on top of this.
How long can I stay?
6 months (2/5/10-yr available). Multiple entry within the visa validity. Single stays are normally limited to six months.

Europe

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