The UK is a popular destination for tourists, with over 31 million visitors in 2022. While some countries’ citizens can visit without a visa, many others—such as those from India, Pakistan, Turkey, and South Africa—will need to apply for a UK Visit Visa before their trip.
The UK Visit Visa allows you to enter the UK, but it doesn’t guarantee entry. Border Control agents may ask questions to ensure your visit is genuine and that you plan to stay within the rules of your visa.
This visa is commonly used, but it is sometimes abused, so be prepared for extra scrutiny when you arrive. Here’s a simple guide to help you understand the key requirements for the UK Visit Visa, along with a bonus tip on how to get the best value from your visa.
What is the Standard UK Visit Visa?
The Standard UK Visit Visa is for short visits to the UK, whether for tourism, business, academics, or medical purposes. It allows you to stay in the UK for up to 6 months. However, there are some exceptions:
- Medical visits can be extended up to 12 months.
- Academic visits can last up to 11 months.
It’s important to know that this visa doesn’t allow you to work (paid or unpaid) or study for extended periods. If you want to get married in the UK, you’ll need a specific Marriage Visit Visa or Fiancé/Fiancée Visa, not a Standard Visitor Visa.
How Much Does the UK Visit Visa Cost?
The cost of a UK Visit Visa depends on the length of your stay. Here are the main visa types and their fees:
| Visa Type | Fee | Length of Stay |
| Standard Visitor Visa | £115 | 6 months |
| Standard Visitor Visa (Medical) | £200 | 11 months |
| Standard Visitor Visa (Academic) | £200 | 12 months |
| 2-Year Long-Term Standard Visitor Visa | £400 | 6 months per visit |
| 5-Year Long-Term Standard Visitor Visa | £771 | 6 months per visit |
| 10-Year Long-Term Standard Visitor Visa | £993 | 6 months per visit |
Remember, you must pay the fee when you apply, and it is non-refundable if your application is rejected.
4 Key Requirements for a UK Visit Visa
- Prove You’ll Leave the UK at the End of Your Trip
When applying for a UK Visit Visa, you need to show that you plan to leave at the end of your stay. This is especially important if you are traveling with a one-way ticket. To demonstrate your intent to return home, provide evidence such as:- A return flight booking.
- Evidence of a job or school enrollment.
- A home or tenancy agreement in your home country.
- A letter from your employer confirming your return to work.
If you are struggling to provide evidence of your return, we can help you find the right documentation.
- Show You Can Support Yourself Financially
The UK is an expensive country to visit, so you must show you have enough money to cover your stay. You can provide bank statements, proof of income, or a sponsor letter from someone else who will be covering your costs. If you are staying with family or friends, be ready to provide their contact information for verification. - Show You Can Fund Your Travel Plans
If you plan to travel to other destinations after visiting the UK, you need to show you have enough funds for your onward travel. This can be in the form of savings or proof that a friend or family member will cover the cost. - Avoid Using the Visit Visa to Live in the UK
The UK Visit Visa is not for long-term stays. Some people try to use it to live in the UK by leaving the country every 6 months to renew their visa. This is not allowed and will likely result in your visa being canceled and a ban on future visits. Make sure you are visiting temporarily and not planning to live in the UK on this visa.
Bonus Tip: Save Money with a Long-Term Visit Visa
If you plan to visit the UK frequently over several years, consider applying for a Long-Term Standard Visitor Visa. While a single 6-month visa costs £115, a 10-year visa costs £993, allowing you to visit multiple times over 10 years.
For example, if you visit the UK twice a year for 10 years, a 10-year visa works out to just £49.65 per visit, which is much cheaper than paying for multiple 6-month visas. Plus, you lock in the current fee and avoid future price increases.
If you’re planning to visit the UK regularly, this long-term visa could save you money in the long run.
How Law and Visas Can Help
Applying for a UK Visit Visa can be complicated, and ensuring you meet all the requirements is key to a successful application. At Law and Visas, we can guide you through the process, help you gather the right documents, and ensure your visa application is submitted correctly. If you have any questions or need assistance, get in touch with us for expert advice.
