Visitor Visa

The UK Standard Visitor visa lets you visit the UK for tourism, short-term study, business, or medical reasons. This visa typically allows stays of up to 6 months. Learn about permitted activities, current visa fees, and UK visitor visa requirements before you apply.
visitor visa

About this service

The UK Standard Visitor visa permits individuals to enter the UK for various short-term purposes, including tourism, business activities, study (courses up to 6 months), and other permitted activities.

Typically, visitors can stay for up to 6 months. In certain circumstances, such as for medical treatment or academic research, longer stays may be granted.

 

Applicants must demonstrate that they intend to leave the UK at the end of their visit, have sufficient funds to support themselves during their stay and meet all entry requirements.

Permitted Activities:

While in the UK on a Standard Visitor visa, you may:

 

  • Visit family and friends or engage in tourism.
  • Volunteer for up to 30 days with a registered charity.
  • Transit through the UK to another country.
  • Attend business meetings, conferences, or seminars.
  • Engage in permitted paid engagements (PPEs) as an expert in your profession, such as giving lectures or performances, provided these activities are completed within 30 days of arrival.
  • Participate in a school exchange programme.
  • Undertake a recreational course of up to 30 days, like a dance course.
  • Study, do a placement, or take an exam.
  • Conduct research or accompany students on a study abroad programme.
  • Receive private medical treatment.

Note: Certain activities are not permitted under a Standard Visitor visa, including:

  • Engaging in paid or unpaid work for a UK company or as a self-employed person, unless it’s a permitted paid engagement.
  • Claiming public funds (benefits).
  • Living in the UK for extended periods through frequent or successive visits.
  • Marrying or registering a civil partnership or giving notice of marriage or civil partnership (a Marriage Visitor visa is required for these purposes).

Fees:

As of April 2025, the fees for the Standard Visitor visa are as follows:

 

  • Standard Visitor visa (up to 6 months): £127
  • Long-term Standard Visitor visa (valid for 2 years): £475
  • Long-term Standard Visitor visa (valid for 5 years): £848
  • Long-term Standard Visitor visa (valid for 10 years): £1,059
  • Standard Visitor visa for medical treatment (more than 6 months, up to 11 months): £220
  • Standard Visitor visa for academics (more than 6 months, up to 12 months): £220

 

Please note that fees are subject to change, and it’s advisable to check the latest rates before applying.

For more information or assistance with your Standard Visitor visa application, please contact us or call 0203 815 8440 to book an appointment. Monday to Friday, 10:00–17:00 (UK time).

FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions

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