UK Visa Guide
Requirements and application process for a UK visa.
Who Needs a UK Visa?
If you are not from a visa-exempt country, you will need a UK visa to visit, work, study, or live in the United Kingdom. Unlike the UK ETA (for visa-exempt travelers), a UK visa requires a full application process including biometrics and often an interview.
Even if you are from a visa-exempt country, you will need a visa if you want to work, study for more than 6 months, or settle in the UK.
UK Visa at a Glance
- Visitor Visa
- £115+
- Processing
- 3 weeks
- Stay
- 6 months
- Biometrics
- Required
Standard visitor visa
Standard processing time
Standard visitor visa
At visa application center
Types of UK Visas
The UK has many visa categories depending on your purpose:
- Standard Visitor Visa: Tourism, visiting family, business meetings, medical treatment (up to 6 months)
- Student Visa: Studying at a UK institution for more than 6 months
- Skilled Worker Visa: Working for a UK employer with a sponsorship
- Family Visa: Joining family members in the UK
- Transit Visa: Passing through the UK to another country
Each visa type has different requirements, costs, and processing times.
Common UK Visa Costs
| Fee | Processing | |
|---|---|---|
| Standard Visitor (6 months) | £115 | 3 weeks |
| Standard Visitor (2 years) | £432 | 3 weeks |
| Standard Visitor (5 years) | £771 | 3 weeks |
| Standard Visitor (10 years) | £963 | 3 weeks |
| Student Visa | £490 | 3 weeks |
| Skilled Worker | £719+ | 3 weeks |
| Transit Visa | £64 | 3 weeks |
How to Apply for a UK Visa
- 1
Check Your Visa Type
Determine which visa category matches your purpose. Use the UK government's visa checker tool.
- 2
Gather Required Documents
Collect your passport, photos, proof of funds, accommodation details, travel itinerary, and any purpose-specific documents.
- 3
Complete the Online Application
Fill out the application form on GOV.UK and pay the visa fee.
- 4
Book a Biometrics Appointment
Schedule an appointment at a UK Visa Application Centre (VAC) to provide fingerprints and photo.
- 5
Attend Your Appointment
Bring your passport, appointment confirmation, and supporting documents. Some applicants may have an interview.
- 6
Wait for Decision
Standard processing is about 3 weeks. You can track your application online.
Required Documents for Standard Visitor Visa
Valid passport — with at least one blank page
Passport-sized photos — meeting UK photo requirements
Proof of financial means — bank statements showing you can support yourself
Accommodation details — hotel bookings or invitation letter from host
Travel itinerary — return flights (or onward travel)
Employment proof — letter from employer or proof of self-employment
Ties to home country — evidence you will return (property, family, job)