documents needed for uk travel visa

Select language

What are you looking for, visa and immigration information.

Getty Images/SolStock

What documents will I need?

Planning a visit to Britain but not sure what documents you’ll need? Find key information on passport requirements, visas and Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) below. Detailed guidance can also be found on the official government website .

West Midlands Growth Company

EU, EEA and Swiss nationals

Some entry requirements changed for EU, EEA and Swiss nationals, post Brexit.

Most travellers from the EU, EEA and Switzerland will require a passport to enter Britain and Northern Ireland. Your passport will need to be valid for your entire stay here. 

Some, but not all visitors can use an EU, EEA or Swiss national ID to enter Britain and Northern Ireland until at least 31 December 2025. Check gov.uk website for who is eligible.

Common Travel Areas

For those in the Common Travel Areas (known as Britain and Northern Ireland, the rest of Ireland, and Jersey, Guernsey and the Isle of Man), please see here for the  different document requirements .

The rest of the world

You must have a valid passport to enter Britain and Northern Ireland, and it should be valid for the whole duration of your stay.

Most people coming to visit Britain and Northern Ireland will need a visa. To discover whether you need one or not depends on why you’re visiting and your nationality. 

You’ll have to either:

Apply for a standard Visitor Visa. There is a cost for this, and it must be applied for three months before travel.

Be able to visit Britain and Northern Ireland for six months without needing a visa.

You can check which applies to you .

More information on short-stay visas can be found on the official government website.

Electronic Travel Authorisation

By the end of 2024, Electronic Travel Authorisation will be a requirement worldwide for visitors who do not currently need a visa for short stays. More information on the ETA scheme can be found on the official government website.

Until the introduction of the ETA, most travellers from the EU, EEA and Switzerland won’t require a visa but will still need their passport to enter Britain and Northern Ireland. Your passport will need to be valid for your entire stay.

VisitBritain/Tomo Brejc

If you’re an EU, EEA or Swiss citizen, you can find the most up-to-date information on visiting Britain and Northern Ireland on the official government website .

American, Canadian and Australian tourists, and citizens of certain Commonwealth countries, can travel visa-free throughout Britain and Northern Ireland, providing you have a valid passport and your reason for visiting meets the immigration rules .

The Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) scheme started to replace the electronic visa waiver from late 2023:

• From 15 November 2023, nationals of Qatar require an ETA to travel to the UK.
• From 22 February 2024, nationals of Bahrain, Jordan, Kuwait, Oman, Saudi Arabia and the UAE require an ETA to travel to the UK. The ETA scheme is now open for applications from nationals of these countries.
• More countries will be added to the scheme at a later date.

An ETA will cost £10 per application when the scheme opens, will permit multiple journeys and be valid for two years or until the holder’s passport expires - whichever is sooner.

More information on the new ETA scheme can be found via the official government website.

For nationals of all other countries, you can check if you need a UK visa here.

Immigration applications

Please note that www.GOV.UK is the only official UK immigration website and provides all of the information necessary to successfully complete an application.

We have received reports of customers using non-GOV.UK websites to support their UK immigration applications. If you have made use of these websites, please be aware of the following:

• Some non-GOV.UK websites deliberately attempt to deceive customers by making it appear as though they are an official part of the application process.
• These websites can pose a risk to a customer’s security and data.
• They will often charge applicants extra, unnecessary fees in addition to any fees related to the official immigration application.
• The information included on these websites is not moderated by the Home Office and may be inaccurate or misleading.

If you think you may have been a victim of a non-GOV.UK website seeking your data and/or money, please report this to Reporting fraud and cyber crime | Action Fraud .

Visa Traveler

Exploring the world one country at a time

UK tourist visa: Requirements and application procedure

Updated: September 9, 2023

The UK tourist visa requirements are clear and easy to understand. UK tourist visa application is online but the rest of the process requires an in-person appointment for biometrics.

The UK or the United Kingdom is comprised of England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland. To visit any of these four countries, you would need a UK tourist visa. UK tourist visas are valid for 6 months and you can stay up to 180 days in the UK.

The UK tourist visa application process is long and there is no status tracking. Make sure to start your UK visa process at least two months from your intended date of travel to the UK.

Table of Contents

BONUS: FREE eBOOK

Enter your name and email to download the FREE eBOOK: The Secret to VISA-FREE Travel

Opt in to receive my monthly visa updates

You can unsubscribe anytime. For more details, review our Privacy Policy.

Your FREE eBook is on it’s way to your inbox! Check your email.

UK TOURIST VISA REQUIREMENTS BY NATIONALITY

Minimum passport validity required to enter the UK

• Passport must be valid for the entire stay in the UK

Visa EXEMPT nationalities

Unlimited entry.

• This requirement will change from 01 Jan 2021 when UK will no longer be part of the EU
• Czech Republic
• Liechtenstein
• Netherlands
• Switzerland

6-month entry

• You must carry all documents needed for a visitor visa to show at the port of entry if asked
• Visa is REQUIRED if you have a criminal record or refused entry into the UK before
• Anguilla (British territory)
• Antigua and Barbuda
• Bermuda (British territory)
• Bonaire, St Eustatius and Saba (Dutch territory)
• British Virgin Islands (British territory)
• Cayman Islands (British territory)
• Costa Rica
• El Salvador
• Falkland Islands (British territory)
• Hong Kong
• Marshall Islands
• Montserrat (British territory)
• New Zealand
• Papua New Guinea
• Pitcairn Island (British territory)
• San Marino
• Solomon Islands
• South Korea
• St Kitts and Nevis
• St Lucia
• St Maarten
• St Vincent and The Grenadines
• Timor Leste
• Trinidad and Tobago
• Turks and Caicos Islands (British territory)
• United States of America
• Vatican City

Visa REQUIRED nationalities

• Afghanistan
• Bosnia and Herzegovina
• Burkina Faso
• Cape Verde
• Central African Republic
• Congo, Dem. Rep. of
• Congo, Rep. of
• Cote d’Ivoire
• Dominican Republic
• Equatorial Guinea
• Guinea-Bissau
• North Korea
• North Macedonia
• Palestinian Territories
• Philippines
• Saudi Arabia
• Sierra Leone
• South Africa
• South Sudan
• Sri Lanka
• São Tomé and Principe
• Turkmenistan

Electronic Visa Waiver (EVW) required nationalities

• United Arab Emirates

24-hour VISA-FREE entry at Heathrow airport

• Eligible to request a 24-hour VISA-FREE entry at London’s Heathrow airport if holding a valid visa from the US, Canada, Australia, New Zealand or any EU/Schengen country
• Must be in transit to/from the country of visa (Ex: if holding a Canada visa, you must be in transit to/from Canada only)
• Onward flight must be within 24 hours (on the same day or next day before midnight)
• Granting the 24-hour entry is at the sole discretion of the immigration officer
• Applies to all nationalities

BONUS (FREE eBook Download): Travel 56 countries VISA-FREE with a visa from the US, Canada, Schengen, UK, Australia, New Zealand, Japan or Singapore

UK TOURIST VISA APPLICATION PROCESS

First, check if you need a visitor visa to travel to the UK in the “UK tourist visa requirements by nationality” section above.

Alternatively, you can check your eligibility and requirements on the UK gov website .

Validity of UK tourist visa

UK tourist visas are valid for 6 months from the date of visa issue.

Example: If your UK visa was issued on January 15, the visa will be valid until July 15. 

NOTE There have been instances where visas were issued with validity starting from the date of travel mentioned in the visa application. 

When to apply for UK visa

You can apply for a UK visa up to 3 months in advance.

Example: If you plan to visit the UK on April 15, you can apply for your UK visa on or after January 16.

Also, keep in mind that you must apply for your UK visa at least 3 weeks prior to your travel, otherwise, you may not receive your visa on time. There are no refunds if you receive your visa after your travel date. 

IMPORTANT The UK visa process can take up to 3 weeks and even longer in some cases. I strongly recommend applying for your UK visa at least 2 months in advance.

How long can you stay in the UK?

The UK tourist visa allows you to stay up to 180 days in the UK. But if you stay that long continuously in the UK on a tourist visa, you will have serious trouble getting another UK visa in the future or entering the UK next time.

Here is my advice. Stick to the days you have mentioned in your UK visa application. A few days more or less is fine. But staying months on your UK tourist visa will pretty much look like you “live in the UK” rather than “vacation/holiday”. 

Application procedure

The UK visa application is online. You must apply for the visa online at the UK Visas and Immigration website

Below are the steps you will go through for your UK tourist visa application

• Go to the UK Visas and Immigration website
• Select your preferred language, type of visa, your country, nearest visa application center, etc
• Create a login using email and password
• Complete in the application form
• Sign the declaration
• Pay visa fee
• Submit the application
• Download and print the submitted visa application form
• Make an appointment at your nearest UK visa application center
• Attend the appointment at your nearest UK visa application center
• Submit your passport, visa application and supporting documents at the visa application center
• If applying from the US, Australia or New Zealand, mail your passport, visa application and biometrics receipt to your nearest visa application center
• Pickup/receive the passport when the visa decision is made

Below are some of the information you will provide in the application form

• Your travel dates to the UK
• Your hotel address and telephone number in the UK
• Your total estimated cost for the trip
• Your present home address and how many years you’ve lived there
• Your parents’ names and their dates of birth
• Your annual income
• Your travel history for the past 10 years
• Your employer details including the address and telephone number

Documents required

The following are the documents required for UK visitor visa application 

• Completed online visa application form with GWF number
• A passport-size photo (optional)
• If employed – an employment letter on company letterhead indicating your length of employment, salary, role, etc.
• If self-employed – a business registration document indicating your business name, date of business, etc.
• If student – a letter from the school/university on the letterhead indicating your enrollment, leave of absence, etc.
• Proof of funds ( bank statements or payslips for the last 6 months)
• Proof of legal residence (if applying from a 3rd country. you must submit a copy of your visa or residence permit of that country)

Do you need flight tickets and hotel bookings for the UK visa application?

UKVI has stopped asking for flight tickets and hotel bookings for UK visa applications. But some nationalities are still being asked to submit flight tickets and hotel bookings.

When you complete your online UK visa application, you will see a checklist of documents to be uploaded. Check if you are asked to submit flight tickets and hotel bookings.

Even if you are asked to submit your flight tickets and hotel bookings, you should not book any flights/hotel until your UK visa is approved.

For flights, get a price quote from British Airways which can be used as a flight itinerary for your UK visa application. Visa ticket booking agencies such as DummyTicket offer flight itineraries for the UK visa for $19, valid for 2-3 weeks.

For hotel, book a refundable or pay at check-in hotel on booking.com or Expedia . Cancel the booking after your visa is approved.

For more options, check out my detailed flight itinerary and hotel reservation articles.

Photo requirements

A passport-size photo is only required if are exempt from biometrics. All tourist visa applicants MUST give their biometrics. Your fingerprints and digital photos are taken during your biometrics appointment.

Since all tourist visa applicants MUST give their biometrics, a passport-size photo is not required. But, I suggest bringing one with you on the day of your biometrics appointment just in case.

Visa application fee

The UK tourist visa application fee is £95 GBP. You will pay this fee in your local currency. Due to exchange rates, you may end up paying about £2 – £5 GBP more.

You can use the UK home office visa fee wizard to find out the exact visa fee that you would need to pay in your local currency. 

If you are applying for a long-term UK tourist visa, below is the visa fee for 2, 5 and 10-year tourist visas. 

• 2 years: £361 GBP
• 5 years: £655 GBP
• 10 years: £822 GBP

Visa appointment

As part of the online application process, you will be prompted to make a visa appointment at your nearest UK Visa Application Center . Visa Application Centers are run by either VFSGlobal or TLSContact in conjunction with UK Visas and Immigration.

On the day of the appointment, you will give your biometrics (fingerprints and photo) and submit your original documents. You must bring all your original documents along with one photocopy of each including your passport.

Applicants from the USA, Australia (Adelaide and Hobart only) and New Zealand

You must give your biometrics at your nearest Biometric Enrollment Center and later send/post your documents to the nearest UK Visa Application Center.

During your online UK visa application, you will be prompted to make a biometrics appointment at your nearest Biometric enrollment center.

• Biometric enrollment centers in the USA are run by the US Homeland Security.
• Biometric enrollment centers in Australia are run by the Department of Immigration and Border Protection.
• Biometric enrollment centers in New Zealand are run by Immigration New Zealand.

The biometrics appointment takes about 10-15 minutes. You will give your fingerprints and photo. You will receive an acknowledgment stamp on the biometric appointment confirmation.

You must then mail your original passport, visa application, biometric confirmation with the stamp, supporting documents and return postage to the UK Visa Application Center you have selected during your online visa application.

You will be notified via email when the UK Visa Application Center receives your documents.

Visa processing time

The UK tourist visa processing takes up to 3 weeks. There have been incidents where UKVI has taken over 2 months to process, especially when the visa applications are “not straightforward”.

UKVI considers a visa application “not straightforward” if additional information is required to process the visa. Additional information can be, verifying information, background check or requesting additional documents. UKVI usually notifies you in such cases and requests any additional documentation necessary.

Keeping such incidents in mind, ALWAYS apply for your UK visa at least 2 months prior to your travel.

If you have to travel sooner, you should purchase the “Priority Visa Service” while applying online. Or at least before you mail/submit your documents. This way your visa application will be processed within 5 working days.

PERSONAL EXPERIENCE When I applied for my UK visa, the visa processing time was about 2 weeks. I had a planned trip to Canada before my trip to the UK. My trip to Canada was in 4 weeks, so I thought I had enough time to apply for my UK visa. However after I submitted my passport, the email confirmation said the visa process would take up to 4 weeks. I panicked. I went ahead and paid for the priority visa service. I panicked again. Then I emailed a formal visa withdrawal request, so I could at least get my passport back and make my trip to Canada. However, my visa was processed within 2 days of paying the priority visa service fee. Please do not make the same mistake as I did. Apply for your UK visa at least 2 months prior to your travel.

Visa application status tracking

Online visa application tracking is NOT AVAILABLE on the UK Visas and Immigration website. To track your UK visa application status, you must use UK Visas and Immigration’s email or phone option, which unfortunately is NOT FREE.

UKVI charges for all phone and email inquiries. 

Below are UK Visa and Immigration phone, email details and charges.

PHONE Telephone: +44 2034811736 Available 24 hours from Monday to Friday Calls cost £1.37 per minute plus any international call charges

EMAIL Email communication must be initiated via Email UK Visas and Immigration Email inquiries cost £5.48. Follow-up emails after that are not charged. You will receive a response to your email within 2 working days.

You must give out your credit card information for billing when you start the phone inquiry. For email, you must fill out the payment form and then you can submit your email inquiry.

PERSONAL OPINION Email inquiries generally receive a standard response saying that your application is “in process”. Phone inquiries are slightly better and cheaper.

Priority visa service

If you would need to travel to the UK urgently, you can opt for the “Priority Visa Service”.  This service is expensive and may not be available in all countries. If available, you will see the option in your online UK visa application. 

• Priority visa service fee: £220 GBP
• Visa processing time: Guaranteed in 5 working days

Priority visa service must be purchased during your online visa application. This will ensure your visa is processed within 5 days.

Purchasing this service after you have submitted/mailed your documents will take much longer than 5 working days. You must first pay the fee on the Visa Application Center (VAC) website and then email the receipt to the Visa Application Center where you have submitted/sent your documents. It can take more than a day for the VAC staff to locate your packet and push it into the priority queue

PERSONAL EXPERIENCE I purchased my priority service after I had mailed my documents. My visa application was approved within two days of buying the priority visa service.

Super priority visa service

If you would need to travel to the UK immediately, you can opt for “Super Priority Visa Service”. This service comes with a hefty price tag, so purchase this service only in super urgent, emergency cases. 

• Super priority visa service fee: £956 GBP
• Visa processing time: Guaranteed in 24 hours

Cancel your UK visa application

If you haven’t given your biometrics at the visa application center yet, you can cancel your UK visa application and get a full refund of your visa fee. The procedure to cancel your UK visa application depends on at what stage your application is in.

Application not submitted and fee not paid : If you haven’t paid your fee and haven’t submitted your application, there is a “Delete Application” option that will delete your current visa application.

Application not submitted but fee already paid : If you have already paid your fee and have not yet submitted your application, you can still delete your application but you may have to send a formal refund request in writing to the visa application center.

Application submitted, fee paid but haven’t given your biometrics : If you haven’t given your biometrics at VFS/BLS, you can cancel your application and request for a refund. The refunds take 4 weeks. 

Application submitted, fee paid, biometric given , and documents/passport already submitted: If you have already given your biometrics and submitted your documents/passport, you CANNOT cancel your visa application anymore. You can only WITHDRAW your visa application. You must email the visa application center a formal withdrawal request. Upon receipt of the withdrawal request, the visa application center will return/mail your passport back. Any visa fee and priority service fee paid are not refundable. 

IMPORTANT Even though UKVI says the refunds are processed in 4 weeks, it usually takes 8 weeks or even longer. There have been instances where applicants waited several weeks and some even gave up on their refunds. However, I have seen applicants having success in getting their refunds by reminding UKVI with phone calls or emails. It costs about $5 USD to email them, but it helps in getting your refund eventually. 

Withdraw your UK visa application

The UK visa application center keeps the passport for the entirety of the visa process, which could be 3 weeks or more. There may be emergencies where you need to have your passport with you. The only way to request your passport back is by formally withdrawing your visa application. 

If you withdraw your application, the visa fee and any priority service fee you have paid are NOT refundable.

To withdraw a visa application, you must submit a withdrawal request along with the reason for the withdrawal to the visa application center via email. It might take up to 72 hours for the consulate to locate your packet and send it back to you.

You must first call/email the UK Visas and Immigration mentioning your intention to withdraw your application. They will guide you through the process of withdrawing your application. Usually, the UK visa application withdrawal request should be a signed document with personal information including the GWF number. This document must be printed and signed. It must be scanned and emailed to the visa application center. Below is a sample withdrawal request letter.

Dear Sir/Madam,

I hereby request to withdraw my UK visa application. I understand that the visa fee is non-refundable. I also understand that my package may not be shipped for up to 72 hours.

Full Name of the Applicant: <name> GWF Number: <GWF number> Date of Birth: <date of birth> Nationality: <Nationality> Country of Residence: <Country of residence> Passport number: <Passport number> Type of Visa Applied: General Visit (up to 6 months) Biometric taken date:  <biometric date> Visa application centre’s address:  <address of the visa application center where you have submitted your documents> Contact number of the applicant: <Your phone number>

Priority Service Paid: <YES/NO> Priority Service Paid On: <Priority service purchased date>

Reason for Withdrawal: Emergency international travel has been scheduled. I need to have my passport in order to travel. Please return my passport as soon as possible. Thank you!

<Your signature here> Signed: <Your full name> Date: <date>

IMPORTANT Cancellation or withdrawal is NOT a refusal. It WILL NOT affect your future UK visa applications. You don’t need to mention it in your future UK visa applications either.

ENTERING AND LEAVING THE UK

Entering the UK by air

At the immigration, the officers may ask you questions about your trip, how long you plan to stay, your next destination, etc. You may be asked to show your return/onward ticket and your hotel booking. If you are traveling on a one-way ticket, you can use OnwardTicket to get proof of your onward ticket. 

PERSONAL EXPERIENCE: The immigration officer at Heathrow Airport asked me to show my return/onward ticket. I had a print of my onward ticket, so quickly took it out and gave it to the immigration officer.

Leaving the UK by air

If you are flying out of Heathrow Airport, make sure to arrive early. The airport is huge and you may have to take a bus from the gate to the flight.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What is GWF number in UK visa application ?

GWF reference number is the unique visa application number that was provided to you on your visa application submission. You must provide your GWF number when calling or emailing UK Visas and Immigration. Without the GWF number, UK Visas and Immigration will not be able to provide you with a status update on your visa application.

What to do if my UK visa application is refused?

If your UK visa application is refused, the first thing is to understand the  reasons for your UK visa refusal . If the reason is due to missing information, proof of funds or documentation, make sure to fix these the next time you apply for your UK visa.

Write a detailed cover letter explaining the reasons for your previous visa refusal, missing information/documentation and any additional information/documentation that you have provided in the new application. This will help the ECOs cut to the chase and focus on the new information/documentation.

There is no “appeal” for UK visa. So, re-apply for your UK visa by making sure you have the new information, proofs and documents that were lacking previously. You must pay the visa fee again as the fee paid for your previous application was non-refundable.

If you do not know the reason for your visa refusal/denial, give at least 6 months before you apply for the visa again. 

Can I get my UK visa application fee refund if denied?

No. The visa fee and any priority service fee paid are non-refundable if your visa application is denied. The visa fee is also non-refundable in incidents where the visa is approved for less number of days than requested.

I’m planning to visit the UK and Schengen countries on a single trip. Should I apply for my UK visa first or Schengen visa first?

If you plan to visit the UK and Schengen countries on a single trip, ALWAYS apply for your UK visa first. 

UKVI keeps the passport for the entirety of the visa process and there is no visa status tracking. Calls and emails to customer service are charged. Even if you pay and contact, you will usually get a canned response. If your UK visa is refused, there is no “appeal”. You can only re-apply, which means you have to repeat the entire process again.

On the other hand, the Schengen visa application process is much streamlined. There is application tracking, customer service and appeal. 

I highly recommend applying for your UK visa first and get done with it. After that, apply for your Schengen visa. 

When applying for your UK visa, show a “UK-only” itinerary for your UK visa. This eliminates the need for submitting your Schengen visa, flights in/out of the Schengen region, etc. 

The UK tourist visa requirements are clear and easy to understand. But, the visa application process is long and expensive. Apply at least 2 months in advance, and follow all the proper steps and documentation. Tourist visas are usually multiple-entry with 6 months validity.

WRITTEN BY THIRUMAL MOTATI

Thirumal Motati is an expert in tourist visa matters. He has been traveling the world on tourist visas for more than a decade. With his expertise, he has obtained several tourist visas, including the most strenuous ones such as the US, UK, Canada, and Schengen, some of which were granted multiple times. He has also set foot inside US consulates on numerous occasions. Mr. Motati has uncovered the secrets to successful visa applications. His guidance has enabled countless individuals to obtain their visas and fulfill their travel dreams. His statements have been mentioned in publications like Yahoo, BBC, The Hindu, and Travel Zoo.

PLAN YOUR TRAVEL WITH VISA TRAVELER

I highly recommend using these websites to plan your trip. I use these websites myself to apply for my visas, book my flights and hotels and purchase my travel insurance.

01. Apply for your visa

Get a verifiable flight itinerary for your visa application from DummyTicket247 . DummyTicket247 is a flight search engine to search and book flight itineraries for visas instantly. These flight itineraries are guaranteed to be valid for 2 weeks and work for all visa applications.

02. Book your fight

Find the cheapest flight tickets using Skyscanner . Skyscanner includes all budget airlines and you are guaranteed to find the cheapest flight to your destination.

03. Book your hotel

Book your hotel from Booking.com . Booking.com has pretty much every hotel, hostel and guesthouse from every destination.

04. Get your onward ticket

If traveling on a one-way ticket, use BestOnwardTicket to get proof of onward ticket for just $12, valid for 48 hours.

05. Purchase your insurance

Purchase travel medical insurance for your trip from SafetyWing . Insurance from SafetyWing covers COVID-19 and also comes with a visa letter which you can use for your visas.

Need more? Check out my travel resources page  for the best websites to plan your trip.

LEGAL DISCLAIMER We are not affiliated with immigration, embassies or governments of any country. The content in this article is for educational and general informational purposes only, and shall not be understood or construed as, visa, immigration or legal advice. Your use of information provided in this article is solely at your own risk and you expressly agree not to rely upon any information contained in this article as a substitute for professional visa or immigration advice. Under no circumstance shall be held liable or responsible for any errors or omissions in this article or for any damage you may suffer in respect to any actions taken or not taken based on any or all of the information in this article. Please refer to our full disclaimer for further information.

AFFILIATE DISCLOSURE This post may contain affiliate links, which means we may receive a commission, at no extra cost to you, if you make a purchase through a link. Please refer to our full disclosure for further information.

MORE VISA GUIDES

UNITED KINGDOM

VIEW ALL VISA GUIDES

• Cookie Policy
• Copyright Notice
• Privacy Policy
• Terms of Use
• Flight Itinerary
• Hotel Reservation
• Travel Insurance
• Onward Ticket
• Testimonials

Search this site

• 02074940118
• [email protected]

Documents Required for UK Visitor Visa

Anne morris.

• 23 August 2020

IN THIS SECTION

When filing an application for a visitor visa with UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI), there are numerous documents that you will need to submit to evidence your eligibility. Failure to provide adequate or required documentation risks your application being delayed or refused. The following guide for visa applicants examines the eligibility criteria and the documents required for your UK visitor visa application.

What is the UK visitor visa?

If you are national of a non-European Economic Area (EEA) country or Switzerland and you would like to visit the UK for the purposes of business or pleasure you will probably need to apply for a standard visitor visa.

In particular, you will need to apply for a standard visitor visa if you would like to visit the UK for the following reasons:

• For leisure purposes, such as going on holiday or visiting family
• For a business trip, such as attending various meetings
• To take part in a sporting or creative event
• To undergo private medical treatment

If you are granted a UK visitor visa you will usually be permitted to stay in the UK for a period of up to 6 months. However, in the event that you intend to visit the UK regularly over a longer period, you can apply for what’s known as a long-term visitor visa that lasts for either 2, 5 or 10 years. Under a long-term visa you can stay for a maximum of 6 months on each visit.

That said, even where you are granted a long-term visitor visa, you will not be permitted to undertake paid employment in the UK or enrol on a full-time course of study. Further, under any type of standard visitor visa, you must not intend to access medical treatment other than private medical treatment, or to marry or form a civil partnership, or to give notice of this in the UK.

What are the eligibility criteria?

The rules relating to the UK visitor visa are set out under Appendix V of the Immigration Rules. These rules set out, amongst other things, the standard eligibility criteria for all non-EEA visitors.

To be eligible for a visitor visa you must satisfy the following requirements:

• You will leave the UK by the end of your permitted stay
• You have enough money without recourse to public UK funds to support and provide accommodation for yourself
• You can pay for your return or onward journey

You will also need to provide proof of the purpose for your visit, for example, the nature of any business or tourist activities, not least because you will need to satisfy UKVI that you are genuinely seeking entry to the UK for a purpose permitted under the visitor route.

Where you are applying for a long-term visitor visa, you will also need to demonstrate that you will not reside in the UK for extended periods through frequent or successive stays, or try to make the UK your main home.

Which documents are required for the UK visitor visa?

First and foremost, when submitting an application for a UK visitor visa, you will need to provide UKVI with a current passport or other valid travel document. This is a mandatory requirement. You will need a blank page in your passport for your visitor visa, and your passport should remain valid for the entire period of your stay in the UK, ie; for up to six months.

You may also want to provide any expired passports or travel documents to evidence your previous travel history, especially where you are applying for a long-term visitor visa and don’t want to risk being perceived as an applicant who is likely to use a visitor visa in an attempt to set up home in the UK.

You will also need to provide documentary evidence in support of the purpose for your visit, as well as each of the eligibility criteria, namely that you will leave at the end of your visit and you have enough money to support yourself during your stay in the UK, as well as for your return or onward journey.

Purpose of your visit

The nature of your visit to the UK will determine the nature and extent of the documentation that you will need to provide here. As a starting point, you should provide a detailed travel itinerary.

If you are coming to the UK for the purpose of undertaking business activities, you will need to provide documentary evidence of your employment or occupation outside the UK, for example, a letter from your employer that specifies the business reason for your visit. You should also provide any letters from inviting organisations, and so on, to evidence your attendance at any meetings or conferences, etc.

By way of further example, if you are coming to the UK to undergo private medical treatment, you will need to prove that you suffer from a medical condition that requires private consultation or treatment in the UK and that you have made or paid for arrangements for a consultation or treatment.

As such, you will need to provide a letter from your doctor or consultant in the UK that includes details of the condition requiring treatment or consultation, the estimated cost and duration of treatment and details of where that treatment or consultation will take place.

You will also need to demonstrate that you have enough money to pay for all of this, in addition to supporting yourself during your stay in the UK, and for your return or onward journey (see below).

Intention to leave

As part of the criteria for any temporary visa, you must show an intention to leave the UK at the end of your visit. As such, you will need to provide documentation of any personal, professional and economic ties outside the UK, including confirmation of your legal residence, as well as details of any employment or studies where you have stated in your application that you are either employed or in full-time education.

This could include an official letter from your employer, printed on company headed paper, detailing your role, salary and length of employment or a letter from your education provider confirming your enrolment and leave of absence.

Sufficient funds

In respect of proving that you have sufficient funds to support and accommodate yourself while in the UK, you will need to provide proof of earnings or savings by way of wage slips and/or bank statements etc.

You may also rely on evidence that the necessary financial support will be provided by a third party. You can prove this with a written undertaking from your ‘sponsor’ ie relative, friend, business associate. There must however be a genuine personal or professional relationship and the financial support has to be available to you for the duration of your planned stay in the UK.

There is no set threshold or level of funds required to prove you have enough money to live on during your stay in the UK, but it is sensible to calculate and be able to show that the funds you are relying on, such as income and/savings, are sufficient to cover your existing financial commitments as well as the likely costs you will incur while in the UK without undertaking paid employment or accessing public funds.

The evidence of funds must also include the cost of your return or onward travel arrangements and any costs relating to dependants who will be travelling with you to the UK.

Document formats

All documents submitted in support of an application for a UK visitor visa must be originals rather than photocopies. They must also be in English. If any documentation is not in English, you must provide the original and a full translation that has been independently verified.

Each translated document must contain the following:

• confirmation from the translator that it is an accurate translation of the original document
• the date of the translation
• the translator’s full name and signature
• their contact details

It is also important to remember that even where documentation is submitted in the correct format, this does not necessarily guarantee your application for a UK visitor visa will be successful. Much will still depend on whether UKVI is satisfied that you have met all of the eligibility criteria and that the stated purpose for your visit to the UK is legitimate.

UKVI will assess your credibility and intentions to visit the UK based on the information contained within your application and the documentation submitted in support. Needless to say, UKVI must be satisfied that you are a genuine visitor based on all of this evidence in its totality.

If you refuse to give biometric information, your immigration application will be rejected and it could lead to your deportation from the UK.

How to submit the documents required for a UK visitor visa

Having submitted your online application for a visitor visa from outside the UK, you will be given instructions on how to file your documentation in support. Typically, you will be required to make an appointment at a visa application centre in your country of residence to provide your biometric information, ie; a scan of your fingerprints and digital photograph of your face.

At the appointment, you will also need to submit the necessary documents. The document checklist in your application will explain what to provide.

In the event that you fail to provide one of the recommended documents, this is not, of itself, an automatic ground for refusal, but any failure to provide sufficient evidence in support of your application may lead to a finding that you have not met all of the eligibility criteria.

Please note, some visa application centres may need to keep your passport and other documentation while they process your application.

Refused visitor visa application?

In the event that you fail to submit the necessary documentation in support of your application for a UK visitor visa, or the documents that you submit are not in the correct format, you run the risk of your application being delayed or refused by UKVI and your application fee being non-refundable.

Needless to say, in the event that an applicant for a UK visitor visa is caught submitting falsified documents, or you have otherwise provided false or incomplete information to UKVI, this will constitute a ground for refusal.

If the application is refused, there is no right of appeal against a refusal of a visit visa. The notification letter will detail the grounds for refusal. It is possible to make a new application for a visit visa, but applicants should ensure their new submission addresses the reasons for refusal through, for example, additional information, documentation and evidence.

Documents to travel with?

Even if you are successfully granted a UK visitor visa, this does not necessarily guarantee that you will be allowed into the UK. You may still be refused entry by border officials in the event that they are not satisfied that the reason for your visit is genuine, or that you plan to engage in activities that are prohibited under this route.

As such, in addition to the documentation submitted in support of your application for a UK visitor visa, you should always carry with you some documentary proof of the purpose for your trip.

By way of example, a tourist should have proof of where they are staying, with whom and any travel itinerary, whereas a business visitor should provide proof of any meetings or other business-related activities that they plan to undertake.

It is also sensible to carry some documentary evidence that you have sufficient funds to support yourself during your stay in the UK and that you intend to return to your country of residence. Again this should include proof of your earnings and any savings, as well as evidence of any personal, professional and economic ties to your country of residence.

Need assistance?

DavidsonMorris are experienced UK immigration specialists offering guidance and support to individuals in relation to their UK immigration status and making Home Office applications. We can advise on the eligibility criteria you will need to evidence and the process you will need to follow for your application. We can also help where you have dependants applying for permission to join you in the UK.

For specialist UK immigration advice, contact us .

Last updated: 20 August 2020

Founder and Managing Director Anne Morris is a fully qualified solicitor and trusted adviser to large corporates through to SMEs, providing strategic immigration and global mobility advice to support employers with UK operations to meet their workforce needs through corporate immigration.

She is a recognised by Legal 500 and Chambers as a legal expert and delivers Board-level advice on business migration and compliance risk management as well as overseeing the firm’s development of new client propositions and delivery of cost and time efficient processing of applications.

Anne is an active public speaker, immigration commentator , and immigration policy contributor and regularly hosts training sessions for employers and HR professionals

• Anne Morris https://www.davidsonmorris.com/author/anne/ Navigating Asylum in the UK
• Anne Morris https://www.davidsonmorris.com/author/anne/ Family Visa UK: Explore Ways to Apply
• Anne Morris https://www.davidsonmorris.com/author/anne/ Ukraine Refugee Aid in UK
• Anne Morris https://www.davidsonmorris.com/author/anne/ Understanding British Values

About DavidsonMorris

As employer solutions lawyers, DavidsonMorris offers a complete and cost-effective capability to meet employers’ needs across UK immigration and employment law, HR and global mobility .

Led by Anne Morris, one of the UK’s preeminent immigration lawyers, and with rankings in The Legal 500 and Chambers & Partners , we’re a multi-disciplinary team helping organisations to meet their people objectives, while reducing legal risk and nurturing workforce relations.

Legal Disclaimer

The matters contained in this article are intended to be for general information purposes only. This article does not constitute legal advice, nor is it a complete or authoritative statement of the law, and should not be treated as such. Whilst every effort is made to ensure that the information is correct at the time of writing, no warranty, express or implied, is given as to its accuracy and no liability is accepted for any error or omission. Before acting on any of the information contained herein, expert legal advice should be sought.

Contact DavidsonMorris

Sign up to our award winning newsletters, find us on:.

Trending Services

DavidsonMorris Ltd t/a DavidsonMorris Solicitors is a company Registered in England & Wales No. 6183275

Regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority No. 542691

Registered Office: Level 30, The Leadenhall Building, 122 Leadenhall Street, London, EC3V 4AB

© Copyright 2024

Terms of Use | Privacy Policy | Cookies Notice

Website design by Prof Services Limited . 

• UK Sponsor Licence Application
• Sponsor Licence Renewal
• Sponsor Licence Suspended
• Sponsor Licence Compliance
• Sponsor Licence Rejected
• Sponsor licence UK guide
• UK Self Sponsorship Visa
• Immigration Visa Refusal
• Standard Visitor Visa UK
• Spouse Visa UK Rejected
• Skilled Worker Visa Application
• Indefinite Leave to Remain
• Apply for British Citizenship
• Global Talent Visa UK
• [email protected]
• +44 20 7404 7933
• Apply for Sponsor Licence
• Sponsor Licence Suspension / Revocation
• Sponsor Licence Compliance Visits Support
• Sponsor Licence Compliance Training
• Sponsor Licence UK Guide
• Self Sponsorship Route
• Self-Sponsorship Guide
• On Demand Webinar
• Immigration Appeals Procedure
• Spouse Visa Appeal
• ILR /Settlement Visa Refusal Appeal
• EEA Visa Refusal Appeal
• Human Rights Appeal
• Tier 1 Entrepreneur Visa Refusal
• Administrative Review & Appeal
• UK Visitor Visa Refusal
• Global Business Mobility Visa
• UK Expansion worker Visa
• Sole Representative Visa Extension
• Skilled Worker Visa
• Skilled Worker Visa Refusal
• British Citizenship Application
• British Citizenship for EU or EEA Nationals
• Naturalise As A British Citizen – Form AN
• Spouse Visa UK
• Spouse/Civil Partnership Visa Extension
• Same Sex partner Visa
• Civil Partnership
• Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR)
• ILR Refusals Due to Tax Amendments
• Judicial Review for ILR Refusal
• Indefinite Leave to Remain UK 10 Years
• Standard Visitor Visa
• Visit Visa Refusal
• What’s Next if Your UK Visitor Visa Was Refused?
• Global Talent Visa
• Permanent visa for exceptionally talented
• Self Sponsorship

Standard Visitor Visa UK: Apply With Ease So You Can Enjoy Your Time Abroad

Get expert help to submit a successful standard visitor visa uk application.

• Gather necessary standard visitor visa UK documents
• Work with a UK-based team of immigration experts
• Receive personalised advice for your needs

Based on 400+ reviews. See some of the reviews here .

Ensure You Meet All Standard Visitor Visa UK Requirements

Holiday, visiting family, studying — there are many reasons why you might want to spend time in the UK. Unfortunately, the refusal rate for a Visitor Visa UK is high. And if your application is refused, you risk having to cancel your plans to visit. That's where our team can help. We'll ensure your application is error-free, helping you gather all documentation required for UK Visitor Visa submissions. You can continue to plan your trip, knowing your application isn't riddled with mistakes.

Featured in

What is the Standard Visitor Visa?

The Standard Visitor visa has replaced the Business Visitor Visa, Family Visitor Visa, Child Visitor visa, Student Visitor Visa (up to 6 months), Sports Visitor visa, Entertainer Visitor Visa, Prospective Entrepreneur visa, Private Medical Treatment Visitor visa. This visa permits you to conduct permitted business activities in the UK and activities you may need to undertake as a part of an overseas job role for a period of up to six months. If your business requires you to visit the UK regularly over a longer period, you can apply for a visa that lasts two, five, or ten years. However, you can only stay for a maximum of six months on each visit. Academics coming to the UK on a sabbatical or exchange arrangement can apply for either 6 months or 12 months, subject to meeting the requirements. Please see FAQs below for more details.

Tarun Mathankar

We’ve Spent 10+ Years Navigating the UK’s Complex Immigration Processes

At A Y & J Solicitors in London, we’ve helped many clients secure a Standard Visitor Visa UK. We understand your desire to spend time in the United Kingdom and are well-versed in ensuring our clients have everything together that they need to meet all Standard Visitor Visa UK requirements. Our immigration associates will work with you to learn more about your specific needs, helping you submit a successful application.

Expert service

Fast response, whatever your immigration challenge – we can help you.

We are specialists in immigration law and have supported more than 4,000 business owners and professionals around the globe to successfully navigate the UK system. We work quickly, always responding to any queries within 24 working hours. And we work closely with the Home Office to pre-empt issues before they jeopardise sponsorship applications or breach compliance. We manage all United Kingdom immigration matters including visa applications under the new points-based immigration system, Indefinite Leave to Remain   (ILR),   Spouse Visa s, nationality   and more. We also handle complex cases of appeal, administrative reviews, judicial reviews and the many immigration challenges involving European Union law and human rights.

Other UK Visa Application Services We Deliver

How we helped a client secure a standard visitor visa uk after an initial refusal.

Our client, Ms. O, wished to apply for a Visitor Visa UK from the Czech Republic so she could visit the UK for a month for business. Unfortunately, her previous application was refused on the basis of her employment -- the UKVI noted that the documents she provided referred to her as an independent contractor rather than an actual employee. After a full assessment of the situation, our team helped Ms. O:

• Gather the appropriate documents to confirm her employment
• Prepare a detailed statement in support of her application
• Clarify the initial mistake made on her first application
• Collect all additional documents required for UK Visitor Visa applications

In just one week, Ms. O was granted a Visitor Visa for the UK and was able to come to the country to help her company develop its brand, despite her initial application being refused.

Answers to Your Questions Concerning Standard Visitor Visa UK Requirements

What can you do when you are on a standard visitor visa uk, what can you not do when you are on a standard visitor visa uk, what are the requirements for obtaining a standard visitor visa uk, how do i apply for a standard visitor visa uk, what are the documents required for uk visitor visa applications, can i apply for a long-term standard visitor visa uk, how much does it cost to apply for a standard visitor visa uk, what if i need to change or cancel my standard visitor visa uk application, can i apply for an extension to my standard visitor visa uk, how long will it take to receive a standard visitor visa uk, how will i know i have been approved for a standard visitor visa uk, how can i check if i require a visa to travel to the uk for business, can i bring my family with me on a visitor visa uk, can i marry my partner when they come to the uk on a visitor visa, what is the condition of getting a second visitor visa after spending 180 days in the uk with a visitor visa, does a standard visitor visa uk holder need medical insurance, what can i do if my standard visitor visa uk was refused, why should i trust a y & j solicitors to help me with my standard visitor visa uk application, need expert legal guidance to help you with your standard visitor visa uk application.

A Y & J Solicitors has more than 1,200 positive client reviews across Google and Trustpilot and is listed in The Legal top 500 best UK law firms, so you can rest assured your immigration challenges are in safe hands when you take these three simple steps:

• Assess Your Needs. Let us know about your visa application goals and we’ll tell you how we can support your specific needs.
• Get Into The Detail. You’ll be assigned to one of our Immigration Associates, who will examine your case. And walk you through every step of your application using our proven 10-step process.
• Enjoy Peace of Mind. Know your visa application is in safe hands with expert immigration lawyers to guide you every step of the way.

ACCREDITATION

Transforming Lives: Real Stories of Client Satisfaction

"Really professional and seamless service to help me with my Sponsored Skilled Worker Visa application process."

Annette Desouza

"A Y & J Solicitors answered all my questions with great clarity and patience. They kept me informed every step of the way. I was happy with them. Thanks."

Sai Madineni

"I was very well informed throughout the whole process. Everything was handled in a very prfessional manner with a successful aoutcome."

Wayne Leese

"A Y & J Solicitors helped us in reinstating our sponsor license. Mihir, Syed and Diana's team work and great communication was key in allowing us to meet the deadline. They were responsive to our concerns and emails which provided reassurance that we were on the right path. They also provide support with compliance and are happy to visit the office. Their expert advice demonstrate their experience and knowledge with immigration and working with the Home Office. Yet they are understanding and work with compassion. The price was also competitive, but their support was priceless. We are happy to recommend A Y & J Solicitors to any company who wants to work with the best chances of retaining and/or obtaining a sponsor licence. Thank you so much A Y & J Solicitors!"

Unique Care UK

"A Y & J Solicitors have been a tremendous help with regards to my visa application process.Working with Amy and Jay made what would be a stressful process ,a breeze .Their superb customer service is second to none and I am truly grateful that they were the ones to work on my case ."

Wisdom Mashevedze

"Great Service, Prompt & timely processing."

Sanket Dantkale

Everything You Need to Know About the Standard Visitor Visa UK Process

You can apply for a Standard Visitor Visa UK if you are:

• Travelling to the UK for a holiday or vacation
• Travelling to the UK to see your family or friends
• Volunteering with a registered charity for up to 30 days
• Transiting to another country via the UK
• Coming to the UK to attend a conference, meeting, training, seminar, or interview
• Negotiating and signing deals and contracts
• Attending trade fairs to promote your business (though you cannot sell things)
• Carrying out site visits and inspections
• Overseeing the delivery of goods and services provided by a UK company to your overseas company or organisation
• Coming to the UK to install, dismantle, repair, service, or advise on equipment, computer software, and hardware (if your overseas company has a contract with a UK company or organisation)
• Seeking to obtain funding or investments to start or take over a business in the UK
• Delivering training or sharing knowledge internally with UK employees of the company you work for overseas
• Giving a one-off or short series of talks if it is not a commercial event and not for profit (you cannot accept payment)
• Coming to the UK as an artist, entertainer, or musician to perform for a one-off or specific event
• Attending work-related training if you are employed overseas, and the training is not available in your home country (for example, training for the merchant navy professionals)
• Studying the English language or a short course at an accredited institution
• Doing short research which is relevant to your overseas course or doing an elective if you are studying medicine, veterinary medicine and science, nursing, or dentistry
• Sitting an entrance exam, retaking an exam or course module, or attending a Ph.D. viva
• Doing a placement or taking an exam (for example, taking the Professional and Linguistic Assessment Board (PLAB) test, the Objective Structured Clinical Examination (OSCE) for qualified foreign doctors and nurses, the Bar Transfer Test (BTT) to become a barrister, or the Qualifying Law Transfer Scheme (QLTS) to become a solicitor for qualified foreign lawyers
• Coming to the UK as an academic, senior doctor, or dentist on an exchange agreement with UK counterparts
• Conducting research during a sabbatical
• Accompanying students in a study abroad programme
• Teaching or undertaking clinical practice
• Coming to the UK as a doctor or dentist to take an unpaid clinical attachment or observer post
• Coming to the UK to have private medical treatment at a private hospital or at an NHS hospital as long as the treatment is paid for by your government under a healthcare agreement
• Donating an organ to a family member or a close friend subject to a donor match

You cannot do the following activities if you are on a Standard Visitor Visa UK:

• Work (paid or unpaid) for a UK company or as a self-employed person
• Claim benefits
• Live in the UK for long periods with regular visits
• Marry or register a civil partnership or give notice of marriage or civil partnership (if you would like to marry or register a civil partnership, you will need to apply for a Marriage Visitor Visa)

To apply for a Standard Visitor Visa UK, you need to prove the following:

• Your intentions of coming to the UK, such as visiting for business purposes, visiting family, or leisure
• Evidence that you have planned to leave the UK after this time, which should not exceed six months
• You have money to support and accommodate yourself and your dependents without relying on any public funds in the UK
• You can pay for your return or onward journey
• In the event you will be coming for business reasons, you must ensure that you will be conducting permitted business activities only
• You will not live in the UK for extended periods through regular or successive visits or make the UK your main home
• In the case of a Long-Term Standard Visitor Visa UK, reasons that you are required to frequently visit the UK for permitted purposes (for example, frequent business trips).

Please note that there are additional requirements if you are applying to study or take an exam, applying as an academic, doctor, or dentist, or applying for medical reasons. For example, if you are a doctor taking the PLAB exam, you will need to provide a letter from the General Medical Council confirming your PLAB test registration.

If you are visiting the UK for medical reasons, you will be required to provide evidence to show that you:

• Have made arrangements for consultations or treatment
• Have enough money to pay for your treatment
• Will leave the UK once your treatment is completed or when your visa expires
• Are not a danger to public health

Failure to submit the correct documentation is one of the most common reasons for a Standard Visitor Visa UK being refused . Our immigration lawyers can assist you with collating and submitting the required documents, which include:

• A valid passport or travel document
• Bank statements confirming that you can support yourself and your return journey
• Evidence of your purpose for the visit
• Evidence that you will leave the UK at the end of your proposed visit

Note: This list is not exhaustive. Our team will help you gather any additional documents required for UK Visitor Visa applications depending on your specific circumstances.

It is possible to apply for a Long-Term Standard Visitor Visa UK if you would like to visit the UK regularly. A Long-Term Standard Visitor Visa UK can be issued for 2, 5, or 10 years. However, you can only stay for a maximum of 6 months on each visit. Please note that you may be given a shorter visa than requested if you cannot meet the eligibility requirements for the duration of the visa you have applied for. In such a case, you will not get a refund of the application fee if you get a shorter visa.

Further, if your travel history shows you are repeatedly visiting the UK and staying for long periods, your visa may be cancelled.

Please find below the current application fees for the UK Visitor Visa. These fees are subject to change. You can find the up-to-date visa application fees by visiting the official website .

One of the main reasons for Standard Visitor Visa UK refusals is providing incorrect or inconsistent information in the visa application or providing such documents in support of your application. If, upon submission of your application but before attending the biometric appointment, you realise or it is revealed that you have provided incorrect or inconsistent information, depending on the severity, you can either cancel the application by logging into your online application portal (this link is provided when you start the application and also upon submission) and complete a new application form, or you can write a cover letter providing the correct information and explaining the reason for the mistake or oversight.

If such a mistake or inconsistency is revealed after attending your biometric appointment, depending on the severity, you can either contact UK Visas and Immigration by visiting Contact UK Visas and Immigration for help – GOV.UK (www.gov.uk) and provide the correct information, or cancel the application by visiting Cancel your Visa, immigration, or citizenship application – GOV.UK (www.gov.uk) .

It is possible to make an in-country application to extend the Standard Visitor Visa UK. However, you have to prove that there are compelling and compassionate circumstances for which you are unable to return before the expiry of your Standard Visitor Visa UK. For example, you become severely ill during your stay in the UK, and you have been receiving treatment privately to recover. Also, if you have entered the UK for medical reasons and your treatment was completed as planned.

If you are an academic requiring extension for your research, you will need to prove that you still meet the eligibility requirements as an academic.

It is also possible to extend your Standard Visit Visa UK if you are a graduate retaking the Professional and Linguistic Assessment Board (PLAB) test or doing a clinical attachment. For retaking the PLAB test, you will be required to provide written confirmation of retaking the test from the General Medical Council. You can get six months extension for this purpose.

Also, after passing the PLAB test, you can apply to stay longer for the purpose of doing an unpaid clinical attachment or dental observer post. You can stay up to 18 months in the UK in total if you apply for such an extension. You will be required to provide written confirmation of your clinical attachment offer and confirmation that you have not done a clinical attachment in the UK previously. One of the conditions of such an extension would be that you do not treat patients.

In the majority of cases, the only option left to challenge the refusal decision is through Judicial Review . An appeal for a refusal of a Standard Visitor Visa UK can only be made on human rights grounds (if applicable). Our solicitors are happy to help you navigate a refusal.

At A Y & J Solicitors, our team has an in-depth understanding of Standard Visitor Visa UK requirements and achieves an incredibly high success rate for our clients. In each case, we provide clients with excellent customer service and a transparent fee structure with no hidden charges or extra costs. We offer caring service throughout the entire process, from your initial consultation until your indefinite leave to remain decision.We can accommodate our clients in a variety of ways, including in-house consultations at our central London office or online/telephone/Skype meetings. Our lawyers also know a handful of international languages, including Hindi & Gujarati, Romanian, Albanian and Italian.

Confidently Apply for a Standard Visitor Visa UK

The immigration solicitors at A Y & J Solicitors are here to help you navigate the complex Standard Visitor Visa UK application process. Schedule a call with us today so we can ensure you don't have to cancel or reschedule your plans to visit.

Learn about How to appeal a UK visitor visa refusal and what to do if your UK visit visa is refused. We discuss reasons for refusals, the reapplication process, and how to challenge a decision. Don't panic if your visa is refused; we provide valuable insights to help you navigate the process. 1) REASONS FOR UK VISITOR VISA REFUSALS 2) WHAT TO DO IF YOUR UK VISITOR VISA REFUSED? 3) CAN YOU REAPPLY AFTER UK VISITOR VISA REFUSAL? 4) HOW TO CHALLENGE A UK VISITOR VISA REFUSAL? Subscribe for the more helpful content. Thank you for watching! Learn more about UK Visit Visa: https://bit.ly/3I4NuLY. Download the brochure for UK Visit Visa: http://bit.ly/3Z8a6jQ. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- DISCLAIMER: THIS INFORMATION IS FOR EDUCATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY AND IS NOT INTENDED TO BE A SUBSTITUTE FOR a Professional Legal Advice. PLEASE CONSULT A Professional Legal Adviser FOR GUIDANCE SPECIFIC TO YOUR CASE. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Need Help with Your ✈️UK Visa application? Get in touch now—click on the link to connect with us on Whatsapp https://bit.ly/3WiVWeq. Drop your inquiry now at http://bit.ly/3JjSPzQ. —------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Immigration Lawyers In London We are a 13+ years experienced, multi-award-winning, Legal 500 regulated UK immigration law firm based in London. We helped 4000+ clients with their UK immigration matter and received 1000+ reviews at Trustpilot, Google and via emails. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- If this video was helpful, share it with your friends! Stay tuned! Subscribe to our channel for more such videos. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- #ukvisitvisarefusal #ukvisarefusal #HowtoappealaUKvisitorvisarefusal

How to appeal a UK visitor visa refusal ?

A Y & J Solicitors April 30, 2023 7:30 am

This video will cover everything you need to know about UK visas. We will go over the different types of visas. We will discuss the requirements, the eligibility criteria, and the maximum duration of stay for each visa type. We will also provide information on how to get started on your UK visa application process and what kind of legal assistance you can receive. Whether planning a short visit, studying in the UK or setting up a business, this video has everything you need to know about UK visas. Temporary UK Visa Categories 1)Visit Visa - https://bit.ly/3I4NuLY 2)Global Business Mobility Expansion Worker - http://bit.ly/40yFjyR 3)Youth Mobility Visa - http://bit.ly/3jNwQHc 4)Student Visa - https://www.gov.uk/student-visa/apply Permanent UK Visa Categories 1) Spouse Visa - https://bit.ly/3DMJflC 2) Global Talent Visa - http://bit.ly/3ld8IOB 3) Innovator visa - http://bit.ly/3xb2XUg 4) Skilled Worker Visa - http://bit.ly/3DfBynB Learn more about the Self-Sponsorship Route - http://bit.ly/3JQMsV3 Learn more about Sponsor Licence - https://bit.ly/3XlurSE ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- DISCLAIMER: THIS INFORMATION IS FOR EDUCATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY AND IS NOT INTENDED TO BE A SUBSTITUTE FOR a Professional Legal Advice. PLEASE CONSULT A Professional Legal Adviser FOR GUIDANCE SPECIFIC TO YOUR CASE. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Need Help with Your ✈️UK Visa application? Get in touch now—click on the link to connect with us on Whatsapp https://bit.ly/3WiVWeq. Drop your inquiry now at http://bit.ly/3JjSPzQ. —------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Immigration Lawyers In London We are a 13+ years experienced, multi-award-winning, Legal 500 regulated UK immigration law firm based in London. We helped 4000+ clients with their UK immigration matter and received 1000+ reviews at Trustpilot, Google and via emails. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- If this video was helpful, share it with your friends! Stay tuned! Subscribe to our channel for more such videos. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- #ukvisa #ukvisaapplication #ukimmigration #ukimmigrationprocess #ukimmigrationandvisa

UK Visa: Everything you need to know

A Y & J Solicitors February 9, 2023 7:30 am

If you believe the UK Visit Visa refusal is unlawful and irrational, you can challenge that decision through Judicial review proceedings. Watch the full video to learn more about UK Visit Visa. A Common Reason for UK Visit Visa Refusal- https://bit.ly/3e6Ug7n Subject Access Request ( SAR ) - https://bit.ly/3cBLZrG Learn more about UK Visit Visa: https://bit.ly/3I4NuLY. Download the brochure for UK Visit Visa: http://bit.ly/3Z8a6jQ. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- DISCLAIMER: THIS INFORMATION IS FOR EDUCATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY AND IS NOT INTENDED TO BE A SUBSTITUTE FOR a Professional Legal Advice. PLEASE CONSULT A Professional Legal Adviser FOR GUIDANCE SPECIFIC TO YOUR CASE. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Need Help with Your ✈️UK Visa application? Get in touch now—click on the link to connect with us on Whatsapp https://bit.ly/3WiVWeq. Drop your inquiry now at http://bit.ly/3JjSPzQ. —------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Immigration Lawyers In London We are a 13+ years experienced, multi-award-winning, Legal 500 regulated UK immigration law firm based in London. We helped 4000+ clients with their UK immigration matter and received 1000+ reviews at Trustpilot, Google and via emails. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- If this video was helpful, share it with your friends! Stay tuned! Subscribe to our channel for more such videos. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- #ukvisitvisa #visitvisaprocess #ukimmigration #ukvisa #ukvisaprocessingtime #ukvisitorvisa #uktouristvisa #familyvisitorvisauk #ukvisitorvisaextension #uktouristvisafromindia #ukvisitorvisafromindia #standardvisitorvisauk #ukvisitorvisarequirements #applyforvisitorvisauk #ukvisitorvisaapplication #applyforuktouristvisa

UK Visit Visa FAQs | UK Immigration

A Y & J Solicitors August 31, 2022 3:30 pm

One of the main reasons for UK Visit Visa refusals is providing incorrect or inconsistent information in the visa application or providing such documents in support of your application. Watch the full video to learn more. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Learn more about UK Visit Visa: https://bit.ly/3I4NuLY. Download the brochure for UK Visit Visa: http://bit.ly/3Z8a6jQ. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- DISCLAIMER: THIS INFORMATION IS FOR EDUCATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY AND IS NOT INTENDED TO BE A SUBSTITUTE FOR a Professional Legal Advice. PLEASE CONSULT A Professional Legal Adviser FOR GUIDANCE SPECIFIC TO YOUR CASE. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Need Help with Your ✈️UK Visa application? Get in touch now—click on the link to connect with us on Whatsapp https://bit.ly/3WiVWeq. Drop your inquiry now at http://bit.ly/3JjSPzQ. —------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Immigration Lawyers In London We are a 13+ years experienced, multi-award-winning, Legal 500 regulated UK immigration law firm based in London. We helped 4000+ clients with their UK immigration matter and received 1000+ reviews at Trustpilot, Google and via emails. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- If this video was helpful, share it with your friends! Stay tuned! Subscribe to our channel for more such videos. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- #ukvisitvisa #ukvisitvisarefusal #ukvisarefusal #ukvisitorvisa #ukvisitvisa #uktouristvisa #familyvisitorvisauk #ukvisitorvisaextension #uktouristvisafromindia #ukvisitorvisafromindia #standardvisitorvisauk #ukvisitorvisarequirements #applyforvisitorvisauk #ukvisitorvisaapplication #applyforuktouristvisa

UK Visit Visa Entry Refusal | UK Immigration

A Y & J Solicitors April 30, 2022 3:30 pm

If you overstay your Visit Visa, you might invite a mandatory ban on getting a positive outcome on your future UK immigration application. watch the full video to learn more. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Learn more about UK Visit Visa: https://bit.ly/3I4NuLY. Download the brochure for UK Visit Visa: http://bit.ly/3Z8a6jQ. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- DISCLAIMER: THIS INFORMATION IS FOR EDUCATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY AND IS NOT INTENDED TO BE A SUBSTITUTE FOR a Professional Legal Advice. PLEASE CONSULT A Professional Legal Adviser FOR GUIDANCE SPECIFIC TO YOUR CASE. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Need Help with Your ✈️UK Visa application? Get in touch now—click on the link to connect with us on Whatsapp https://bit.ly/3WiVWeq. Drop your inquiry now at http://bit.ly/3JjSPzQ. —------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Immigration Lawyers In London We are a 13+ years experienced, multi-award-winning, Legal 500 regulated UK immigration law firm based in London. We helped 4000+ clients with their UK immigration matter and received 1000+ reviews at Trustpilot, Google and via emails. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- If this video was helpful, share it with your friends! Stay tuned! Subscribe to our channel for more such videos. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- #ukvisitvisa #ukvisa #ukvisarefusal

What if you overstay on your UK Visit Visa?

A Y & J Solicitors March 19, 2022 3:30 pm

Mohammed Rami Saifullah, Account manager at Akuma Technologies, shares his experience with A Y & J Solicitors. Happy client! -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Learn more about UK Visit Visa: https://bit.ly/3I4NuLY. Download the brochure for UK Visit Visa: http://bit.ly/3Z8a6jQ. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- DISCLAIMER: THIS INFORMATION IS FOR EDUCATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY AND IS NOT INTENDED TO BE A SUBSTITUTE FOR a Professional Legal Advice. PLEASE CONSULT A Professional Legal Adviser FOR GUIDANCE SPECIFIC TO YOUR CASE. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Need Help with Your ✈️UK Visa application? Get in touch now—click on the link to connect with us on Whatsapp https://bit.ly/3WiVWeq. Drop your inquiry now at http://bit.ly/3JjSPzQ. —------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Immigration Lawyers In London We are a 13+ years experienced, multi-award-winning, Legal 500 regulated UK immigration law firm based in London. We helped 4000+ clients with their UK immigration matter and received 1000+ reviews at Trustpilot, Google and via emails. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- If this video was helpful, share it with your friends! Stay tuned! Subscribe to our channel for more such videos. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- #ukvisitorvisa #ukvisitvisa #uktouristvisa #familyvisitorvisauk #ukvisitorvisaextension #uktouristvisafromindia #ukvisitorvisafromindia #standardvisitorvisauk #ukvisitorvisarequirements #applyforvisitorvisauk #ukvisitorvisaapplication #applyforuktouristvisa

Client testimonial - Successful UK Visit visa application

A Y & J Solicitors February 26, 2022 3:30 pm

A common reason for the UK visit visa refusal is not having a genuine intention. If Home Office says they don't believe you will leave the UK after completing your visit. How would you prove that? And here is the solution. Watch the full video to know how can you avoid your visit visa refusal. Learn more about UK Visit Visa: https://bit.ly/3I4NuLY. Download the brochure for UK Visit Visa: http://bit.ly/3Z8a6jQ. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- DISCLAIMER: THIS INFORMATION IS FOR EDUCATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY AND IS NOT INTENDED TO BE A SUBSTITUTE FOR a Professional Legal Advice. PLEASE CONSULT A Professional Legal Adviser FOR GUIDANCE SPECIFIC TO YOUR CASE. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Need Help with Your ✈️UK Visa application? Get in touch now—click on the link to connect with us on Whatsapp https://bit.ly/3WiVWeq. Drop your inquiry now at http://bit.ly/3JjSPzQ. —------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Immigration Lawyers In London We are a 13+ years experienced, multi-award-winning, Legal 500 regulated UK immigration law firm based in London. We helped 4000+ clients with their UK immigration matter and received 1000+ reviews at Trustpilot, Google and via emails. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- If this video was helpful, share it with your friends! Stay tuned! Subscribe to our channel for more such videos. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- #ukvisitorvisa #ukvisitvisa #uktouristvisa #familyvisitorvisauk #ukvisitorvisaextension #uktouristvisafromindia #ukvisitorvisafromindia #standardvisitorvisauk #ukvisitorvisarequirements #applyforvisitorvisauk #ukvisitorvisaapplication #applyforuktouristvisa

How to avoid UK visit visa refusal? | UK travel visa | UK immigration

A Y & J Solicitors January 29, 2022 4:00 pm

How to avoid UK visit visa refusal Trailer video

A Y & J Solicitors January 27, 2022 11:38 am

UK visit visa applications get refused for different reasons. And not having enough finance to support your trip to the UK is one common reason for the UK visit visa refusal. But you do not need to have hundreds of thousands of pounds in your bank account to prove you have enough funds to support your trip to the UK. Watch the full video to learn more. Learn more about UK Visit Visa: https://bit.ly/3I4NuLY. Download the brochure for UK Visit Visa: http://bit.ly/3Z8a6jQ. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- DISCLAIMER: THIS INFORMATION IS FOR EDUCATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY AND IS NOT INTENDED TO BE A SUBSTITUTE FOR a Professional Legal Advice. PLEASE CONSULT A Professional Legal Adviser FOR GUIDANCE SPECIFIC TO YOUR CASE. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Need Help with Your ✈️UK Visa application? Get in touch now—click on the link to connect with us on Whatsapp https://bit.ly/3WiVWeq. Drop your inquiry now at http://bit.ly/3JjSPzQ. —------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Immigration Lawyers In London We are a 13+ years experienced, multi-award-winning, Legal 500 regulated UK immigration law firm based in London. We helped 4000+ clients with their UK immigration matter and received 1000+ reviews at Trustpilot, Google and via emails. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- If this video was helpful, share it with your friends! Stay tuned! Subscribe to our channel for more such videos. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- #ukvisitorvisa #ukvisitvisa #uktouristvisa #familyvisitorvisauk #ukvisitorvisaextension #uktouristvisafromindia #ukvisitorvisafromindia #standardvisitorvisauk #ukvisitorvisarequirements #applyforvisitorvisauk #ukvisitorvisaapplication #applyforuktouristvisa

A Common Reason for UK Visit Visa Refusal | UK Travel

A Y & J Solicitors January 8, 2022 3:30 pm

UK Visitor visa application Organic Form

Contact our immigration advisors to deal with your Visit visa application from start to finish

(business, family/friends or leisure)

UK Visitor visa application

Our six top tips to avoid uk immigration application refusal, experience fast and reliable results.

We’re sorry, this site is currently experiencing technical difficulties. Please try again in a few moments. Exception: request blocked

Update April 12, 2024

Information for u.s. citizens in the middle east.

• Travel Advisories |
• Contact Us |
• MyTravelGov |

Find U.S. Embassies & Consulates

Travel.state.gov, congressional liaison, special issuance agency, u.s. passports, international travel, intercountry adoption, international parental child abduction, records and authentications, popular links, travel advisories, mytravelgov, stay connected, legal resources, legal information, info for u.s. law enforcement, replace or certify documents.

Before You Go

Learn About Your Destination

While Abroad

Emergencies

Share this page:

United Kingdom

Travel Advisory July 26, 2023

United kingdom - level 2: exercise increased caution.

Reissued with obsolete COVID-19 page links removed.

Exercise increased caution in the United Kingdom due to terrorism.

Country Summary:  Terrorist groups continue plotting possible attacks in the United Kingdom. Terrorists may attack with little or no warning, targeting tourist locations, transportation hubs, markets/shopping malls, local government facilities, hotels, clubs, restaurants, places of worship, parks, major sporting and cultural events, educational institutions, airports, and other public areas.

There is also a risk of isolated violence by dissident groups in Northern Ireland, focused primarily on police and military targets.

Read the  country information page  for additional information on travel to the United Kingdom.

If you decide to travel to the United Kingdom:

• Be aware of your surroundings when traveling to tourist locations and crowded public venues.
• Follow the instructions of local authorities.
• Monitor local media for breaking events and adjust your plans based on new information.
• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program  ( STEP ) to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Follow the Department of State on  Facebook  and Twitter.com/Travelgov
• Review the  Country Security Report  for the United Kingdom.
• Visit the CDC page for the latest  Travel Health Information  related to your travel and return to the United States.
• Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the  Traveler’s Checklist .

Embassy Messages

View Alerts and Messages Archive

Quick Facts

Must be valid for the duration of your stay in the United Kingdom   (If you have onward travel to countries outside the United Kingdom, you should check the passport validity requirements for each additional country on their respective information pages.)

Must have at least one page

Not required for stays less than six months.

Embassies and Consulates

U.s. embassy london.

33 Nine Elms Lane London, SW11 7US United Kingdom Telephone: +(44)(20) 7499-9000 Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(44)(20) 7499-9000 Fax: +(44) (20) 7891-3845 Email:   [email protected]

U.S. Consulate General Edinburgh, Scotland 3 Regent Terrace, Edinburgh EH7 5BW Scotland Telephone: 013-1556-8315 / from the United States: 011 (44)(13) 1556-8315 Emergency After-Hours Telephone:  020-7499-9000 / from the United States: 011 (44)(20) 7499-9000 Fax: 0131-557-6023 /from the United States: 011 (44) 131-557-6023 Email:   [email protected]

U.S. Consulate General Belfast, Northern Ireland Danesfort House, 223 Stranmillis Road, Belfast BT9 5GR Northern Ireland, United Kingdom Telephone: 028-9038-6100 / from the United States: 011 (44)(28) 9038-6100 Emergency After-Hours Telephone: 01253-501106 / from the United States: 011 (44) 1253-501106 Fax: 028-9068-1301 / from the United States: 011 (44)(28) 9068-1301 Email: [email protected]

Destination Description

Learn about the U.S. relationship to countries around the world.

Entry, Exit and Visa Requirements

• To enter the United Kingdom, your passport must be valid for the entire duration of your planned stay.
• Starting June 2019, U.S. passport holders will be able to use the ePassport Gates upon arrival in the United Kingdom. U.S. citizens who had previously registered for the UK’s Registered Traveller Service (RTS) should now also use the ePassport Gates on arrival in the UK.
• If you are planning onward travel after departing the UK, note that many other countries require at least six months’ remaining validity on your passport to enter. If you are bound for Continental Europe, please see our  U.S. travelers in Europe page for additional details.
• Visas for specific categories of visitors must be obtained prior to travel. Visit the  UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) website to determine if you need a visa to enter the United Kingdom. We cannot intervene on your behalf when you apply for a UK visa, nor can we advocate for your admission into the UK if you are denied entry.
• Students and prospective students should visit the  UKVI website  to determine if they need a visa.
• For some U.S. travelers, especially students, an entry stamp is required.  Please consult this website  for more information.
• Unpaid and paid workers, interns, volunteers, charity workers, and temporary workers can find information about obtaining a visa on the  UKVI website .
• Visitors traveling to the United Kingdom to get married, even if they do not plan to reside there, must obtain a visa in advance. See the  UKVI website  for visa information.
• Surcharges apply to certain categories of visas, generally those involving work, study, or residency for more than six months. More information is available on the  UKVI website  and in our Health section below.

The U.S. Department of State is unaware of any HIV/AIDS entry restrictions for visitors to or foreign residents of the United Kingdom.

Find information on  dual nationality ,  prevention of international child abduction  and  customs regulations  on our websites.

Safety and Security

Terrorist groups continue plotting possible near-term attacks in Europe. The UK Security Service publishes specific reasons for any changes in the threat level and recommended actions for the public via its  UK threat levels website .

There is the potential for  isolated violence  related to the political situation in Northern Ireland. The Police Service of Northern Ireland assesses there is a continued threat of violence from dissident groups in Northern Ireland, focused primarily on police and military targets, and may involve the use of  firearms  and  explosives . Tensions may be heightened during the summer marching season (April to August), particularly on and around the July 12 public holiday.

Avoid areas of demonstrations  if possible, and be careful within the vicinity of demonstrations. Demonstrations occur frequently in and around city centers and areas where tourists frequent. Even demonstrations intended to be peaceful can turn confrontational and possibly escalate to violence.

The phone number for  police/fire/ambulance emergency services  is  999  in the United Kingdom and  112  in Gibraltar. You should also use these numbers to report security threats or suspicious packages. Also see information for  contacting police from abroad .

• Be cautious and aware of your surroundings.
• Be vigilant, as  pickpocketing ,  mugging,  and “snatch and grab” theft of mobile phones, watches and jewelry can occur.
• Do not leave bags unattended in restaurants, pubs, hotel lobbies, and parked cars.
• Be alert to other criminal schemes, such as  impostors  posing as undercover police officers and “fining” tourists for bogus minor offenses. A legitimate Metropolitan Police Services officer will never demand an immediate cash payment.
• Use only licensed Black Cabs or pre-ordered car services (minicabs) . Unlicensed taxis or private cars posing as taxis may offer low fares, but in some instances, travelers have been  robbed  or  sexually assaulted  while using these cars. See Transport for London for additional information on cabs and car services .
• Avoid using ATMs that look temporary in structure or location  or are located in isolated areas – they may not be legitimate. Use ATMs located inside a bank branch.

Scams : Before sending any money to individuals you have never met in person, visit the  Embassy London website  for more information about  internet financial scams  and how to protect yourself.

See the  Department of State  and the  FBI  pages for information on scams.

Victims of Crime : Report crimes to the local police at 999 (United Kingdom) or 112 (Gibraltar) and contact the U.S. Embassy at +(44) (20) 7499-9000.

• Local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crimes.

See our webpage on  help for U.S. victims of crime overseas .

• help you find appropriate medical care
• assist you in reporting a crime to the police
• contact relatives or friends with your written consent
• explain the local criminal justice process in general terms
• provide a list of local attorneys
• provide our information on  victim compensation programs in the United States
• The Victim Support website  is maintained by an independent UK charity to help people cope with the effects of crime
• A Northern Ireland-based independent charity maintains a similar  victim support website
• In Scotland, victims of crime should contact  Victim Support Scotland
• provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States and/or limited medical support if you are destitute
• help you find accommodation and arrange flights home
• replace a stolen or lost passport

Domestic Violence:  U.S. citizen victims of domestic violence may contact the Embassy for assistance.

Tourism:  The tourism industry is generally regulated and rules are regularly enforced. Hazardous areas/activities are identified with appropriate signage and professional staff is typically on hand in support of organized activities. In the event of an injury, appropriate medical treatment is widely available throughout the country. Outside of a major metropolitan center, it may take more time for first responders and medical professionals to stabilize a patient and provide life-saving assistance. U.S. citizens are encouraged to purchase medical evacuation insurance . 

Local Laws & Special Circumstances

Criminal Penalties:  You are subject to local laws. If you violate local laws, even unknowingly, you may be expelled, arrested, or imprisoned. 

Furthermore, some laws are also prosecutable in the United States, regardless of local law. For examples, see our website on  crimes against minors abroad  and the  Department of Justice  website.

• You will be arrested if you bring pocket knives, blades, mace or pepper spray canisters, or any part of a gun into the United Kingdom . Please refer to the UK government publication  Travelling to the UK , which details the items visitors are prohibited from bringing into the United Kingdom.
• Penalties against  alcohol-related  and other  in-flight  crimes committed aboard aircraft to and from the United Kingdom are stiff and are enforced with  prison sentences . Please also see  our information on U.S. customs regulations  covering your return to the United States.
• Controlled Substances: UK law prohibits possession and trafficking of controlled substances and narcotics, including some substances that may be legal to possess under the law of certain U.S. states. More information on controlled substances is available here . Individuals who violate UK drug laws may face penalties including fines or prison sentences.

Arrest Notification:  If you are arrested or detained in the United Kingdom, ask police or prison officials to notify the U.S. Embassy immediately. See our  webpage  for further information.

Special Circumstances:

• The legal drinking age in the United Kingdom is 18. Parents and organizers of school trips should read our  Students Abroad website  to help plan a safe and enjoyable experience.
• Scotland’s “drink drive limit” law was amended to a lower level (roughly .05 BAC) and is stricter than the rest of the United Kingdom (roughly .08 BAC). This means that  driving after even one drink  can result in a charge of driving under the influence.
• The United Kingdom has very strict gun control laws, and importing firearms is extremely complicated.  Information on applying for a firearm and/or shotgun certificate can be found on the  London Metropolitan Police Firearms licensing webpage .  Licenses from England or Wales may not be valid in Scotland; please check with the appropriate authorities.  For firearms certificates for Scotland, please check with  Police Scotland .

Faith-Based Travelers:  See our following webpages for details:

• International Religious Freedom Report  – see country reports
• Human Rights Report  – see country reports
• Hajj Fact Sheet for Travelers
• Best Practices for Volunteering Abroad

LGBTI Travelers:  There are no legal restrictions on same-sex sexual relations or the organization of LGBTI events in the United Kingdom.

See our  LGBTI Travel Information  page and section 6 of our  Human Rights report  for further details.

Travelers Who Require Accessibility Assistance:

• UK law requires that all public service providers (except in the transportation sector) make “reasonable adjustments” to ensure their services are available to persons with disabilities.  Nevertheless, code exemptions permit many older buildings to have steps up from the street.
• Getting around in cities may be difficult at times because sidewalks can be narrow and uneven.
• Most London Underground and UK National Rail System stations are not readily accessible for people with disabilities.  Many stations do not have elevators, and have stairways and long corridors for changing trains or exiting to the street. Many UK buses are equipped with lowering platforms for limited-mobility or sight- or hearing-disabled travelers.
• Many taxis have swivel-entry seats or retractable ramps to ease entry.
• Disabled parking permits (known as “blue badges”) are issued by local government councils throughout the country. Visit the  UK government website  for contact information. Some councils may not offer permits to temporary visitors.

The  Transport for London  and  National Rail  websites provide information for passengers with disabilities.

Students:  See our  Students Abroad  page and  FBI travel tips .

Women Travelers:  See our travel tips for  women travelers .

While medical services are widely available,  free medical care  under the National Health System (NHS) is allowed only for UK residents, certain EU nationals, and some visa holders.

An NHS surcharge is assessed on certain visa applicants at the time of application.  Tourists and short-term visitors will not be assessed the surcharge, but will be charged 150 percent of the cost of any medical treatment they receive from the NHS. Unpaid balances of £1,000 or more can result in being barred from return to the United Kingdom.

• The U.S. government does not pay medical bills, and U.S. Medicare is not valid overseas.

Medical Insurance:  Make sure your health insurance plan provides  coverage overseas . Most care providers overseas only accept  cash payments . See our webpage for more information on insurance coverage overseas.

• We strongly recommend  supplemental insurance  to cover medical evacuation.

Carry  prescription medication  in original packaging, along with your doctor’s prescription. Traveling with sufficient supplies to last the duration of your trip is recommended. Mailing prescriptions is prohibitive and may be delayed or rejected by British customs.

Certain prescriptions available in the United States are classified as a "controlled drug"  in the United Kingdom and cannot be brought into the country without applying for and obtaining a prior license. This includes prescriptions for medical marijuana or products containing CBD and THC.  Please visit the https://www.gov.uk/travelling-controlled-drugs for additional information. 

Vaccinations:  Be up-to-date on all  vaccinations  recommended for international travel by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Further health information:

• World Health Organization
• U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention  (CDC)

Travel and Transportation

Road Conditions and Safety:  Road conditions in the United Kingdom can differ significantly from those in the United States.

• In contrast to the United States, UK traffic drives on the left.  Read the  Highway Code  before driving.
• Emergency call boxes  (orange telephone booths with “SOS” printed on them) are found at half-mile intervals along motorways. White and blue poles point in the direction of the nearest call box. Call boxes dial directly to a motorway center. Use these phones rather than a personal cell phone, because motorway center personnel will immediately know your exact location.
• Generally,  pedestrians do not have the right of way  and should not expect vehicles to stop for them.

Many U.S. citizen pedestrians are injured, some fatally, every year in the United Kingdom, because they forget that oncoming  traffic approaches from the opposite direction  than in the United States.  Exercise extra care when crossing streets; remain alert and look both ways before stepping into the street.

Traffic Laws: 

• UK penalties for driving under the influence of  alcohol  or  drugs  are strict and often  result in prison sentences .
• Using a  hand-held cell phone  or similar device while driving is  illegal  in the United Kingdom. Only hands-free phones may be used. You will be  fined , or in the case of an accident,  arrested  and serve time in  prison .
• The speed limit on highways/motorways in the United Kingdom is 70 mph, or lower when posted.
• You will be  detained  and  arrested  if you cannot provide a UK address to receive a subpoena or are about to depart the United Kingdom and have to be brought to court quickly for a motoring offense.
• In Central London, a congestion charge is levied on all drivers who pass through the congestion zone. You will be  fined  or  arrested  if you do not pay the charge. See  Transport for London  for more information about driving in London.

Public Transportation:  Public transport in the United Kingdom is extensive.

• Information on disruptions to London transportation services can be found on the  Transport for London  website.
• Information about the status of National Rail Services can be found on the  National Rail Enquiries  website.
• Bus and train service information in Northern Ireland can be found on the  Translink  website.
• Bus and train service information in Scotland can be found on the  Traveline Scotland  website.

See our  Road Safety page  for more information. For specific information concerning UK driving permits, vehicle inspection, road tax, and mandatory insurance, refer to the  UK Department for Transport  website or the  Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency  website.

Aviation Safety Oversight:  The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has assessed the government of the United Kingdom’s Civil Aviation Authority as being in compliance with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) aviation safety standards for oversight of United Kingdom’s air carrier operations. Further information may be found on the  FAA’s safety assessment page .

Maritime Travel: Mariners planning travel to the United Kingdom should also check for U.S. maritime advisories and alerts at  www.marad.dot.gov/msci . Information may also be posted to the U.S. Coast Guard homeport website and the NGA broadcast warnings website (select “broadcast warnings”).

For additional travel information

• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive security messages and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Call us in Washington, D.C. at 1-888-407-4747 (toll-free in the United States and Canada) or 1-202-501-4444 (from all other countries) from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).
• See the  State Department’s travel website  for the  Worldwide Caution  and  Travel Advisories .
• Follow us on  Twitter  and  Facebook .
• See  traveling safely abroad  for useful travel tips.

Review information about International Parental Child Abduction in the United Kingdom . For additional IPCA-related information, please see the International Child Abduction Prevention and Return Act ( ICAPRA ) report.

Travel Advisory Levels

Assistance for u.s. citizens, united kingdom map, learn about your destination, enroll in step.

Subscribe to get up-to-date safety and security information and help us reach you in an emergency abroad.

Recommended Web Browsers: Microsoft Edge or Google Chrome.

Check passport expiration dates carefully for all travelers! Children’s passports are issued for 5 years, adult passports for 10 years.

Afghanistan

Antigua and Barbuda

Bonaire, Sint Eustatius, and Saba

Bosnia and Herzegovina

British Virgin Islands

Burkina Faso

Burma (Myanmar)

Cayman Islands

Central African Republic

Cote d Ivoire

Curaçao

Czech Republic

Democratic Republic of the Congo

Dominican Republic

El Salvador

Equatorial Guinea

Eswatini (Swaziland)

Falkland Islands

France (includes Monaco)

French Guiana

French Polynesia

French West Indies

Guadeloupe, Martinique, Saint Martin, and Saint Barthélemy (French West Indies)

Guinea-Bissau

Isle of Man

Israel, The West Bank and Gaza

Liechtenstein

Marshall Islands

Netherlands

New Caledonia

New Zealand

North Korea (Democratic People's Republic of Korea)

Papua New Guinea

Philippines

Republic of North Macedonia

Republic of the Congo

Saint Kitts and Nevis

Saint Lucia

Saint Vincent and the Grenadines

Sao Tome and Principe

Saudi Arabia

Sierra Leone

Sint Maarten

Solomon Islands

South Africa

South Korea

South Sudan

Switzerland

The Bahamas

Timor-Leste

Trinidad and Tobago

Turkmenistan

Turks and Caicos Islands

United Arab Emirates

Vatican City (Holy See)

External Link

You are about to leave travel.state.gov for an external website that is not maintained by the U.S. Department of State.

Links to external websites are provided as a convenience and should not be construed as an endorsement by the U.S. Department of State of the views or products contained therein. If you wish to remain on travel.state.gov, click the "cancel" message.

You are about to visit:

UK Visit Visa Extension Made Easy!

Table of Contents

Extending Visitor Visa for more than six months in the UK

• Patients Undergoing Medical Treatment
• Academics meeting eligibility Criteria
• Graduates taking part in a Clinical Attachment programme or Retaking the Professional and Linguistic Assessment Board (PLAB) Test.

Requirement for Extension of Visit Visa for the UK

• Present Situation : You must be in the UK with a valid visitor visa.
• Respect for Rules : You must not have violated any visitor visa terms.
• Financial Stability : It is necessary to provide proof of stability in finances for the length of the extension.
• Genuine Reason : Justification for the extension must comply with the guidelines for a standard visitor visa UK extension.

Standard Visit Visa UK Extension

Genuine reasons for the extension of the uk c visit visa.

• they will depart the UK at the end of their visit
• they will not reside in the UK for extended time through frequent or consecutive visits or make the UK their primary residence
• they genuinely seek entry or stay for a purpose permitted under the Visitor route.
• will not engage in any of the forbidden activities
• must have enough money to pay for any reasonable expenses associated with their visit, including the cost of transportation back to their home or elsewhere, any expenditures associated with their dependents, and the cost of any scheduled activities like private medical care, without having to work or use public funds.

Non-Genuine Reasons for Extending a UK C Visit Visa

• Attempting to extend your stay for work or other purposes for which the Standard Visit Visa is not valid.
• Applying beyond the expiration of the current visa.

Is It Possible to Extend My UK Tourist Visa?

• If you have spent less time in the UK than the maximum 6-month period, you may be eligible to apply for a tourist visa UK extension. If your Visitor Visa was initially issued for three months, you have the option to extend it for an additional three months.
• If you have been in the UK for six months or more with a Standard Visitor Visa, you may be able to stay longer, but only under specific conditions. You must fulfil the requirements for a long-term visitor visa to remain in the country for more than six months on a visitor visa.

Genuine Reasons for Extending a Tourist Visa to the UK

Medical emergencies, pandemic situations, family emergencies, documents needed for extending a visitor visa to uk.

• You need to submit passport travel tickets indicating your intended departure date and bank statements demonstrating your ability to sustain yourself financially while in the UK to be granted a UK C visit visa extension.
• Information on your accommodations for the remaining portion of your visit.
• If you are extending as an academic, a letter from your employer stating that you were employed in your field of competence at a foreign academic institution before you arrived in the UK.
• If you are extending to take the PLAB test, you must provide a letter from the General Medical Council verifying that you are retaking the exam.
• If the extension is for medical reasons, a letter from your doctor or an NHS expert outlining the specifics of your medical condition and the need for additional treatment.

UK Visit Visa Extension Application Process

Compile crucial records.

• A current passport
• Proof of sustainable finances, such as payslips and bank statementS
• Verification of lodging in the United Kingdom
• A letter justifying the extension of the UK visa based on the provision of particular papers, such as invitations to formal events, health records, or employer letters for UK business visitor visas .

Complete the Online Application

Pay the fees for extending a uk visitor visa., schedule a biometric appointment, provide supporting documentation for the uk visit visa extension, await the decision, which visitor visas for the uk are eligible for extensions, what will happen if the extension of my uk tourist visa is rejected, is it possible for me to leave the uk and come back while my visitor visa extension is being processed, how long does it take to process an extension of a uk visiting visa, are there any specific requirements for children applying for an extension of their uk tourist visa, leave a reply cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Cookies on GOV.UK

We use some essential cookies to make this website work.

We’d like to set additional cookies to understand how you use GOV.UK, remember your settings and improve government services.

We also use cookies set by other sites to help us deliver content from their services.

You have accepted additional cookies. You can change your cookie settings at any time.

You have rejected additional cookies. You can change your cookie settings at any time.

• Entering and staying in the UK
• Visas and entry clearance

eVisa rollout begins with immigration documents replaced by 2025

Millions are being invited to switch from physical immigration documents to an eVisa – a key step in creating a modernised and digital border.

Photo: Getty Images

The next stage in the government’s plan to modernise the border and introduce a digital immigration system is under way, as the Home Office moves closer to the implementation of eVisas for nearly all visa holders living in the UK by 2025.

From today (17 April 2024), the Home Office will begin to send emails to all those with physical immigration documents, called biometric residence permits (BRPs), inviting them to create a UK Visas and Immigration ( UKVI ) account to access their eVisa, a digital proof of their immigration status.

Invitations will be issued in phases before the process opens to all BRP holders in summer 2024.

eVisas are central to making the UK safer by reducing the risk of fraud, loss and abuse of physical documents, strengthening border security, and providing a more secure way to prove immigration status. This will pave the way for increased automation to deliver the government’s vision for a contactless border.

It is free and straightforward for customers who hold physical and paper documents to create a UKVI account to access their eVisa. Creating a UKVI account will not change, impact or remove customers’ current immigration status or their rights in the UK.

Minister for Legal Migration and the Border, Tom Pursglove MP, said:  

We’ve already taken really significant steps to digitally transform the border and immigration system, and this wider rollout of eVisas is a key part of that process.  Replacing physical immigration documents with eVisas will ensure firm control over who comes here to live, work or study, strengthening border security and preventing abuse of the immigration system, while delivering cost savings for UK taxpayers.

eVisas bring substantial benefits to the UK public and to visa customers. They are secure, and, unlike a physical document, cannot be lost, stolen or tampered with. They can be accessed anywhere and in real time, putting customers in control of their own data and allowing them to swiftly update the Home Office with new contact or passport details.

An eVisa is securely linked with the holder’s unique biometric information in the same way as a BRP or BRC , to protect against identity fraud.

People checking immigration status will be able to conduct one quick and simple check using a secure online service on GOV.UK. Selected public bodies are already able to access immigration status to determine eligibility for public services automatically through system to system checks.

eVisas are tried and tested, with millions of customers already using them across routes including the EU Settlement Scheme ( EUSS ). Most physical documents, such as biometric residence permits or cards (BRPs or BRCs), are being gradually phased out, with most BRPs expiring at the end of 2024.

This move to eVisas is in line with other countries which have replaced, or are planning to replace, their physical immigration documents with digital forms of immigration status.

Customers who already have an eVisa do not need to do anything as we make this change, but should continue to update their UKVI account with any changes to personal information, such as a new passport or contact details. Customers should continue to carry their in-date physical immigration documents with them when they travel internationally, until they expire.

Physical immigration documents will be gradually phased out by 2025, as we transition to a fully digital border and immigration system for new and existing customers. This will deliver enhanced security and cost savings for the UK public and greater convenience for customers and status checkers. 

Customers who already have an eVisa should tell the Home Office about any passport on which they intend to travel using the online Update your UK Visas and Immigration account details service on GOV.UK, if this is not already linked to their account, to avoid delays when travelling.

As part of the wider transformation of the UK border and immigration system, the government has already introduced the Electronic Travel Authorisation ( ETA ) scheme. ETA is a digital permission to travel to the UK for those wanting to visit but who do not need a visa. It gives the government greater ability to screen travellers in advance of travel and prevent those who pose a threat from coming here.

Share this page

The following links open in a new tab

• Share on Facebook (opens in new tab)
• Share on Twitter (opens in new tab)

Is this page useful?

• Yes this page is useful
• No this page is not useful

Help us improve GOV.UK

Don’t include personal or financial information like your National Insurance number or credit card details.

To help us improve GOV.UK, we’d like to know more about your visit today. We’ll send you a link to a feedback form. It will take only 2 minutes to fill in. Don’t worry we won’t send you spam or share your email address with anyone.