uk multiple entry tourist visa fees

Mar 19, 2018 By visaandmigration.com

UK Multiple Entry Visa Rules

You may require a visa to enter the UK for a wide variety of different purposes – from travel and leisure to business and study. In terms of types of visas, there is a short term visitor visa which allows you to enter the UK for up to 6 months. Aside from this, there are also 2, 5 and 10 year UK multiple entry visas available for those who want to visit the UK on a regular basis.

New UK standard visitor visa

A visitor visa allows you to travel to the UK for up to 6 months – after this period, you must leave the UK. A standard visitor visa allows you travel for:

• Leisure purposes, like visiting for a holiday or to see your family and friends in the UK
• Business purposes or to take part in sports or creative events
• Other reasons, like receiving private medical treatment in the UK

Previously, there were separate visitor visas for particular purposes. These have now been replaced by one single visa known as the UK standard visitor visa. This acts as a UK multiple entry visa, and has replaced the following types of visitor visas:

• Family Visitor visa
• Child Visitor
• General Visitor visa
• Sport Visitor visa
• Business Visitor visa
• Entertainer Visitor visa
• Prospective Entrepreneur visa
• Private Medical Treatment Visitor visa
• Approved Destination Status (ADS) visa

UK multiple entry visitor visa rules

As mentioned, one standard visitor visa has replaced previous visas for different purposes. However, rules vary according to the purpose of your coming to the UK, although the eligibility rules remain the same. When you apply for a multiple entry standard visitor visa, you must show the following:

• You will leave UK once your visit is completed
• You are able to support yourself and dependents (if any) for the complete duration of your trip
• You can pay for your return trip or onward journey and all the other costs related to your visit
• You present the proof of your business activities - or any other activities - you want to undertake in the UK

There are also activities that are not permitted when you enter the UK under a standard visitor visa. For example, you cannot do any work (whether this is paid or unpaid), you cannot have access to public funds (like benefits) and you can’t marry or register a civil partnership.

How to apply for a multiple entry visa?

You can apply for a visit visa by making an application from outside the UK. You must do the following when applying:

• You must complete the online application process
• You must pay any fee that applies
• You must provide your biometric information (if required to do so)
• You must also provide a valid travel document

If there is no online application process available, you must follow the instructions provided by the local visa post or application centre on how you can make an application. 

Other types of visit visas

Other than the new standard visitor visa, there are other types of visitor visa routes depending upon the purpose of your visit. For example, a marriage or civil partnership visa allows you to enter the UK for 6 months, a permitted paid engagement visa allows you to enter the UK for 1 month, and a UK transit visa is valid for up to 48 hours. Within the period for which the visit visa is valid, you – as a visitor – may enter and leave the UK multiple times, unless the visit visa is endorsed as a single- or dual-entry visa. For more information of UK multiple entry visa rules or to apply for a UK visa, get in touch with us today.

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Visa and Migration is a private OISC regulated company (F201500999) and is not an official Government body. If you would like to prepare and submit your UK immigration application yourself you can do so by visiting the UKVI website.

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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.

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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.

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UK Multiple Entry Visa Rules and Application Process

The rich history, iconic landmarks, thriving cities, and captivating countryside of the UK have always been irresistible for global travellers. Whether you’re exploring business opportunities in London, reconnecting with family in Manchester, or simply looking to soak in the arts in Edinburgh, the UK has many experiences to offer.

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But before setting foot on British soil, there’s a crucial aspect one must navigate: the visa process. Among the varied visa options, the UK multiple entry visa stands out for its flexibility and convenience, particularly for frequent visitors.

This detailed blog post explores the ins and outs of this visa type, offering insights into its benefits, application process and more.

Let’s Discuss Your Query

Call us on  020 7269 9590   or  Fill in our form

What is the UK Multiple Entry Visa?

The UK Multi-Entry Visa, often referred to as the long-term Standard Visitor visa, allows foreign nationals to visit the UK for extended periods or multiple times over a set period without re-applying each time. 

Designed as a UK immigration path that offers flexibility to genuine visitors, the UK multiple entry visa ensures that frequent travellers, whether for business, family, or tourism, don’t have to go through the lengthy application process every time they intend to visit the UK. It serves as a stamp of trust, meaning the holder has been considered trustworthy enough to enter and leave the UK multiple times.

Benefits of holding a Multi-Entry Visa include:

• Flexibility : The main advantage is the ability to travel to the UK multiple times on a single visa without the need to apply for a new visa each time.
• Cost-effective : Over time, frequent travellers will find it cost-efficient, as they save on repeated visa application fees.
• Convenience : Avoid the wait time associated with visa processing for each trip, allowing for spontaneous trips or emergency visits.
• Enhanced Credibility : Holding a long-term standard visitor visa can often be viewed as a mark of credibility, showcasing that the visa holder has maintained a clean record during previous visits to the UK.

Eligibility and Requirements for a UK Multi-Entry Visit Visa

Every visa category has its set of criteria, and the UK’s long-term standard visitor visa is no exception. While the flexibility of the visa is appealing, there are some stringent requirements that applicants must adhere to.

Some criteria must be fulfilled for the Visa, including :

• Genuine Visitor Status : The applicant must prove their genuine intent to visit the UK without making it their main place of residence.
• Financial Stability : An applicant must demonstrate they have sufficient funds to spend in the UK without recourse to public funds or seeking employment in the UK.
• Purpose of Visit : The motive for the travel (business, tourism, family, etc.) should be clear and credible.
• Previous Travel History : Compliance with the visa rules of other countries, especially countries like the USA, Canada, and the Schengen countries, can act as a positive indicator. Conversely, non-compliance could lead to a refusal.
• Links to Home Country : Applicants must demonstrate strong connections to their native country and the intent to go back following their visit.

The Multiple Entry Visitor Visa Application Process

The visa application is a complex process, and it’s crucial to stick to all requirements. Any discrepancy or lack of documentation can cause delays or even refusals. Ensuring that the application aligns with the UK visa rules and demonstrates the applicant’s genuine visitor status can significantly enhance the chances of approval.

Step-by-Step Guide to Applying for a Multi-Entry Visa :

• Online Application : Begin by filling out the respective online visa application form .
• Documentation : Gather all necessary documents that prove your eligibility.
• Visa Application Fee : Pay the application fee, which varies based on the length of the visa.
• Appointment Booking : Schedule an appointment at a visa application centre to submit biometrics.
• Interview : Depending on individual circumstances, a UK visa interview might be required at a nearby UK visa centre.
• Decision : Once all steps are completed, UK Visas and Immigration will start processing the application and communicate the decision.

Required Documentation Checklist

When applying for a Standard Visitor visa to the UK, it’s vital to ensure all your documents are in order. Incomplete or inaccurate documentation can result in unnecessary holds or even application denials. Here’s a basic checklist of documents required for the visa:

Essential Documents :

Passport/Travel Document : Must be valid throughout your stay in the UK, with a blank page reserved for the visa stamp.

Online Application Details : Ensure you’ve furnished the following information:

• Planned travel dates to the UK.
• Your accommodation details during the visit.
• An estimated budget for your trip.
• Current residential address and its duration.
• Parental details, including names and birth dates.
• Annual income, if applicable.
• Any illegal, civil, or immigration violations you might have been involved in.

Additional Documentation (If Applicable) :

• A decade-long travel history.
• Employer’s contact details.
• Details about your partner: name, date of birth, and passport number.
• Information on the sponsor of your trip, if someone else is bearing your expenses: name, birth date, and passport information.
• Details of any UK-based family members: name, address, and passport number.
• If your visit exceeds 6 months, a tuberculosis (TB) test certification may be mandatory.

Specific Visit Purposes :

• If you’re heading to the United Kingdom for educational or medical purposes, expect to provide specialised documentation corresponding to your intent.

Language Requirement :

• If the documents are non-English/Welsh, you must offer certified translations to ensure clarity and transparency in your application.

Remember, the above list is a basic guide. Based on individual circumstances and the specific nature of your visit, additional documents might be required.

Processing Time and Decision 

After you’ve submitted your visitor visa application at a visa application centre, the typical wait time is around 3 weeks. However, it’s wise to apply well in advance of your planned travel schedule to account for any unexpected delays. Some centres might offer expedited services, but this comes at an additional fee.

While the above gives a general timeframe, the exact processing time can vary based on:

• Volume of Applications : Peak travel seasons or large events in the UK can lead to an influx of applications, potentially slowing down processing times.
• Application Completeness : Insufficient applications or missing documentation can lead to delays and denials.
• Additional Verifications : Sometimes, the consulate might require additional checks, especially if there’s something amiss or if they need further clarification on certain aspects of your application.

Duration and Limits of a Multi-Entry Visa

Irrespective of the UK visit visa’s lifespan, travellers are typically granted a maximum stay of up to 6 months on each entry. This makes the standard visitor visa perfect for tourists, business professionals, and others who don’t wish to live in the UK but visit it regularly.

Though there’s no strict limit on how many times one can enter the UK within a visa’s validity, it’s crucial not to make the UK your main home. If authorities find that you’re trying to live in the UK by repeated or successive visits, it can endanger future visa applications.

Visitor Visa Fees

Just like any other UK visa, you must pay a specific fee to apply for a long-term visitor visa. The application fee varies based on the visa’s duration.

Breakdown of Visitor Visa Application fees:

• UK Standard Visitor Visa: If you want to apply for a standard visitor visa for a single visit, this visa comes with a fee of £100 and permits a stay of up to 6 months.
• 2-year Long-term Standard Visitor Visa : Priced at £376, this visa allows multiple visits with a maximum stay duration of 6 months per visit.
• 5-year Long-term Standard Visitor Visa : For a fee of £670, you can enjoy multiple trips to the UK over five years, with each stay being limited to 6 months.
• 10-year Long-term Standard Visitor Visa : The most extensive of the options, for a fee of £837, grants you the freedom to visit the UK over a decade, sticking to the 6-month stay limit for each visit.

Pls note that all these prices are subject to change – the prices listed above are from August 2023

The process to apply for a multiple entry may be tricky, but the rewards of experiencing the vibrant cultures and breathtaking landscapes of the UK are well worth the effort. With a focused mindset, the right guidance, and proper preparation, anyone can turn their dream to come to the UK into a reality. 

If at any point you feel the need for legal advice or assistance for the long-term UK standard visa, Gulbenkian Andonian Solicitors stand ready to help you guide the complexities of the UK visit visa application process. Speak with our specialist at +44 20 7269 9590 or fill out the form below.

The difficulty in obtaining a UK visitor visa depends on an applicant’s individual circumstances. Meeting the visa requirements, providing accurate documentation, and demonstrating genuine visitor intent will enhance the chances of approval.

A daily budget of about £100 to £150 per day per visitor is recommended. However, the exact amount varies based on the objective and duration of the visit.

If your UK Visitor Visa application is denied, you’ll receive a refusal letter detailing the reasons. While there’s no formal appeal process, you can reapply by addressing the concerns raised or seek legal advice for better clarity.

A caseworker might doubt an applicant’s genuine visitor status based on factors like inconsistent travel history, insufficient funds, lack of ties to the home country, ambiguous travel purpose, or previous immigration violations.

No, IELTS is not required for a UK visit visa. It is typically necessary for study, work, or family visas where proof of English language proficiency is a criterion.

Gulbenkian Andonian Solicitors specialises in UK immigration law, providing expert assistance in all UK visa applications, citizenship processes, 10 and 20-year-long  residence applications , indefinite leave to remain work permits, and asylum claims. Our team of committed lawyers offers clear, professional advice, ensuring a smooth navigation through the immigration process for our clients.

Ask our Expert Legal Team

At Gulbenkian Andonian, we pride ourselves on “Excellence, Experience and Efficiency”. With over 35 years of experience on your side, our team of London based lawyers and solicitors have a wealth of experience advising individuals, families and businesses of all sizes to find clarity on UK law.

Call us on +44 (0) 207 269 9590 or fill out the form below. We usually reply within a few hours.

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Neither Gulbenkian Andonian Solicitors ltd, nor their employees, agents, consultants or assignees, accept any liability based on the contents of written articles which are meant for guidance only and not as legal advice. We advise all readers to take professional advice before acting. If you would like to consult with a professional lawyer or solicitor to discuss your case, please do not hesitate to contact us directly. This site uses reCAPTCHA and is protected by the Google privacy policy and  terms of service .

Dr Bernard Andonian – the Co-Founder of Gulbenkian Andonian Solicitors, is an experienced Immigration Solicitor, former Judge, and recipient of a PhD in Law from the University of West London. He has over four decades of experience practising UK Immigration, Human Rights and Civil Litigation Law. He has served on the Law Society  Immigration Law Panel, achieved numerous groundbreaking decisions in higher courts and is featured in the  Legal 500’s Hall of Fame . 

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UK Visa Multiple Entry Rules for Visitors

• 19 May 2023

IN THIS ARTICLE

Visitors to the UK have to ensure they follow strict rules on entry and permissible activities.

In this guide to the UK standard visitor visa , we explain how the UK visa multiple entry requirements work, including the express prohibition under the rules against living in the UK for extended periods through either frequent or successive visits. We also look at how to apply for a multiple entry visa, including the procedure, cost and wait time involved.

What is the UK multiple entry visitor visa?

The UK standard visitor visa is for visa nationals looking to visit the UK for the purposes of tourism, seeing friends and family, undertaking unpaid business trips, engaging in a short course of recreational study or other permitted activities under the visitor rules. Other permitted activities could include, for example, private medical treatment.

It is also possible to get married or form a civil partnership in the UK under a visitor visa, or give notice of a marriage or civil partnership, although this is treated as a separate visitor category in its own right. Other categories of visitor visa include the permitted paid engagement (PPE) visa and the transit visa. The PPE visa is for experts in their field coming to the UK to undertake specific paid engagements for up to one month, while the transit visa is for those wanting to transit the UK en route to another country for up to 48 hours.

A standard visitor visa will usually be granted for a maximum period of 6 months. However, visitors may apply for a visa with 2, 5 or 10 years validity, provided each stay in the UK does not exceed the permitted length of stay endorsed on the visa, usually 6 months. This is known as a multiple entry visa where, within the period of validity, you may enter and leave the UK multiple times. However, you can also depart and re-enter the UK multiple times under a standard 6-month visitor visa, unless the visa has been endorsed as either single or dual entry.

Who needs a multiple entry visitor visa?

If you plan to regularly visit the UK you can apply for a long-term visitor visa, allowing for multiple entries over several years, instead of a standard visitor visa over just 6 months. You may be looking to visit the UK on a regular basis for all sorts of permissible reasons.

When visiting the UK to see friends and family, especially loved ones who are living in the UK permanently, or temporarily working or studying in the UK under a visa themselves, a multiple entry visitor visa can be an ideal way to make a number of planned visits over the coming years. For example, you might have a spouse or partner working for their overseas employer in a UK branch, or studying for their degree at a UK university, where you have been unable to relocate at the same time, but still want to regularly visit and spend time with them. You might also have adult children, siblings or other relatives who have settled in the UK.

Equally, when visiting the UK for the purposes of business, the rules provide an extensive list of permitted activities, many of which will necessarily require visiting the UK on more than one occasion. This could include, for example, where you regularly need to visit the UK for business meetings, conferences and seminars. It could also be where you need to undergo work-related training in the UK or attend various different trade fairs, or you are involved in protracted business negotiations that are likely to require more than one attendance.

UK visa multiple entry rules for visitors

The visitor route is described under the rules as for visa nationals wanting to temporarily stay in the UK, for periods of up to 6 months at a time, for things like tourism, visiting family and friends, carrying out a business activity or undertaking a short course of study. The visitor route is therefore clearly designed for, and typically limited to, short-term visits.

However, the rules recognise and make provision for the fact that many visa nationals will be looking to visit the UK on a regular basis for legitimate reasons. It is therefore possible to apply for a multiple entry visa, provided you can satisfy UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) that you meet the eligibility requirements for the duration of visa that you are applying for. This means that you must be able to satisfy the UKVI caseworker dealing with your application that you are able to meet the ‘genuine visitor’ requirements for a multiple entry visa lasting either 2, 5 or 10 years. Under the visitor rules, to be classed as a genuine visitor, you must:

• be genuinely seeking entry or stay for a purpose that is permitted
• will not be undertaking any of the activities that are prohibited under the rules, such as accepting paid employment
• have enough funds to cover all of your reasonable costs in relation to your UK visit without either working or accessing public funds, including the cost of your return or onward journey
• be intending to leave the UK at the end of your stay
• not be living in the UK for extended periods of time through either frequent or successive visits, nor be planning to make the UK your main home.

What are ‘frequent or successive visits’ under the visitor rules?

To overcome the UK visa multiple entry rules, you must be able to show that you are a genuine visitor, despite the fact that you are planning to regularly visit the UK, potentially on several occasions over several years. In any application for a long-term visitor visa, the UKVI caseworker will be alert to the fact that the rules can be easily exploited by the visa-holder by living in the UK for extended periods through either frequent or successive visits. This is because it is not uncommon for applicants to look for loop-holes in the rules, including making the most of the UK visa multiple entry allowances to live in the UK on a long-term basis.

The phrase ‘frequent or successive visits’ has no definition within the rules, although the Home Office ‘Visit guidance’ (published 06 October 2021) advises UKVI caseworkers to check the visitor’s travel history, including how much time they have previously spent in the UK and how often they are returning. The caseworker must assess if you are, in effect, living in the UK through frequent or successive visits, or making the UK your main home, having regard to:

• the purpose of your visit(s) and intended length of stay stated
• the number of visits you have made over the past 12 months, including the length of stay on each occasion, the time elapsed since your last visit, and if this amounts to you spending more time in the UK than in your home country or country of residence
• the purpose of return trips to your home country or country of residence, and if these appear to be used only to quickly seek re-entry to the UK
• the long-term links you have with your home country or country of residence, such as being registered for tax purposes
• any evidence that the UK is your main place of residence, for example, if you have registered with a UK doctor or if you send your children to a UK school
• your history of any previous applications, for example, if you have recently been refused leave under the family rules, or any other immigration route, and subsequently want to enter the UK as a visitor on a multiple entry visa.

There is no specified maximum period of time that you will be allowed to spend in the UK in any period under a multiple entry visa, such as ‘6 months in 12 months’, provided each visit does not exceed the maximum period for that visit. However, if it is clear from your recent travel history that you are seeking to stay in the UK for extended periods, or making the UK your main home, your application for a multiple entry visa will be refused.

Coming to the UK as a visitor

In the case of first-time visitors, the use of frequent or successive visits to live in the UK for extended periods of time cannot easily be judged in advance. However, a number of factors will be used to assess if you are a genuine visitor, not only on your initial application but also each time you enter the UK. This is because the grant of a multiple entry visitor visa will not guarantee you being allowed into the UK on each and every occasion, where it will be for Border Force officers to make their own determination on your arrival at a port of entry.

In assessing if you are a genuine visitor, the following will be considered:

• your previous immigration history, including any visits to the UK and other countries
• the duration of previous visits to the UK compared to what was stated on your visa application form or on arrival in the UK
• your financial circumstances, as well as your social, economic and family background
• any personal and economic ties to your home country or country of residence
• the cumulative period of time that you have spent in the UK and your pattern of travel over the last 12 months, and whether this amounts to ‘de-facto’ residence in the UK
• whether, on the balance of probabilities, the information and reasons given for your visit are credible, and correspond to your social, economic, family and personal background.

As a visitor, you can undertake multiple permitted activities whilst you are in the UK, although you must be able to explain what your main reason for coming to the UK is at the visa application stage and on entry at a UK port. Equally, if you are granted a multiple entry visit visa valid for 2, 5 or 10 years, it is likely that your reason(s) for visiting will differ over time. This is permissible, provided you continue to intend to undertake one or more of the permitted visitor activities. This means that you can enter the UK to do different permitted activities, but you will still be expected to have a main reason or reasons for visiting, for example, for business purposes or visiting family, and be able to provide details on arrival.

Importantly, your visitor visa may cancelled if it becomes apparent from your travel history, following the grant of a multiple entry visitor visa, that you are exploiting the rules by living in the UK for extended periods through either frequent or successive visits.

How to apply for a UK multiple entry visa

An application for a UK multiple entry visa must be made online. As part of the application process you will be required to attend an overseas visa centre to enrol your biometric information. Once your application form has been submitted online, you will be able to upload your supporting documents and book an appointment. You must also pay the visa fee.

The cost of applying for a short-term standard visitor visa is £100 for up to 6 months. For a long-term standard visitor visa, with multiple entries, the cost is £376 for a 2-year visa, £670 for a 5-year visa and £837 for a 10-year visa. However, you may be given a shorter visa than requested if UKVI believe that you cannot meet the eligibility requirements for the duration of the visa that you have applied for. You will also not get a partial refund of the application fee.

It will usually take up to 3 weeks from the date of your appointment for a decision to be made, although you may be able to pay for a faster decision. If you are successfully granted a multiple entry visa over either 2, 5 or 10 years, you will be permitted to visit the UK over the validity period of the visa, but will only be able to stay for a maximum of 6 months on each visit.

UK Visa Multiple Entry Rules FAQs

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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, 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.

Gill Laing is a qualified Legal Researcher & Analyst with niche specialisms in Law , Tax , Human Resources , Immigration & Employment Law .

Gill is a Multiple Business Owner and the Managing Director of Prof Services - a Marketing & Content Agency for the Professional Services Sector.

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UK Visitor Visa (Tourism or Leisure) - Top 10 FAQs

Most visitors to the UK will need to make an application for a UK visit visa from their country of residence, before travelling. In this post we answer some of the questions that are most frequently asked by individuals who wish to visit the UK as a Standard Visitor for the purpose of tourism or leisure .

What are the eligibility requirements for a UK Visitor Visa application?

In making an application for a UK Visitor Visa you will be required to prove:

• You will leave the UK at the end of your visit;
• You will not live in the UK for extended periods through frequent or successive visits, or make the UK your main home;
• You’re able to support yourself and your dependants during your trip (or have funding from someone else to support you);
• You are able to pay for your return or onward journey (or have funding from someone else to pay for the journey);
• You have proof of any business or other activities you want to do in the UK, as allowed by the Visitor Rules .

What can I do as a Standard Visitor in the UK?

As a visitor to the UK for the purpose of tourism or leisure, you will be permitted to:

• Visit friends and family and/or come to the UK for a holiday; 
• Take part in educational exchanges programmes;
• Attend recreational courses for a maximum of 30 days;
• Volunteer with a registered charity for a maximum of 30 days.

What does it mean to be a “Genuine Visitor”?

In order to succeed with an application for a UK Visit Visa, you will need to satisfy UK Visas and Immigration that you are a genuine visitor. This means that you will need to show you are genuinely seeking entry to the UK for a purpose permitted by the visitor routes, will not undertake any prohibited activities during your stay in the UK, will not live in the UK for extended periods through frequent or successive visits and will not make the UK your home

The Visit guidance lists factors which will be considered by a Caseworker in assessing whether an applicant is a genuine visitor. Theses include your:

• Previous immigration history to the UK and other countries;
• Financial circumstances as well as your family, social and economic background;
• Personal and economic ties to the UK.

In assessing your genuineness, the Caseworker will also consider the cumulative period of time you have spent in the UK over the last 12 months and the duration of your previous visits compared to what was stated on your visa application form or on arrival to the UK. 

If you intend to visit the UK for any other reason including to marry or form a civil partnership , to receive private medical treatment , or to undertake business activities , you must apply for the specific visit corresponding to the purpose of your visit.  

What reasons could a Caseworker have for doubting that I am applying as a Genuine Visitor?

The Visit Guidance provides a non-exhaustive list of reasons a Caseworker may doubt whether you are a Genuine Visitor. This includes whether or if:

• There are discrepancies between the statements made by you and your sponsor in your application; 
• You, your sponsor or other immediate family member has, or has attempted to, deceive or mislead the Home Office in a previous application to enter the UK;
• It has not been possible to verify the information you have provided. 

Although the existence of any of the above reasons will not result in the automatic refusal of your application, it will be essential to address each of these circumstances in your application. 

How much funds do I need to show for a UK Visitor Visa?  

You must have access to sufficient resources to maintain yourself adequately for the duration of your visit to the UK. There is no set level of funds you need to show this.

Some thought should be given to the activities you intend to undertake, and your living expenses, in the UK. This is because, when assessing your application, a Caseworker will consider the likely cost of your stay and assess any source of revenue that will continue to be available to you whilst visiting the UK. A Caseworker will take into consideration your income or savings against any financial commitments you have in your country of residence in deciding whether you are able to support yourself financially during your visit. 

What does it mean to make “frequent or successive visits” to the UK?

Although there is no specific maximum period of time which you can spend in the UK in any period, as long as each visit does not exceed 6 months, your application for a Standard Visitor Visa will be refused if a caseworker has reason to believe that you are living in the UK through frequent or successive visits. In assessing your application a Caseworker will consider your travel history including, how long you spend in the UK on each visit and how frequently you are returning to the UK. 

How do I make an application for a UK Visitor Visa?

An application for a UK Visitor Visa must be made online . A Standard Visitor may apply for a visit visa of 6 months, 2.5 years or 10 years validity. This allows multiple visits to the UK within the period of validity, unless the visa is endorsed as single or dual-entry), but if it is a ‘multiple entry’ visa, you still cannot remain in the UK as a visitor for more than 6 months on any individual visit. 

As part of the application process you will be required to attend a Visa Centre to enrol your biometrics and have your passport scanned as part of the application process. Once your application form is submitted online, you will be able to upload your supporting documents online and book an appointment to enrol your biometrics.

How much does it cost to make a UK Visit Visa application?

The Home Office application fee for a Standard Visitor Visa is £95. You may need to pay an additional fee for a biometric appointment at a Visa Centre. 

How long will it take for my UK Visit Visa application to be decided?

An application for a UK Visitor Visa is typically decided within 3 weeks of making the application and attending a visa application centre. It may be possible to apply for a priority service to speed up the process depending on the country you are applying from. Due to the Covid-19 pandemic, there may be delays in processing your applications and priority services may be limited. 

What happens if my application for a UK Visitor Visa is refused?

You are unlikely to have a right of appeal if your application for a Standard Visitor Visa is refused.  If you need to challenge a refusal, it is likely you will have to do so by way of judicial review. 

You may wish to speak to our barristers for expert legal advice on making a fresh application following the refusal of your visitor visa. It will be essential for you to make a carefully prepared application which addresses each reason from your refusal to be addressed in order to succeed with a fresh application. 

Contact Our Immigration Barristers

For expert advice and assistance with an application for a UK Tourism and Leisure Visitor Visa , contact our Immigration Barristers on 0203 617 9173 or complete our enquiry form below.

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Is There a UK Visitor Visa 180 Days Rule?

• Anne Morris
• 11 January 2023

IN THIS SECTION

It’s a common misconception that overseas visitors can only spend up to 6 months in any 12-month period in the UK. That is not to say that a 180-day rule does not exist, it does, but only insofar as the maximum length of stay for each standard visit is limited to 6 months.

In this guide, we look at the so-called ‘UK visitor visa 180 days rule’, dispelling the myth that visitors cannot stay in the UK for more than 180 days in total in any given year.

What is the misconception when it comes to the 180-day rule?

The 180 day visitor rule is commonly misunderstood as meaning that any person who enters the UK with a visitor visa cannot stay more than 180 days in any single 12-month period. This common misconception has also taken the shape of the 6 month time-limit set out under the rules being misinterpreted as a rule that visitors can spend no more than 6 months out of any 12 months inside the UK. In reality, the ‘UK visitor visa 180 days rule’ does not exist in this way. For example, it is not the case that if an overseas national comes to the UK with a visitor visa and stays between January to May and, having returned to their home country, comes back to the UK under a new visa for a further stay in October of the same year, they would only be able to stay for an additional month. Similarly, if that same person initially came to the UK on a long-term visitor visa, spent 5 months in the UK and then sought to re-visit later in the year, it is not the case that they would only be allowed to stay for a further four weeks. As such, the 180-day rule is misconceived.

How long can visitors stay in the UK?

Under the UK’s Immigration Rules for visitors, or otherwise under immigration law in the UK, there is no such thing as the ‘UK visitor visa 180 days rule’. The true position, when it comes to a standard visitor visa, is as follows: for those seeking to visit the UK to undertake the activities as permitted under the rules, for example, for the purposes of tourism, visiting friends and family, or for short business trips, a visa will be granted for ‘up to 6 months’.

The maximum 6-month rule essentially means that an overseas national, when coming to the UK as a standard visitor to take a holiday, spend time with loved ones or to do business, will be able to stay for no more than 6 months at a time. In some cases, depending on the reason for their visit, a visa may only be granted for the time required for their specified purpose. However, with the grant of a new visa, or with a multiple entry visa valid over several years, there is no limit as to how long someone can spend in the UK during the course of any 12-month period, such as ‘6 months in 12’. This means that, at least in theory, an overseas national can leave the UK following a full 6-month visit, re-apply for a visa from overseas and subsequently return to the UK, even if this is just a few short weeks later.

Multiple entry rules for UK visitors

For regular visitors to the UK, it is possible to apply for a multiple-entry visa over 2, 5 or 10 years, where there is again no specified time limit over which a long-term visa-holder can spend in the UK in any given period — provided each visit does not exceed the maximum period for that stay, typically 6 months. As such, even though a multiple-entry visa will not allow an overseas national to come to the UK for more than 6 months at any one time, it will enable the visa-holder to enjoy multiple UK trips over prolonged periods. In this way, the visa-holder will not be required to re-apply for a visa every time they decide to visit the UK, but can use the same visa a number of times over its’ specified period of validity.

Equally, a standard visitor visa, provided that this is not endorsed as ‘single’ or ‘dual-entry’, can be used multiple times. This means that the visa-holder can depart and re-enter the UK as many times as they want within the visa’s validity period, up to a maximum of 6 months.

If a visitor holds a multiple-entry visa and they want to stay for longer than their visa expiry date, it is also possible for them to apply to extend their permission for up to the maximum 6 months permitted for standard visitors. For example, if a visitor arrives in the January and their long-term visitor visa is due to expire in the March, provided they continue to meet the visitor rules, they can extend for up to 6 months as a standard visitor, until the June.

An in-country application can also be made to extend a standard visa, so as to complete the full 6 months in the UK as a visitor where a shorter period has initially been granted, although an application must be made before the original permission expires.

What are the risks for visitors of multiple prolonged stays?

Under the visitor rules, provided each stay in the UK does not exceed the permitted length of stay endorsed on the visa, this does not, of itself, prevent a visitor from using their visa for multiple stays in quick succession. However, this is where the rules become tricky.

To be eligible for a visa, visitors must meet a genuine visitor requirement. Under this requirement, amongst other things, they must not use their visa to live in the UK for extended periods through frequent and successive visits, or make the UK their main home. As such, where a long-term visitor visa is used for multiple prolonged stays over a short timeframe, this may raise suspicions that the visa-holder’s intentions are not genuine.

In those cases where an individuals’ recent travel history reveals back-to-back visits, each one up to the maximum 6-month time limit, this is likely to be construed by immigration officials as a breach of the rules. This means that, on arrival in the UK, a visa-holder may be refused entry . They also run the risk of having their visitor visa curtailed , presenting potentially insurmountable difficulties when re-applying for entry clearance at a later date.

Equally, for those citizens of countries that qualify for visa-free travel to the UK, known as non-visa nationals, in circumstances where their travel history reveals excessive visits within a short space of time, they may also find themselves being refused entry on arrival. Having been refused entry, these individuals would be well-advised to apply for a visa in advance before seeking to re-enter the UK although, as with non-visa nationals subject to immigration control, any adverse immigration history may still work against them.

Ironically, therefore, the mythical 180-day rule can still be applied in practice. This is because visiting the UK for more than 180 days in a 12-month period could lead to a finding by both immigration officials at a UK port of entry, and Home Office caseworkers tasked with making a visa decision, that an individual is a non-genuine visitor.

Importantly, in the official Home Office ‘Visit guidance’ on how to assess if an applicant is making the UK their main home, caseworkers are advised to check a visitor’s travel history, including how long they are spending in the UK and how frequently they are returning. Specifically, caseworkers are advised to look at the number of visits made over the course of the past 12 months, including the length of stay on each occasion, the time elapsed since the last visit and if this amounts to them spending more time in the UK than in their home country. So whilst the ‘UK visitor visa 180 days rule’ is not in any way codified, adherents to this myth do tend to have less trouble being granted entry to the UK as visitors.

What are the immigration options for longer term stays?

Notwithstanding the potential risks for regular visitors to the UK around long-term visitor visas, provided this type of visa is not used excessively, they can still be an ideal way to visit the UK a number of times over several years. Importantly, if a person holds a multiple-entry visa, it is likely that their reasons for visiting the UK will differ over time and should not, of itself, cast any doubt on their genuineness and credibility. This is permissible, provided the via-holder continues to intend to undertake one or more of the permitted visitor activities.

However, for overseas nationals who would like a more reliable option for longer term stays, the type of visa potentially available will very much depend on the reason for them coming to the UK. Under the UK’s Immigration Rules, there are various long-term visa options for those looking to come to the UK to work, to study or to join immediate relatives.

There are various different work visas under the rules, each with their own route-specific requirements, such as having the offer of a job that meets the minimum skill and salary requirements from a UK-licensed sponsor for the skilled worker visa. There are also certain unsponsored longer term work routes, including the global talent visa and the graduate visa, plus the scale up visa, sponsored only for the first 6 months of work in the UK.

The conditions of stay and length of time granted under a work visa can vary, depending on the chosen route, although many work visas will provide the successful visa-holder with a path to settlement. This means that, provided the visa-holder meets a continuous residence requirement, they can eventually apply for indefinite leave to remain (ILR) in the UK.

Study visas

Even though a foreign visitor can study for up to 6 months in the UK under a long-term visitor visa, provided certain eligibility requirements are met, for overseas nationals looking to undertake a lengthy course of study in the UK, they will need a student visa .

An applicant can apply for a student visa to undertake a course of study in the UK if they have been offered a place on a course by a UK-licensed sponsor and have enough money to support themselves. The student visa-holder will then be permitted to stay in the UK for the full duration of their course. On successful completion of their studies, the visa-holder will also have the option of applying for an unsponsored graduate visa to look for work.

Family visas

There are various long-term family visas available to allow an overseas national to live with their immediate family in the UK, including a spouse visa, a visa for parents of children living in the UK and a visa for adult dependent relatives. These visas are specifically aimed at overseas nationals coming to live with someone already settled in the UK. As such, the successful visa-holder, provided they continue to meet the eligibility requirements, will eventually be able to apply for ILR to be able to settle in the UK themselves.

It is also possible for immediate relatives of overseas nationals to apply for a visa as the dependant of someone currently in the UK with permission as either a migrant worker or student. This may represent a more suitable long-term alternative to a visitor visa, allowing overseas couples and their children to live together in the UK until the permission of the primary visa-holder comes to an end and they are required to return to their home country.

Importantly, however, before deciding on the right visa, it is always best to seek expert immigration advice, exploring all available options to help decide which one works best.

180 day rule FAQs

Is the uk 180 day rule per visit or per year.

The 180-day rule for UK visitors applies per visit, not per year. Under the visitor rules, an overseas national can cumulatively stay for more than 180 days in any 12-month period over the course of two or more separate trips.

Can I leave the UK after 6 months and come back?

It is possible to stay in the UK for up to 6 months under a long-term visitor visa, and then depart and return shortly after, provided the visa is not being used to live in the UK for extended periods.

How many times can you visit UK in a year?

Under a multiple-entry visa, you can visit the UK several times over a 12-month period, limited to 6 months each stay, where the rule that a person cannot stay more than 180 days in any given year is a myth.

Can I leave and reenter UK on visitor visa?

You can leave and re-enter the UK under a multiple-entry visitor visa, although you must not use your visa to live in the UK for extended periods through frequent and successive visits, or to make the UK your main home.

Last updated: 11 January 2023

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How to apply for a multiple-entry UK visit visa?

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Table of Content

Can a visit visa be granted for longer than six months , who needs a multiple-entry visitor visa, what are the rules for a multiple-entry visitor visa, the multiple-entry visitor visa requirements are as follows:, do you have a way to calculate the visitor visa uk cost, how do i apply for a multiple-entry visitor visa, conclusion .

If you are looking to come to the UK for reasons of tourism, visiting friends and family, for a business trip or for a short course, you will need a UK standard visitor visa . This visa can also be used for other activities allowed under the visitor visa rules such as private medical treatment. 

Standard visitor visas are normally granted for up to 6 months. However, you can apply for a multiple-entry visitor visa for two, five or 10 years of validity; this type of visa will allow for multiple entries during the specified time period without needing to apply for a new visa for each trip. However, each stay in the UK must not exceed the stay specified on the visa; this is typically six months. Please note, you can also depart and re-enter the UK with a standard visitor visa as long as the visa does not specify that it is a single or dual entry. 

People wanting to undertake short-term visits to the UK on a more regular basis sometimes over several years, a 6-month validity does not suffice. For example, if you have grown-up children that have settled in the UK who you will visit regularly, or if you are a business-person who needs to undertake business visits in the UK over a longer period of time.

In order to apply for a UK multiple entry visa , you need to fulfil UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) ‘genuine visitor’ requirements; this will need to be for the duration of the visa length for which you are applying.

• Your entry or stay is genuinely for a permitted purpose
• You will not be undertaking any prohibited activities such as paid employment
• You have the required funds for all of your costs related to your stay in the UK
• You intend to leave the UK at the end of your stay
• You do not plan to make the UK your main residence 

In addition to the above, the rules state that you cannot live in the UK for extended periods of time through frequent or successive visits. Although frequent or successive visits have not been defined, your caseworker, as advised by the UKVI, will check your travel history carefully looking at the time you have spent in the UK to assess whether you are using frequent or successive visits to in fact live in the UK. For this, they will look at:

• The reasons for your visits
• How many times you have visited in a 12-month period including the length of each stay
• Whether return trips to your home country suggest that they are being used to seek re-entry to the UK Long terms links you have with your country of residence
• If there is any evidence that the UK is your main home
• Previous visa application history – for example, have you been refused another type of visa

Some of the above may be difficult to assess for first-time visitors. However, not only will you be assessed on your initial application whether you are a genuine visitor, but also each time you enter the UK. This is because a multiple-entry visitor visa does not guarantee your entry into the UK for every visit; Border Force officers will determine your entry at each visit. For this, they will assess the following:

• Your previous immigration history both to the UK and other countries
• The duration of previous visits to the UK, if any, and how these compare to what you stated on your application 
• Details relating to your financial circumstances
• Your ties to your home country
• Your reasons for visiting are credible on the balance of probabilities

Please note, a multiple-entry visitor visa can be cancelled at any time if it becomes clear that you are exploiting the rules to use this type of visa to live in the UK for extended periods. 

In addition, if you are under 18 when you submit your visa and immigration application, your multiple-entry visa will only be valid for up to six months after you turn 18.

Yes! Use our calculator below to calculate your Visitor Visa Visa cost.

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An application must be made online on the gov.uk site. Once you have completed your application, you will be able to provide your supporting information and book an appointment with a visa centre in your home country in order to provide the required biometric information. 

A standard visitor visa for up to six months costs £100. A long-term visitor visa costs £376 for a 2-year visa, £670 for a 5-year visa and £837 for a 10-year visa. 

Please note, even if you apply for a longer-term visa, a shorter period will be issued if UKVI believe that the duration you have requested is not justifiable. A partial refund will not be provided in these instances. 

Applications are usually decided upon within three weeks, with priority services available in most locations.

If you have a genuine reason to visit the UK on multiple occasions, a multiple-entry visitor visa is a great option in order to avoid the inconvenience of applying for a standard visitor visa for each occasion. However, please note that these are not an alternative to a visa that allows you to reside in the UK as your main home of residence and they do not guarantee your entry each time you visit the UK. Your eligibility to apply for a multiple- entry visit visa, and your eligibility to enter the UK on each occasion with this visa will be determined by UKVI who will carefully consider your reasons for visiting and your background. In order to help ensure a successful application, it is paramount that you provide the correct supporting documentation.

A Y & J Solicitors is a specialist immigration law firm , with extensive experience with multiple-entry visitor visa applications. We have an in-depth understanding of immigration law and are professional and results-focused. For assistance with your application or any other UK immigration law concerns, please contact us on  +44 20 7404 7933 or at Contact Us today. We’re here to help!  

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UK visa rules tore my family apart – and for others like us, it’s about to get much worse

A new income threshold means only the richest 30% of employed Britons will be able to bring their partners here. It’s unspeakably cruel

S ix years ago almost to the day, with my 15-month-old daughter strapped to my chest, I fought back tears, waved my husband off at Bengaluru airport in India and boarded a plane back to the UK. I wasn’t sure when I’d see him again, or when he’d see his child.

Even though he was the foreign spouse of a British citizen (at that point, we had been married for more than five years) and the father of a British child, he had no right to accompany us when we relocated to the UK. This despite the protestations of friends and relatives, who felt sure we’d not done our research properly.

A minimum income threshold in order to apply for a spouse visa was introduced by Theresa May in 2012, but public consciousness of the policy – then as much as now – was low outside those people directly affected. It was set at £18,600 a year, but the devil was in the details.

As we dug deeper, we realised that I needed to produce six months of continuous payslips proving the income before a visa application could even be submitted. I had a job offer with a salary above the threshold waiting for me back in the UK, and my husband already earned above the threshold in India – yet this meant a “best-case” scenario of nine months apart in order to relocate our family from his home country to mine, once the visa processing time was taken into account.

In the end, our time apart was closer to a year. My husband missed our daughter’s first sentences, her transition out of a cot and her second birthday. In the process, she forgot the Hindi he’d lovingly sung and spoken to her since birth.

Commuting to a full-time job to meet the income requirement while in essence being a single parent meant that I too saw far less of her, and my mental health spiralled out of control. All of that time was spent wondering if we’d made the right choice.

In all of this, we were the lucky ones. Our application, while onerous and expensive, went through smoothly. Then, the basic fee for a two-and-a-half-year spousal visa was about £1,500. Now, it stands at £1,846.

After a small amount of lobbying, our local MP wrote a letter to the Home Office in support of our application, despite having voted in support of the policy. Crucially, my mother stepped in to care for our daughter and to prop me up emotionally.

Ultimately, we were reunited. Six years and three visas later, my husband has indefinite leave to remain, and we finally have a degree of security. Tragically, there are now children who have been separated for more than a decade from one of their parents, and couples who know there is no realistic possibility of them living in the same country. There will now be many more.

On 11 April, a new income threshold for spousal visas will come into place, set at £29,000. The threshold will go on to more than double from its original rate, rising to about £34,500 later this year, and then to about £38,700 in early 2025. This is part of the plan of the home secretary, James Cleverly, to reduce immigration. Migration Observatory research suggests that the new threshold means that about 50% of employed British citizens cannot “afford” to have a foreign spouse, which will rise to 70% by 2025.

The Home Office will tell you that this is to ensure “integration” and to avoid a burden on taxpayers. This is not true. Those on a spouse visa already have no recourse to public funds, pay an annual NHS surcharge and have the best possible support – a spouse – when adjusting to life in the UK. Separated families, on the other hand, struggle financially and emotionally, the collateral damage of a policy incomprehensible even to the MPs who voted for it.

I’m writing this in the early hours of the morning, having just relieved my husband from night duty caring for a toddler – our second child – who is feeling miserable with an ear infection. Night-wakings and poorly children are still very much a feature of family life. But we are doing it together, and we’ve never lost our sense of how precious, how essential, that is.

Families belong together. The spouse income threshold, unparalleled in any other country, means that our government stands in opposition to this fundamental and most sacred of rights.

Maegan Dobson Sippy is a children’s book editor and writer

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Application fee of £115 where the applicant is a Chinese national applying in mainland China under the Chinese visa scheme  ↩

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