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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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Apply for a Visitor Visa (Tourist Visa)

A Tourist visa is also known as a Standard Visitor visa and enables an applicant to visit the UK for a short period of time for leisure and tourism purposes.

Tourist visa application: Main requirements In order to qualify for a Tourist visa the applicant must be able to demonstrate that:

• they intend to leave the UK at the end of their visit;
• whilst they are in the UK they can support themselves and any dependants; and
• they have sufficient funds for their return journey.

Length and conditions of stay in the UK Applicants who hold a Tourist visa are able to stay in the UK for up to six months. It is not possible to apply for or extend a Tourist visa for longer than six months. If an applicant has applied for leave of less than six months and wants to extend this, they should ensure they apply to do so before their current leave expires.

Applicants who need to visit the UK more regularly can apply for a multi-entry visit visa that lasts either two, five or ten years. They must be able to prove that over a long period of time there is a reason as to why they regularly need to travel to the UK. Holders of multi-entry visit visas should remain in the UK for no more than six months in any 12 month period.

Evidence needs to be shown when applying for a multi-entry visit visa that at the end of each visit the applicant will leave the UK and that the applicant’s reason for coming to the UK remains the same whilst their visa is valid.

Tourist visa application: How we can help It is essential that an application for a Tourist visa is prepared thoroughly and carefully. If the Home Office is not satisfied that an applicant will leave the UK at the end of their visit or if it considers that any of the other requirements have not been met, the application will fall for refusal.

We are experienced in preparing Tourist visa applications to ensure a successful outcome and will provide expert guidance and assistance to you throughout the process.

For further advice, please contact us .

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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.

Table of Contents

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.

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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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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.

Please answer the questions and you will be able to calculate the approx. cost for The Visitor Visa –

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 Visit visa

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Visiting the UK

Uk visit visa types, valid passport, a complete application form, payment of fees, biometrics information, uk visit visa application, where to apply for a uk visit visa, uk visit visa fees, uk visit visa processing time, uk visit visa faq.

UK Visit visas are almost always issued with a validity of 6 months or less and do not permit the holder to work during their stay in the UK. There are options for multiple-entry and single-entry UK Visit visas depending on your purpose of stay.

For those who do not have a passport that permits them to enter the UK without a visa or obtain an Electronic Visa Waiver to the UK, a UK Visit visa can be obtained before traveling. This travel visa to the UK can be applied for online or, in some cases, in person before arriving in the UK.

There are several types of UK Visit visas that can be obtained through a simple application process. These visas are typically intended for shorter stays of 6 months or less but can be extended in some cases. The following types of visas are available under the category of UK Visit visa. 

• Standard Visitor visa
• Permitted Paid Engagement visa 
• Marriage Visitor visa
• Transit visa 
• Visa for Chinese Tour Groups 

UK Visit visa requirements

You can determine which UK Visit visa is right for you based on your nationality, the purpose of travel, and the country that issued your identity document. The requirements for each type of UK Visit visa are different depending on the type you apply for. To apply for a UK Visit visa, you will need to assemble and submit the correct application materials before submitting your application. However, there are some materials that are required for all visa types.

The below list includes some general documents required to apply for a UK Visit visa. 

All applicants will need to provide a valid passport that will remain valid for the duration of their stay in the UK.

All applicants must submit a complete application form for the specific type of UK Visit visa they have selected. The form can be submitted online or, in some cases, at a visa application center.

Nearly all types of UK Visit visa can be paid for online or at a visa application center. It is mandatory to pay the application fees in order for your UK Visit visa application to be processed.

Applicants can submit their biometrics information at their nearest visa application center or through the ‘UK Immigration: ID Check’ mobile application. This step is necessary to receive your Visit visa.

Check the eligibility requirements for the UK Visit visa and select the correct type for your unique purpose of travel.

Required documents will depend on your nationality, country of citizenship, and purpose of travel. It is important to have all documents ready before applying for your UK Visit visa.

Almost all Visit visas can be applied for online through the official GOV.UK website. You can log in, submit your UK Visit visa application and pay your fees through their online portal.

Nearly all applicants will need to give biometrics including fingerprints and a recent photograph. This can be done at the nearest visa application center or through the ‘UK Immigration: ID Check’ mobile application.

Once your visa is processed, an email or letter will be sent to you with the results of your application and the next steps you need to take. These next steps may vary depending on many factors including which visa type you have applied for and the purpose of your stay.

If your UK Visit visa is approved, you will need to follow the steps from the official government decision letter. Some visa types may require additional materials upon arrival to the UK so it’s important to verify if there are any additional required documents or materials.

Almost all types of UK Visit visas can be applied for online at the official GOV.UK website. In some cases, you may need to make an appointment at your nearest visa application center in order to submit your application in person. Most application centers have free appointments, but some do require a fee of £55 per appointment. It’s important to book your appointment in advance in accordance with your travel timeline.  

The cost of your UK Visit visa will vary depending on the type of visa you are looking to obtain. For the Standard Visitor visa for 6 months or less, the fees are £100. Other visas may cost more or less depending on the duration of your stay as well. 

For most UK Visit visas, the processing time takes around 3 weeks. This may vary depending on the type of Visit visa, your nationality, the country that issued your identity documents, the purpose of your visit, and other factors. For example, it on average 7 weeks for the UK Standard Visit visa application to be processed. This standard timing may be subject to change during the high season for tourism. 

Most UK Visit visas are valid for up to 6 months from the date of arrival. However, there are some exceptions. For instance, the long-term Standard Visit visas can be issued for up to 10 years with a maximum period of stay of 6 months at a time. The validity will depend on the visa type and how often you visit the UK.

While the eligibility criteria for each visa type will vary, the UK Visit visas are intended for those looking to engage in tourism, minor business activities like interviews or meetings, study short courses no more than 6 months long, or other short-term endeavors. The UK Visit visa is not for those looking to work, study, or start a business in the UK in the long term.

For those that meet the eligibility criteria and provide the required documents, the application process for most UK Visit visa types is simple and straightforward. Nearly all applicants can apply online and receive their decision in just 3 weeks.

A friend or relative who is a permanent resident or citizen of the UK can sponsor your UK Visit visa.

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Applying for general UK visa second time

Moderators: Casa , push , JAJ , ca.funke , Amber , zimba , vinny , Obie , EUsmileWEallsmile , batleykhan , meself2 , geriatrix , John , ChetanOjha , archigabe , Administrator

Post by talhaj_shk » Thu Aug 27, 2015 10:37 am

Re: Applying for general UK visa second time

Post by Wanderer » Thu Aug 27, 2015 11:09 am

talhaj_shk wrote: Dear Friends, Im thinking to apply for UK visit / general visitor visa for second time. Last year i applied for it and got 6 months visa. I visited UK for 12 days and came back well before time. This year im again planning to visit UK. For last visa, i got sponsor letter from my cousin but for stay at his place only, nothing financial. This year i dont want to ask him for sponsor. My query is can i apply for it 2nd time w/o any sponsor? What reason of visit should i state (last year tourism was my reason)? should i apply for 1 yr visa this time or stick to 6 months?

Post by talhaj_shk » Thu Aug 27, 2015 11:48 am

Wanderer wrote: talhaj_shk wrote: Dear Friends, Im thinking to apply for UK visit / general visitor visa for second time. Last year i applied for it and got 6 months visa. I visited UK for 12 days and came back well before time. This year im again planning to visit UK. For last visa, i got sponsor letter from my cousin but for stay at his place only, nothing financial. This year i dont want to ask him for sponsor. My query is can i apply for it 2nd time w/o any sponsor? What reason of visit should i state (last year tourism was my reason)? should i apply for 1 yr visa this time or stick to 6 months?

Post by geriatrix » Thu Aug 27, 2015 1:26 pm

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British Nationality

Second passport holders: what are their uk immigration and visa options.

By Amer Zaman

on October 25, 2023

Read Time: 8 Minutes

Life for those who hold two passports – which, for the purposes of this article, we are largely presuming to mean holding citizenship of two countries – can be complicated, especially when it comes to navigating immigration control and international airports.

This complexity can increase still further when one needs to account for whether they will be travelling for business or pleasure, as well as the different approaches and laws that different jurisdictions have on dual nationality. There might also be political differences between certain countries that prevent easy travel between one and the other – another factor that could greatly impact on your immigration or travel plans.

If this describes your situation, you might be unsure how your status as a holder of two passports affects your rights, and what your visa and immigration options may be.

Below, then, our experts in UK immigration law here at Cranbrook Legal have sought to bring some clarity to this topic that can be so confusing to great numbers of migrants and travellers.

What does it mean to have two passports in the UK?

When we refer to someone having “two passports”, what we are generally referring to – for the purposes of this guidance – is the situation of a person holding citizenship or nationality for two territories. So, you might – for example – be a British citizen , but also a citizen of one or more other countries.

It is important to appreciate that not every country around the world accepts or recognises the concept of dual citizenship (also known as dual nationality). If you are uncertain as to whether this is the case for a given country you are a citizen of, we would urge you to ask about the country’s policy towards dual nationality at their consulate or embassy in whichever territory you are based in.

Fortunately, there are many countries across the globe that do allow the concept of dual citizenship. These include, but are not limited to, the likes of Australia, Belgium, Canada, France, Germany, Greece, Ireland, Israel, New Zealand, Norway, Portugal, Spain, Switzerland, and the United States.

The UK is also among the countries that recognise dual citizenship. In other words, as we touched on above, it is perfectly permissible to be a citizen of the UK , at the same time as being a citizen of one or several other countries.

Nor is dual citizenship in the UK a status that you need to specifically apply for. If you are a British citizen, you can simply apply for a particular foreign citizenship that you desire, and obtain that citizenship, while keeping your existing British citizenship .

Which passport should dual citizens use in the UK?

When you arrive at any national border, you will need to prove to the immigration authorities in the given country that you have the right to enter, for the stated purpose of entering. Naturally, the exact procedure you will need to follow will depend on the specific territory you are seeking to enter.

If, for instance, you are a dual national who is a citizen of the UK and a citizen of a member state of the European Union (EU) , such as France, you are generally advised to do the following:

• When entering and leaving the EU, show the EU border officers your EU passport or national identity card
• When entering and leaving the UK, show the UK Border Force officer your UK passport

There will be some instances of both these passport controls being in the same location, an arrangement known as juxtaposed border control.

An obvious example of this would be when someone travels by Eurostar from King’s Cross St Pancras in the UK to France. This journey entails first passing through UK Border control in order to leave the UK, followed just a few metres away by passing through French border control, in order to enter France. In the above situation, you are advised to show your British passport to UK Border control, and your EU identity document to French border control. It is a similar process when you return by Eurostar, with stations such as Paris and Brussels having their own juxtaposed border controls.

Does a dual national require a visa in order to travel to the UK?

By its very nature, if you have British citizenship as well as citizenship of another country, you will not require a visa in order to enter the UK, because your British citizenship will already give you the right to enter the UK, as well as to live and work there, free of any immigration controls.

However, some confusion can arise on this topic, because British citizenship is not completely synonymous with British nationality . In fact, British citizenship is just one of six types of British nationality , with the others being:

• British overseas territories citizen
• British overseas citizen
• British subject
• British national (overseas)
• British protected person

Your exact status will have certain implications with regard to the rights that you have to enter, live, and/or work in the UK.

If, for example, you are a British overseas territories citizen, you will have the right to hold a British passport, as well as to get consular assistance and protection from UK diplomatic posts. However, as a holder of this type of British nationality, you will still be subject to UK immigration controls, and you will not have an automatic right to live and work in the UK .

Alternatively, of course, you might be a dual national of two countries, of which the UK is not one (for example, a citizen of both France and Spain). In that situation, if you wish to visit or relocate to the UK , your exact visa options will depend on such factors as your reasons for intending to travel to and enter the UK, as well as your ability to satisfy the eligibility requirements for a given visa.

You might, for instance, be looking to visit the UK for such purposes as tourism or business (e.g., to attend an interview, meeting, or conference), with the intention that you will not be in the UK for longer than six months. In that situation, it may be the Standard Visitor visa that represents your best option for travelling to and entering the UK.

On the other hand, some dual nationals from outside the UK might wish to come to the UK in order to work here. If this describes your situation, there are various work and business-related visas for the UK that might be suited to your needs. One common work-related route is the Skilled Worker visa , which enables a foreign national to relocate to and work in the UK , provided that they will be doing an eligible job with a Home Office-approved employer .

There are certain groups of dual nationals from outside the UK who will be able to come and work in the UK without needing to apply for a visa , even if they do not have British citizenship . One example of this would be someone who has Irish citizenship. Such an individual does not require a visa if they wish to live, work, and study in the UK , even after Brexit. This is because both the Republic of Ireland and the UK form part of the Common Travel Area (CTA), which is an open-borders area encompassing the UK, Ireland, the Isle of Man, and the Channel Islands. The CTA was in place prior to the EU memberships of both the UK and the Republic of Ireland, and is not dependent on it.

Why would you need two UK passports?

So far in this article, we have covered the question of how dual nationals – those who have citizenship of more than one country – can navigate the UK immigration system and make sure they are permitted to enter the UK by Border Force officials.

However, the term “two passports” might also conceivably refer to someone having two UK passports. As someone presently located in the UK or overseas, there are various reasons why you might need to apply to HM Passport Office in the UK for additional passports.

Those reasons could include:

• You need to obtain visas for the purposes of business travel
• You need to travel to incompatible countries (in other words, countries with political differences which may prevent travel between the two)
• You travel frequently

HM Passport Office does not normally allow more than one passport per person. However, it may issue additional passports to certain individuals who genuinely require one, and who can provide evidence to show this. Those individuals will also need to satisfy certain other criteria.

If you do submit an application for an additional UK passport, and this is approved, you can typically expect your additional passport to be issued in the same name, and to have the same observations, as your original passport. There are, however, some possible exceptions to this, such as if you have a title or title observation that must only be included on one of the passports, or if you are a dual national who needs to travel to an incompatible country.

Contact the Cranbrook Legal team for more advice and information on your visit or move to the UK

We mentioned at the top of this article that we would seek to bring clarity to the subject of how those who hold multiple passports can best navigate the UK’s complicated immigration system .

As we have hopefully made clear, the situation can vary greatly according to a range of factors, including the exact passports that a given prospective visitor or migrant holds, and their exact reasons for wishing to relocate to, or visit, the UK.

For these reasons, we would urge you to seek tailored advice and guidance if you are unsure about any aspect of your situation. As award-winning specialists in UK immigration law here at Cranbrook Legal in central London, we would be pleased to give you the benefit of that advice and assistance. Our help can even extend to the project management of UK immigration applications from start to finish, in the event of this being required. To learn more, please feel free to call our team today on 0208 215 0053 , or to fill in and submit our straightforward online contact form , so that you can arrange a free consultation with one of our skilled and knowledgeable legal professionals.

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UK Visa Extension Guide

Anne morris.

• 20 November 2022

IN THIS SECTION

If you are currently in the UK with limited leave to remain, what do you need to do to be able to stay in the country for longer?

This guide for visa-holders looks at the rules relating to UK visa extensions, from what type of visa can be extended to what happens if your visa expires.

Can you extend your visa to stay in the UK?

The option to extend your visa and for how long will very much depend on the type of visa that you currently hold. For example, if you are in the UK with a standard visitor visa , unless your visa is for less than 6 months, you cannot usually extend your stay. This is because, in most cases, you can only remain in the UK as a visitor for a maximum 6-month period, where you would need to re-apply for a new visa from outside the UK.

There are also visas that cannot be extended under any circumstances. For example, if you are in the UK on a graduate visa , this will allow you to remain in the UK for a maximum of 2 years having successfully completed a UK-based degree course, or 3 years if you qualified with a PHD or other doctoral qualification. The various temporary work routes are also time-limited, where these can only be extended up to their maximum and limited length of stay, such as the creative worker or charity worker visa. However, you may be able to apply to switch to a different type of visa to stay longer, for example, the skilled worker visa .

In addition to the skilled worker visa, there are plenty of other visas where you can apply to extend your UK stay, provided you meet the eligibility requirements for a visa extension. Eventually, you may even be allowed to apply for indefinite leave to remain (ILR) with certain visas. ILR is the opportunity to settle in the UK permanently. After a period of 12 months with ILR status, you can also apply to naturalise as a British citizen, entitling you to live in the UK for the rest of your life, with full civic rights, and to hold a British passport.

When can you extend your UK visa?

Below we set out some of the different types of visa that can be extended from inside the UK, including the number of extensions that can be made on any given route. However, this list is not exhaustive, where you should always seek expert advice from an immigration specialist before applying for an extension, not only to ensure that you meet the eligibility requirements, but also to explore all available options and the best way forward for you:

Skilled worker visa

This type of visa can last for as long as 5 years before you need to extend it. You can apply to extend a skilled worker visa if you are working in the same job role as when you were last granted leave, your job is within the same occupation code, you have the same sponsor who assigned your existing sponsorship certificate and that employer is still licensed to sponsor skilled workers. You can apply to extend this visa as many times as you like, provided you still meet the relevant requirements. After 5 years, you may also be able to apply for ILR, allowing you to settle permanently in the UK.

Spouse visa

You can initially stay in the UK under a spouse visa for 2 years and 9 months. You can also apply to extend your stay if you continue to meet the requirements. For example, if you are applying as the spouse of a person present and settled in the UK, or someone in the UK as a refugee or with humanitarian protection, you must show that your relationship is genuine and that you intend to continue to live together. A financial and English language requirement must also be met. If you are applying as the spouse of a British national or someone settled in the UK on the basis of your family or private life, you must also meet an accommodation requirement. If you extend your family visa, or switch into this visa route, you can remain in the UK for an additional 2.5 years. You can then apply to settle in the UK after either 5 or 10 years, depending on your specific route.

Ancestry visa

If you are in the UK under an ancestry visa, for example, as a British overseas citizen or Commonwealth citizen, with a UK-born grandparent, you can apply to extend your visa and remain in the UK for another 5 years. You can also extend this visa as many times as you want, provided you still meet the eligibility requirements. This means that you must have enough money without access to public funds to support yourself and any dependants, and you can and plan to work in the UK. You can go on to apply for settlement once you have lived in the UK on an ancestry visa for 5 years.

Investor visa

Even though applicants are no longer able to apply for a new Tier 1 (Investor) visa, if you are living in the UK on this route, you can still apply to extend your stay. However, you must have at least £2 million in the UK under your control, have invested those funds in share or loan capital in active UK-based companies, and invested this sum within a period of 3 months of your investor start date. The rules are slightly different if you applied for an investor visa before 6 November 2014. However, regardless of when you were first granted leave under an investor visa, you can apply to extend your UK stay for 2 years. You can also apply for ILR to settle permanently in the UK.

Importantly, if you cannot meet the relevant eligibility requirements for a visa extension UK, you may be eligible for a different type of visa under the immigration rules. It is possible to switch into another visa route from inside the UK from most types of visa.

How much does a UK visa extension cost?

The cost of a UK visa extension can vary , depending on the type of visa sought and even the length of your stay. For example, to extend a skilled worker visa, the fee is £719 for a 3-year extension or £1,423 for more than 3 years. For a spouse visa, the fee is £1,048, whilst an investor visa is £1638 and an ancestry visa £1,048. You will also be liable to pay the Immigration Health Surcharge of £624 for each additional year added on to your stay.

In the limited circumstances in which an extension to a visitor visa can be sought, the cost is £1,000. This could be where your initial visa was for less than 6 months and you apply to stay for the maximum 6-month period. Alternatively, you can apply to extend your visa for more than 6 months if you are either a patient receiving ongoing medical treatment, an academic and you still meet the relevant requirements, or a graduate retaking the Professional and Linguistic Assessment Board test or doing a clinical attachment. The visitor visa is, however, one of those visas where you cannot switch into another visa category.

How long does a UK visa extension take?

When applying for a UK visa extension, you should normally get a decision from UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) within approximately 8 weeks of your application date, although UKVI often have a backlog . For example, at the time of writing, it is taking on average 16 weeks to get a decision on skilled worker visas. Your extension application may also take longer if further information is needed. You may be contacted by UKVI if:

• your documents in support of your extension application need to be verified
• you are being asked to attend an in-person interview, or
• because of personal circumstances, such as a recent criminal conviction.

How to extend your UK visa

To obtain a visa extension UK, you must apply online using the appropriate form. For example, if you are applying as the spouse of someone settled in the UK, you should use Form FLR(M) , where FLR(M) stands for ‘further leave to remain in the marriage category’. If you are applying on the basis of your family or private life, you will need to use Form FLR(FP), where FP refers to the family/private life provisions under UK immigration law.

As part of your extension application you will need to prove your identity, although how you do this will depend on where you are from and your passport type. You will either use the ‘ UK Immigration: ID Check ’ app to scan your ID document, or provide your biometrics at a UK Visa and Citizenship Application Services (UKVCAS) service point . In most cases, you will also need to submit documentation in support of your application, where this can either be uploaded through your UKVI account or provided at your UKVCAS appointment.

When applying for an extension to stay, you must apply before your current visa expires. You must also remain in the UK pending your decision. If you travel outside of the Common Travel Area (the UK, Republic of Ireland, Isle of Man or Channel Islands) prior to receiving your decision from UKVI, you will risk your extension application being withdrawn.

What if your UK visa has expired?

When applying for a UK visa extension, you must do so in time, prior to expiry of your existing visa. Even if your current grant of leave expires pending a decision from UKVI on your application, under section 3C of the Immigration Act 1971 you will still have the right to stay in the UK until you have been notified of the outcome. Section 3C leave will also continue pending any appeal or administrative review. The purpose of this statutory provision is to prevent anyone who has made an in-time extension application while awaiting a decision, or exhausting their appeal/review rights, from becoming an overstayer.

Where applicable, section 3C leave will usually remain subject to the conditions attached to your extant leave. This means, for example, if you were previously permitted to undertake work as a skilled worker, you may continue in your job as before, subject to any restrictions.

However, if you are late in applying for a visa extension, and your visa has already expired, your application may be refused. The provisions of section 3C will not be triggered where an application is made after your current grant of leave has run out, and you may be treated as an overstayer. This could negatively impact any future applications, even those made from outside the UK. It is also a criminal offence under section 24 of the 1971 Act to overstay your visa without reasonable cause, and unless you voluntarily leave the UK within 30 days at your own expense, you may face a ban on re-entry. Importantly, it is entirely your responsibility to ensure that you make an in-time application to extend your visa.

There is a 14-day exception for late applications, where UKVI will disregard a period of overstaying provided you apply for renewal of your existing visa, or to switch to a new visa, within 14 days of your previous visa expiring. You must also be able to show that there was a good reason beyond your control why your application could not be made in time. Each case will be decided on its own merits, but examples of exceptional circumstances that might be considered beyond your control include where you were admitted to hospital for emergency treatment or you have suffered a close family bereavement. However, you must provide evidence to back up your claim, like an official letter verifying the dates of any hospital admission and discharge, as well as the nature of your medical treatment.

Finally, if you apply within the 14-day consideration period of overstaying, your previous leave will not be re-instated or temporarily extended pending a decision on your extension application. You can remain in the UK until you have been notified by UKVI of the outcome, but you will be without valid leave during that time. This means that whilst waiting for a decision on your visa extension, you will have not have permission to undertake any work.

Need assistance?

DavidsonMorris are UK immigration specialists. Our experienced lawyers are on hand to advise on your UK options to remain in the UK and to guide you through the Home Office application process. For support with your UK visa extension application, contact us .

UK visa extension FAQs

Can i get an extension on my uk visa.

You can apply for a visa extension UK, provided you continue to meet the eligibility requirements and make an application prior to expiry of your existing visa. However, some visas cannot usually be extended, like the visitor visa.

How long does visa extension take UK?

When applying for a visa extension, you should normally get a decision within 8 weeks of your application date, although there’s a backlog. For example, it’s currently taking around 16 weeks to get a decision on skilled worker visas.

How much is UK visa extension fee?

The cost of a UK visa extension can vary, depending on the visa and even length of stay. For example, to extend a skilled worker visa, the fee is £719 for 3 years or £1,423 for more than 3 years.

Last updated: 20 November 2022

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.

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Middle East latest: Israel carries out operation in Iran, source says - as Iran fires its air defence systems

Iran's state-run IRNA news agency has said air defence batteries have been fired in several provinces; Israel carried out an operation in Iran tonight, a person familiar with the matter tells Sky News's US partner network NBC News.

Friday 19 April 2024 06:18, UK

• Israel-Hamas war

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• Israel carried out operation in Iran, source tells NBC News
• Iran fires air defence systems, state news agency says
• US vetoes request for Palestine UN membership
• Analysis:  This strike has escalation written all over it
• Analysis:  Attack could send three messages
• Live reporting by Jess Sharp

Hello and welcome back to our coverage of the Israel-Hamas war and the wider Middle East crisis.

In a major development overnight, Israel carried out an operation in Iran in retaliation to a drone and missile attack launched against it on Saturday, a source told our US partner network NBC News. 

Iranian state media reported air defence batteries had been fired in several provinces, including near a major military base in Isfahan. 

It also said three drones had been destroyed over the area shortly after midnight. 

There haven't been any reports of damage or casualties so far. 

We'll continue to bring you updates on the situation throughout the day. 

But, before we do, here's a recap of the other key developments from the last 24 hours: 

• Washington exercised its right to veto at the UN Security Council to block Palestine's membership request to the organisation; 
• The US and Israel held virtual discussions on a potential invasion of Rafah, with both "agreeing" that Israel had to rid the city of Hamas but Washington urging caution;
• Iran threatened to strike Israeli nuclear sites if it retaliates for a massive drone and missile assault last weekend;
• The US and UK announced fresh sanctions against Tehran;
• The Houthis claimed to have carried out some 14 operations in waters surrounding the Middle East over the past two weeks. 

Sky News' military analyst Michael Clarke said Isfahan "would make sense" as a target as it's home to one of the least sensitive nuclear sites.

"It's a research site, about 3,000 or so scientists work there and there's no evidence this was targeted on the nuclear site," he added.

"But the fact that Isfahan is one of the cities that does quite a lot of nuclear work is also symbolically quite important, I think, if the Israelis are indicating that they're not frightened to go after these sites."

It's over 1,000 miles to Isfahan from Israel, which suggests this was not a drone attack, Mr Clarke said, adding it was "almost certainly" led by Jericho missiles.

• Iran fires air defence batteries early on Friday in several provinces, including near a major military base in Isfahan, says state-run IRNA news agency
• Three drones destroyed shortly after midnight in the sky over Isfahan, says Iranian state TV
• Israel carried out an operation in Iran, a person familiar with the matter tells Sky News's US partner NBC News.
• The source says Israeli officials notified US officials that a response was coming
• No reports of any damage or casualties so far
• Israel has not yet commented but had promised a response after Iran's unpreceded attack at the weekend

Flydubai has cancelled flights to Tehran today- and also called back flight FZ1929 as officials in the Iranian capital closed the airport.

Flights to Imam Khomeini International Airport have been cancelled until 7am GMT (8am UK time), according to Iranian news agency Mehr.

Flydubai and Emirates earlier began diverting flights around western Iran as reports of a possible attack emerged.

Commercial flights have reportedly been grounded in Tehran and in western and central regions of the country. 

By  Alistair Bunkall , Middle East correspondent in Jerusalem

Israel threatened a retaliation, and it came before dawn on Friday morning.

We'll see what unfolds in the coming hours, but early indications suggest they were limited strikes and on deliberately chosen targets. 

If that is the case, then this doesn't appear to be the devastating response the Israeli war cabinet had warned of.

There have been further reports of explosions in Iraq and Syria but as yet no evidence of impacts - those explosions could possibly have been sonic booms caused by Israeli jets breaking the sound barrier. 

Although there are many pro-Iranian militia in that region and they would be easy pickings for the Israeli air force.

One strike appears to have been on an air base outside Isfahan connected to Iran's aircraft manufacturing industry. 

If this was the target, then it appears to have been carefully chosen as a response to the drones flown at Israel on Saturday night: you fly drones at us, we take out the place they were built.

Isfahan is close to one of Iran's nuclear facilities. Although this doesn't appear to be an attack on the nuclear site, which would have been far more serious, it sends a clear message that Israel can go there if pushed, and isn't frightened to.

The timing of the attack, around 4am in Iran, will probably have limited casualties too, and if so limit what Iran does next.

Reports that Iran shot missiles out of the sky should be treated with some scepticism. 

On Saturday night, Iran flew more than 300 drones and missiles at Israel: most were intercepted before they reached Israeli airspace and the ones that got through caused minimal damage to an air base. 

If Israel has successfully flown F-35 stealth jets into Iranian airspace, then it's rather humiliating for the Iranian military and is a message from Israel that they can do what Iran cannot.

Iranian leaders had threatened an immediate and strong response to any Israeli attack - we'll see.

Watch for any sign that Iran implicates the US in the strikes – that might signal their intent to label US bases in Iraq and Syria as legitimate targets for any response.

Iran will of course be inclined to respond, but if this turns out to be a single strike, at a target connected to Iran's attacks, and with limited civilian harm, then I don't think Tehran will have reason, desire or justification to escalate. 

By James Matthews , US correspondent

Questions possibly for the Iranians: how much notice did the US have of this and to what extent. The Israelis would have wanted to tell America prior to this action for a number of reasons. 

Clearly there was a diplomatic priority, but also a practical priority: the US has bases and forces in that general vicinity. 

For the sake of US safety, the Israelis will have wanted to tip off the United States to a degree about its plans.

There will be tough discussions, one imagines, between the US and Israel about Israel's course of action.

The challenge clearly is in terms of reining in potential escalation - because this strike has escalation written all over it.

By  Alistair Bunkall , Middle East correspondent  in Jerusalem

It could be this is a single strike on a deliberate target to therefore send three messages: Firstly to restore that deterrence - you hit us, you broke a red line by hitting us inside Israel - we're going to hit you back.

Secondly, if it is a single strike on the manufacturing plant, it would also send a message that it's a carefully calibrated thought-out response: it's not just an assault on Iran.

And thirdly, it sends a message to the Iranian leadership that we can hit you deep inside Iran, we can fly our aircraft close to or within your airspace undetected, and can therefore do a lot worse if we're pushed to do so.

Israel carried out an operation in Iran tonight, a person familiar with the matter tells Sky News's US partner network NBC News.

They added separately that Israeli officials notified US officials today that a response was coming.

Iran's state-run IRNA news agency is saying air defence batteries have been fired in several provinces - supporting the Reuters report in our previous post.

Iran has suspended flights over several cities, including the capital Tehran, its state media has said.

It comes after Iran's Fars news agency said explosions were heard near the airport at the country's central Isfahan city.

"The cause of these sounds is still unknown, and investigations continue until the exact details of the incident are determined," the semi-official Fars news agency said.

Iranian state TV described a "loud noise" near Isfahan, without elaborating. 

It remains unclear if Iran is under an ongoing attack. 

Reuters news agency said it was told by an Iranian source that air defence systems had been activated.

Sky's Middle East correspondent Alistair Bunkall said it's "early days" but there are reports Israel may have launched a single, targeted strike on the manufacturing base in Isfahan where the drones used to attack Israel were likely made.

Iran launched more than 300 drones and missiles at Israel during last weekend's unprecedented attack, according to Israel Defense Forces.

Iran said it was retaliating for an attack on one of its consular buildings in Syria.

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