Standard Visitor visas

A clear starting point

Make the purpose, funding and temporary nature of your UK visit clear. This page sets out the questions to consider before choosing an application and paying any charges.

People travelling for permitted tourism, family visits, business activities or other activities covered by the visitor rules. The correct approach depends on the exact permission, application location and immigration history involved. A similar-looking case may be subject to a different rule or transitional arrangement.

Who is this for?

People travelling for permitted tourism, family visits, business activities or other activities covered by the visitor rules.

General eligibility and requirements

You need to show that your visit is genuine, affordable and within permitted activities, and that you will leave at its end. A visitor visa is not permission to take ordinary employment.

Check the current official guidance for the intended submission date. If you have a previous refusal, an approaching expiry date or a change in circumstances, include that in your initial enquiry. These details may affect what is possible and how urgently you need advice.

Supporting documents

A useful evidence file addresses the specific requirements, with clear dates and consistent personal details. Depending on your circumstances, the following may be relevant:

• Travel purpose
• realistic itinerary
• financial records
• sponsor support if relevant
• employment, study or family commitments in your country of residence

This is a preparation list, not an exhaustive submission checklist. Check required formats, relevant evidence periods and translation requirements. Keep an exact copy of the final application and evidence. See our document preparation guide for a practical way to organise your records.

The application process

1. Define the visit’s purpose and check that every planned activity is permitted. Prepare an itinerary that fits your available leave, finances and personal circumstances.
2. Explain who is paying and provide credible evidence of the funding arrangement. Account for significant deposits and make the position of any UK sponsor clear.
3. Present your reasons and arrangements for leaving at the end of the visit. Check the required identity process and avoid treating an invitation as a substitute for your own evidence.

For appeals, protection and employer compliance matters, the relevant procedure may be a review, tribunal process or ongoing duty rather than a visa application. The official source below identifies the appropriate starting point.

Government fees & processing times

Professional fees are separate from government charges. Ask for a written quote confirming scope, any VAT, exclusions and additional costs. Our fees information explains what to clarify. Paying for a faster service does not guarantee approval or a decision by a particular date.

Common issues to consider

Unexplained account deposits, inconsistent travel plans, repeated long visits and assuming an invitation letter replaces evidence of personal circumstances.

Where a record is missing or inconsistent, explain the issue honestly and establish which evidence can address it. Do not amend a document to make it appear to meet a requirement. For help preparing for a discussion, read our consultation preparation guide.

Frequently asked questions