Comprehensive Guide to UK Visitor Visas 2025

The UK Visitor Visa is a short-term visa allowing individuals from around the world to visit the United Kingdom for purposes such as tourism, family visits, attending business meetings, or receiving medical treatment. This visa is valid for up to 6 months, with extensions available in specific circumstances.

Contact our immigration lawyers regarding your UK visitor visa applications on 01614644140 or complete our enquiry form to discuss your UK visit visa.

You must apply for a Standard Visitor visa online before you travel to the UK. A Standard Visitor visa costs £115 for up to 6 months. The earliest you can apply is 3 months before you travel.

Types of UK Visitor Visas

1. Standard Visitor Visa

The most common type of visitor visa, suitable for:

• Tourism and leisure activities.
• Visiting family or friends.
• Short-term business purposes, such as attending meetings or conferences.
• Academic visits (for up to 6 months).
• Private medical treatment.

2. Marriage Visitor Visa

Required if you intend to visit the UK specifically to get married or register a civil partnership.

3. Permitted Paid Engagement Visa

Applicable for professionals invited to perform a specific role in the UK, such as:

• Lecturers delivering speeches.
• Artists performing at events.
• Examining professional bodies.

4. Transit Visa

Essential for individuals passing through the UK en route to another destination.

5. Visit on business

You can visit the UK for up to 6 months for some specific business activities.

6. Visit to study

You can visit the UK for up to 6 months to study some short courses, or attend PLAB exams.

7. Visit as an academic

If you’re a scientist, researcher or academic you can apply for a visitor visa to take part in formal exchange arrangements with UK counterparts.

8. Medical visitor visa

You can visit the UK for up to 6 months to have private medical treatment at a hospital or other medical facility, have treatment at an NHS hospital, as long as the care is paid for by your own government under a reciprocal healthcare arrangement and donate an organ to a family member or close friend – this includes being assessed for suitability as a donor match.

Step-by-Step Application Process

Step 1: Determine the Visa Type

Understand the purpose of your visit to select the appropriate visa type.

Step 2: Complete the Online Application

Fill out the application on the official UK government website, ensuring accuracy in all details provided.

Step 3: Pay the Application Fee

Fees vary based on the visa type:

• Standard Visitor Visa: £115 for up to 6 months.

Step 4: Schedule a Biometric Appointment

Visit a Visa Application Centre (VAC) to provide fingerprints and a photograph.

Step 5: Submit Supporting Documents

Upload or provide original copies of all necessary documentation.

Step 6: Wait for Processing

Visa processing typically takes 3 weeks, though expedited services may be available.

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• Our Immigration solicitors possess extensive knowledge of UK immigration laws and procedures, allowing them to provide tailored advice suited to your specific circumstances.
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