UK Visitor Visa – Everything You Need to Know

Whether you’re planning a holiday, coming to see family, attending a business meeting, getting married, or seeking medical treatment, chances are you’ll need a UK Visitor Visa to make it happen. This easy to follow guide walks you through everything you need to know from the different types of visitor visas and who needs one, to what you can and can’t do while you’re here. You’ll find clear advice on how to apply, what documents you’ll need, how much it costs, and how long it takes.

We’ve also included tips to boost your chances of success, guidance on what to do if your visa is refused, and whether it’s possible to extend your stay. Written with the help of experienced immigration solicitors in Manchester, this guide is here to help you get it right the first time so you can plan your visit with confidence and peace of mind.

What Is a UK Visitor Visa?

A UK Visitor Visa allows non-British and non-Irish nationals to visit the United Kingdom for a short period, usually up to six months. It’s ideal for tourism, seeing loved ones, attending events or meetings, and other short-term activities.

Types of UK Visitor Visas

There are several types of UK Visitor Visas, depending on your reason for visiting:

• • Standard Visitor Visa – for holidays, visiting friends or family, or short business trips

• • Marriage Visitor Visa – if you plan to get married or form a civil partnership in the UK

• • Business Visitor Visa – for attending meetings, conferences or training

• • Academic Visitor Visa – for academics undertaking research or accompanying students

Each type has its own criteria, so it’s important to apply under the right category.

Who Needs a UK Visitor Visa?

Most non-visa nationals can visit the UK without applying in advance for short stays, but many countries do require a visa. If you’re unsure whether you need one, check the official UK government website or speak with a qualified immigration adviser.

Duration and Validity of the Visitor Visa UK

The standard UK Visitor Visa is valid for six months. Some visitors may be eligible for a long-term visa that lasts 2, 5, or 10 years, but each stay must still not exceed six months at a time. Always make sure you leave before your visa expires to avoid issues with future travel.

What You Can and Cannot Do on a Visitor Visa UK

Understanding what you’re allowed to do on your visa is just as important as getting the visa itself.

Activities Allowed

With a Visitor Visa, you can:

• • Enjoy holidays and sightseeing

• • Visit family and friends

• • Attend short business meetings or interviews

• • Participate in academic exchanges

• • Receive medical treatment (with evidence)

You’re welcome to enjoy your trip, attend events, and explore places of interest. Just make sure your visit stays within the permitted activities.

What You Are Not Permitted to Do

You cannot:

• • Work in the UK, whether paid or unpaid

• • Take part in long-term study

• • Access public funds or benefits

• • Marry or form a civil partnership (unless you have a Marriage Visitor Visa)

• • Live in the UK for long periods through frequent visits

Doing any of the above could result in being banned from entering the UK in the future.

Consequences of Violating Visa Conditions

If you overstay or break visa rules, it could lead to removal from the UK, a ban on future entry, or rejection of future visa applications. Always stick to the conditions of your visa and make sure your visit is lawful.

UK Visitor Visa Requirements

Getting approved starts with showing you’re a genuine visitor.

Proving Intent to Return Home

You must show that you’ll leave the UK at the end of your visit. This could be through job commitments, family ties, school enrolment, or property ownership in your home country.

Financial Requirements

You’ll need to prove you can cover your trip expenses. There’s no fixed amount, but your bank statements should show enough funds for accommodation, travel, and daily costs without needing to work or rely on public funds.

Accommodation and Travel Plans

You don’t need to book everything in advance, but having a rough itinerary, return tickets and proof of where you’ll stay helps build trust in your application.

Health and Character Criteria

You may be asked to provide medical information, especially if you’re coming for treatment. A clean criminal record also supports your application.

Documents Required for UK Visitor Visa Application

Being organised with your documents can speed up the process and improve your chances.

Mandatory Documents Checklist

You’ll need:

• • A valid passport (with a blank page)

• • A recent passport-sized photo

• • Your visa application form

• • Proof of financial means

• • Travel plans and accommodation details

Financial Documents and Bank Statements

Submit personal bank statements covering at least the past 6 months. If someone else is funding your visit, their bank details and a letter explaining their support are also required.

Invitation Letters and Additional Evidence

If you’re visiting family or attending a conference, include an invitation letter with their address, ID copy, and reason for your visit. You can also include letters from your employer or school to prove ties to your home country.

How to Apply for a Visitor Visa for the UK

Step by Step Online Application Process

• Visit the UK government’s official visa website
• Create an account and complete the online application
• Pay the visa fee
• Book your biometric appointment
• Submit your documents either online or at a visa application centre

Booking a Biometric Appointment

You’ll need to provide fingerprints and a photograph. This is done at a Visa Application Centre near you, and you’ll be told where to go after submitting your application online.

UK Visitor Visa Fees and Timeline

As of 2025, the standard visa fee is around £115. Processing times are typically 3 weeks, though it may take longer during busy periods. Priority services may be available at extra cost.

Tips to Avoid Delays and Rejections

• • Double-check all information before submitting

• • Don’t submit fake documents

• • Be honest about your reasons for visiting

• • Keep your financial and travel evidence clear and well organised

Can You Extend a UK Visitor Visa?

Extending your stay is possible in limited situations.

Who Is Eligible for a Visitor Visa Extension

You can only apply to extend your visa if there are exceptional circumstances, such as receiving further medical treatment or being unable to travel due to illness or flight cancellations.

How to Apply for a Visa Extension in the UK

You must apply before your visa expires. Use the online form and provide documents showing why you need more time in the UK. You’ll also need to attend another biometric appointment.

Time Limits and Fees

An extension is usually granted for up to another six months. The fee is currently £1,100 and decisions typically take 8 weeks. You must not stay longer than 12 months in total unless under rare exceptions.

What to Do If Your Visitor Visa Is Refused

A refusal can feel frustrating, but it’s not the end of the road.

Common Reasons for UK Visitor Visa Refusal

• • Insufficient financial evidence

• • Doubts about your intention to return home

• • Missing or inconsistent documents

• • Poor immigration history

How to Respond to a Visa Refusal Letter

Read the refusal letter carefully. It will explain why your application was rejected. You can address these issues in a new application or provide further evidence.

Reapplying vs Appealing a Refusal Decision

Appealing is only possible in very limited cases, such as human rights grounds. Most people reapply with improved documents and a stronger explanation. There’s no waiting time to reapply, but rushing without fixing issues may lead to another refusal.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Visitor Visa UK

How Long Does It Take to Get a UK Visitor Visa?

Most applications are processed within 15 working days, but during busy travel periods, it can take longer.

Can I Work or Study on a Visitor Visa?

No. You can attend short courses lasting less than 30 days if they’re not your main reason for travel, but working or studying full-time is not allowed.

How Early Can I Apply for a UK Visitor Visa?

You can apply up to 3 months before your intended travel date. It’s wise to apply early to avoid last minute stress.

Final Tips for a Successful UK Visitor Visa Application

Best Practices for Preparing Your Case

• • Be truthful and thorough

• • Make your intentions clear

• • Provide strong evidence of your return plans

• • Show how you’ll pay for your visit

Mistakes to Avoid When Applying

• • Leaving out important documents

• • Overstating your finances

• • Using vague or unclear travel plans

• • Assuming past visas guarantee approval

Get Expert Legal Help for Your UK Visitor Visa

If you’ve had a previous refusal or your situation is complex, it’s worth speaking to a legal adviser who understands UK immigration rules.

Our specialist immigration solicitors in Manchester are dedicated to providing clear, professional advice and support throughout every step of your UK Visitor Visa application. Whether you need help understanding the requirements, putting together your supporting documents, or responding to a refusal, we’re here to guide you with care and precision.

We know how important it is to get your visa application right the first time. Our team works closely with each client to avoid common mistakes and maximise the chances of success. With years of experience in immigration law, we tailor our service to suit your individual circumstances. Call us today on 0161 464 4140 or book your consultation online to get started. Let us help you plan your visit to the UK with confidence.