Standard Visitor Visa: Visiting the UK for Short-Term Stays
The Standard Visitor Visa allows individuals from outside the UK to visit for short-term purposes, such as tourism, business, attending a conference, medical treatment, or visiting family and friends. It’s the most common visa for those wishing to enter the UK for up to 6 months.
In this guide, we’ll cover the essentials, from eligibility to application, so you can confidently navigate the process.
In this guide, we’ll cover the essentials, from eligibility to application, so you can confidently navigate the process.
Eligibility Criteria
You can apply for a Standard Visitor Visa if you intend to visit the UK for:
- Tourism: Holidays, sightseeing, or visiting friends and family.
- Business: Attending meetings, conferences, or business-related activities.
- Study: Taking short courses (up to 6 months).
- Medical treatment: Receiving private medical care in the UK.
Key Requirements:
- You must leave the UK at the end of your visit (no longer than 6 months).
- You must demonstrate that you have enough funds to support yourself during your stay.
- You must show evidence of your travel plans and accommodation.
- You cannot work, live, or receive public funds while on this visa.
What You Can and Can’t Do on a Standard Visitor Visa
What You Can Do:
- Stay in the UK for up to 6 months.
- Visit family or friends, attend tourism or leisure activities.
- Attend business meetings, conferences, or take part in short-term training or study courses.
- Receive private medical treatment (if needed).
- What You Can’t Do:
- Work or engage in paid or unpaid employment.
- Study longer than 6 months.
- Live in the UK through frequent or successive visits.
- Claim public funds or access benefits.
How Long Can You Stay on a Standard Visitor Visa?
You can stay in the UK for up to 6 months on a Standard Visitor Visa. In certain cases (such as for medical treatment or academic research), you may be able to stay for up to 11 months, but this requires special approval.
Visa Costs and Application Process
Here’s an overview of the costs involved:
- Visa application fee: £100 for a stay of up to 6 months.
- Application Steps:
- Complete the Online Application: Submit your visa application on the gov.uk website.
- Prepare Required Documents: Ensure you have all necessary documents such as proof of finances and travel plans.
- Attend a Biometric Appointment: Provide your fingerprints and photograph.
- Wait for a Decision: Visa applications are typically processed within 3 weeks, but it can take longer during peak periods.
Multiple Entry Options
Here is a breakdown of the visa fees:
- 2 years: £376
- 5 years: £670
- 10 years: £837
- Each visit under these long-term visas can only last up to 6 months at a time.
Ready to Apply?
The Standard Visitor Visa offers a flexible way to visit the UK for short-term purposes, whether for tourism, business, or family visits. With the right documentation and meeting eligibility requirements, the application process is straightforward.
If you need assistance with your application or have questions about your eligibility, our team is here to help guide you through the process.
If you need assistance with your application or have questions about your eligibility, our team is here to help guide you through the process.
