uk visit visa express service

A Guide to UK Visa and Citizenship Appointments

What is ukvcas.

UKVCAS stands for ‘UK Visa and Citizenship Application Services’. It is the system for processing immigration applications made from within the UK for leave to remain, including all extension applications, and any switching between visas, as well as applications for both settlement and citizenship.

What are “core service points”?

There are three different types of UKVCAS centres, or “service points”. Core service points are based in larger locations and offer free of charge appointments and out of hours appointments. There are six of these in the UK. Document scanning must be booked in advance of the appointment.  It is also possible to self-upload documents. 

What are “enhanced service points”?

Enhanced service points offer extra services. These services could include document checking in advance of your appointment, and document digitisation. These are located in local libraries and are only open during set times.

What are “premium lounge appointments”?

Only available in Central London, the premium lounge includes complimentary hot and cold beverages, snacks, free wifi and newspapers. Sopra Steria staff offer Biometric Capture (fingerprint and photo), Digitisation (scanning of documents if required), and Interpretation. As of 2 March 2020, the opening hours are Monday-Saturday, 7am-7pm. It is closed on Sunday. 

Where are the service and support centres located?

You can find your nearest core service point and enhanced service point and its opening hours by searching your postcode here . The premium lounge is located at 20 Mark Lane, London, EC3R 7NQ. 

How do I book an appointment with UKVCAS?

You can book an appointment from your UKVI account or by clicking the link in the UKVCAS account set up email you have been sent. Alternatively, you can book an appointment by telephone on the UKVCAS Premium Support Line on 0900 165 6600, although be warned that calls are charged at £2.50 per minute. 

What is the UKVCAS appointment fee?

An appointment at the core service points will be free of charge. For priority appointments, or those outside of office hours, you will need to pay a fee. The fee depends on the type of service point. Chargeable appointments at core service points range from £50 to £100 per person, depending on time and location. For enhanced service points, the fee is £69.99 per person during normal office hours and £110 and upwards outside of normal office hours (before 10am and after 4pm).  

What will happen at the UKVCAS appointment?

To complete your application you must attend a UKVCAS service point to have:

• Your identity confirmed
• Any required biometric information enrolled
• Any required supporting documentation digitised and checked
• Confirm you are happy to send your application to UKVI

A UKVI official will take your biometric information. This will involve taking a digital photograph of your face, scanning your fingerprints and asking you to provide a signature. Children under 5 do not have to have their fingerprints taken or provide a signature. You do not have to remove your head covering if you wear it for religious or medical reasons. They will check and scan your documents and make sure your application includes all the information needed. They will also explain to you what happens next.

How long will the UKVCAS appointment take?

Appointments usually take less than 2 hours. They may take longer depending on your circumstances. If you are only providing your biometric information, your appointment will take around 15 minutes. If you want to minimise the amount of time you spend at the service point you can book an Express appointment at one of the core service points. If you purchase an express appointment, it will be complete within 30 minutes of you being checked in when you arrive at the service point. A member of the team will process your appointment from start to finish. These appointments are subject to availability and cost £75 per person.

What documents should I take to my appointment?

You will need to bring your appointment confirmation, passport or travel documents, supporting documents (if they have not already been uploaded), and checklist of supporting documents. Children under 16 must go to the appointment with the person named as a ‘responsible adult’ on their application. In this case, the responsible adult will need to bring ID with them in the form of a passport, photo driving licence, national identity card or UK Biometric Residence Permit. If the adult is not the parent or legal guardian, they must bring the proof of responsibility from the parent, legal guardian, registered foster carer, or social services representative. 

When will I receive a decision on my immigration application?

The length of time it takes for a decision to be reached will depend upon the type of application. You will not receive a decision at the appointment. 

Contact our Immigration Barristers

For expert advice and assistance regarding an application for further leave to remain or settlement in the UK, contact our immigration barristers and lawyers on 0203 617 9173 or complete our enquiry form below.

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The Sable International Fast-Track visa service

If you need your visa to be approved urgently, use our popular fast-track service. you’ll avoid the stress of waiting weeks or months for the home office and uk visas and immigration’s (ukvi) decision., we help by fast-tracking uk visa applications.

We offer same-day services, also known as a fast-track appointment, for those with imminent overseas travel plans or who require their documents for employment purposes.

We can submit cases on behalf of our clients directly to UKVI and get a result on the application within a day. Please note: This offer is case specific and more complex issues cannot be guaranteed for same day action.

Many UK visa applications can take months to process, but we can assist you with your submission, complete everything on your behalf to ensure approval and submit your application on the same day.

Not only does this offer you peace of mind with the visa process, but also means you won’t be waiting too long to hear about the outcome of your application.

Once your visa application has been considered, your documents and passport should be returned shortly. Those requiring biometric ID cards will usually receive their new cards within 7-10 working days of their visas being approved. 

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The United Kingdom is amongst the most frequently visited destinations for travellers in the world. What adds to UK’s allure is its proximity with the Schengen region that opens up seamless tourism opportunities for travellers if they combine their UK travel with a visit to continental Europe, to behold its many brilliant landscapes and landmarks. In order to make your UK visa application process hassle-free and convenient, UK Visas and Immigration and VFS Global offer you an exclusive array of value-added services.

This is in addition to the Premium Lounge facility and the On Demand Mobile Visa services available at the UK visa application centres.

Choose from any of these time-saving services:

Keep Your Passport When Applying

If you need to apply for multiple visas, such as a UK / Schengen combination, or wish to make a short trip while waiting for your UK visa to be processed,

you will find the ‘Keep My Passport When Applying’ service at the UK Visa Application Centre very helpful. After enrolling your biometrics and submitting your visa application at the UK visa application centre, if you have opted for this service, your passport is handed back to you.

This is extremely useful if you want to carry on with another country’s visa application formalities, as this service allows you to keep your passport with you.

You can keep your passport with you until the UK embassy makes a decision regarding your visa, one way or the other.

Once the decision is made, you will be called once again to complete the procedures as required by the embassy.

The visa application centres of UK and Schengen countries are often conveniently located next to each other at the VFS Global centres. This facility enables applicants to finish the visa formalities of multiple countries along with that of UK in a single day.

Super Priority and Priority Visas

Need a visa at short notice? The Super Priority and Priority Visa services are options for those who need to travel urgently.

For Priority Visa applicants, the process takes 3–5 days, while for Super Priority Visa applicants, this speeds up to a single business day. Super Priority Visa Service is available at VFS Global’s UK visa application centres in New Delhi, Mumbai and Chennai. Do note that the eligibility for application for either of these services may vary.

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Uk visitor visa.

Should you be considering a trip to the United Kingdom for reasons such as business, tourism, study, or other eligible pursuits, it may be necessary for you to acquire a UK Visitor Visa. This document permits a stay of up to six months in the country. The option of applying for an extension may arise in specific circumstances, such as for medical treatment.

At Sterling Law, we understand that navigating the visa application process can be overwhelming, which is why we offer expert advice and legal services to help make your UK visit as smooth and stress-free as possible.

How is the UK Standard Visitor Visa Defined?

An entry permission certificate that grants foreign nationals the right to visit the United Kingdom for a brief period is called the UK Standard Visitor Visa. This visa is intended for international citizens who want to visit friends or family in the UK, as well as for those who wish to enter the country for tourism, business, or other eligible activities like medical treatment.

When securing a UK Standard Visiting Visa, you must present credible evidence of your travel purpose, your financial stability, and your strong connections to your country of origin. Failure to do so may result in rejection of your visa. With such a visa, the length of stay is capped up to six months, and it does not allow you to engage in paid or unpaid work or get an education (except short-term courses up to 6 months) while in the UK. Therefore, foreigners, who wish to work or study in the country, must apply for a separate visa that is specific to their intended activity.

What Are The Rights and Restrictions on a UK Visitor Visa?

As an individual without UK citizenship, possessing a Visit Visa UK enables you to gain entry into the United Kingdom for numerous purposes. However, such a visa comes with certain limitations which a foreigner must be aware of to avoid any legal complications.

Permitted Activities Allowed By the UK Visit Visa

• Seeing family, friends, or relatives. With Family Visitor Visa you can visit your relatives, loved ones, or friends, who reside in the UK, to spend time with them, attend family occurrences, or simply catch up with them.
• Tourism . You may visit the UK for tourism purposes, such as going on holiday or vacation. This may involve sightseeing, exploring the country’s culture and history, or engaging in recreational activities.
• Engaging in voluntary work with a legally recognized charitable organization. If you are passionate about helping others, you are allowed to partake in volunteer work with an official charity organisation in the UK for a maximum of 30 days. This may involve participating in community projects, fundraising events, or other charitable activities.
• Transiting through the United Kingdom to reach another destination. You may visit the UK as a transit passenger if you are travelling to another foreign location. This may involve a layover or a short stopover in the UK.
• Business affairs. A UK Visiting Visa permits for business-related activities, namely attending business events, conferences, and other similar gatherings. Individuals can also negotiate and conclude business contracts, promote their products and services at trade fairs (yet without selling them), and receive work-related training if it is not available in their native country. Other acceptable activities include delivering unpaid talks, conducting site visits, overseeing delivery of goods, sharing knowledge, delivering training, and advising on computer hardware & software installation, equipment repair, servicing, or dismantling if an foreign company has a contract with a UK organization or company.
• School exchanges. If you are a scholar or student, you have the opportunity to travel to the UK for a school exchange initiative. This may involve attending classes, staying with a host family, and learning about the UK’s education system.
• Study, placement, or exam. You can visit the UK for studying, placements, exams, or work experience for up to 6 months. Eligible activities will encompass attending university or college, taking English language courses, conducting research projects, participating in optional placements (electives) if studying medicine, science, animal medicine, nursing, dentistry, or midwifery, retaking exams or course modules, participating in Ph.D. oral exams, undertaking unpaid clinical attachments, or taking OSCE or PLAB tests.
• Recreational courses. You can visit the UK to complete some leisure courses of up to 30 days, such as cooking lessons, photography workshops, or art classes. This may involve acquiring new skills or improving existing ones.
• Medical reasons. Visitors to the UK may stay for as long as 6 months for medical reasons, including private and NHS treatment if so falls under a reciprocal healthcare agreement. To qualify for a visa for private medical treatment, a person must demonstrate that they require treatment and have made arrangements for care. Sufficient funds must be available to cover medical expenses, and visitors must furnish proof of their intent to depart from the United Kingdom after treatment or when their visa expires. A person must not pose a public health risk if they have an infectious disease. If an organ donor wishes to donate, they must do so to a family relative or close friend, and documentation must confirm that the recipient is legally authorized to be in the UK.
• Academic, senior doctor, or dentist. As an academic visiting the UK, there are several appealing prospects for you. You have the option to take part in official exchange programs with UK institutions or conduct your research independently during a sabbatical. Additionally, as a senior doctor or dentist, you may partake in research, teaching (excluding permanent teaching positions), and clinical practice (excluding permanent positions).

Prohibited Activities by the UK Visit Visa

When requesting a Visit Visa to the UK, specific limitations and restrictions would apply to your visit. Firstly, a holder of a Visit Visa for the UK must not engage in any unpaid or paid work for a UK-based company or as a self-employed individual. This means that you cannot seek employment anywhere in the United Kingdom, and you also must not take up any freelance work or consulting projects during your stay.

Claiming public funds or benefits is either prohibited with a standard visiting visa UK. This includes financial assistance from the government, such as housing benefits, jobseeker’s allowance, or tax credits.

It is not permissible to reside in the UK for extended durations by frequently or repeatedly entering the country using a Visit Visa, as it is expressly designed for short stays. Getting legally married or registering for a civil partnership is also not allowed with a Visitor Visa UK. This requires a Marriage Visitor Visa .

Criteria for Securing a Visitor Visa for the UK

No matter your motives to enter the country, you must meet the basic UK Visitor Visa requirements:

• possessing a passport or travel documents that are valid for the entirety of your stay;
• having the financial resources to fund your travel back home or continuing journey, or having someone who
• can act as a sponsor and take care of these expenses for you;
• being able to demonstrate that you will depart the UK at the end of your visit;
• making sure you possess sufficient funds to cover your expenses while you are staying or having someone sponsor you with adequate financial support during your stay;
• not going to stay in the UK for extended periods by frequently visiting, neither having any intention of making it your primary residence.

To obtain a visiting visa to the UK, you may have to fulfil further eligibility criteria according to your purpose of visit.

Study, Placement, or Exam

If your intention is to take an exam, study, or attend a placement in the UK, you must provide proof of your enrolment in a course, an invitation to sit for an exam, or a confirmation from the organization facilitating the placement.

Senior Doctor, Dentist, or Academic

Individuals in senior doctor, dentist, or academic positions may be required to present proof of their professional status as well as the purpose of their visit.

Medical Treatment

In the event that you are seeking medical attention in the UK, evidence of your medical condition, the healthcare you require, and the arrangements made for your treatment will be necessary.

Different Rules for Travel from Isle of Man, Jersey, Ireland, and Guernsey

Persons from the Isle of Man, Jersey, Ireland, or Guernsey, who intend to go to the United Kingdom, may not require a visa to cross the border. This is because these countries are part of the common travel area (CTA) with the UK, which means that there are no passport controls on entry or exit between them.

If you are a resident of any of these territories and entering the UK from a location outside of the Common Travel Area, you must provide legitimate identification, like a national ID card or passport, in order to gain entrance to the country.

Although a visa may not be necessary for you to enter the United Kingdom, you may still need to apply for permission to enter the country if you are coming for a specific purpose, such as work or study. This will depend on the nature of your visit and your particular circumstances.

Essential Paperwork for Applying for a UK Visitor Visa

In order to travel to the UK as a tourist, it is necessary to obtain a Standard Visiting Visa, which grants permission to engage in a number of activities, such as attending business meetings, visiting relatives and friends, or undertaking a brief study course, for a period of up to 6 months. The application process entails providing specific personal information and documentation.

Passport or Travel Documents

The most important document for a UK Visitor Visa application is your government-issued passport or other travel documents. It is necessary for the document to remain valid throughout your entire stay in the UK and have an empty page for the visa sticker. During the application’s processing period, the passport will likely be held by the UK visa application centre. Therefore, it is imperative that your travel document does not expire during this procedure.

Online Application

Requesting a Visiting Visa UK begins with filling out a web-based form. You can apply for your travel permit as early as 3 months before your scheduled travel date. In your online UK Visit Visa application, you’ll need to disclose the below-mentioned data:

• The specific dates you have chosen for your travel to the UK
• The lodging arrangements you have made for your duration of stay
• Approximate expenses you expect to incur during your trip
• Your current residential address and the duration of your residency
• The names and birthdates of your parents (if available)
• Your yearly earnings (if applicable)
• Information regarding any criminal, immigration or civil offenses you may have committed

Supplementary Documents

Depending on your circumstances, you may require additional papers, which could include:

• A record of your travel history for the previous 10 years
• The address and phone number of your employer
• Information regarding your partner’s name, passport number, and date of birth
• Specifics about any sponsors for your trip
• Details about any family members you have residing in the United Kingdom
• A certificate verifying that you have undergone a tuberculosis test (if your stay exceeds six months)

If you’re travelling to the UK for academic, study, or medical purposes, you must provide specific documents related to your goal of travel.

Certified Translations

In the case of non-English or non-Welsh documents, it is mandatory to furnish certified translations of said documents.

Establishing Your Identity and Biometric Data

An online application for a UK Visiting Visa also requires you to set up an interview at a visa application centre . To validate your identity, you will be required to present your passport or travel documents during your appointment. To support your application, you can also supply an invitation letter for a UK Visitor Visa (if you have any). This letter can help demonstrate to immigration authorities that the visitor has a valid purpose for their trip and that they have a trustworthy host in the UK, which might contribute to a positive visa application decision.

The provision of your biometric identifiers, which includes your fingerprints and a facial photo, is also mandatory when applying for a Visitor Visa to the UK. The purpose of collecting biometric information is to authenticate your identity and confirm that you are the individual who submitted the visa application.

Taking biometric credentials is a quick and easy process, typically taking only a few minutes. You will need to attend a biometric interview at a designated location, where you will have your photograph and fingerprints collected. This data will then be stored on a secure database and used to check your identity when you enter the UK.

What is a UK Long-Term Standard Visit Visa?

Frequent visitors can apply for a long-term standard Visit Visa for the UK, with the validity for either 2, 5, or 10 years. The maximally allowed duration of each stay allowed under this visa is 6 months. If you submit an application for a long-term visa before you reach the age of 18, it will only have a validity of up to 6 months from the date of your 18th birthday.

UK Visas and Immigration may grant a visa for a shorter duration than requested if the eligibility criteria are not met by the applicant. In such cases, neither a refund nor a partial refund of the fee will be made if the application is refused or if a shorter visa is issued.

It’s worth highlighting that, if the applicant’s travel history indicates a pattern of extended stays in the UK, their long-term Standard Visitor Visa may be cancelled.

UK Visit Visa Processing: How Long to Wait?

After applying online, completing identity verification formalities, and submitting all necessary documentation, you’ll typically get a decision on your UK Visit Visa within 3 weeks. Persons who require expedited processing of their application may avail the priority service , which enables them to receive a verdict within 5 business days, in contrast to the regular processing time. However, such a service comes with an additional fee and must be booked in advance.

The priority service is not a guarantee of an approval of your UK Visiting Visa application, but it can significantly reduce the waiting time for a decision.

Regardless of the outcome, you will receive an email notification about your UK Visiting Visa application. The email will contain instructions on your next steps.

Navigating the UK Visitor Visa Application Process

Here are the common steps to follow to apply for a visiting visa for the UK:

• Find out if a Visit Visa is required for your visit to the United Kingdom. Nationals of some countries are exempt from visa requirements, so talk to an experienced immigration lawyer to clarify your options.
• Gather the necessary documents. To enter the UK, you must possess a legitimate passport or other travel documents, demonstrate your ability to financially sustain yourself for the duration of your stay, and provide proof of your UK itinerary or planned engagements.
• Complete the online application form. You can request a UK Visitor Visa online through the UK government website. Prepare to provide personal information, details about your trip, and information about your employment or education.
• Pay the fee. Receiving a standard UK Visit Visa is a paid service, and it currently costs £100.
• Schedule an interview at a visa application centre. To get a visa, it is necessary to have your biometrics (photo and fingerprint) collected at a visa application centre. You can arrange an interview by visiting the centre’s website and scheduling it online.
• Attend your interview. Bring your application form, passport, and supporting documentation to your interview. You will have your biometrics taken and may be asked additional questions about your trip.
• Wait for a decision. Upon conclusion of the visa application process, either by email or letter, you shall receive a notification regarding the decision. In the event of an approval, your passport shall receive a visa stamp.

The Price of a UK Visit Visa

The amount of visa fees required for a visit to the UK varies based on the specific type and duration of the visa needed.

The Standard Visit Visa costs £115. It permits a stay of up to 6 months. For frequent visitors, a long-term Standard Visitor Visa is available, costing more but providing greater flexibility.

For academics, the Standard Visit Visa costs £200, and it permits a stay of up to 12 months.

The medical Visitor Visa is priced at £200, allowing a stay of up to 11 months.

Long-term options include a 2-year visa priced at £400, a 5-year visa costing £771, and a 10-year visa costing £963.

All options mentioned include a stay of up to 6 months per visit.

Visa fees are ever-changing, so check the latest information on the UK government website or talk to a qualified immigration solicitor in London to inform you of the latest UK Visitor Visa tariffs.

What if an Application for the UK Visit Visa Refused?

If you are denied a Visiting Visa to the UK, you shall receive either a letter or an email that outlines the cause of the refusal. Some possible grounds for rejecting a Visiting Visa to the UK include:

• Lack of proof of intention to depart from the UK. The applicant is unable to provide sufficient evidence to show that they intend to leave the country when their visit ends.
• Insufficient funds. The applicant cannot bring evidence that they have sufficient financial assets to cover their expenses during their stay in the United Kingdom.
• Criminal history. The applicant has a criminal record or has been involved in illicit activities in the past.
• False or incomplete data. The visa application contains inaccurate or insufficient details about the applicant.
• Lack of connections to home country. The candidate fails to provide evidence of significant bonds to their country of origin, such as employment or real estate.
• Previous immigration violations. The applicant has previously violated immigration laws or overstayed a previous visa.
• Health concerns. The applicant has a health condition that may pose a risk to public health in the UK.

If your passport was kept during the application process, it will be returned to you upon a negative decision regarding your Visiting Visa UK. The refusal letter will also outline your options for appealing the decision. You may be eligible for an administrative review, which is a process where a different caseworker will review your application and make a new decision.

Alternatively, you may be able to appeal the decision through an immigration decision appeal. This process involves a hearing where an immigration judge will review your application and make a final decision. There are strict time limits for submitting an administrative review or immigration decision appeal, so it is crucial to act quickly if you wish to pursue either option.

In the event that your request for a UK Visiting Visa has been denied, you have the option to seek an administrative review of the decision within 28 days of being notified of the refusal. This review involves a separate caseworker from the Home Office who will scrutinize your application to verify that the initial decision was made accurately.

In case you are not satisfied with the result of the administrative review, you have the right to initiate an appeal with the First-tier Tribunal (Immigration and Asylum Chamber) within 14 days of receiving the administrative review verdict.

Can a UK Visiting Visa Be Extended?

If you possess a Visiting Visa that is valid for less than six months and are presently in the UK, there could be a chance for you to prolong your stay. By availing of this extension, you can stay in the country for up to a maximum of six months. Bear in mind that individuals who wish to stay longer must belong to specific categories, including those receiving medical treatment, academics, or those retaking the PLAB test or undergoing a clinical attachment as a graduate.

To apply for an extension, a fee of £1000 must be paid regardless of nationality. It is necessary to apply for an extension before the expiry date of your current visa or permission, and while you are still in the UK. Biometric information will also need to be provided, which includes fingerprints and a photo. The cost for extending stay as a Standard Visitor is £1000, and incorporating the super priority service will result in an additional fee of £800.

How Can We Help?

Sterling Law is a highly reputable and established law firm in London that provides comprehensive legal services to clients wishing to obtain a Visitor Visa to the UK. Our team of immigration lawyers has years of expertise in handling such applications with absolute professionalism and efficiency.

We understand that the visa application procedure can be complicated and stressful, which is why we offer tailored support and assistance throughout the entire process to ensure that our clients are well-informed and confident in their application. Our team is committed to providing you with exceptional legal representation, regardless of whether you’re applying for a Standard Visitor Visa UK or any other type of visa. We understand that overcoming the complexities of international travel can be arduous, which is why we’re here to guide you every step of the process. Don’t let legal hurdles stand in the way of your travel dreams – let us help you achieve them!

Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn more about how we can aid you in achieving your immigration goals.

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Please follow the instructions below for each service purchased in VFS UKVI Online shopping portal

1. round-trip courier / value service package with roundtrip courier - customers attending a uscis application support center.

Your courier service shipping labels - Submission Shipping Label and the Return Shipping Label have been sent as an attachment in a separate email. If you do not receive the Shipping label, make sure to log back in https://visa.vfsglobal.com/gov/en/gbr , choose Print or Email Receipt option and in next page, click on Download Shipping Label or Mail Shipping Label button to collect your Shipping label. Please print out and attach the Submission Shipping Label to the front of your UPS envelope when mailing your passport/documents to VFS Global’s UKVI Visa Processing Center in New York, following your biometric enrolment appointment. Please do not send or carry documents to the USCIS Application Support Center. Documents will be scanned once they reach the VFS Global UKVI Visa Processing Center. Only UPS plastic or padded envelopes should be used, to ensure safe delivery of your package. We advise against using cardboard or paper envelopes. If you purchased Value Service Package with Roundtrip Courier, include your supporting documents for scanning, along with a copy of your receipt for this service in your package. You MUST print out the Return Shipping Label and place it INSIDE the envelope with your application and supporting documents. If you do not do this, you will experience a delay in the return of your documents. If you forget to include the Return Shipping Label when sending your application documents, please email it to [email protected], with “Return Shipping Label” and your GWF number as the email subject line. Take your envelope to your nearest UPS location and drop off your package. Click here to find your nearest UPS location. Did you also purchase Priority Visa Service? You MUST include a copy of your receipt for this service along with your application and passport, in the package being sent to VFS Global’s UKVI Visa Processing Centre in New York. Please write ‘PRIORITY SERVICE’ in very large letters on the front and back of the mailing envelope of your visa application so that the staff know that it is a Priority Application. Please note that failure to follow this direction may result in your application not being identified and handled as a Priority.

2. Return Courier / Value Service Package with Return Courier - customers attending a USCIS Application Support Center

The shipping label for return courier service - Return Shipping Label has been sent as an attachment in a separate email. If you do not receive the Shipping label, make sure to log back in https://visa.vfsglobal.com/gov/en/gbr , choose Print or Email Receipt option and in next page, click on Download Shipping Label or Mail Shipping Label button to collect your Shipping label. This will be used to send your processed documents back to you from VFS Global’s UK Visa Processing Centre in New York. Your passport and supporting documents should be shipped to the following address following your biometric enrolment appointment: VFS Global UKVI Visa Processing Hub, 145 West 45th Street, Fl 5, New York, NY 10036 Please do not send or carry documents to the USCIS Application Support Center. Documents will be scanned once they reach the VFS Global UKVI Visa Processing Center. Only plastic or padded envelopes should be used to ensure safe delivery of your package. We advise against using cardboard or paper envelopes. If you purchased Value Service Package with Roundtrip Courier, include your supporting documents for scanning, along with a copy of your receipt for this service in your package. You MUST print out the Return Shipping Label and place it INSIDE the envelope with your application and supporting documents. If you do not do this, you will experience a delay in the return of your documents. If you forget to include the Return Shipping Label when sending your application documents, please email it to [email protected], with “Return Shipping Label” and your GWF number as the email subject line. Did you also purchase Priority Visa Service? You MUST include a copy of your receipt for this service along with your application and passport, in the package being sent to VFS Global’s UKVI Visa Processing Centre in New York. Please write ‘PRIORITY SERVICE’ in very large letters on the front and back of the mailing envelope of your visa application so that the staff know that it is a Priority Application. Please note that failure to follow this direction may result in your application not being identified and handled as a Priority.

3. Document Scanning Assistance - customers attending a USCIS Application Support Center

Your passport and supporting documents should be shipped to the following address following your biometric enrolment appointment: VFS Global UKVI Visa Processing Hub, 145 West 45th Street, Fl 5, New York, NY 10036 Please do not send or carry documents to the USCIS Application Support Center. Documents will be scanned once they reach the VFS Global UKVI Visa Processing Center. Did you also purchase Priority Visa Service? You MUST include a copy of your receipt for this service along with your application and passport, in the package being sent to VFS Global’s UKVI Visa Processing Centre in New York. Please write ‘PRIORITY SERVICE’ in very large letters on the front and back of the mailing envelope of your visa application so that the staff know that it is a Priority Application. Please note that failure to follow this direction may result in your application not being identified and handled as a Priority.

4. Priority Visa Service

Your application will join the front of the queue for priority consideration. Most people get a decision within 5 working days. You MUST include a copy of your receipt for this service along with your application and passport, in the package being sent to VFS Global’s UKVI Visa Processing Centre in New York. Please write ‘PRIORITY SERVICE’ in very large letters on the front and back of the mailing envelope of your visa application so that the staff know that it is a Priority Application. Please note that failure to follow this direction may result in your application not being identified and handled as a Priority.

5. Gold, Silver, and Bronze Premium Service Package – customers attending a VFS Premium Application Centres

You must bring a copy of your receipt for these services, along with the required documentation (valid passport or travel document with at least one visa page that is completely blank) in order for us to enrol your biometrics. Your visa decision will be taken based on the documents that you submit. Please consult the checklist from you application on GOV.UK, or visit the UK Visas and Immigration website for more information, and to ensure you submit the correct documents needed for your visa category. Our Supporting Documents Guidelines page also has additional advice. *Please note that the cut off time for Gold Premium Service Package 24-hour processing is 12:00 EST. If your appointment is after 12:00 EST, your 24-hour processing time will begin on the following business day.

6. Standard and Premium Settlement Service Packages – customers attending a VFS Premium Application Centres

You must bring a copy of your receipt for these services, along with the required documentation (valid passport or travel document with at least one visa page that is completely blank) in order for us to enrol your biometrics. Your visa decision will be taken based on the documents that you submit. Please consult the checklist from you application on GOV.UK, or visit the UK Visas and Immigration website for more information, and to ensure you submit the correct documents needed for your visa category. Our supporting documents guidelines page also has additional advice.

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Visa application fees

This tool will help you find out about UK visa application fees based on country, visa category and visa type.

This tool only contains information about fees for UK visa applications made outside the UK .

Visa Traveler

Exploring the world one country at a time

UK tourist visa: Requirements and application procedure

Updated: September 9, 2023

The UK tourist visa requirements are clear and easy to understand. UK tourist visa application is online but the rest of the process requires an in-person appointment for biometrics.

The UK or the United Kingdom is comprised of England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland. To visit any of these four countries, you would need a UK tourist visa. UK tourist visas are valid for 6 months and you can stay up to 180 days in the UK.

The UK tourist visa application process is long and there is no status tracking. Make sure to start your UK visa process at least two months from your intended date of travel to the UK.

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UK TOURIST VISA REQUIREMENTS BY NATIONALITY

Minimum passport validity required to enter the UK

• Passport must be valid for the entire stay in the UK

Visa EXEMPT nationalities

Unlimited entry.

• This requirement will change from 01 Jan 2021 when UK will no longer be part of the EU
• Czech Republic
• Liechtenstein
• Netherlands
• Switzerland

6-month entry

• You must carry all documents needed for a visitor visa to show at the port of entry if asked
• Visa is REQUIRED if you have a criminal record or refused entry into the UK before
• Anguilla (British territory)
• Antigua and Barbuda
• Bermuda (British territory)
• Bonaire, St Eustatius and Saba (Dutch territory)
• British Virgin Islands (British territory)
• Cayman Islands (British territory)
• Costa Rica
• El Salvador
• Falkland Islands (British territory)
• Hong Kong
• Marshall Islands
• Montserrat (British territory)
• New Zealand
• Papua New Guinea
• Pitcairn Island (British territory)
• San Marino
• Solomon Islands
• South Korea
• St Kitts and Nevis
• St Lucia
• St Maarten
• St Vincent and The Grenadines
• Timor Leste
• Trinidad and Tobago
• Turks and Caicos Islands (British territory)
• United States of America
• Vatican City

Visa REQUIRED nationalities

• Afghanistan
• Bosnia and Herzegovina
• Burkina Faso
• Cape Verde
• Central African Republic
• Congo, Dem. Rep. of
• Congo, Rep. of
• Cote d’Ivoire
• Dominican Republic
• Equatorial Guinea
• Guinea-Bissau
• North Korea
• North Macedonia
• Palestinian Territories
• Philippines
• Saudi Arabia
• Sierra Leone
• South Africa
• South Sudan
• Sri Lanka
• São Tomé and Principe
• Turkmenistan

Electronic Visa Waiver (EVW) required nationalities

• United Arab Emirates

24-hour VISA-FREE entry at Heathrow airport

• Eligible to request a 24-hour VISA-FREE entry at London’s Heathrow airport if holding a valid visa from the US, Canada, Australia, New Zealand or any EU/Schengen country
• Must be in transit to/from the country of visa (Ex: if holding a Canada visa, you must be in transit to/from Canada only)
• Onward flight must be within 24 hours (on the same day or next day before midnight)
• Granting the 24-hour entry is at the sole discretion of the immigration officer
• Applies to all nationalities

BONUS (FREE eBook Download): Travel 56 countries VISA-FREE with a visa from the US, Canada, Schengen, UK, Australia, New Zealand, Japan or Singapore

UK TOURIST VISA APPLICATION PROCESS

First, check if you need a visitor visa to travel to the UK in the “UK tourist visa requirements by nationality” section above.

Alternatively, you can check your eligibility and requirements on the UK gov website .

Validity of UK tourist visa

UK tourist visas are valid for 6 months from the date of visa issue.

Example: If your UK visa was issued on January 15, the visa will be valid until July 15. 

NOTE There have been instances where visas were issued with validity starting from the date of travel mentioned in the visa application. 

When to apply for UK visa

You can apply for a UK visa up to 3 months in advance.

Example: If you plan to visit the UK on April 15, you can apply for your UK visa on or after January 16.

Also, keep in mind that you must apply for your UK visa at least 3 weeks prior to your travel, otherwise, you may not receive your visa on time. There are no refunds if you receive your visa after your travel date. 

IMPORTANT The UK visa process can take up to 3 weeks and even longer in some cases. I strongly recommend applying for your UK visa at least 2 months in advance.

How long can you stay in the UK?

The UK tourist visa allows you to stay up to 180 days in the UK. But if you stay that long continuously in the UK on a tourist visa, you will have serious trouble getting another UK visa in the future or entering the UK next time.

Here is my advice. Stick to the days you have mentioned in your UK visa application. A few days more or less is fine. But staying months on your UK tourist visa will pretty much look like you “live in the UK” rather than “vacation/holiday”. 

Application procedure

The UK visa application is online. You must apply for the visa online at the UK Visas and Immigration website

Below are the steps you will go through for your UK tourist visa application

• Go to the UK Visas and Immigration website
• Select your preferred language, type of visa, your country, nearest visa application center, etc
• Create a login using email and password
• Complete in the application form
• Sign the declaration
• Pay visa fee
• Submit the application
• Download and print the submitted visa application form
• Make an appointment at your nearest UK visa application center
• Attend the appointment at your nearest UK visa application center
• Submit your passport, visa application and supporting documents at the visa application center
• If applying from the US, Australia or New Zealand, mail your passport, visa application and biometrics receipt to your nearest visa application center
• Pickup/receive the passport when the visa decision is made

Below are some of the information you will provide in the application form

• Your travel dates to the UK
• Your hotel address and telephone number in the UK
• Your total estimated cost for the trip
• Your present home address and how many years you’ve lived there
• Your parents’ names and their dates of birth
• Your annual income
• Your travel history for the past 10 years
• Your employer details including the address and telephone number

Documents required

The following are the documents required for UK visitor visa application 

• Completed online visa application form with GWF number
• A passport-size photo (optional)
• If employed – an employment letter on company letterhead indicating your length of employment, salary, role, etc.
• If self-employed – a business registration document indicating your business name, date of business, etc.
• If student – a letter from the school/university on the letterhead indicating your enrollment, leave of absence, etc.
• Proof of funds ( bank statements or payslips for the last 6 months)
• Proof of legal residence (if applying from a 3rd country. you must submit a copy of your visa or residence permit of that country)

Do you need flight tickets and hotel bookings for the UK visa application?

UKVI has stopped asking for flight tickets and hotel bookings for UK visa applications. But some nationalities are still being asked to submit flight tickets and hotel bookings.

When you complete your online UK visa application, you will see a checklist of documents to be uploaded. Check if you are asked to submit flight tickets and hotel bookings.

Even if you are asked to submit your flight tickets and hotel bookings, you should not book any flights/hotel until your UK visa is approved.

For flights, get a price quote from British Airways which can be used as a flight itinerary for your UK visa application. Visa ticket booking agencies such as DummyTicket offer flight itineraries for the UK visa for $19, valid for 2-3 weeks.

For hotel, book a refundable or pay at check-in hotel on booking.com or Expedia . Cancel the booking after your visa is approved.

For more options, check out my detailed flight itinerary and hotel reservation articles.

Photo requirements

A passport-size photo is only required if are exempt from biometrics. All tourist visa applicants MUST give their biometrics. Your fingerprints and digital photos are taken during your biometrics appointment.

Since all tourist visa applicants MUST give their biometrics, a passport-size photo is not required. But, I suggest bringing one with you on the day of your biometrics appointment just in case.

Visa application fee

The UK tourist visa application fee is £95 GBP. You will pay this fee in your local currency. Due to exchange rates, you may end up paying about £2 – £5 GBP more.

You can use the UK home office visa fee wizard to find out the exact visa fee that you would need to pay in your local currency. 

If you are applying for a long-term UK tourist visa, below is the visa fee for 2, 5 and 10-year tourist visas. 

• 2 years: £361 GBP
• 5 years: £655 GBP
• 10 years: £822 GBP

Visa appointment

As part of the online application process, you will be prompted to make a visa appointment at your nearest UK Visa Application Center . Visa Application Centers are run by either VFSGlobal or TLSContact in conjunction with UK Visas and Immigration.

On the day of the appointment, you will give your biometrics (fingerprints and photo) and submit your original documents. You must bring all your original documents along with one photocopy of each including your passport.

Applicants from the USA, Australia (Adelaide and Hobart only) and New Zealand

You must give your biometrics at your nearest Biometric Enrollment Center and later send/post your documents to the nearest UK Visa Application Center.

During your online UK visa application, you will be prompted to make a biometrics appointment at your nearest Biometric enrollment center.

• Biometric enrollment centers in the USA are run by the US Homeland Security.
• Biometric enrollment centers in Australia are run by the Department of Immigration and Border Protection.
• Biometric enrollment centers in New Zealand are run by Immigration New Zealand.

The biometrics appointment takes about 10-15 minutes. You will give your fingerprints and photo. You will receive an acknowledgment stamp on the biometric appointment confirmation.

You must then mail your original passport, visa application, biometric confirmation with the stamp, supporting documents and return postage to the UK Visa Application Center you have selected during your online visa application.

You will be notified via email when the UK Visa Application Center receives your documents.

Visa processing time

The UK tourist visa processing takes up to 3 weeks. There have been incidents where UKVI has taken over 2 months to process, especially when the visa applications are “not straightforward”.

UKVI considers a visa application “not straightforward” if additional information is required to process the visa. Additional information can be, verifying information, background check or requesting additional documents. UKVI usually notifies you in such cases and requests any additional documentation necessary.

Keeping such incidents in mind, ALWAYS apply for your UK visa at least 2 months prior to your travel.

If you have to travel sooner, you should purchase the “Priority Visa Service” while applying online. Or at least before you mail/submit your documents. This way your visa application will be processed within 5 working days.

PERSONAL EXPERIENCE When I applied for my UK visa, the visa processing time was about 2 weeks. I had a planned trip to Canada before my trip to the UK. My trip to Canada was in 4 weeks, so I thought I had enough time to apply for my UK visa. However after I submitted my passport, the email confirmation said the visa process would take up to 4 weeks. I panicked. I went ahead and paid for the priority visa service. I panicked again. Then I emailed a formal visa withdrawal request, so I could at least get my passport back and make my trip to Canada. However, my visa was processed within 2 days of paying the priority visa service fee. Please do not make the same mistake as I did. Apply for your UK visa at least 2 months prior to your travel.

Visa application status tracking

Online visa application tracking is NOT AVAILABLE on the UK Visas and Immigration website. To track your UK visa application status, you must use UK Visas and Immigration’s email or phone option, which unfortunately is NOT FREE.

UKVI charges for all phone and email inquiries. 

Below are UK Visa and Immigration phone, email details and charges.

PHONE Telephone: +44 2034811736 Available 24 hours from Monday to Friday Calls cost £1.37 per minute plus any international call charges

EMAIL Email communication must be initiated via Email UK Visas and Immigration Email inquiries cost £5.48. Follow-up emails after that are not charged. You will receive a response to your email within 2 working days.

You must give out your credit card information for billing when you start the phone inquiry. For email, you must fill out the payment form and then you can submit your email inquiry.

PERSONAL OPINION Email inquiries generally receive a standard response saying that your application is “in process”. Phone inquiries are slightly better and cheaper.

Priority visa service

If you would need to travel to the UK urgently, you can opt for the “Priority Visa Service”.  This service is expensive and may not be available in all countries. If available, you will see the option in your online UK visa application. 

• Priority visa service fee: £220 GBP
• Visa processing time: Guaranteed in 5 working days

Priority visa service must be purchased during your online visa application. This will ensure your visa is processed within 5 days.

Purchasing this service after you have submitted/mailed your documents will take much longer than 5 working days. You must first pay the fee on the Visa Application Center (VAC) website and then email the receipt to the Visa Application Center where you have submitted/sent your documents. It can take more than a day for the VAC staff to locate your packet and push it into the priority queue

PERSONAL EXPERIENCE I purchased my priority service after I had mailed my documents. My visa application was approved within two days of buying the priority visa service.

Super priority visa service

If you would need to travel to the UK immediately, you can opt for “Super Priority Visa Service”. This service comes with a hefty price tag, so purchase this service only in super urgent, emergency cases. 

• Super priority visa service fee: £956 GBP
• Visa processing time: Guaranteed in 24 hours

Cancel your UK visa application

If you haven’t given your biometrics at the visa application center yet, you can cancel your UK visa application and get a full refund of your visa fee. The procedure to cancel your UK visa application depends on at what stage your application is in.

Application not submitted and fee not paid : If you haven’t paid your fee and haven’t submitted your application, there is a “Delete Application” option that will delete your current visa application.

Application not submitted but fee already paid : If you have already paid your fee and have not yet submitted your application, you can still delete your application but you may have to send a formal refund request in writing to the visa application center.

Application submitted, fee paid but haven’t given your biometrics : If you haven’t given your biometrics at VFS/BLS, you can cancel your application and request for a refund. The refunds take 4 weeks. 

Application submitted, fee paid, biometric given , and documents/passport already submitted: If you have already given your biometrics and submitted your documents/passport, you CANNOT cancel your visa application anymore. You can only WITHDRAW your visa application. You must email the visa application center a formal withdrawal request. Upon receipt of the withdrawal request, the visa application center will return/mail your passport back. Any visa fee and priority service fee paid are not refundable. 

IMPORTANT Even though UKVI says the refunds are processed in 4 weeks, it usually takes 8 weeks or even longer. There have been instances where applicants waited several weeks and some even gave up on their refunds. However, I have seen applicants having success in getting their refunds by reminding UKVI with phone calls or emails. It costs about $5 USD to email them, but it helps in getting your refund eventually. 

Withdraw your UK visa application

The UK visa application center keeps the passport for the entirety of the visa process, which could be 3 weeks or more. There may be emergencies where you need to have your passport with you. The only way to request your passport back is by formally withdrawing your visa application. 

If you withdraw your application, the visa fee and any priority service fee you have paid are NOT refundable.

To withdraw a visa application, you must submit a withdrawal request along with the reason for the withdrawal to the visa application center via email. It might take up to 72 hours for the consulate to locate your packet and send it back to you.

You must first call/email the UK Visas and Immigration mentioning your intention to withdraw your application. They will guide you through the process of withdrawing your application. Usually, the UK visa application withdrawal request should be a signed document with personal information including the GWF number. This document must be printed and signed. It must be scanned and emailed to the visa application center. Below is a sample withdrawal request letter.

Dear Sir/Madam,

I hereby request to withdraw my UK visa application. I understand that the visa fee is non-refundable. I also understand that my package may not be shipped for up to 72 hours.

Full Name of the Applicant: <name> GWF Number: <GWF number> Date of Birth: <date of birth> Nationality: <Nationality> Country of Residence: <Country of residence> Passport number: <Passport number> Type of Visa Applied: General Visit (up to 6 months) Biometric taken date:  <biometric date> Visa application centre’s address:  <address of the visa application center where you have submitted your documents> Contact number of the applicant: <Your phone number>

Priority Service Paid: <YES/NO> Priority Service Paid On: <Priority service purchased date>

Reason for Withdrawal: Emergency international travel has been scheduled. I need to have my passport in order to travel. Please return my passport as soon as possible. Thank you!

<Your signature here> Signed: <Your full name> Date: <date>

IMPORTANT Cancellation or withdrawal is NOT a refusal. It WILL NOT affect your future UK visa applications. You don’t need to mention it in your future UK visa applications either.

ENTERING AND LEAVING THE UK

Entering the UK by air

At the immigration, the officers may ask you questions about your trip, how long you plan to stay, your next destination, etc. You may be asked to show your return/onward ticket and your hotel booking. If you are traveling on a one-way ticket, you can use OnwardTicket to get proof of your onward ticket. 

PERSONAL EXPERIENCE: The immigration officer at Heathrow Airport asked me to show my return/onward ticket. I had a print of my onward ticket, so quickly took it out and gave it to the immigration officer.

Leaving the UK by air

If you are flying out of Heathrow Airport, make sure to arrive early. The airport is huge and you may have to take a bus from the gate to the flight.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What is GWF number in UK visa application ?

GWF reference number is the unique visa application number that was provided to you on your visa application submission. You must provide your GWF number when calling or emailing UK Visas and Immigration. Without the GWF number, UK Visas and Immigration will not be able to provide you with a status update on your visa application.

What to do if my UK visa application is refused?

If your UK visa application is refused, the first thing is to understand the  reasons for your UK visa refusal . If the reason is due to missing information, proof of funds or documentation, make sure to fix these the next time you apply for your UK visa.

Write a detailed cover letter explaining the reasons for your previous visa refusal, missing information/documentation and any additional information/documentation that you have provided in the new application. This will help the ECOs cut to the chase and focus on the new information/documentation.

There is no “appeal” for UK visa. So, re-apply for your UK visa by making sure you have the new information, proofs and documents that were lacking previously. You must pay the visa fee again as the fee paid for your previous application was non-refundable.

If you do not know the reason for your visa refusal/denial, give at least 6 months before you apply for the visa again. 

Can I get my UK visa application fee refund if denied?

No. The visa fee and any priority service fee paid are non-refundable if your visa application is denied. The visa fee is also non-refundable in incidents where the visa is approved for less number of days than requested.

I’m planning to visit the UK and Schengen countries on a single trip. Should I apply for my UK visa first or Schengen visa first?

If you plan to visit the UK and Schengen countries on a single trip, ALWAYS apply for your UK visa first. 

UKVI keeps the passport for the entirety of the visa process and there is no visa status tracking. Calls and emails to customer service are charged. Even if you pay and contact, you will usually get a canned response. If your UK visa is refused, there is no “appeal”. You can only re-apply, which means you have to repeat the entire process again.

On the other hand, the Schengen visa application process is much streamlined. There is application tracking, customer service and appeal. 

I highly recommend applying for your UK visa first and get done with it. After that, apply for your Schengen visa. 

When applying for your UK visa, show a “UK-only” itinerary for your UK visa. This eliminates the need for submitting your Schengen visa, flights in/out of the Schengen region, etc. 

The UK tourist visa requirements are clear and easy to understand. But, the visa application process is long and expensive. Apply at least 2 months in advance, and follow all the proper steps and documentation. Tourist visas are usually multiple-entry with 6 months validity.

WRITTEN BY THIRUMAL MOTATI

Thirumal Motati is an expert in tourist visa matters. He has been traveling the world on tourist visas for more than a decade. With his expertise, he has obtained several tourist visas, including the most strenuous ones such as the US, UK, Canada, and Schengen, some of which were granted multiple times. He has also set foot inside US consulates on numerous occasions. Mr. Motati has uncovered the secrets to successful visa applications. His guidance has enabled countless individuals to obtain their visas and fulfill their travel dreams. His statements have been mentioned in publications like Yahoo, BBC, The Hindu, and Travel Zoo.

PLAN YOUR TRAVEL WITH VISA TRAVELER

I highly recommend using these websites to plan your trip. I use these websites myself to apply for my visas, book my flights and hotels and purchase my travel insurance.

01. Apply for your visa

Get a verifiable flight itinerary for your visa application from DummyTicket247 . DummyTicket247 is a flight search engine to search and book flight itineraries for visas instantly. These flight itineraries are guaranteed to be valid for 2 weeks and work for all visa applications.

02. Book your fight

Find the cheapest flight tickets using Skyscanner . Skyscanner includes all budget airlines and you are guaranteed to find the cheapest flight to your destination.

03. Book your hotel

Book your hotel from Booking.com . Booking.com has pretty much every hotel, hostel and guesthouse from every destination.

04. Get your onward ticket

If traveling on a one-way ticket, use BestOnwardTicket to get proof of onward ticket for just $12, valid for 48 hours.

05. Purchase your insurance

Purchase travel medical insurance for your trip from SafetyWing . Insurance from SafetyWing covers COVID-19 and also comes with a visa letter which you can use for your visas.

Need more? Check out my travel resources page  for the best websites to plan your trip.

LEGAL DISCLAIMER We are not affiliated with immigration, embassies or governments of any country. The content in this article is for educational and general informational purposes only, and shall not be understood or construed as, visa, immigration or legal advice. Your use of information provided in this article is solely at your own risk and you expressly agree not to rely upon any information contained in this article as a substitute for professional visa or immigration advice. Under no circumstance shall be held liable or responsible for any errors or omissions in this article or for any damage you may suffer in respect to any actions taken or not taken based on any or all of the information in this article. Please refer to our full disclaimer for further information.

AFFILIATE DISCLOSURE This post may contain affiliate links, which means we may receive a commission, at no extra cost to you, if you make a purchase through a link. Please refer to our full disclosure for further information.

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UK Visa Fees 2024

Anne morris.

IN THIS SECTION

What are the current uk visa fees.

The Home Office charges UK visa applicants a fee to process their application. How much you need to pay will depend on which type of visa you are applying for, and where you are applying from.

If you are making an application to the Home Office, use the tables below to check how much you will need to pay. As well as listing current UK visa fees, the tables also detail application fees for settlement , sponsorship and premium processing services.

Applicants should also be aware there may be additional costs associated with their application, such as the Immigration Health Surcharge . Taking professional guidance will ensure you fully understand all costs when making a Home Office application.

Work visa application fees

Sponsorship application fees, study visas, uk visa applications, british citizenship, paying uk visa fees in your local currency.

UK visa fees are set in Pounds Sterling (GBP) but can be paid in your local currency based on the exchange rate at the time of payment. The Home Office sets the rate, which is typically reviewed every two weeks.

Need assistance?

Home Office fees are subject to frequent change, so you are advised to check with a legal adviser or the Home Office website for the latest fees before submitting your application.

If you have a question about a Home Office application, such as a  sponsor licence  or a British citizenship  application, contact us . Our team of specialist immigration advisers help individuals and companies on all areas of UK immigration  and nationality.

UK visa fee FAQs

How much is a uk visa fee.

The UK visa fee will depend on the type of application you are making. For example, a visitor visa for up to six months costs £115.

How much bank balance is required for UK visa?

Some UK visas will require the applicant to show proof of a certain amount of funds in their bank account. You will need to check the requirements of the specific visa you are applying for.

How much is a long term UK visitor visa?

From 10 April 2024, the 2 year visitor visa is £432 per applicant, £771 for 5 years or £963 for 10 years.

Last updated: 7 May 2024

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.

Anne is an active public speaker, immigration commentator , and immigration policy contributor and regularly hosts training sessions for employers and HR professionals

• Anne Morris https://www.davidsonmorris.com/author/anne/ Employment Case Law Update May 2024
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About DavidsonMorris

As employer solutions lawyers, DavidsonMorris offers a complete and cost-effective capability to meet employers’ needs across UK immigration and employment law, HR and global mobility .

Led by Anne Morris, one of the UK’s preeminent immigration lawyers, and with rankings in The Legal 500 and Chambers & Partners , we’re a multi-disciplinary team helping organisations to meet their people objectives, while reducing legal risk and nurturing workforce relations.

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 at the time of writing, 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.

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Visa from the United Kingdom to Greece Efficient. Reliable. Secure.

Before applying, please ensure you are very clear on your "purpose of travel". We are able to assist and help you through the entire visa application process but are not permitted to advise or guide you on choosing a visa category.

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• Have you checked all of the requirements prior to applying for your visa? CHECK REQUIREMENTS
• You know your purpose of travel and have already checked all requirements. Complete the online application form from this website only and print it. Postal applications are not accepted. COMPLETE OUR ONLINE FORM
• Time to schedule an appointment at the GVCW Visa Application Center for Greece to submit your application. You may submit your visa application six (6) months prior to your date of travel. Please ensure that you print your Appointment Letter and bring it with you at the Visa Application Center. SCHEDULE AN APPOINTMENT
• If you have already submitted an application for a visa at the GVCW Visa Application Center for Greece in the United Kingdom, you can now track your application. TRACK YOUR APPLICATION
• It is time for you to collect your passport at the GVCW Visa Application Center for Greece. Make sure to meet all necessary requirements in order to collect your passport. COLLECT YOUR PASSPORT

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Dubai's visa on arrival facility: How to apply online & what documents to carry

Dubai: Indians travellers with a valid UK or European Union visa or with a US Green Card or residency permit can apply online for the UAE's visa on arrival, at least 14 days before they travel to the country. Dubai General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) announced that this visa could be extended for 14 more days. Meanwhile, Emirates Airlines said the approval of these visas would be as per the discretion of GDRFA.

Visa on arrival facility has been provided at the airports in UAE for eligible Indian travellers for years. Usually, when passengers deboard the aircraft, the visa is stamped on their passports at the immigration counter. However, as per the revised guidelines, flyers must apply for the visa online before they travel to Dubai.

These are the documents that are required for applying for this visa: 1) Valid passport or other travel document to enter the country. 2) US Green Card or the residence visa issued by the UK / European Union. 3) Passport size photograph (with white background) Online application Indians, who are eligible for a visa on arrival, should log into the official website of the GDRFA . They should fill out the application by providing the required details and pay an application fee of 253 dirhams. After the visa is approved, the applicant will receive it via email, hopefully within 48 hours after applying.

UAE's visiting visa rules: What has changed, what should travellers keep with them

UAE issues new visiting visa guidelines: Passengers detained at airports

Terms and conditions These are the terms and conditions that are noted on GDRFA’s website: 1) The traveller shouldn’t have any restrictions that prevent him/her from entering the country. 2) The validity of the passport or the travel document should not be less than six months. 3) He/she should have a visa or green card issued by the competent authorities in the United States of America, with a validity period of not less than six months. 4) He/she should have a residence visa issued by the competent authorities in the United Kingdom or European Union countries, with a validity period of not less than six months.

A few Indian passport holders who had booked tickets on Emirates Airlines in February were given a visa on arrival with a validity in advance. This single-entry visa is valid for 14 days and would save the Emirates flyers from standing in long queues at the immigration counters. The advance application fulfils the requirements of the Dubai Visa Processing Centre (DVPC)-VFS Global facility arranged by Emirates Airlines to facilitate visa proceedings in Dubai.

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Graduate Route safe for now as UK cracks down on student visas

The Home Office pointed out that the ONS figures released this week do not take into account stricter visa rules on family dependents that were enforced earlier this year, pointing to a 25 per cent drop in visa applications since then.

The UK's Graduate Route scheme popular with Indian students as a post-study work offer is safe for now as the government announced on Thursday that it will be kept “under review”, as it set out proposals to crack down on student visas to ensure they aren't used as a “gateway to immigration”.

The measures followed the Office for National Statistics (ONS) revealing a 10 per cent fall in net migration, welcomed by British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak on the first official day of his campaign for a general election now set for July 4. Curbing migration, legal and illegal, is among the British Indian leader's top priorities as he makes his case to the electorate.

“Since I became Prime Minister, net migration has fallen by 10 per cent. The plan is working. Let's stick with it,” he said.

Also read | Indian students begin turning away from UK universities for Master’s courses

Under further tougher measures, it said it will regulate the recruitment of international students, “cracking down on rogue recruitment agents” who encourage people to apply to British universities by mandating universities to sign up to a "stringent framework for agents".

Tougher compliance standards for institutions recruiting students from overseas will be introduced under which universities that accept international students who then fail to pass visa checks, enroll or complete their courses, will risk losing their sponsor licence.

"Applications are already falling sharply... but we must go further to make sure our immigration routes aren't abused. That's why we are cracking down on rogue international agents and, building on work across government, to ensure international students are coming here to study, not work,” said UK Home Secretary James Cleverly.

Also read | Post-study visa route dominated by Indians should stay, finds UK review

With reference to the Graduate Route, the Home Office took note of the independent Migration Advisory Committee's (MAC) warning in a rapid review last week that rogue recruitment agents pose a threat to the system, with poor practices exploiting student and graduate visa holders who are "mis-sold" UK higher education.

Since migrants on the student route transition directly to the Graduate Route, immediate action is necessary, the Home Office said, adding that it also remains concerned that the scheme is not attracting the “highest earners who contribute to our economy” after an analysis from the tax department.

"New proposals will further crack down on student visas, ensuring only genuine students can come to the UK; [Graduate] Route will be kept under review,” the Home Office added.

This implies that the route is safe at least until the election, when a newly elected government will take a decision on its future course.

“We are absolutely delighted and very relieved that the UK government has taken the right decision to keep the Graduate Route as this is critical for Indian students. We are very pleased also that the focus will instead be on regulating agents,” said Sanam Arora, Chair of the National Indian Students and Alumni Union (NISAU) UK, which has been lobbying in favour of the post-study visa.

Also read | Graduate Route visa and Rishi Sunak’s heavy hand

Among other measures planned, financial maintenance requirements will be raised, so international students will have to prove their financial self-sufficiency. The government said it is already reviewing English language assessments with the objective of standardising independent assessments, ensuring all international students are equipped with the skills to understand their course materials – or they shouldn't expect a place at a UK university.

Restrictions on remote delivery will also ensure all overseas students are predominantly undertaking face-to-face courses, the Home Office said.

The latest set of proposals form part of the Sunak-led government's overall plan to cut legal migration, which it says would mean 300,000 who arrived last year would be unable to do so under its tougher new rules

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UKVI extends optional Super Priority Visa service in India

On 15 February 2021, UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) announced extension of the Super Priority visa service (SPV) to eight more cities in India.

Super Priority Visa is an optional paid service that customers in India can choose to purchase, in addition to the visa fee, to receive a faster decision time on their visa application. Customers who choose SPV will be able to receive a decision on their UK visa application by the end of the next working day. The standard processing time for UK visas is 15 working days, which does not include evenings or weekends. Customers can also choose the Priority visa service to receive a decision within five working days.

The eight new locations, in addition to Delhi, that Indians can apply for SPV from are Ahmedabad, Bengaluru, Chandigarh, Chennai, Hyderabad, Kolkata, Mumbai (South) and Pune. This is valid for the following UK visa categories:

• Visitor and Transit visas
• Skilled Worker visas
• Temporary Worker visas (T5)
• Student visas

All customers travelling to UK during the pandemic should be aware of the current border, quarantine and testing regulations in place.

Further information

For information on the Super Priority Visa, visit the VFS web page .

For information on UKVI processing times, see Visa decision waiting times: applications outside the UK .

For information on the UK’s current border, quarantine and COVID-19 testing regulations, see guidance on entering the UK .

For media queries, please contact:

Press and Communications, British High Commission, Chanakyapuri, New Delhi 110021

Mail to: [email protected]

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