United Kingdom Business Visa — Requirements, Cost, Processing Time
Key highlights
- Valid for business meetings, conferences, and site visits
- Standard visa typically allows stays of up to 6 months
- Multiple-entry options available for 2, 5, or 10 years
- Electronic application process followed by an in-person appointment
- No minimum salary requirement for business visitors
- Allows for short-term study or training related to your job
- Available for most nationalities globally
Processing time
15 working days (3 weeks)
Processing times begin after you attend your appointment at the visa application centre. Times can vary significantly during peak travel seasons.
Estimated cost
~$150+ depending on duration and speed
- Standard 6-month Visitor Visa fee$150 (approx. £115)
- Priority Processing (Optional)$260+
- Super Priority Processing (Optional)$1,200+ extra
Requirements
- You must intend to leave the UK at the end of your visit.
- You must have sufficient funds to cover your travel and living costs.
- You must be coming for a permitted business activity (e.g., meetings, conferences).
- You cannot receive payment from a UK source for your activities.
- You must not intend to live in the UK through frequent or successive visits.
- Proof of employment or business ownership in your home country.
- Your passport must be valid for the entire duration of your stay.
- Evidence of any sponsorship if a third party is paying for your trip.
- Tuberculosis (TB) test results if you are from a country where this is required.
- English translation for any documents not in English or Welsh.
Documents you'll need
- Current valid passport with at least one blank page
- Previous passports/travel documents to show travel history
- Formal letter of invitation from the UK host organisation
- Letter from your current employer explaining your role and purpose of visit
- Personal bank statements from the last 3-6 months
- Flight itinerary and proof of accommodation (do not prepay fully until approved)
- Detailed itinerary of business activities in the UK
How to apply, step by step
- 1
Complete the Online Application
Complete the online visitor visa application form on the official GOV.UK website. Select the 'Standard Visitor' category for business purposes.
- 2
Pay the Visa Fees
Pay the visa fee and any optional service fees (like priority processing) using a credit or debit card through the portal.
- 3
Book Biometric Appointment
Book an appointment at a VFS Global or TLScontact Visa Application Centre to submit your fingerprints and photograph (biometrics).
- 4
Upload Supporting Documents
Upload digital copies of your supporting documents to the online portal or pay for a scanning service at the application centre.
- 5
Attend Visa Centre Appointment
Attend your scheduled appointment with your passport and appointment confirmation. They will take your biometric data.
- 6
Wait for a Decision
The UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) office will review your application. You may be contacted if further information is required.
- 7
Collect Your Passport
Once a decision is made, you will receive your passport back either via courier or by collecting it from the centre. Check the vignette for any errors.
Tips to avoid refusal
- Ensure your invitation letter specifically mentions the dates and purpose of your visit.
- Do not provide 'estimated' bank balances; provide original, official bank statements.
- If your employer is paying for the trip, include a letter or bank statement from them as proof.
- Avoid 'at-risk' activities that look like employment, such as doing actual project work for a UK client.
- Apply at least 8 weeks before your intended travel date to account for any delays.
- Double-check that all non-English documents are accompanied by certified translations.
- Be consistent with the information provided in your application form and your supporting letters.
Frequently asked questions
Related visa guides
Visa policies change frequently. Always verify current requirements with the official embassy or consulate before applying. PermitlyHQ provides general guidance and is not a substitute for legal or immigration advice.