United Kingdom Tourist Visa — Requirements, Cost, Processing Time
Key highlights
- Standard Visitor visa covers tourism, family visits, and short business trips
- Valid for stays of up to 6 months per visit
- Priority and Super Priority processing options are often available
- Electronic Visa Waiver (EVW) available for certain Middle Eastern citizens
- Applications must be submitted online before attending an appointment
- Multiple-entry options for 2, 5, or 10 years are available for frequent travellers
- Non-visa nationals (like EU or US citizens) may not need a visa for short trips
Processing time
15 working days (3 weeks)
Processing times start once you have attended your appointment and submitted your biometrics. Delays may occur during peak summer and winter seasons.
Estimated cost
~$150 - $600+ (depending on priority services)
- Standard Visitor visa fee (up to 6 months)$150
- Optional Priority or Super Priority processing fees$250 - $1,200+
Requirements
- You must intend to leave the UK at the end of your visit
- You must be able to support yourself and any dependants during the trip
- You must have proof of any activities you plan to do (e.g. tourism or business)
- You cannot intend to live in the UK for long periods through frequent visits
- You must not intend to work or provide services for a UK company (paid or unpaid)
- You must have a valid passport with at least one blank page for the visa sticker
- You must provide a professional translation for any documents not in English or Welsh
- You must meet the UK's suitability requirements, including a clear criminal record
- You must pay the correct application fee and, if applicable, the immigration health surcharge for longer stays
- You must provide biometric information at a designated visa application centre
Documents you'll need
- Current valid passport with at least one blank page front and back
- Previous travel documents or expired passports showing travel history
- Bank statements from the last 3-6 months showing sufficient funds
- Proof of employment or studies (e.g. letter from employer or school)
- Evidence of accommodation bookings or an invitation letter from a UK host
- A detailed travel itinerary outlining planned activities in the UK
- Tuberculosis (TB) test results (only for residents of specific countries)
How to apply, step by step
- 1
Check Eligibility
Determine if you need a visa based on your nationality and the purpose of your trip. Most non-visa nationals only need a valid passport.
- 2
Complete Online Application
Complete the online visa application form on the official UK government website, ensuring all personal and travel details are accurate.
- 3
Pay Application Fee
Pay the visa application fee online using a credit or debit card. You will also select any priority services at this stage.
- 4
Book Biometrics Appointment
Book an appointment at a Visa Application Centre (VAC) operated by partners like VFS Global or TLScontact to provide biometrics.
- 5
Upload Documents
Upload your supporting documents to the online portal or bring them to your appointment to be scanned.
- 6
Attend Appointment
Attend your scheduled appointment to have your fingerprints and photograph taken. You may also need to submit your physical passport.
- 7
Await Decision
Wait for the Home Office to process your application. You will receive an email notification once a decision has been made.
- 8
Collect Passport
Collect your passport from the VAC or have it delivered via courier if you opted for the return service.
Tips to avoid refusal
- Never provide forged or altered documents, as this leads to an automatic 10-year ban.
- Ensure your bank statements show a consistent history rather than sudden large deposits.
- Provide a clear cover letter explaining the purpose of your visit and your ties to your home country.
- Check that your employer's contact details are correct, as the Home Office may verify your employment.
- Do not book non-refundable flights or hotels until your visa has been granted.
- If you have been refused a visa for any country previously, declare it honestly on the form.
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.