Apply for a Travel Visa
Apply for a UK Standard Visitor visa online, attend a biometrics appointment, and submit your passport for processing.
This guide is for planning and preparation. Details may change, so verify current requirements with the official sources before applying, paying fees, or submitting documents.
Review and freshness
This guide has a recorded editorial review date. Always verify final requirements, fees, forms, and appointment rules with official sources before applying.
Estimated timeline
3 to 6 weeks
Estimated fees
£115
Who this is for
Tourists, business visitors, and family visitors who are visa nationals coming to the UK for up to 6 months.
Location
United Kingdom
Eligibility
Visa National
You are from a country that requires a visa to enter the UK.
Intention to leave
You must prove you will leave the UK at the end of your visit.
Required documents checklist
Tap each item as you gather it. This progress stays in your browser for the current page session.
Visual step flow
Scan the process before you start
Use this overview to understand the order, then track each item in the checklist below.
Apply online
Fill in the application form on the GOV.UK website and pay the visa fee.
Book a biometrics appointment
Schedule an appointment at a visa application centre (VAC) in your home country.
Upload documents
Upload scanned copies of your supporting documents to the VAC portal before your appointment.
Attend appointment and wait
Provide your fingerprints and photograph at the VAC, and hand over your passport for processing.
Step-by-step instructions
Use this as a working checklist from preparation through submission.
Estimated fees
Standard Visitor Visa
Fee for a 6-month visa. Longer-term visas cost more.
Before submitting
Avoid rejected applications and wasted trips
Check these practical points before you pay fees, attend appointments, or hand over original documents.
Common mistakes
- Providing bank statements that show large, unexplained deposits immediately before applying.
- Booking non-refundable flights before the visa is approved.
- Failing to translate documents that are not in English or Welsh.
FAQ
Can I work in the UK on a Visitor visa?
No. You cannot do paid or unpaid work, although some specific business activities (like attending meetings) are allowed.
Is the application fee refundable if I am refused?
No, the visa fee is non-refundable regardless of the outcome.
Source and review
This guide has a recorded editorial review date. Requirements, fees, forms, and timelines can change. Use this guide as preparation support, then verify final details with the official source before submitting anything.