Standard Visitor Visa
United Kingdom Tourist Visa
Overview
The UK Standard Visitor Visa allows tourism, visiting family and friends, short-term study up to 6 months, and certain business activities. The application is entirely online with biometrics submitted at a UKVI Visa Application Centre. The UK is outside Schengen, so it requires a separate visa from the Schengen Zone.
Key Requirements
Documents Required
Application Process
Online Application
Complete the online visa application on the Gov.uk portal and pay the visa fee.
Biometrics Appointment
Enrol biometrics (fingerprints and photograph) at a UK Visa Application Centre near you.
Document Submission
Submit supporting documents at the VAC or upload online as directed.
Decision
UKVI processes the application. Standard: 3 weeks; Priority: 5 business days.
Passport Return
Your passport with visa vignette is returned by courier or for VAC collection.
Insider Tips
- 1Show at least 6 months of bank statements with consistent balance
- 2The UK and Schengen are separate — you need both if visiting both regions
- 3A valid US visa does not give entry to the UK
- 4GWF number from your application is used for all correspondence with UKVI
Frequently Asked Questions
Apply for UK Tourist Visa
Complete document review, expert guidance, and end-to-end support for your United Kingdom visit.
Visa Fee
Priority visa service available at GBP 250 additional charge for faster processing.