uk visit visa under 18

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• Child Visitor Visa UK

A UK Child Visitor visa, also known as a Standard Visitor visa allows children under the age of 18 to visit the UK for a short period of time (6 months).

To make a successful UK Child Visitor visa application, you must meet all the Standard Visitor visa requirements and submit all the supporting documents.

If you need legal advice or help with your UK Child Visitor visa application, our experienced immigration lawyer can provide you with the help you need.

Call Rex Law Chambers on 0161 989 9370 or fill in our enquiry form for immigration advice and help with your Standard Visitor visa application.

Table of Contents

What is a UK Child Visitor visa?

Requirements for a child visitor visa uk.

• Documents required for a UK Child Visitor visa

UK tourist visa processing time

Uk visitor visa fees, immigration lawyer for the uk tourist visa, frequently asked questions (faqs), need legal advice or help from an immigration lawyer.

A UK Child Visitor visa is a type of short-term visa that allows children under the age of 18 who live outside of the European Economic Area (EEA) and Switzerland to visit the UK for a maximum period of 6 months.

This visa is designed for children who want to travel to the UK for sightseeing, visit family and friends, study or receive medical treatment.

Please note that a Child Visitor visa does not allow the child to work or study for a course that is longer than 30 days or in a state-funded school. Additionally, the child cannot switch to another visa category from within the UK and must leave the UK at the end of their visit.

To apply for a Child Visitor visa in the UK, you need to meet the following requirements:

• Age: You must be under the age of 18 on the date you apply.
• Purpose of the visit: You must be visiting the UK for a maximum of 6 months for a specific reason such as studying, taking a holiday or receiving medical treatment.
• Length of stay: The maximum length of stay is up to 6 months.
• Financial support: You must have enough money to support yourself during your stay in the UK.
• Accommodation:  You must have suitable accommodation in the UK, with a responsible adult to take care of you.
• Parental consent: You must have permission from your parents or legal guardian to travel to the UK.
• Intention to return: You must show that you intend to leave the UK at the end of your visit.

There are additional requirements, depending on whether you will be travelling to the UK with an adult ('accompanied') or without an adult ('unaccompanied').

You must also meet all the other eligibility requirements depending on type of application and your personal circumstances. Please contact us for an initial assessment to determine your eligibility, and to discuss the options.

What documents are required for a UK Child Visitor visa?

To apply for a UK Standard Visitor Visa as a child (under 18), you will need to provide the following documents:

• A completed visa application form.
• A valid passport or travel document.
• Two recent passport-sized photographs.
• Your travel itinerary, including flight details.
• Proof of sufficient funds to support yourself during your visit.
• Evidence of accommodation arrangements in the UK.
• You must provide evidence that you have ties to your home country and that you plan to return after your visit to the UK.

This is a general list of documents. Depending on type of application and your personal circumstances, you might also need to provide additional documents. Please contact us for an initial assessment to determine your eligibility, and find out the required list of documents in support of your application.

The processing time for a UK Student Visitor visa can vary depending on the country where the application is made and the time of year.

Generally, the Home Office (UKVI) aims to process most visitor visa applications within 3 weeks . However, some applications may take longer to process, especially if they require additional administrative processing or if the applicant has a complex case.

Check the latest information about the UK visit visa application processing time on the GOV website.

The fee for a UK Visitor visa can vary depending on the type of visa and the length of stay. You can also find the latest UK visitor visa fees on the GOV website .

How much does a UK visitor visa application cost?

The cost of a UK Visitor visa application varies depending on the type of application you are applying for and lenght of the stay.

Here are some common costs associated with applying for a UK Visitor visa:

• £120 Standard Visitor visa application fee
• Immigration lawyer fees (if using legal services to boost your chances of success & avoid mistakes)

Please note that the above is a general list of costs associated with UK Visitors visa applications. There may be additional costs depending on your circumstances.

Immigration lawyer fees

Our expert UK immigration lawyer will guide you through every step of the UK Visitor visa application process including advice about legal requirements and eligibility criteria.

At Rex Law Chambers, our immigration lawyer charges a fixed fee between £800-£1000 for our complete legal services in relation to your Visitor visa application. The agreed fixed fee will depend on the complexity of the matter and the casework involved in the matter.

As part of our immigration services for your immigration application, our expert immigration lawyer will:

• advise you about eligibility criteria and the requirement;
• provide you with a comprehensive checklist of supporting documents;
• fill in and submit your Visitor visa application;
• check all the supporting documents;
• upload all the supporting documents online in their correct format and order;
• schedule your biometrics appointments;
• prepare a cover letter or letter of representation to support your application;
• dealing and responding to any enquiries or correspondence from the Home Office (UKVI);
• do all the follow-up work on your visa application until a decision is received from the Home Office (UKVI).

Contact our experienced and friendly immigration lawyer on 0161 989 9370 or fill in our enquiry form to get reliable & confidential immigration advice and legal assistance with a UK Visitor visa application or any other immigration matter.

Here are some commonly asked questions about UK visitor visas:

Can I switch from a visitor visa to another visa in the UK?

In most cases, it is not possible to switch from a UK Visitor visa to another type of visa from within the UK. The UK government's immigration rules state that visitors are not allowed to switch to another immigration category from within the UK unless they have specifically been granted permission to do so.

How much bank balance required for UK visitor visa?

There is no specific minimum bank balance required for a UK Visitor visa. However, applicants are required to provide evidence of their financial status and ability to support themselves during their stay in the UK.

The amount of money required can vary depending on the purpose and length of the visit, as well as the applicant's personal circumstances.

As a general guideline, applicants should have enough funds to cover their travel and accommodation expenses, as well as their daily living expenses during their stay in the UK.

Do you need a lawyer to apply for UK Visitor visa?

UK Immigration law is an extremely fast-changing and complex area of law. There are high chances of getting a visa refusal if you are not fully aware of relevant immigration law(s) and eligibility criteria.

Most of the applicants seek professional legal help with their UK Standard Visitor visa applications from highly experienced immigration lawyers to boost their chances of success. A well-prepared application can significantly increase your chances of success.

Call us on 0161 989 9370 or fill in the enquiry form to get legal advice or help with your UK visa application. Our UK immigration lawyer is ready to assist you.

At Rex Law Chambers, we specialise in a wide range of UK visas and nationality applications and our principal immigration lawyer has a wealth of experience and expert knowledge to deal with all types of UK visas and immigration applications. He has successfully handled many complex and high-profile cases and also represented clients in their immigration matters.

Free immigration advice online

Our immigration lawyer can provide one-off FREE general legal advice online via live chat or through the enquiry form . The FREE advice does not cover the advice in relation to complex legal issues or advice about documents to be submitted in support of the application.

If you would like to get detailed immigration advice then please schedule an in-person , Zoom , or phone consultation by using our appointment request form .

Need help with an immigration matter?

If you need legal advice or help with your UK  visa application, contact our immigration lawyer today.

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Child Visitor Visa UK

By Amar Ali, Immigration Solicitor

The UK child visitor visa (part of the UK Standard Visitor visa route) is for overseas nationals under the age of 18 who wish to visit the UK for up to 6 months. This visa enables holders to spend time in the UK on holiday, visit friends and/or family, attend a recreational course, receive private medical care, or do a short course of study.

Not everyone needs a visitor visa to come to the UK. Therefore, it is important to check if you (or your child) require a visitor visa before applying 1 . UK child visitor visa holders can travel with or without an accompanying adult. However, the child visitor visa eligibility requirements do vary slightly, depending on whether the child is travelling with an adult or alone, as will explain in this article.

It may be possible to stay for longer than 6 months, but only if receiving medical treatment. See our UK medical visa article for more information. For stays of longer than 6 months, other visa options are available, including the UK student visa, UK child (family) visa, and child dependent visa .

UK Visitor Visa requirements for a child

To qualify for a child visitor visa as a person under the age of 18, applicants must:

• Intend to come to the UK for up to 6 months and leave at the end of their stay
• Have suitable arrangements in place for their travel and stay while in the UK
• Have sufficient funds to pay for their return or onward journey
• Have sufficient funds to support themselves while in the UK without the need to work, seek help from public funds, or have family and friends that can provide this support

Child visitor visa applicants will also need to meet additional requirements depending on whether they are coming to the UK with an adult or alone, as follows:

Child travelling alone to the UK

Children travelling alone to the UK without an adult (i.e. a person over the age of 18) must have written consent from their parent or guardian to travel to the UK unaccompanied. The applicant’s parent or guardian must also provide:

• Their full contact details
• The address where the applicant will be staying
• The name, contact details, and date of birth of the person the applicant will be staying with in the UK
• Details of the relationship between the applicant and the person they will be staying with in the UK, and
• Written consent for the applicant to stay with that individual in the UK

The rules also state that if the person the child will be staying with in the UK is not a close relative, the parent, guardian or school of the applicant must inform the relevant UK local authority about the visit if the applicant:

• Is under 16 or under 18 and they have a disability, and
• Is going to be looked after for more than 28 days by someone who is not a close relative (i.e. private foster carer)

To prove that the relevant local authority has been informed, the application should include a letter of response from the local authority.

Please note the same rules that apply to children travelling alone also apply to those coming to the UK for an educational exchange visit of more than 28 days. This does not apply, however, if the child is part of a group that will be travelling and staying together whilst in the UK (e.g. in the case of a school group travelling to the UK) or if they will be accompanied in the UK by an adult (e.g. a teacher).

It is also important to note that the rules for unaccompanied children coming to the UK on a visitor visa are different for those travelling to Scotland and Northern Ireland 2 .

Child travelling with an adult to the UK

If the child is travelling with an adult to the UK, the child’s visitor visa application will still need to include a letter of consent confirming that their parent or guardian is happy with their travel and accommodation arrangements. It is important to note that even if the child does not require a child visitor visa to come to the UK, evidence of this consent will still be needed on arrival in the UK.

If the child is travelling to the UK with an adult who is not their parent, details of that individual must be provided in the child visitor visa application. It is possible to provide the name of up to 2 adults whose names will then appear on the child visitor visa. The child visitor visa UK guidance notes state that the accompanying adult/s can apply for their visa at the same time as the child, but this must be a separate application. In addition, where the child visitor visa holder arrives at the UK border without a person named on their visa, they must show a letter of consent from their parent or guardian agreeing to their travel and accommodation arrangements.

UK Child Visitor Visa Application Process

The process of applying for a UK child visitor visa can be completed online as follows:

• Check if a child visitor visa is needed before applying using the Home Office online visa checking service 3
• Complete and submit the online UK child visitor visa application form 4 - you can apply up to 3 months before you travel to the UK
• Pay the child visitor visa UK fee of £100
• Book and attend an appointment at your nearest UK visa application centre (to have your photo taken and fingerprints scanned, i.e. your biometrics)
• Upload any UK child visitor visa documents required to support the application

The information and documents you need to provide with the child visitor visa application may include:

• Date of arrival in the UK
• Accommodation address in the UK
• Letter of consent from parents agreeing to travel and accommodation arrangements
• Estimated costs while in the UK
• Current home address and duration of residence there
• Name and date of birth of parent/s
• Details of any criminal, civil or immigration offences
• Name, address and passport number of family members in the UK

In most cases, you can expect a decision on a child visitor visa within 3 weeks. If you need a faster decision, you may be able to pay an extra fee to use the priority processing service, depending on which country you are coming from.

How can Reiss Edwards help?

Reiss Edwards specialises in all aspects of UK visitor visa applications, including child visitor visas. Our immigration solicitors can:

• Prepare and submit your child’s visitor visa application on your behalf
• Advise on a range of questions (e.g. can a child go to school on a visitor visa?)
• Explain the long-term visa options available for stays of longer than 6 months
• Handle the extension of your visitor visa if you are in the UK receiving medical treatment
• Handle any queries raised by UKVI on your behalf, and a refusal of a child visitor visa application

For assistance with any aspect of applying for a child visitor visa, please speak to our immigration lawyers for a free telephone consultation on 020 3744 2797 or by email at [email protected] .

1 GOV.UK: Home Office visa online checking services

2 GOV.UK: Visit guidance

3 GOV.UK: Home Office visa online checking services

4 GOV.UK: Online child visitor visa application form

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UK Visa Information for Under 18's

An overseas person, who wants to move to the UK with children under 18, overseas UK residents who want their children to join them, or a student who wants to or already is studying in an institute in the UK, must read this ‘UK visa information for children under 18’s’ to get their visa.

Note: VisaLobby monitors the information released by United Kingdom Border Agency and regularly updates information on changes to the visa & immigration system and newly introduced visa options.

Under 18's Visa for the UK

A person under the age of 18 before the date of application for a visa is classified as a child. There are various types of United Kingdom visas for children, as further discussed in ‘UK visa information for children under 18’s’ providing the mandatory details about them. These visas are:

• Child family visa
• Child dependent visa
• Child visit visa
• Child study visa

UK Under 18’s Visa Requirements

General requirements for a UK visa for children under 18’s include the basic evidence to prove the age of the children requiring the visa and their relationship with parents (if children are accompanying their parents or going to join any of the parents residing in the UK. But if the child is travelling alone or with a person other than the parents, or travelling on a child study visa , there will be a need for written consent from the parents.

Also, the financial requirements should be satisfied. In the case of a child visit visa, child family visa and child dependent visa, parents have to provide evidence about their financial resources to prove that they can financially support the child.

Child Family Visa for the UK

A child family visa for the UK is the visa that allows the dependent children and the primary visa applicant to apply for entry to the UK, provided they meet the eligibility criteria.

Requirements for child family visa for the UK

• The child must be under 18 at the time of application 
• The child must not be married
• Applicants shouldn't have an independent family
• Applicants shouldn't be financially independent

Child Student Visa for the UK

A child student visa is for those who are between 4 and 17 years of age and are studying at a school/ universty in the UK . When we go into detailed information about eligibility criteria, it suggests that although children aged between 16 to 17 can apply for a child student visa , yet they will need sponsorship from a registered sponsor.

Requirements for a child student visa for the UK

• Proofs of parents/guardians' consent to study in the UK
• A child should meet the financial requirements 
• Proofs of ability to read, write, understand, and speak English 
• At the time of application, the child must be under 

Child Visit Visa for the UK

This UK visa allows a child under 18’s to visit the parent in the UK or to accompany one parent to visit the partner in the UK.

Requirements for child visit visa for the UK

• While applying for this visa, a child must be under 18 
• With a child visit visa, children can visit the parent even if the accompanying parent is having a different type of visa. 
• If children have written consent from parents, and all the care and reception arrangements are taken care of, they can visit with another adult or can visit alone.

Child Dependent Visa for the UK

Child dependent visa is a derivative visa that allows the dependent children of a primary applicant, meeting the eligibility criteria, to apply for entry clearance. A parent can be an overseas national or going to the UK or already living in the UK.

Requirements for a child dependent visa for the UK

• Evidence to satisfy that children are less than 18 years old at the time of application
• Evidence to prove the relationship with parents
• Financial evidence of parents to prove that they will take all financial responsibilities of the child

The Application Process for Under 18’s UK Visa 

Here is complete visa information to guide you about the application process for an under 18’s child visa for the UK. It starts with filling out an application form either online or physically.

General Eligibility Criteria for UK child visas

• The child must be under 18 while applying
• Parent as an applicant should be married or have a civil partnership
• The child must be dependent on the parents 
• Applicant must be financially independent
• Proofs of proper residential requirements for a child in the UK must be provided 
• For a child study visa, English language skills must be proficient

Required documents for the UK under 18’s visa 

• Passport of an applicant with an empty page to affix the visa
• Two fresh photographs were taken at the application centre
• Proofs of applicant and child’s age
• Proofs of sole responsibility of the child
• Evidence about residential requirements in the UK
• Sometimes, there may be a need for a DNA test
• Evidence of required English language skills
• Financial evidence 
• Proofs of the relationship with the other parent living in the UK

How to Apply for the UK Under 18’s Visa

After getting in-depth knowledge of 'UK visa information for under 18’s' , the application process gets too easy. First, you have to submit a visa application, and then the dues are paid.

After application and fee submission, the child will need to visit the overseas visa application centre to verify the biometric details. According to the route of application, the child may need to show the documents to satisfy the criteria.

Application processing time for the UK under 18’s visa

After application, the visa processing time may be reaching 8 to 12 weeks if you apply within the UK either by post or by the online route. In the case where you apply in person, you will get a response within a day. The application process can be delayed if you don't meet the requirements such as;

• Not meeting the financial criteria
• Not being able to prove English language skills if applying for a child study visa 
• Have any kind of criminal record
• There are some missing documents

So, all the above mentioned mistakes should be avoided during visa application and visa interview . Once the child visa application for the UK is approved, you will get a biometric residence permit. Applicants must apply for an extension before the date of visa expiry. For more visas, you can check  ‘ UK visa information  for under 18’s’  at our site.

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UK Visas for Under 18s - bringing your children to the UK

23 December 2022

If you are an overseas national looking to move to the UK and would like your dependent children to accompany you, or you are already living in the UK and would like your children to join you once you are settled and have set up home, they will usually need a visa to do so.

There are various UK visa under 18 options, although these can differ in terms of what each option allows, who is eligible and the criteria that must be met. The following guide looks at the rules and requirements when applying for a ‘Child Visa UK’, helping the parents of overseas dependent children to navigate the application process on their behalf.

What is the Child Dependant Visa UK?

When it comes to obtaining a ‘Child Visa UK’ for the dependent child of an overseas national, the Child Dependant Visa is the ideal option if you are working or studying in the UK and would like your child to accompany or follow to join you in the UK on the same immigration route. You can submit an application on their behalf when applying for your own visa from outside the UK, or separately at a later date once you are already in the UK.

The Child Dependant Visa UK is a derivative visa that will allow the dependent child of a primary applicant or principal visa-holder to apply for entry clearance, provided they meet the eligibility requirements. This will cover a scenario where you, as an overseas national, are looking to come to the UK or are already living in the UK on one of a number of different immigration routes, including: the Skilled Worker, High Potential Individual, Global Talent, Start-up, Innovator, Temporary Work, Global Business Mobility or Student routes.

The Child Dependant Visa is a temporary visa and will reflect the length of leave granted to you as the principal visa-holder. This means that if your child’s application is successful, their visa will normally end on the same date as yours, and their grant of leave can also be extended at the same time if you continue to qualify under the relevant route.

Child Dependant Visa requirements

A dependent child is a child under the age of 18, and if your child is over 16, they must not be leading an independent life. This means that they must normally live with you, unless they are in full-time education at either boarding school, college or university, and they must be financially supported by you. They must also not be married, in a civil partnership or have any children of their own to be able to qualify.

The eligibility criteria can vary here, depending on the immigration route under which leave is sought. However, in all instances, you will need to provide evidence on your child’s behalf to show that they satisfy the relationship requirement, such as their birth certificate, as well as a financial requirement. For example, under the Skilled Worker route, you will need to provide evidence of £315 for one child and £200 for each additional child. This is on top of the £1270 that you will need to show that you can support yourself when applying at the same time, plus £285 for any dependent partner.

What is the Child Family Visa UK?

The Child Family Visa UK will be the appropriate visa if you would like your child to accompany or follow to join you in the UK and you are the partner of either a British or Irish citizen, a person with indefinite leave to remain, someone with settled status or proof of permanent residence, or in the UK with refugee status or humanitarian protection.

The Child Family Visa UK is a visa that will allow the dependent child of a primary applicant or principal visa-holder to apply for entry clearance, provided they meet the eligibility requirements. This is where you are the partner of someone settled in the UK, and applying at the same time as your child or have already applied and been granted leave.

As with a Child Dependant Visa UK, a Child Family Visa will last until your own visa ends, even if your child’s visa starts later than yours. A visa for the partner of someone settled in the UK will usually be granted for 2 years and 9 months, although leave can again be extended at the same time that you make your own renewal application. This will also provide a clear path to settlement to be able to stay in the UK on a permanent basis.

Child Family Visa requirements

Your child must be aged under 18 at the date of application. They must not be married or in a civil partnership, and they must not have formed an independent family unit or be leading an independent life. They must also be financially supported by you.

For your child to be eligible for entry clearance on a Family Visa UK, you must be applying or already have leave as the partner of someone settled in the UK. However, your child does not need to be the biological child of that person, but you must instead have sole responsibility for the child’s upbringing, or there must be compelling compassionate circumstances which would make excluding them from the UK undesirable. You and your partner must also be able to show that there is adequate maintenance and accommodation for your child without recourse to public funds, including a combined gross income of £18,600, plus £3,800 for your first child and £2,400 for each additional child.

What is the Child Student Visa UK?

The  Child Student Visa UK  will allow your child to apply for a visa in their own right, rather than seeking permission dependent on your own grant of leave. However, your child will still need your consent as their parent or guardian. You will also need to be in a position to pay for their school fees, as this is not a route that will enable your child to attend a state school.

The Child Student Visa UK is a visa that will allow a child aged between 4 and 17 years old to apply for visa in their own right, provided they will be studying at a private or independent school in the UK. Alternatively, a child aged 16 or 17 can apply for a Student Visa, although they will need to be sponsored by a licensed student sponsor.

A Child Student Visa is again a temporary visa, but will allow your child to come to the UK to study at an independent school for a number of years. How long they can stay will depend on their age and the length of the course. For children under 16, leave will be granted for courses up to 6 years, and for children over 16 but under 18, leave will be for the course length, up to 3 years. In all cases, an additional 4 month period will be added on top. For a Student Visa, your child will usually be able to stay in the UK for up to 2 years.

Child Student Visa requirements

For a Child Student Visa, your child must be aged between 4 and 17, whereas for a Student Visa they must be either 16 or 17 to qualify. In both cases, they will also need written proof of your consent, as their parent or guardian, to study in the UK.

To be eligible for a Child Student Visa UK, your child must have an unconditional offer of a place on a course at an independent school. They must also be able to show that they will have access to enough money to support themselves in the UK and pay for their course fees. For a Student Visa, your child must have been offered a place on a course by a licensed student sponsor and have the funds to support themselves and pay for their course. They must also be able to read, write, speak and understand English.

What is the Child Visit Visa UK?

If your child does not qualify for any of the other visa options, or you would simply like your child to visit you in the UK for up to 6 months, an application can be made for a Child Visit Visa. With the right paperwork, they may even be able to travel unaccompanied to visit you.

A Child Visit Visa is a visa that will enable a child to visit a parent in the UK, or to accompany a parent to visit their other parent, or their parent’s partner, in the UK.

A Child Visit Visa will enable your child to accompany you to the UK or visit you if you are already there, for a period of up to 6 months. They may apply for a single entry visa, or a visa with 2, 5 or 10 years validity, although each stay in the UK must not exceed the permitted length of stay of 6 months. In some cases, depending on your child’s nationality, they may not need to apply for a visa in advance, although they must still satisfy immigration officials on arrival in the UK of the purpose of their visit.

Child Visit Visa requirements

A child under the age of 18 can travel with you to the UK on a Child Visit Visa, even if you are travelling under a different type of visa. They can also travel with another adult, or even travel unaccompanied, provided they have your written consent and contact details, and suitable care and reception arrangements have been put in place.

There is no relationship requirement for a Child Visit Visa, although your child will still need to show that they are coming to the UK for a family visit. They will also need to show that they have sufficient funds to be able to support themselves during their stay, either independently or with your help, and can afford to pay for their return or onward journey. To be granted a Visit Visa, it must be clear that this will not be used by your child to live in the UK for lengthy periods through frequent or successive visits, and that they do not intend to make the UK their main home and will leave at the end of their stay.

How do you apply for a Child Visa UK?

When applying for a ‘Child Visa UK’ on behalf of your child, depending on the type of visa, you can apply at the same time as your own application or separately at a later date. The application may even be for a visa in your child’s own right. However, in all cases, you or your child will need to submit an online application for them and pay the relevant  fee .

The fees for a ‘Child Visa UK’ can vary quite significantly, so you should always check first before applying. For example, the cost of applying for a Child Dependant Visa from outside the UK on the Skilled Worker route can be between £625 to £1,235, whereas the cost of an overseas application for a Child Family Visa is £1,538. In contrast, the fee when applying from overseas as a child student is £363, and the fee to visit a parent in the UK is just £100.

In some cases, there may also be an  Immigration Health Surcharge , payable at a rate of £470 for each year that your child will be living in the UK, to enable them to access the NHS.

Having submitted an application, and paid the relevant fees, your child may then be required to attend an overseas visa application centre to provide their biometric information. They will also need to provide any documentation in support, including a valid passport or other travel document, together with any proof to satisfy the criteria for their chosen route.

Need assistance?

DavidsonMorris specialises in  UK immigration . They help individuals with their UK immigration needs, and can guide and support you through any Home Office application process, including visas for under 18s. If you have a question about a child visa, please  contact us .

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United Kingdom - Travel & Tourist - Child Visitor Visa

Children under the age of 18 years can travel to the United Kingdom to visit friends and family who live in the UK. Applicants can either travel on their own or in the company of a designated guardian. Applicants in this category must prove to the UK Immigration Authorities that suitable arrangements have been made for their reception and care whilst in the UK and that they have a parent or guardian in their home country who is otherwise responsible for their care. CHILD VISITOR VISA BASIC REQUIREMENTS To qualify under the Child visa category, there are basic requirements which must be met. Applicants must be under the age of 18 years old and intending to visit the UK for a maximum of six (6) months. Applicants must be able to show that they will be accommodated and be financially supported (with the support of friends and family) during their stay in the UK. Applicants must also be able to meet the cost of their onward journey. Child Visitor visa holders travelling in the company of a responsible adult will be required to provide details of their chaperone at the time of lodging their application. If the visa is granted, the chaperone's details will be endorsed on the child's visa and must travel with their chaperone. CHILD VISITOR VISA ENTITLEMENTS This visa entitles holders to visit the UK for up to a maximum of six (6) months, allowing them to experience the life and culture in the UK . They may also be allowed multiple entries during the six (6) month period. Child Visitor visa holders are forbidden from taking up either paid or unpaid employment whilst in the UK.

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WhatPassport.com is a specialist UK Nationality and British Citizenship site offering an online search and assessment . Claims to hold a British Passport can be complex and the site offers a quick, simple search to give you the answers. While many people qualify for the UK Ancestry Visa based on holding a Commonwealth passport with a UK born grandmother or grandfather , we have found that if you have a grandparent born in the UK , or if your mother is British or your father is British , then there are several scenarios where you can claim British Nationality and the right to hold a British Passport. This stems from Britain’s collection of British Colonies , British Protectorates and British Protected States in the middle of last century and the Nationality rules concerning what are now the countries of the Commonwealth .

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Sable International offers a range of services relating to UK and Australian immigration. For over 20 years, we have been helping people with their UK and Australian visa applications. We assist with applications for Ancestry visa s, spouse visa s, work visas , Tier 1 visas , UK working holiday visa s, UK dependant visa s, Tier 4 visa s, UK Visitor visas , sponsorship visas or UK permanent residency or indefinite leave to remain . We also specialise in UK visa extensions . If you’ve overstayed your visa, our Overstayer Status Trace service can assist to regularise your visa status.

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UK Visitor Visa (Tourist Visa Advice!)

• Anne Morris
• 2 October 2022

IN THIS SECTION

There are many reasons why you might require a UK visitor visa to come to the UK, from seeing the sights to seeing friends or family.

If you’re from outside the European Economic Area (EEA) or Switzerland, the Standard Visitor Visa allows you to visit the UK, usually for a period of up to 6 months.

The UK Visitor visa requires an application to be made from outside the UK, which will be assessed to assess whether you meet the requirements under the visitor rules and qualify as a genuine visitor. You will need to provide supporting documents that prove you qualify for a visitor visa. Failure to show that you meet the visa requirements will result in a refusal and loss of your application fee.

What is a UK visitor visa?

The UK Standard Visitor visa replaced a number of previous categories of visitor visas. It allows visitors to come to Britain for a short stay for a number of permissible reasons, including leisure (for tourism, visiting family and friends), for  business-related activities or sporting or creative events, and other reasons such as receiving private medical treatment.

It is not possible to switch into a different visa category from the visitor visa once you are in the UK; you would need to return to your home country and apply from there for a different visa.

How long does a UK visitor visa last?

The visitor visa generally lasts for 6 months.

You can apply to stay longer if you’re coming to the UK for private medical treatment (up to 11 months) or you’re an academic on sabbatical and coming to the UK for research (up to 12 months) but you will also need to apply for a biometric residence permit.

Under the Approved Destination Status (ADS) agreement, Chinese nationals are allowed to enter the UK with an approved tour group for up to 30 days.

Long term visitor visa 

The long-term visitor visa may be available if you are looking to make frequent visits over a longer period, such as 2, 5 or even 10 years, however you can only stay in the UK for up to 6 months at a time.

What are the permitted activities for visitors?

The visitor rules specify activities that are allowed under the route. The following are permissible activities:

• Tourism, for example on a holiday
• Visit family or friends
• Volunteering for up to 30 days with a registered charity
• Transiting through the UK to travel to another country
• Certain business activities, for example attending a meeting or interview
• Taking part in a school exchange programme
• Undertake a recreational course of up to 30 days, for example a dance course
• Study, do a placement or take an exam – this cannot be the main purpose of the visit and is limited to a maximum of 30 days
• Visiting as an academic, senior doctor or dentist
• For medical reasons

You are not allowed to do the following under a visitor visa:

• Undertake paid or unpaid work for a UK company or as a self-employed person
• Claim benefits or access public funds
• Reside in the UK for long periods using frequent and/or successive visits
• Get married or register a civil partnership, or give notice of marriage or civil partnership (instead, apply for the  Marriage Visitor Visa )

It may be that the visitor visa is not appropriate and alternative immigration options will need to be considered. For example, the permitted paid engagement visa may apply if a UK company is paying you to come to the UK as an expert in your profession.

Visitors should also prepare to travel with supporting documents as they may be asked to present proof of eligibility by UK border officials.

UK visitor visa requirements

The visitor visa is limited in its eligibility. Your stay must generally be for no longer than 6 months and you have to leave the UK by the expiry date.

Your reason for travel will also be critical to your eligibility and it will be important that you understand what is allowed under the UK visitor visa to ensure you do not breach these conditions for the duration of your stay in the UK.

Applying for the UK visitor visa

Applicants must ensure they comply with the regulations and evidence their eligibility through the visa application process.

To apply for the UK visitor visa, you will need to be outside the UK. You complete the online application form and provide supporting documents to evidence your status as a genuine visitor. You will be required to attend an appointment at a visa appointment centre in your country of residence, where you will be interviewed about your application and your biometric information will be taken.

As part of your visa application you will need to prove to the caseworker that you will not be staying for more than 6 months and that you have enough money to maintain yourself (and any dependants travelling with you) during your time in the UK and to fund your return travel.

Supporting documents

Your circumstances will dictate the exact documents to provide with your application to support your case. As a minimum, you will need to verify your identity with your current passport or other valid travel identification, valid for the whole of your stay in the UK and with a blank page for the visa.

Additional supporting documents should also be provided to prove:

• Planned travel dates and itinerary including accommodation details
• Personal information such as home address and parents’ names
• Travel history (past 10 years)
• Work information such as your employer’s name and address
• Contact information of the people you will visit
• You have a genuine relationship with the person you are visiting
• Details of any convictions
• Intention to leave the UK on visa expiry. Evidence could include proof of a job or studies in your home country, or family living in your home country.
• Sufficient funds to support you and your dependants in the UK for the duration of your visit. This could be funded by you of the person you are visiting in the UK. You will not be allowed to access public funds. Proof should include recent bank statements and payslips. An estimate of the total cost of the trip should be provided, as well as details of your income.

Any documents not in English or Welsh must be provided as certified translations.

After completing the form, you will need to attend a visa application centre overseas to have your fingerprints and photograph taken.

Visitor visa processing times

Under normal Home Office processing standards , visitor visa applications from overseas usually takes around 3 weeks. However, ongoing delays in processing services mean visit visa applications are currently taking 6 weeks, and in some cases longer.

You can apply up to three months before your intended date of travel. Fast tracked processing within 5 working days is available in some visa application centres for a premium fee.

How much does a visitor visa cost?

Currently, the UK visitor visa costs £100 for the standard 6 month stay. If you are travelling for medical reasons, the cost is £200 for six months, or £200 for academic visitors .

Longer-term visit visas cost £376 for the 2-year visit visa, £670 for the 5-year visit visa or £837 for the 10-year visit visa.

Can you stay in the UK for longer than six months? 

Generally speaking, all Standard UK visitor visas are short-term visas with a six-month maximum stay cap. Immigration regulations also prevent you from getting around this restriction by utilising a guest visa or making many, frequent, or consecutive trips, although you are free to enter and exit the UK whenever you like while your visa is still in effect.

However, citizens of China, Pakistan, India, and other non-EEA nations can apply for a long-term visit visa in order to go to the UK. These are chargeable extras that can be reserved for terms of two, five, or 10 years.

Be aware that you are still limited to a single visit lasting no longer than six months with these visas. You may, however, enter and exit the UK more than once throughout the permitted time. If you know you’ll need to visit the UK repeatedly over the course of a set amount of time, applying for a long-term visitor visa in the UK is a terrific option.

Academic visits from outside the EEA and people seeking private medical care in the UK do have another option for a longer stay. The Biometric Residence Permit is what it is called (BRP). You will need to provide biometric data about yourself, including your fingerprints, a photo, your immigration status, and more, but doing so will extend your stay in the UK over six months. This procedure, called biometric enrolment, still necessitates the presentation of proof of adequate financial support for your stay.

Visitor visa application refused?

If your UK visitor visa application. has been refused, your options could include reapplying and making a new application; submitting an appeal, where the grounds are on human rights; applying for a Judicial Review of the decision.

Your options will depend on your specific circumstances. Take professional advice to decide what you should do next.

Need assistance?

Travellers to the UK should note that even with a valid visitor visa in place, you may still be questioned at the UK border by immigration officials, to verify that you are a genuine visitor and will comply with the visitor visa rules. Where officials are concerned that you may stay longer than your visa date, or if your activities are prohibited under the visitor rules, you may be denied entry.

As a team of immigration lawyers and former Home Office employees, we have an established reputation for advising on the most appropriate immigration route for your needs, and supporting you with effective and efficient processing of your visa application. We also understand the stresses involved with making a visa application, and take great pride in playing a supportive role to ease the pressure.  Contact us  for advice.

Visitor visa FAQs

How much funds are required for uk visitor visa.

You will need to show you have sufficient funds to cover the cost of tickets, travelling, living and accommodation expenses while you are in the UK.

What documents do I need for UK visitor visa?

Your visitor visa application will need to include your current passport or other valid travel identification, as well as other documents that prove you meet the visa requirements, such as your intention to leave the UK and that your planned activities come within the visitor visa permissible activities.

Last updated: 2 October 2022

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UK Standard Visa: Travel for those under 18

When you travel to the UK, you are given the unique experience of seeing one of the most incredible places in the world. Embedded into the world's history as one of the oldest countries, the UK is a country that serves as one of the most prominent world powers.

Some will need a visa to visit the UK. Generally, the standard visitor visa covers just about every type of visit including academics, business, tourism, etc.

In order for those under 18 to apply for the visa and travel alone, their legal guardians will need to give additional documentation to validate the trip: written consent, contact details, the name and date of birth of the person you will be staying with, address of where you will be staying, details of your relationship to the person who'll be looking after you. Your visa application will also need to indicate if you are traveling alone or with adults. Up to two adults can be put on your application. If you are a traveler under the age of 18, you must meet certain requirements: suitable arrangements for your travel and stay in the UK, consent from your parent or guardian, ability to pay for your return or onward journey, and proof of financial assets or help to support your stay.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What do i need to submit for an application if i am under the age of 18 and i am travelling alone.

When applicants under the age of 18 apply to travel alone, their legal guardians will need to provide the following on your visa application :

• Old travel documentation
• Proof of residence
• Proof of employment
• Proof of educational enrollment
• business registration documents
• Proof of intended business activities
• Birth Certificate
• A copy of your parent(s) or legal guardian's details page of their passport
• Written consent
• Contact details
• The name and date of birth of the person you will be staying with
• Address of where you will be staying
• Details of your relationship to the person who'll be looking after you

What is the max stay placed on this visa?

Currently, the United Kingdom limits a max stay of 180 days in Total for the standard visitor visa.

When Will My Standard Visitor Visa Expire?

Your visa will expire in 180 days after issued

How Long Does Processing Take for the application?

The speed at which your visa application will process will depend on the processing speed you choose:

• Standard: 30 days
• Rush: 30 days
• Super Rush: 30 days

How Much Does the Standard Visitor Visa Cost?

The cost of your visa will depend on the processing speed of your application:

• Standard: USD $331.99
• Rush: USD $332.99
• Super Rush: USD $336.99

Is Multiple Entry Allowed with the United Kingdom Standard Visitor Visa?

The current policy enforced by the UK allows Multiple Entry for the standard visitor visa.

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UK Visitor Visa

If you are a foreign national and you wish to spend some time in the UK as a tourist or to visit your family and your friends, you can apply for a Visitor Visa.

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Benefits of Choosing IAS For Your Visitor Visa Application

If you are planning to travel to the UK and require a visitor visa, then our immigration lawyers are on hand to provide advice and application assistance.

Whether this is your first application or you applied on your own before but were refused the visa, we can help.

No matter the reason why you plan to visit, the IAS range of expert services can help ensure your application is submitted quickly and to a high standard. Benefit from:

Tailored advice to ensure you are applying for the correct visa.

A personal immigration lawyer who can answer all queries.

Access to UK-specific knowledge of the immigration routes.

Confidence your application will be complete and comprehensive.

Services we Provide

Need help with an immigration issue? Book a one-to-one advice session with one of our legal caseworkers.

We can complete your visa application on your behalf, taking the stress and hassle out of the process.

Need to submit an application quickly? We can help you complete and send it off in as little as 24 hours.

Ensure you have the greatest chance of a successful appeal with our legal support and guidance.

Visitor Visa UK

If you’re looking to make a short term stay in the UK, then the standard visitor visa (UK) is likely the visa you’ll need to apply for. Visitor visas in the UK  allow you to travel for short term stays  of up to six months and can be used for leisure and business, among other reasons.

The visitor visa can act as a short term business visa, a tourist visa for UK holidays, an academic visit visa, a  marriage visitor visa  to get married or enter into civil partnership, and much more. If you’re coming to the UK for travel, tourism, leisure, short term business needs, or private medical treatment, then the standard visit visa (UK) will give you permission to come to the UK to do so.

If you need support with your visitor visa, you can contact our offices in  London ,  Manchester , or  Birmingham , or use our  office finder  to find your closest branch.

What Is The UK Standard Visitor Visa And Who Is It For?

• Leisure  – Are you a non-EEA national looking for a holiday visa? UK visas for international travellers can sometimes become confusing, but the standard visiting visa to UK territories will cover you for up to six months for any leisure purposes. Whether coming for a family visit, sightseeing, or general travel, your needs fall under the standard visa because it functions as a UK general visitor visa and UK tourist visa. To UK holidayers from non-EEA regions, the standard visitor visa is the path to take.
• Business  – If you need to enter the UK for  short term business  requirements such as conferences, events or business appointments, then the general visitor visa UK will allow you to travel to the UK to conduct your business here for a period of up to six months.
• Other reason  – The standard visitor visa can also allow you to travel to the UK if you are receiving private medical treatment, for instance.

If you’re not a citizen of either an EEA country or Switzerland, you may well need to go through  the online application form process on the gov.uk website in order to get a standard visa . UK visa eligibility can be confusing , however, and there are exceptions.

If you’re not sure whether you need the visitor visa for UK travel, we always recommend using  the Home Office website  to check.

What Documentation Do I Need To Prove My Eligibility For The Visitor Visa?

To prove your eligibility for the UK visitor visa, it’s important to  provide the Home Office with evidence of the general requirements for eligibility  as part of your UK visit visa requirements and application. As a non-EEA visa national, you’ll need to prove that:

• You have full intention to leave the UK at the end of your visit and do not plan to stay for longer than six months.
• You have evidence of any activities you intend to perform while in the UK, including business and other activities.
• You can afford your inward and outward journey including flights.
• You have access to sufficient funds in order to support and house yourself and any dependents throughout your stay without accessing public funds.

It’s one thing knowing what you need to prove, but it’s another thing understanding how to do so. Immigration rules are strict and the Home Office refuses a lot of visas on the basis of a lack of supporting evidence. Here  at IAS, it’s our job to support you in understanding what you need to do  to submit a successful application and how to go about it. Visit visa requirements for UK travel can be confusing, but we’re always on hand to provide guidance and assistance when you need it.

To have your visa approved, you’ll need to  give details about your current and previous passport numbers or an alternative valid travel identification . Remember, however, that any documentation needs to be accompanied with a certified translation if it isn’t in English or Welsh. Additional documents you might need to provide includes:

• Travel documents that detail the dates on which you plan to travel.
• An immigration record and history of international travel. Visa UK laws require a lot of information to be provided.
• An estimate for the cost of your visit as well proof of sufficient funds such as bank statements.
• Your overseas contact details and address.
• Details of any overseas employer company for which you are travelling to the UK.

The list continues, and the truth is that there’s no limit to the amount of supporting evidence that can help prove your eligibility and support your case. If you feel a little overwhelmed and want some support in putting your application together,  get in touch with the team here at IAS . Our immigration lawyers are well-experienced and fully-qualified – no one is better placed to help guide you to visa approval.

How Long Should I Expect The Visa Processing Time To Take?

When planning a trip, it’s important to know what kind of timeframe you can work from. Whether you’re travelling to the UK for business or tourism from somewhere like North America, Asia, Australia, the Middle East or Africa, you want to know that your plans aren’t going to be held up while you wait for permission to travel.

You can submit your visa application to the Home Office between three months and 48 hours before you plan to travel.

However,  the visa processing time can take often take up to three weeks  for applicants outside the EEA and Switzerland. You can  take steps to track the application processing period  and view your UK visa processing status as it changes. It can be a huge relief to be able to frequently  check your visa status . UK processing times are generally quick, but it’s good to keep on top of the ways things progress.

Whether you’re applying from a local visa centre or embassy, or applying via the online forms, you might find yourself in a situation where you need to have your visa approved as soon as possible.

If you’re travelling to the UK for an urgent appointment that you can’t afford to miss, you might want to choose  one of the Home Office’s priority services: the Priority Service and the Super Priority Service . These ensure that your application is processed within five working days and 24 hours respectively.

These services come at an extra cost but are fantastic for making sure you get your visa decision delivered within a shorter timeframe. Not all countries offer these services, however, so it’s worth checking at a local visa application centre first.

If you need to visit the UK for business or tourism as soon as possible and you’re struggling to put together your business or tourist visa UK application, the team here at IAS are on to help out.

Our qualified immigration lawyers can offer you  a fantastic fast track application package with which they will make sure that your application gets submitted and processed as soon as possible  with the best chance of success. This includes booking a Home Office Same-Day Premium slot for you, checking your required documentation, writing a Letter of Representation to the Home Office, and more. Just get in touch with us today to find out more about how we can help.

Can I Stay In The UK For Longer Than Six Months?

As a general rule, all Standard UK visitor visas are short term visas limiting the holder to a maximum stay of six months. Immigration rules also prevent you from bypassing this restriction by using the visitor visa or frequent or successive visits, but you are free to enter and leave the UK at will during the time that your visa is valid.

For visitors from the United States, China, Pakistan, India, and other non-EEA countries can, however, apply for a long-term visit visa for UK travel. These are available at an extra cost and can be held for a duration of two years, five years or ten years.

Beware that these visas still restrict you to a maximum single visit of six months or less. However, you can enter and leave the UK multiple times within the allotted time period. A long term visitor visa UK is a great route to take if you know that you’ll need to return to the UK multiple times within a certain period of time.

Non-EEA academic visitors and those receiving private medical treatment in the UK do have access to another solution for a longer-term stay. This is called the  Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) . This will mean having to submit biometric information about yourself such as your personal details, fingerprints,  a photo, your immigration status and more, but will allow you to stay in the UK for longer than six months.  This process is known as biometric enrolment  and still requires you to prove evidence of sufficient financial support for your stay.

How Much Does A Visitors Visa UK Cost?

Before beginning a visa application, you want to know how much it’s going to cost for your visitor visa. To UK travellers from non-EEA countries, visa fees can vary. But the standard UK visitor visa costs are the same – £100. However, if you’re planning on staying for longer than 6 months, it might be that you’re applying for a long-term standard visa, in which case there are different costs involved:

• 2-Year Visa – £376
• 5-Year Visa – £670
• 10-Year Visa – £837

International travelling can be costly as it is – you don’t want to overlook planning for the correct visa fees and finding yourself caught out when it comes time to submit your application.

Here at the Immigration Advice Service, we often see applicants frustrated by visa costs – if you’re visiting the UK for a family wedding, holiday, or other short term stays, then costs can begin to pile up.

The gov.uk website has  a fantastic tool with which you can check the correct visa fees  for your journey before applying, and we always recommend that applicants make use of this.

Appealing UK Visitor Visa refusal

There are a number of available options when it comes to a Visitor Visa refusal. These options are outlined in detail below:

• Re-apply for your visa with a new application
• Submit a request for an appeal (only possible on human rights grounds)
• Apply for a judicial review

The advantages of each option is explained in this table:

Every immigration case is different, and it is recommended that you work with an immigration adviser to ensure that your case is given the appropriate attention, and all your circumstances considered.

For expert support and advice with your UK Visitor Visa refusal case, contact our specialist advisers today.

The Standard Visitor Visa Category Covers A Range Of Other Visas

The visitor visa allows foreign nationals subject to UK immigration laws to enter the country for a short period for a range of different reasons. This is because the standard UK visit visa covers a range of other types of visas for UK travel and various sub-categories of visas, including:

• Family Visit Visa  – For non-EEA nationals wanting to travel to the UK for a family visit, it’s necessary to apply for the UK family visitor visa category. As standard, this visa allows you to stay in the UK for up to six months to see family. When  visiting the UK under the family visit visa , you aren’t permitted to work or claim public funds while here. You also can’t bring dependents with you, meaning that if you’re planning on travelling with other family members, you’ll need to make sure that each travelling family member has a valid family visit visa UK.

It’s also the case that UK family visit visas are difficult to obtain compared to other types of UK visa. For foreign nationals subject to UK immigration laws, family visas have very strict requirements and a challenging application process. You’ll need to prove that you have sufficient funds to support yourself throughout the duration of your stay, as well as provide proof that you fully intend on returning home at the end of your maximum six months stay. The family visitor visa (UK) requirements are difficult to meet, but our OISC-regulated immigration lawyers can help you to make sense of the process.

• Child Visitor Visa  – Any non-EEA national under the age of 18 needs to  apply for a child visitor visa before travelling to the UK . This is another visa that falls under the standard visitor visa category and is required for any under-18 with UK travel plans. Whether travelling to visit family or friends, as part of an exchange programme, or for education, the child visitor visa covers you for up to six months of UK travel. Visa applications for child visas need to be thorough.

Whether the application is being made by the child or the parent, it’s necessary to prove that the under-18 will have the necessary suitable accommodation and care during their stay. This might include proving they have sufficient funds and travel plans as part of the application. You also need to prove that the minor has a recognised parent or guardian who is responsible for their care in their home country.

• Business Visitor Visa  – It’s important not to confuse the business visitor visa with other UK work and business visas such as the  investor visa , the  skilled worker visa , or the  tier 1 entrepreneur visa , for instance. If you don’t understand the differences between these visas, you could find yourself caught out with a valid visa that doesn’t actually allow you to do what you want when travelling to the UK. Visa visitors can often find themselves applying for the wrong visa. For example,  the business visitor visa  is quite limiting in that it only allows you to visit the UK on a short term basis – up to six months – and there’s a limited list of specific business activities you can perform while here.

For example, with a business visitor visa,  you can attend conferences and training, complete academic work, participate in some sporting events, negotiate and sign deals and contracts, and carry out inspections, among other functions . However, you can’t do any paid work or access public funds while in the UK. You’re eligible for the business visitor visa regardless of whether you are working for an employer or self-employed.

• Student Visitor Visa  – If you’re a visiting UK visa national hoping to study on a short term basis, you’ll need to apply for the student visitor visa. Also known as the  short-term study visa , this is a type of UK visa that allows you to travel to the UK to study for no longer than six months.

This isn’t to be confused with the  student visa , which allows foreign nationals to study in the UK for periods of more than six months but is instead measured on a points-based system.

Essentially, if you or the applicant plans to travel and study at a UK institution for an undergraduate degree or other long term course, the student visitor visa won’t cover your needs.

If, however, you’re an international student planning on studying for a maximum period of six months for a short term qualification, then this is the visa you need to apply for.

• Visitor In Transit Visa  – If you’re travelling to the UK as part of a ‘stopover flight’, we recommend checking your visa requirements by visiting the website of the UK Home Office. Visitor visas for travellers in transit work a little differently.

If you’re stopping in the UK for up to 48 hours before flying somewhere else, you’ll need to prove to immigration authorities both your right to stay in the UK for this time and your intention to leave. For this type of visa, UK immigration laws require you to provide travel documents and proof of your journey plans.

This kind of travel is known as ‘transiting land-side’, and falls under the UK transit visa category of the standard visitor visa. You’ll need this visa if you’re planning on passing through immigration control before leaving the UK within 48 hours.

When it comes to transit visas, UK immigration laws take into account a range of different factors.

Depending on your nationality, your airline, and the nature of your stay (whether airside or landside transit), your UK visa requirements can vary.

If you arrive in the UK for transit without permission, you risk being denied entry by an immigration officer.

Get in touch with our team of UK immigration specialists to find out how we can help you and your family.

Our UK Visitor Visa Services

Advice package.

Need some help to decide how to proceed with your visa application? UK’s immigration control is strict, and understanding which visa is right for you and how to apply can be a confusing process. Here at Immigration Advice Service, our qualified and experienced immigration lawyers can provide you with the  information and advice  you need to add clarity to your decision. We’ll support you in making an informed decision about your visa and help you to better understand your immigration status.

When you choose our advice package, you’ll be invited for a one-on-one Advice Session. This can take place either via Skype, phone or in person – we have immigration law offices across the nation.  Our immigration lawyers are fully qualified and OISC-regulated , so you can rest assured that you’re in good hands when you choose IAS. During your Advice Session, your assigned immigration lawyer will listen in detail to all the different aspects of your situation. They’ll ask plenty of questions until they have a comprehensive picture of your immigration matter. Then, they’ll be in a position to offer you the advice you need.

Our immigration lawyers will help you to understand the various specific visa categories and can provide you with a path of further steps to take in your visa application. It may be that for your UK visitor visa application to be successful, you need to provide supporting documents such as travel documents, birth certificates, employment contracts, and even bank statements. Applications are often about being able to prove your intent and ability to abide by UK immigration laws. Our lawyers will advise you on which additional documents can help increase your application’s chances of success.

You’ll benefit from an untimed Advice Session that addresses all of your visa needs. Want a chance to talk in detail about your case and receive detailed information in return about how to proceed? Our advice package is the service for you:

• Discuss your case in detail  with a qualified professional who will explore the different paths and opportunities to fulfil your visa requirements.
• Get a clear picture of which specific visa categories are applicable to you , your eligibility requirements, and what requirements you need to meet for a successful visitor visa application.
• Receive comprehensive advice  about the right supplementary evidence and other supporting documents you’ll need to give your application an improved chance of approval.
• Find out what kind of time frame you can expect  moving forward.
• Benefit from support that lasts  beyond the session itself. For a week after your consultation, your immigration lawyer will be free to answer any follow-up questions you might have. We’re here to support you – that’s why we offer this at no extra cost to you.

Application Package

Having a visa successfully approved is rarely as easy as just filling in a short online application form or even visiting a local visa application centre. Applying to the UK Home Office can be a long and complicated process. You don’t want to spend a lot of time putting together an application, only to find that you’ve been unsuccessful – especially if it could have been easily avoided. That’s why so many people end up having to seek professional advice and help when attempting to travel to the UK from a non-EEA nation.

If you want to relieve some of the burden of the extensive process that a UK visitor visa application entails, we offer a package that’s specially tailored to offer you the assistance you need. We can help you to complete and strengthen your application by making sure that you’ve got all the supporting documents and evidence that you might need. For foreign nationality citizens travelling to the UK for tourism and business, it can be easy to overlook something and find yourself refused entry.

When you choose our application package, you’ll benefit from  comprehensive assistance in completing your visitor visa application . We’ll assign you a dedicated caseworker for advice and assistance throughout the process.

You’ll benefit from a thorough consultation and further guidance regarding visa application fees, eligibility requirements, evidence collation, and more. Your caseworker will then assist you in preparing and submitting your application. They’ll support you throughout the entire process, monitoring and keeping you informed as things progress.

Our expert immigration lawyers will help to:

• Evaluate your individual case and eligibility  before proceeding with the visa application. There are a lot of categories of the standard visitor visa – you don’t want to waste your time applying for a visa that doesn’t apply to you.
• Put together a plan of action for a successful application . Our immigration lawyers are fully-qualified and experienced professionals – no-one is better placed to accurately identify everything you’ll need to qualify for your visa.
• Assist you in compiling a comprehensive portfolio  of supporting documents and evidence that proves your intent and eligibility. The vast majority of unsuccessful visa applications are at fault for a lack of evidence. We’ll make your case as watertight as possible.
• Support your application with a Letter of Representation  to the Home Office. Your dedicated caseworker will write a thorough letter that emphasises your eligibility and strengthens your application
• Complete the paperwork . Visa applications can be complicated to put together. Fortunately, your dedicated caseworker has done all this before. They know exactly what needs to be done and will help you finish and submit all the necessary forms to the Home Office.

Fast Track Package

You might be applying for a UK visitor visa for a number of different reasons. You may be travelling to the UK to attend a family wedding, a graduation ceremony, an important business conference, a private medical appointment, or something else that you can’t afford to miss. The fact is that visa applications can sometimes take a long time to put together and submit,  only for you to have to wait even longer for a decision after the visa processing time . Here at the Immigration Advice Service, we understand that you might not have that time to spare.

That’s why our immigration lawyers are here to help you get your application submitted and approved as quickly as possible. If you can’t afford to spend months waiting for your visa because of a deadline or important fixed appointment in the UK, you might be understandably anxious about getting things done as quickly as possible.  That’s what our premium fast track application package service is for  – we’ll work tirelessly to make sure urgent applications get over the line so that you can have one less thing to worry about. We’re here to help you meet your deadline.

Using our fast track application package means you can rest easy knowing that your visa application is at the top of our immigration lawyers’ priorities.  We have a fantastic track record of processing and pushing through applications  – sometimes in as little as 24 hours when people use the service. Visa processing time can be lengthy, but we’ll make sure that you get fast and effective service. We’ll get any general visitor visa UK applications submitted in as few working days as possible.

When you choose our fast track package, we’ll work to get things moving for you as quickly as possible. One of our expert immigration lawyers will get in touch and arrange a one-on-one untimed advice session as soon as is convenient to you. We’ll also help to:

• Put together your application as fast as possible . We’ll make sure that your application is as thorough and complete as it can be before being submitted. All of your supporting documents will be checked and compiled quickly and efficiently.
• Book one of the Home Office’s Same-Day Premium Service slots . Our fast track package means that we’ll go above and beyond to get your application submitted and checked. Booking a Same-Day Premium slot with the Home Office ensures that you’ll get a decision on your visa in fewer working days than normal.
• Assist you in the completion of your visa application . Doing things quickly doesn’t mean we’re going to compromise on quality. The fact is that it doesn’t matter how fast you put together and submit your UK visitor visa application if it’s not going to get approved. If you’re applying for a UK visitor visa because you need to travel to the UK from a non-EEA country for something important and time-sensitive, the last thing you need is for your visa to be denied. We’ll make sure your application meets the highest standards.
• Write a Letter of Representation to support your case  and boost your application’s chances of success. Our immigration lawyers are experts with plenty of experience under their belt. They know exactly how to write a supporting letter that emphasises the merits of urgent applications to the Home Office.

Appeal Package

As frustrating as it may be, the fact is that rejections for UK general visitor visas are very common. UK immigration laws are strict and getting stricter, and the Home Office will often deny travel to the UK for weak applications that lack the right supporting documents and evidence.  UK visitor visa applications require a lot of evidence , and it’s easy to slip up and leave important information either absent or incorrect. However, if you’re intending on travelling to the UK either for business, leisure, or anything else, the Immigration Advice Service team can help you to appeal a visa rejection.

The key to successfully appealing a denied visitor visa application is to act quickly. When the Home Office sends you your refusal letter, it will state your eligibility for appeal and advise you on the required timeframe. If you subsequently choose to appeal and want the best chance of success possible, you’ll need to work in this timeframe and be able to comprehensively amend your application to meet the standards necessary. Fortunately, our immigration lawyers are well experienced in dealing with appeals.

When you choose to appeal your rejected visa application with the Immigration Advice Service, our dedicated experts can draw from a wealth of experience, insight, and knowledge to assess what may have been the reason for your denial of an entry visa. Then,  they’ll set about resolving any issues, help you to strengthen your case and assist with your appeal . Our appeal package allows you to benefit from the support of our experts in UK immigration laws. There’s the possibility that may have to go to a hearing or tribunal – we know that this can be intimidating and overwhelming, which is why our lawyers will offer to represent you and your case if necessary.

Receiving a visa refusal letter from the Home Office doesn’t necessarily mean the end of your hopes for travel to the UK. Visa appeals are commonplace and our immigration lawyers have a fantastic track record of successfully reversing visa decisions – they’ll offer you thorough guidance throughout the appeal process. With our appeal package, we’ll help to:

• Investigate and assess your visit UK visa refusal . In most cases, visa applications for short term stay in the UK are denied because of a lack of supporting documents or mistakes in the paperwork. Our immigration lawyers will go through the reasons for your refusal and evaluate the potential for appeal.
• Support and improve your case . When going to appeal, it’s important that you’ve got all possible supporting evidence ready and available alongside you. We can help boost your chances of appeal success by assisting you in putting together a supporting portfolio.
• Complete your appeal application . When going for a visa rejection appeal, you need to make sure that you avoid any careless mistakes. The IAS lawyers have a lot of experience with appeals and they’ll help you to put together everything you need to submit your appeal.
• Maintain communication with the Home Office . Visa appeals need to run to a strict time frame so it’s important to keep on top of things. We’ll liaise with the Home Office from the moment your appeal begins until it ends. No stone will be left unturned and no opportunities will be missed.
• Represent you in person whenever necessary . Sometimes, visa appeals can go the distance. If you need to attend a hearing or a tribunal over your appeal, our expert immigration lawyers will be there to represent you should you wish it. We understand that these events can be a lot to take on – that’s why we’re happy to take on this burden for you.

We offer immigration advice sessions as face to face appointments at all of our UK offices, or via the phone.

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Frequently Asked Questions

I’m studying in the uk – who can visit me with a standard uk visitor visa.

For international students choosing to study abroad in the UK, the question of who can travel under a visit visa to UK areas often comes up. Whether it’s for parents attending a graduation, friends and family members visiting for a short holiday, or something else, it’s important to understand who can visit you and which visa rules apply.

Study visa rules can vary so it’s a good idea to get a handle on how your own current visa affects the situation. If you’ve travelled from outside the European Union and the EEA, there’s a good chance that your visitor will have to apply for the standard UK visitor visa. International students from the United States, South America, Asia, Australia, Africa, and other non-EEA regions may have individual circumstances when trying to set up visiting arrangements, so we always recommend using professional advice if you’re unsure about the application. However, there are a few important distinctions you can make straight away:

If You’re : Travelling On A Student Visitor Visa

If you have chosen to study abroad in the UK on a student visa, falling under the standard visitor visa category, you may be wondering who can and cannot visit you while you’re studying for the six-month period of your stay. Both family and friends can, in fact, visit you during your undergraduate degree or postgraduate qualification. However, they are likely to require a visa and will need to submit a visa application.

If You’re : Travelling On A Student Visa

If you’re studying abroad in the UK on a student visa for a period over six months, you’re able to bring a partner or child with you to the UK during your stay. This visa allows you to stay for the duration of your degree or qualification, and this extends to your child or partner. However, other family and friends will still have to apply for a UK visitor visa to travel to the UK.

If you are an international student in the UK and you’re not sure whether your family and friends will need a visa to visit you, the gov.uk website has an interactive tool that you can use to check eligibility.

If one of your visitors is under the age of 18, you will need to submit a more specific visa application. The child visitor visa is needed for any under-18 non-EEA national visiting the UK.

Your visitor will essentially be applying for a UK tourism visa and will, therefore, need to be able to prove several things in order to qualify for the visitor visa while you’re studying in the UK:

• Your visitor will need to prove that they intend to return to their home country.
• Your visitor will need to prove that they won’t stay in the UK for longer than 6 months.
• They can’t have obtained a visitor visa in the last 12 months.
• They have to prove adequate funds for living expenses and living costs during their stay.
• They aren’t allowed to work, conduct any business, or study during their stay in the UK.

When putting together a visa application for a visitor, you’ll need to supply several letters with your application. It’s important for the applicant to provide as much information as possible, part of which includes:

• A letter from you – In order for someone to visit you in the UK while studying abroad, they need to be able to show that you have officially invited them. An invitation letter from you provides proof of the reason for their visit and will make you their official ‘sponsor’ throughout their stay. An invitation to visit UK-based students is important in proving eligibility in your application for a sponsored visitor visa.
• A letter from the applicant – The letter from your visitor needs to be comprehensive, detailing and explaining as much as possible. It should cover who they are, the reason for their visit, what their relationship to you is, your current UK status, what they’ll be doing while in the UK, and more.
• A status letter from your university – You’ll also need to acquire an enrolment status letter to add to your visitor’s visa application. This letter will be provided by your university and will confirm your education status and the details of your course and study.

Which Countries Need A Visa To Visit UK Territories?

If you’re planning on travelling to the UK and you aren’t a British citizen or an EU or EEA citizen, the likelihood is that you will need a visitor visa. UK law means that you’ll need to acquire one before travelling here, and immigration laws are quite tough in the UK so it’s important to make sure that you’ve got all the necessary travel documents. Otherwise, you might be denied entry by the immigration authorities when you get here. We always recommend using the Home Office website to check whether you need a visa to visit the UK.

The gov.uk website has a fantastic online interactive tool that you can use to check your visa requirements before travelling. The tool asks you a number of questions, including where you’re travelling from, and then offers a number of potential solutions.

European Single Market Visitors

Members of the European single market do not currently require permission to enter the UK for tourism, work or travel. This includes the 28 countries of the European Union (EU), and additional European Economic Area (EEA) members such as Iceland, Norway and Liechtenstein. Switzerland, while neither an EU or EEA member, is still part of the European single market and therefore benefits from the same right to live and work in the UK as other single market members.

Foreign nationals from EU nations, EEA nationals and Switzerland can visit the UK for a short term stay such as holidays and business events without needing to apply for the UK visitor visa.

The Visa Waiver Programme

Most foreign nationals visiting the UK from a non-EEA country will need to apply for a visa before travelling, but there are exceptions to this. One of these is the visa waiver scheme. Rather than apply for permission to enter the UK, nationals from the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Oman and Kuwait can instead opt to get an electronic visa waiver (EVW), which allows you a short term stay in the UK (no longer than six months) so long as you are travelling for tourism, business, medical reasons or for study.

The visa waiver programme allows nationals from these four countries to opt-out of visa applications in favour of paying a premium and receiving permission to enter the UK. To apply, you’ll need:

• Your current passport number and details.
• Information about your resident status in the UK, including details such as the UK address and postal code you’ll be staying at and contact details while you’re here.
• Detailed travel plans and travel documents such as flight information, including departure and arrival dates and times.

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UKVI 6months Study Visa (Under 18 years old)

Short term study visa for under 18 requirements, requirements – under 18 years old – child.

If you are under 18 you will have to meet all the requirements for a ‘short-term student (child)’:

• You are under the age of 18
• You intend to study at an education provider which: holds a  Tier 4 sponsor license , or
• is accredited by a  Home Office approved accreditation body , or
• is an overseas higher education institution offering only part of their programmes in the UK
• It cannot be a state-maintained school or institution (a state-maintained school or institution is defined as ‘one which provides a free education and is primarily funded from’ the public purse)
• You do not intend to study in the UK for extended periods through frequent or successive periods as a short-term student.
• You intend to leave the UK at the end of 6 months.
• You have enough money to support yourself while you are in the UK. You need to show you can pay for your tuition fees, accommodation and living expenses.
• There are suitable arrangements for your travel to, reception and care in the UK. You have a parent or guardian in your home country who is responsible for your care, and who confirms that they consent to the arrangements. See the  Home Office information  for an explanation of the evidence you will be expected to show about this. You can also read much more detailed information in the modernised guidance  that the Home Office provides to its staff on the short-term student (child) route (see pages 16-20 of the guidance).
• The course does not have to lead to a specific qualification.
• There are no minimum academic requirements for immigration purposes.  The course can be at any level, but your course provider may have specific admissions criteria.
• You are not required to have a minimum English language ability, but your course provider may have specific admissions criteria.
• There are no minimum hours which you must be studying during your time in the UK.  You can study part-time or full-time as a short-term student (child).
• You will not be allowed to do any kind of work, work experience or work placement (even if it is part of your course, or is unpaid). You will not be allowed to do any business or professional activities in the UK.

ENTRY CLEARANCE

If you are a visa national, you must apply for entry clearance before you travel to the UK (see the Immigration Rules, Appendix 2 of  Appendix V  for a current list of visa nationals).  As part of your entry clearance application you will have to explain whether you will make your journey to the UK on your own (‘unaccompanied’), or whether you will be travelling with an adult (‘accompanied’). If you say you will be travelling with an adult, their name will be shown on the entry clearance and you will be refused entry to the UK if you arrive in the UK without them. You can name two adults as long as you travel with at least one of them. It is a good idea to carry with you all of the documents that you submitted with your entry clearance application, when you travel to the UK. The Border Force Officer may ask to see these documents when you arrive in the UK.

If you are a non-visa national, you can choose whether to apply for entry clearance in advance of travelling, or to wait until you arrive at the port of entry to the UK, and make your request to enter as a short-term student (child) there. If you do not obtain entry clearance before you travel, you will need to produce all the documents to support your application to enter the UK as a short-term student (child) to the Border Force Officer when you arrive at the port of entry to the UK. This includes evidence of your unconditional offer to study in the UK and evidence of your finances. It is important you ask to be admitted as a short-term student (child), rather than as a visitor – you will need to make a special effort to talk to the Border Force Officer to explain that. Make sure that they look at your short-term student (child) visa letter (which confirms your unconditional offer and acceptance on the course), and ask that the stamp you get in your passport indicates you are here as a short-term student (child).

Even if you obtain entry clearance as a short-term student (child) before travelling to the UK, you should still carry all the documents that you submitted with your entry clearance application when you travel to the UK. The Border Force Officer may ask to see these documents when you arrive in the UK.

APPLICATION

Your application must include:

• The completed application form. In every country apart from  North Korea , you have to fill this in  online . You will be asked your ‘reason for visit’. Choose:
• Reason for visit? – select ‘study’
• Visa type? – select ‘study (non Points-Based System)’
• Visa sub type? – select ‘study – short-term student 6 months’ if you want to come for a maximum of 6 months, or ‘study – short-term study 11 months – English language’ if you want to come for an English language course of between 6 and 11 months, or ‘study – short-term student child 6 months’ if you are under 18
• The current application fee in local currency (£89  for short-term student visas up to 6 months, £170 for short-term student visas up to 11 months)
• Your current travel document
• One passport sized colour photograph
• Evidence of your unconditional offer of study or research in the UK.  This is normally a letter from the institution that you intend to study at, on official headed paper, stating the title, duration and cost of the study. If you want to do  research or research tuition , you will have to provide evidence that you meet all the  requirements .
• Evidence that you have enough money to support yourself while you are in the UK. You need to show you can pay for your tuition fees, accommodation and living expenses.  There are no specific requirements which state the amount of money you must show when you apply for a short-term student visa. However you must show that you have enough money to support yourself  without recourse to public funds and without working. It is advisable to provide evidence that you have enough money to cover your course fees plus accommodation and living expenses. Using the Tier 4 maintenance figures as a guide only, it would be reasonable to show that you have the equivalent of £1,015 per month, or £1,265 per month if studying in London, for the duration of your studies. If you will be staying with friends or family while in the UK, which will decrease your living costs, you can include evidence of this
• All other supporting documents listed in the Home Office’s  website information for short- term student s
• You must submit the original documents along with a photocopy of each. You will also need to provide a translation of any documents which are not already in English.  Please read the Home Office’s information on supporting documents  for further details.
• You must submit your completed immigration application to your nearest UK  visa application centre . You do not need to apply in the country where you live.

MEDICAL INSURANCE

Short-term students.

If you are in the UK as a short-term student, or under the previous scheme of student visitor, for any periods when you are not a full-time student you should take out private medical insurance (unless you have paid the immigration health surcharge).

Reciprocal Health Care Agreements

The UK has reciprocal health care agreements for the following people:

Citizens of: Armenia; Azerbaijan; Belarus; Georgia; Kazakhstan; Kyrgyzstan; Moldova; New Zealand; Russia; Tajikistan; Turkmenistan; Ukraine; and Uzbekistan

Residents of: Anguilla; Australia; Barbados; British Virgin Islands; Falkland Islands; Gibraltar (but only if expected to stay in UK for a maximum of 30 days); Isle of Man (provided stay will not exceed 3 months); Jersey (provided stay will not exceed 3 months); Montserrat; St Helena (not Ascension Island or Tristan da Cunha); and Turks and Caicos Islands

Insured persons of: Bosnia and Herzegovina; Kosovo; Macedonia; Montenegro; Serbia

Please note that this list changes, as new arrangements are agreed, or existing agreements end.

If you are covered by a reciprocal health care agreement, you will be eligible for some free NHS hospital treatment. Reciprocal health care agreements generally cover free hospital treatment, the need for which arose during your stay, but in many cases do not cover treatment of an existing condition. Before you travel, you should seek advice from the health authorities in your home country about what treatment will be covered. You may still need to take out limited medical insurance.

EEA NATIONALS

If you fall into any of the following groups you should obtain a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) before coming to the UK, to show you are eligible for free hospital treatment:

‘insured’ EEA nationals, stateless persons or refugees, their family members and the survivors (irrespective of nationality) of these groups of people, insured in each case in an EEA member state

‘insured’ Swiss or European Union (EU) nationals, stateless persons or refugees, their family members and the survivors (irrespective of nationality) of these groups of people, insured in each case in Switzerland non-EEA nationals legally resident and ‘insured’ in any EU country except Denmark

‘Insured’ in this context means that you qualify for state-funded healthcare in the EEA or Swiss state where you live.

Visit the European Commission’s website for more information on the EHIC at  http://ec.europa.eu/youreurope/citizens/education/university/health/index_en.htm

Even if you are entitled to free NHS treatment whilst in the UK, you should consider taking out insurance which covers other medical-related costs. An insurance policy may cover, for example:

• lost fees if you are unable to complete your course;
• costs of returning home if a relative is ill;
• costs of a relative visiting you in the UK if you fall ill;
• cost of returning to your home country for treatment;
• or in the worst possible situation, returning a body home for burial.

There is often a long wait for NHS treatment, sometimes many months. An insurance policy which gives you access to private medical care could give you much quicker access to the treatment you need.

If you already have medical insurance in your home country, check whether you can extend it to cover your stay in the UK, as well as looking at options available from UK insurers.

There are obviously lots of different insurance companies offering policies, but relatively few have ones specifically designed for international students. One of the longest established, for instance, is Endsleigh Insurance, which has produced a special health insurance policy for international students and their spouses or civil partners and children in the UK. Details of the policy can be found on the  Endsleigh website . Please contact Endsleigh for further details.

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UK Visa Guidance: Visitor Visa for Parents and Family

As an international medical graduate (IMG) working in the UK, one of the toughest things that we have to deal with is homesickness, distance, and our separation from friends and family back home. There are only two ways you can alleviate that- 1) Racking up your annual leaves to visit home. 2) Apply for the UK visitor visa for your family and parents. Let’s talk about the second option in detail.

Table of Contents

What type of UK visa can parents apply for?

It is commonly misunderstood that parents of an independent child (i.e. you) can apply for ‘UK Family Visa’ . No, they can not. UK family visa as a parent can only be applied for if the child is <18 years of age and has either British citizenship or has ILR or some other specific circumstance.

For parents of an independent child who doesn’t hold a permanent visa in the UK (most of us), the only way they can come to the UK is via the ‘Standard Visitor Visa’ . It is the same visa you may have applied for if you took the PLAB 2 exam .

Previously there was a separate family visitor visa which is now all absorbed in the standard visitor visa .

How to apply for a UK visitor visa for parents

The process of UK visa application is all very streamlined via the GovUK website. This is the link where you have to click  ‘apply now ‘ to start a  standard visitor visa   application . The whole process has the following steps:

Online application fill-up

Once you click  apply now  in the above link it will ask you a series of questions and finally, you will be able to submit that.

Registering with your local visa application centre (VAC)

GovUK will determine which service deals with UK visa applications in your country and will forward you their service/website once you have submitted the online application.

Submitting supporting documents and biometrics

VAC in your country will give you the option to either upload or submit the evidence and supporting documents as well as let you book an appointment to provide biometrics (fingerprints and photo).

UK visitor visa requirements for parents

Online application form fill-up.

The following information is needed to successfully complete the online application form. Remember these questions have to be answered from your parents’ point of view , not yours, even if you are filling the application form.

• Parent’s name (according to passport) and address (an address that you can provide evidence for)
• How long have you lived at this address? – In my mother’s case, it was in the years since she got married
• Passport details
• Nationality, country and date of birth
• What is your employment status? – If you say one of your parents is employed , remember you will have to show no objection certificate for travel from their employer as well as sufficient bank statement and employment certificate to prove employment.
• Do you have another income or any savings? – It is very likely your parents will have some sort of savings.
• How much money are you personally planning to spend on your visit to the UK? – For a 6 months visit it’s safe to assume that the total cost will be £4000 – £5000. Even if you are sponsoring the whole amount as they have some savings, they personally can plan to spend one-fourth or one-fifth .
• What is the total amount of money you spend each month? – For my mother, it is around 15000 BDT taking into account different bills, food, and medications.
• Will anyone be paying towards the cost of your visit? – Yes. Someone I know (for example, family or friend) – then you add your name and address and the put the rest amount three-fourth or four-fifth of the total amount.
• Your planned travel information – This is very important . The visa will very likely start from the date as you put as planning to arrive in the UK. So make it as close to the real travel date as possible.
• What is the main reason for your visit to the UK? – Tourism and then Visiting Family.
• Give details about your first parent – So you have to know the details of your grandparents. Names and dates of birth.
• Do you have any family in the UK? – Yes. Give your details here again. And if you have a Tier 2 visa like me – you have a temporary visa.
• Will you be travelling to the UK as part of an organised group? – In my mother’s case, it was no as she will travel independently.
• Staying with family – Tick box your name and provide your contact details. The date you will arrive at this address can easily correspond to the date of arrival in the UK.
• International travel history
• Breach of immigration law, war crimes, terrorist and extremist views, employment history, a question about good character etc will all hopefully be no.

That’s it. These are all the information you need to have prior to starting this online application.

What’s the duration I should apply for?

If it is the first application, I would go for a 6-month visa. Later on, you can apply for a longer duration (2, 5, or 10 years) to minimize the hassle of the visa application. Remember- your parents cannot make the UK their main home by frequent and successive visits. If they are caught, they may get banned from visiting the UK entirely.

UKVI has no strict rule that states you can only stay ‘6 months in a year’, but for any visit the maximum your parents can stay is six months at a stretch . So the safe frequency will be a few months in a year and clearly spending more time outside the UK than inside.

Required documents for visitor visa application

The list of documents that I attached for my mother’s visit visa to the UK :

• Cover letter
• Her bank statement showing her savings
• Her nationality certificate proving her address
• An invitation letter from me
• My passport copy
• My last 6 months bank statement (which serves as a proof of my address)
• If you are renting , then also add a copy of your tenancy agreement.
• An employment letter from my trust.

Cover letter for UK visitor visa for parents

It does not have to be elaborate. Keep it simple, keep it short. If your parents have any income or major transaction, make sure you explain it here in brief.

You can download a template of cover letter for parent’s UK Visa here.

Invitation letter from you

This also does not have to be lengthy. You should explain the nature of their visit, which is a short family visit and mention your visa status and accommodation arrangement currently.

Find a redacted copy of my invitation letter here .

Employment letter from your trust

If you drop a line to your HR representative that you will require an employment letter because you are sponsoring a visit visa for your parents, they will happy to do so.

Make sure you ask them to mention the following:

• The date of your job commencement
• The contract duration
• Your job title
• Your salary

The letter has to be addressed to whom it may concern and printed in a headed paper containing trust’s official seal and HR rep’s contact information.

Visa fees for parents’ visitor visa

A standard visitor visa costs £95.

The fee for a long-term Standard Visitor visa depends on its length:

• 2 years – £361
• 5 years – £655
• 10 years – £822

There are also other costs associated with the services that you can buy from your local visa application centre.

How long does it take to get a UK visitor visa for parents?

The time frame may vary from country to country, but generally, a standard visitor visa application only takes 2 weeks to give you a verdict. You should not apply more than three months before the intended travel date.

You may get a verdict on the application early if your VAC has the option of a premium visa application.

Can I bring my parents permanently in the UK?

As long as you have a temporary visa (tier 2) , you can’t think of that. Why? You are not even permanent.

After working for 5 years you can apply for a settled visa (indefinite leave to remain) and 1-2 years after that, you can apply for UK citizenship. So, after 5-6 years of service in the UK, you can think about bringing your parents permanently.

But this elderly dependent visa application has a high threshold and evidential bar to be reached. The list below is not exhaustive, but you have to prove the following:

• Any parent or grandparent who is wholly dependent financially and emotionally on the permanent UK resident
• There is constant contact with the parent and grandparent
• The applicant has no close relatives in their home country that can be relied upon for support (very difficult to prove as close relatives may be sons, daughters, brothers, sisters, grandchildren, uncles, aunts and possibly nephews, nieces or in-laws)
• The UK relative has appropriate accommodation for the applicant as well as any dependents the applicant may bring to the UK

Evidence under this category needs to be provided by the applicant to prove that their circumstances are true and, most importantly, there is either financial dependency on the sponsor or most exceptional circumstances exist.

More often than not this type of applications are done via immigration agencies in the UK to the court. So the bottom line is, there is a way to bring you elderly parents to bring permanently in the UK, but it may not be applicable or achievable by many.

Frequently Asked Questions

Zhow quickly i can apply for this visit visa for my parents and family.

I would wait to have a minimum of 6 months’ salary into your UK account before sponsoring your parents to visit the UK.

How long parents can stay on a visitor visa in the UK?

As mentioned already, for any visit, the maximum a visitor can stay is for 6 months. But utmost care should be taken so that the UK does not appear to be their home by frequent and successive visits.

What is the maximum stay a UK visitor visa allows?

How much bank statement is required for uk visit visa.

The key here is to prove you have regular income in your bank account which is quite easy as you are getting paid from the NHS every month. There no hard and fast amount that has to be in your account to sponsor.

A maximum of 6 months at a stretch.

Can I extend the visitor visa for my parents while they are in the UK?

The only case that applies to your parents would be if they paid for any private medical treatment and they have to stay for that.  Read more here.

Is a return ticket required for my parents to come to the UK with a visitor visa?

Yes. For any visit, having a return ticket solidifies your intention to visit only, not for breaching immigration law.

Can I sponsor a visit visa for my other family members (siblings, cousins etc)?

Yes. It will be the exact same process.

Can my parents avail of NHS services while on a visitor visa?

As they are not residents, the NHS will not be free for them, so it’s a good idea to bring overseas travel health insurance with them when they come to visit.

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How to Apply for a Long-Term UK Visitor Visa

Welcome to our guide on navigating the intricacies of applying for a UK Long-Term Visitor Visa. Whether you’re seeking to explore the UK’s historical treasures, pursue educational opportunities, or reunite with loved ones, the United Kingdom offers a wealth of experiences for extended stays. However, embarking on this journey requires a clear understanding of the application process, eligibility criteria, and essential documents. In this post, we’ll walk you through the step-by-step procedure and provide some valuable tips to enhance your chances of securing a UK Long-Term Visitor Visa.

What is a Long-Term Visitor Visa?

When submitting an application for a Standard Visitor visa , applicants are able to indicate the desired length of the visa. Ordinarily, the Standard Visitor visa is chosen by individuals wishing to visit the United Kingdom for a temporary period of up to six months. However, it is also possible to apply for a long-term Standard Visitor visa , which allows for multiple entries to the United Kingdom for a period of two, five or ten years. Each entry to the United Kingdom is limited to a maximum of 6 months on  any individual visit. This route is desirable for those who have an ongoing need to visit the United Kingdom and seek to avoid making multiple entry-clearance applications.

Requirements for a Long-term Visitor Visa 

Visa national vs non-visa national.

To be eligible for a long-term visitor visa, applicants need to demonstrate to UK Visas & Immigration (UKVI) that they are a visa national . Visa nationals require entry clearance prior to travelling to the United Kingdom as a visitor, whereas non-visa nationals can normally seek entry as a Visitor on arrival at the UK border. The list of nationalities which require entry clearance is set out in Appendix Visitor: Visa national list here .

Suitability

Those applying for entry clearance on a long-term Standard Visitor visa must not fall for refusal under the Immigration Rules part 9 .

Genuine Visitor

For an application to succeed, the UKVI decision maker must be satisfied that an applicant is a genuine visitor . To meet this requirement, an applicant must show that they:

• Will leave the United Kingdom at the end of their visit;
• Will not live in the United Kingdom for extended periods of time;
• Are genuinely seeking entry for a purpose permitted by the visitor routes;
• Will not undertake any prohibited activities, and;
• Have sufficient funds to cover all reasonable costs in relation to their visit, without working or accessing public funds in the United Kingdom.

When applying for a long-term Standard Visitor visa, the evidence submitted in support of these factors ought to demonstrate an ongoing need to visit the United Kingdom as a visitor. The risks of insufficiently demonstrating a recurring need to travel to the United Kingdom when making this application are outlined below.

The Home Office acknowledges that where a person holds a long-term Standard Visitor visa for two, five or ten years, their reason for visiting is likely to differ over time; this is permissible if the person intends to continue undertaking permitted visitor activities. For an in-depth look at what activities are permitted and what activities are prohibited on a Standard Visitor visa, please see this article .

In assessing whether an applicant is a genuine visitor, UKVI caseworkers will refer to the Visit Guidance which lists a number of different factors, including:

• Immigration history in both the United Kingdom and other countries, and their record of compliance with immigration rules;
• Previous patterns of travel to the United Kingdom;
• Personal and economic ties to their home country, and;
• The credibility of their intentions in light of their personal, family and economic circumstances.

In the case of Sawmynaden (Family visitors – considerations) [2012] UKUT 00161 (IAC), the Upper Tribunal set out relevant factors in assessing whether an applicant genuinely seeks entry as a visitor. See our previous article Visit visas – avoiding refusal for not showing a ‘genuine intention to visit’ for more information on the factors considered in Sawmynaden .

The Visit Guidance further provides a non-exhaustive list of factors which may lead a decision maker to doubt whether an applicant is genuine, including:

• A lack of family or economic ties to to their home country and familial connections in the UK;
• Previous attempts to deceive the Home Office in an application made by the applicant, the sponsor or any other relevant party;
• Discrepancies in the statements made in an application;
• The information provided in an application cannot be verified;
• The reasons for the visit or the information submitted lacks credibility, or;
• A luggage search at the border reveals items which contradict their intention to visit.

Application Process For a Long-Term Visitor Visa 

Those applying for entry clearance as a long-term Standard Visitor must apply from overseas in a country where they have a right of residence using the specified online form, “Apply for a UK visit visa”. The form allows applicants to select the length of the visa they wish to apply for.

The length of the visitor visa will determine the application fee. As of writing this article, the prices for Standard Visitor visas are listed as follows:

6 month Standard Visitor visa £100

2 year long-term Standard Visitor visa £376

5 year long-term Standard Visitor visa £670

10 year long-term Standard Visitor visa £837

Once the appropriate fee has been paid and the application has been submitted, applicants are able to upload all supporting documents online and book an appointment to enrol their biometrics. These appointments additionally require the provision of an identity document (ordinarily a passport) which confirms the applicant’s nationality and identity. Applications made for a Standard Visitor visa are typically decided within three weeks of attending a biometrics appointment. 

The Risks of Applying for a Long-Term Visitor Visa

It is important for applicants to be aware that there are several risks when applying for a long-term visitor visa. 

Refusal of a Long-Term Standard Visitor Visa

As with the six month Standard Visitor visa, there is a risk of an application being refused. In the event of a refusal, applicants are very unlikely to have a legal right of appeal; a right of appeal is only possible where the visit engages human rights considerations. Applicants may otherwise be able to pursue judicial review proceedings as a remedy. You may wish to speak to one of our barristers for expert advice on making a fresh visit visa application if your application has been refused.

Issuing of a Shorter Long-Term Visitor Visa

If UKVI are not satisfied that an applicant meets the eligibility requirements for the duration of the visa applied for, they may alternatively be issued a shorter visa than was applied for. In this instance, the difference in the application fees will not be refunded. 

Applicants Under 18

Applicants under the age of 18 must consider that their long-term Standard Visitor visas will be valid only for 6 months after they have turned 18.

Risk of Visa Cancellation

There is a chance that a long-term Standard Visitor visa might be cancelled if a caseworker has reason to believe that an applicant is using frequent and successive visits to make the United Kingdom their home. The use of a long-term Standard Visitor visa to make the United Kingdom one’s home could prompt a refusal in future visa applications. Visa nationals should carefully consider this possibility when travelling on a long-term Standard Visitor visa.

Contact Our Immigration Barristers

For expert advice and assistance with an application for a long-term Standard Visitor visa, contact our Immigration Barristers on 020 3617 9173 or complete our enquiry form below.

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Israel-Gaza latest: Four Israeli soldiers killed as world marks six months since 7 October attacks

Today marks six months since the 7 October attacks by Hamas that left more than 1,100 Israelis dead and prompted Israel's ongoing military operation in Gaza, which has killed more than 33,000 people. We'll be bringing you updates on this throughout the day.

Sunday 7 April 2024 08:13, UK

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Preparing the nation for war is the best way to maximise the chance of peace - but the UK is a "very long way behind", former defence minister James Heappey has warned.

He said many departments declined the chance to take part in a "whole of government" exercise to practice evacuating to a bunker in the event of war.

The exercise "would have exposed how out of date many of our procedures now are", he said. 

Officials have started to develop a cross-government "national defence plan" amid warnings from ministers that the UK has moved into a "pre-war world".

But any shift back to a Cold War-style, ready-for-war footing would require political leaders to make defence a genuinely national effort once again, sources told Sky News.

Read more from our defence and security editor Deborah Haynes here...

Today marks six months since Hamas's 7 October attacks, which killed more than 1,100 people and triggered the war in Gaza. 

More than 33,000 Palestinians have been killed in Israel's ongoing military offensive, according to Gaza's health ministry. 

In Israel, thousands marked the anniversary on the streets of Tel Aviv, calling for immediate elections and the hostages' release.

After a round of releases during a November ceasefire, Hamas still holds about 100 hostages, along with the bodies of about 30 others. 

A Hamas delegation will arrive in Cairo today for ceasefire talks. 

Weeks of mediation by the US, Egypt and Qatar have so far been unable to make a breakthrough, but there is international pressure for a halt in the war.

Israel has also said it is determined to expand its offensive to Rafah with the aim of uprooting Hamas from what it says is its last stronghold. 

That has raised alarm over a possible dramatic increase in casualties and an escalation in the conflict.

Israel has said four of its soldiers were killed in Gaza yesterday, bringing its total losses in ground fighting to 604.

The deaths were announced today after weeks of relatively low Israeli casualties.

The Hamas-run health ministry says at least 33,137 Palestinians have been killed in the six months since the war began.

Hamas claimed it ambushed Israeli forces in the southern town of Khan Younis yesterday. 

Israel has said it hit Hezbollah infrastructure sites early this morning after the Lebanese militant group downed an Israeli drone.

The Israeli army said fighter jets struck a military complex and three other Hezbollah sites in the eastern Lebanese city of Baalbek.

It said the latest attack was in response to Iran-backed Hezbollah's downing of a drone in Lebanese airspace.

Two security sources said the attack targeted a Hezbollah training camp in Janta village near the border with Syria and the town of Safri near Baalbek.

There were no reported casualties from the strikes, according to the sources.

Welcome back to our live coverage of the Israel-Hamas conflict and wider tensions in the Middle East. 

Today marks the six-month anniversary of the Hamas attacks on Israel, which left at least 1,139 Israelis dead. 

The attack prompted Israel to launch its military campaign in Gaza which it says is aimed at wiping out Hamas. 

At least 33,137 Palestinians have been killed during Israel's military offensive, according to Gaza's health ministry. 

Late last night, the UK announced it will deploy a Royal Navy ship to help aid enter Gaza. 

Alongside the vessel, the government unveiled a £9.7m package for aid deliveries, logistical expertise and equipment support for a humanitarian corridor in the eastern Mediterranean between Cyprus and Gaza.

We're also expecting updates on ceasefire talks taking place in Egypt today as a Hamas delegation arrives in Cairo. 

More live updates to come, but first, here's a reminder of the other key events from the last 24 hours: 

• A top Iranian military commander renewed the country's promise to retaliate after an airstrike in Syria killed 12 people, including two Iranian generals;
• The Israel Defence Forces said it recovered the body of hostage Elad Katzir from Gaza;
• A spokesman later told Sky News Mr Katzir had been "executed" in the middle of January;
• Iranian police said they arrested a senior Islamic State operative accused of planning a suicide attack during next week's celebrations marking the end of Ramadan;
• The Palestinian ambassador to the UN accused Israel of deliberately targeting the aid workers killed in a military strike this week. 

That's all for today, but we'll be back soon with regular updates and analysis.

Until then, you can read through today's updates by scrolling below. 

A Royal Navy ship is to be deployed to help get aid into Gaza, the UK has announced.

Foreign Secretary Lord David Cameron said the UK and its allies needed to "explore all options" including sea and air deliveries to "ease the desperate plight of some of the world's most vulnerable people" in the territory.

"The situation in Gaza is dire and the prospect of famine is real. We remain committed to getting aid to those who so desperately need it," he said. 

"Israel has also agreed to increase the number of aid trucks entering Gaza to a minimum of 500 a day.

"But we need to continue to explore all options, including by sea and air, to ease the desperate plight of some of the world's most vulnerable people."

The British Armed Forces have dropped 40 tonnes of aid into Gaza in recent weeks to tackle the bottleneck in supplies reaching Palestinians.

The five air drops have seen supplies including water, flour and baby formula parachuted into the territory.

The UK continues to stand by Israel's right to defend its security, but Israelis need to ensure aid gets into Gaza more swiftly, Rishi Sunak has said. 

In a statement marking the six-month anniversary of the 7 October Hamas attacks, the prime minister also said the UK remains "appalled" by an Israel Defence Forces (IDF) air strike which killed three British aid workers.

"Today marks six months since the terrorist outrage of October 7 - the most appalling attack in Israel's history, the worst loss of Jewish life since the Second World War," he said. 

"We continue to stand by Israel's right to defeat the threat from Hamas terrorists and defend their security. 

"But the whole of the UK is shocked by the bloodshed, and appalled by the killing of brave British heroes who were bringing food to those in need."

John Chapman, 57, James "Jim" Henderson, 33, and James Kirby, 47, were the three Britons who died in air strikes carried out by the IDF on their aid convoy on April 1.

Mr Sunak highlighted the growing toll on Palestinian civilians, and said the UK had been "straining every sinew" to get aid into Gaza, while emphasising the need for Hamas to release its captives.

He called for an immediate humanitarian pause in the fighting, "leading to a long-term sustainable ceasefire"

In our previous post, we told you Israeli police had reported a female officer had been punched in the face during a demonstration in Tel Aviv. 

Now, the force has issued a clarification, saying it appears the officer was "hit in the nose by an elbow". 

It added that it was incident wasn't done with "malicious intent to harm the policewoman". 

Thousands of people have taken to the streets of the Israeli city today, protesting against Benjamin Netanyahu's government and calling for more to be done to release hostages taken by Hamas. 

Earlier, the police reported a small group of "troublemakers" had started lighting bonfires after the demonstrations ended. 

A protester taking part in a demonstration in Tel Aviv has punched a police officer, the Israeli Police has said.

The force said a small group of "troublemakers" decided to light bonfires and attack police officers after the protest ended. 

"During the attack, a police officer was injured by a punch she received from a protester and was taken for medical treatment," it added, sharing a video of the woman with a bloody nose. 

In a post on X, it said there was a separate incident which saw a person hit three civilians with a car. 

"At this point, it is known that a car driver hit three civilians while driving and continued driving until he was stopped by the police," it said .  

"The injured citizens are receiving medical treatment and the driver will be transferred for investigation." 

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UK immigration's new salary threshold challenges Indian skilled workers

London: Significantly higher salary thresholds for overseas workers, including Indians, applying for the UK's Skilled Worker visas kicked in on Thursday, as part of tough new measures announced earlier to cut Britain's overall migration figures .

For those applying under the Skilled Worker visa route, the salary threshold for an application will rise from GBP 26,200 to GBP 38,700 an increase of 48%.

The UK Home Office said it forms part of a robust and fair package of measures, which will mean 300,000 people who arrived in the UK last year would now not be able to and also prevent undercutting of domestic workers by cheap overseas labour.

UK's new immigration norms to affect overseas students' visa right to bring family dependents

UK clamps down on visas for dependents of students; how other countries fare

“It's time to turn off the taps and end the flow of cheap workers from abroad. Mass migration is unsustainable, and it's simply not fair. It undercuts the wages of hard-working people who are just trying to make ends meet,” said UK Home Secretary James Cleverly.

“We are refocusing our immigration system to prioritise the brightest and best who have the skills our economy needs while reducing overall numbers. I promised the British people an immigration system that serves their interests, and to bring numbers down - these tough measures deliver on that commitment. Employers must also play their part and put British workers first,” he said.

On April 11, an incremental increase to the minimum income required for overseas applicants to bring their dependents on Family Visas will also come into force rising to GBP 29,000 from GBP 18,600.

By early next year, this is set to match the Skilled Worker visa threshold of GBP 38,700, which the Home Office said would ensure family dependents brought to the UK are supported financially.

The government is clear that no sector should be permanently reliant on immigration, so today, the Shortage Occupation List has also been abolished, with employers no longer able to pay migrants less than UK workers in shortage occupations, the Home Office said.

Under a new Immigration Salary List (ISL), created on the advice of the independent Migration Advisory Committee (MAC), roles will only be included where they are skilled and in shortage, considering the efforts being made by sectors to invest in the resident workforce.

The Home Office said inclusion on the ISL must not serve to reduce pay and undermine the recruitment of British workers, and employers should be encouraged to invest in training, upskilling, and hiring domestic workers first.

For too long, we have relied on labour from abroad when there is great talent right here in the UK The changes coming into force today, coupled with my next generation of welfare reforms, will unlock the huge potential of the great British workforce, said UK Work and Pension Secretary Mel Stride.

The latest moves follow a recent ban on post-graduate students, except on major research projects, from bringing family dependents to the UK.

Last month, reforms to restrict care workers from bringing family members also came into force, with providers required to register with industry regulator Care Quality Commission (CQC) to crack down on reported visa misuse and exploitation in the sector.

The changes are expected to impact Indians as a nationality, which currently leads the UK's tally of skilled workers, healthcare professionals and students from overseas.

According to recent Office for National Statistics (ONS) statistics, Indians under the Skilled Worker route registered a small decline of 11 per cent from 20,360 visas to 18,107 between September 2022 and 2023.

On the dependent family visa front, Indian nationals had the second-highest number of dependents after Nigeria at 43,445 in the year ending September 2023.

In the student visa category, Indian nationals continued to represent the largest group of students granted leave to remain on the post-study Graduate visa route, representing 43% of grants.

A review of the route is now underway by MAC, which the Home Office says would prevent abuse and ensure it works in the best interests of the UK. It is expected to report later this year.

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Student visa

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If you’re 18 or over and your course is at degree level, you can usually stay in the UK for up to 5 years. If it’s below degree level, you can usually stay in the UK for up to 2 years.

Read the guidance to find out exactly how long you can stay .

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• £490 to apply for a Student visa from outside the UK
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Healthcare surcharge

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Your partner and children

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What you can and cannot do

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You may be able to work - how much depends on what you’re studying and whether you’re working in or out of term-time.

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Part of Study in the UK on a Student visa

Step 1 : check if this visa is right for you.

You can apply for a Student visa if you’re 16 or over and want to study on a further or higher education course in the UK.

• You are currently viewing: Check what you can and cannot do on this visa
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or Apply from inside the UK

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