Independent · Updated 2026 · Official sources cited
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GB · 🏝️ Tourist / Visit Visa

United Kingdom: Standard Visitor Visa

Tourism, visiting family, business meetings or short courses for up to 6 months.

Visa fee: GBP 115 (6 months) Processing time: Usually within 3 weeks Stay duration: Up to 6 months per visit Validity: 6 months (2/5/10-year options available) Entry: Multiple
Quick answer

The United Kingdom Standard Visitor Visa is for tourist / visit visitors — Costs GBP 115 (6 months), takes Usually within 3 weeks, allows a stay of up to 6 months per visit.

Visa fee GBP 115 (6 months)
Processing time Usually within 3 weeks
Stay duration Up to 6 months per visit
Validity 6 months (2/5/10-year options available)
Entry Multiple

Last reviewed August 2026 · figures indicative, verify with the official source.

Overview

The Standard Visitor visa covers tourism, visiting family and friends, business activity and short study. Many nationalities can visit visa-free (increasingly via an ETA). Stays are usually up to 6 months.

Eligibility

  • Intend to leave the UK at the end of your visit
  • Have enough money to support and house yourself
  • Can cover the cost of the return/onward journey
  • Not intending to work or access public funds

Required documents

  • Valid passport
  • Proof of funds (bank statements)
  • Travel itinerary and accommodation details
  • Employment / ties evidence

How to apply

  1. Apply online on GOV.UK
  2. Pay the visa fee
  3. Book and attend a biometrics appointment at a visa centre
  4. Upload documents and await a decision

Work rights & conditions

No paid or unpaid work (limited permitted business activities only).
Verify

Please verify before applying. Fees, processing times and rules change frequently and can vary by nationality. Always confirm the latest requirements on the official government source. Official source: www.gov.uk.

Frequently asked questions

How much does the United Kingdom tourist / visit visa cost?

The Standard Visitor Visa costs GBP 115 (6 months). Fees are indicative and can change — always confirm the current amount on the official source.

How long does the United Kingdom tourist / visit visa take to process?

Typical processing time is Usually within 3 weeks. Times vary by nationality, season and how complete your application is.

How long can I stay on the United Kingdom tourist / visit visa?

This visa generally allows a stay of Up to 6 months per visit. Entry type: Multiple.

Can I work on the United Kingdom tourist / visit visa?

No paid or unpaid work (limited permitted business activities only).

Who is eligible for the United Kingdom tourist / visit visa?

Intend to leave the UK at the end of your visit. Have enough money to support and house yourself. Can cover the cost of the return/onward journey. Not intending to work or access public funds.

Where do I apply for the United Kingdom tourist / visit visa?

Applications are made through the official government portal. VisaViews links directly to the official source on this page so you always start in the right place.

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