UK Visitor Visa Requirements and Fees | Here’s What You Need to Know

If you’re planning a short-term trip to the United Kingdom—whether it’s to see family, explore landmarks, attend meetings, or receive private medical treatment—you’ll most likely need to apply for a UK visitor visa. Understanding the UK visitor visa requirements and fees is essential before you start the application process.

This blog from Axis Solicitors walks you through everything you need to know about the standard visitor visa UK, the associated UK visitor visa cost, and what it takes to make a strong application. We also answer common questions and point out red flags that can lead to refusal.

Before we dive deeper into the specifics, it’s worth noting that the UK takes visa compliance seriously. Submitting a weak or incomplete application can result in refusal and could impact future applications. That’s why we recommend speaking to a legal professional—like our expert immigration solicitors—before you submit.

Who Needs a UK Visitor Visa?

The UK visitor visa—officially known as the Standard Visitor Visa—is a short-stay visa for individuals who wish to visit the UK for up to six months. This visa is commonly used for tourism, family visits, business meetings, academic research, and short-term study or medical treatment.

You need a UK visitor visa if:

• You are from a country that does not have visa-free travel to the UK (check the UKVI list). 
• You intend to visit for less than six months. 
• You do not plan to work, get married, or access public funds. 
• You’re visiting for purposes such as: 
  • Tourism or holiday 
  • Visiting family or friends 
  • Attending a business meeting or event 
  • Receiving private medical treatment 
  • Short academic research or study (under six months) 
  • Attending a conference or training session 

You do not need a UK visitor visa if:

• You are a national of a visa-exempt country, such as the US, Canada, Australia, Japan, or EU countries. These nationals can usually enter the UK and stay for up to six months without needing to apply in advance, but they must still meet the standard visitor rules and may be questioned at the border. 
• You hold a UK immigration status or visa that permits re-entry. 
• You are a British citizen or settled person. 

Key Takeaway:

Regardless of whether you need to apply in advance or not, UK visitor visa requirements and fees still apply in practice—you must meet the rules and demonstrate eligibility at the time of entry.

UK Visitor Visa Categories

The Standard Visitor Visa encompasses several specific visit purposes under one umbrella. Each category has slightly different UK visitor visa requirements, although the general rules remain the same.

Here’s a breakdown of the main visit categories covered:

1. Tourism and Leisure

This is the most common category. It includes holidays, short city breaks, or visiting famous landmarks like Big Ben, Stonehenge, or Edinburgh Castle.

Eligibility Requirements:

• Proof of accommodation and travel bookings. 
• Adequate funds to cover your trip without working. 
• A clear intention to leave the UK at the end of your stay. 

2. Family Visits

If you’re visiting relatives or friends who are settled or living in the UK temporarily, this is your category.

Additional Requirements:

• Writing an Invitation letter for a UK visa from the UK-based family member or friend. 
• Their legal immigration status documentation. 
• Evidence of relationship (e.g. birth certificates, photos, communications). 

3. Business Visits

Permitted business activities include attending meetings, conferences, seminars, and negotiations. You may also visit as an academic or do site inspections.

Additional Requirements:

• Letter from your employer. 
• Invitation from UK business or organisation. 
• Details of planned activities during your stay. 

4. Medical Treatment

Private medical patients who need care in the UK can apply under this route.

You must show:

• A formal letter from a UK medical practitioner or hospital. 
• Proof that you can pay for your treatment and living costs. 
• Proof of medical condition and treatment plan. 

5. Short-Term Study or Research

You can study a course for up to six months or come as an academic researcher (if invited).

Documents typically include:

• Acceptance letter from the institution. 
• Details of your course, dates, and fees. 
• Academic qualifications or work history. 

6. Transit Visa

If you’re simply passing through the UK en route to another country, this short-stay visa may apply.

You’ll need:

• Proof of onward travel within 48 hours. 
• Valid visa or entry clearance for your next destination (if required). 

UK Visitor Visa Requirements in Detail

To make a successful application, you must meet the UK visitor visa requirements set out by the Home Office. These requirements apply regardless of your country of origin, visa category, or reason for visiting.

Here’s what you must demonstrate clearly in your application:

1. Genuine Intention to Leave the UK

You must show that you intend to leave the UK at the end of your visit. UKVI wants proof that you’re not using the visitor route as a backdoor for work, study, or settlement.

How to demonstrate this:

• Proof of ties to your home country (employment, family, property). 
• Return flight bookings. 
• Travel itinerary with clear dates. 

2. Financial Sufficiency

You must have enough money to cover:

• Your travel to and from the UK. 
• Your living expenses during your stay (accommodation, food, transport). 
• Any planned private medical treatment, if applicable. 

Acceptable proof includes:

• Bank statements (last 6 months). 
• Payslips or employment letter. 
• Sponsor letter if a family member or host in the UK is covering your costs. 

Note: Simply stating that a relative will support you is not enough—you must show their financial records too.

3. Purpose of Visit

Your application must clearly explain why you are visiting the UK. The reasons must match one of the accepted visitor categories and be backed up with evidence.

Examples:

• Invitation letter for family visits. 
• Business invitation and itinerary. 
• Letter from school or university for short-term study. 

4. No Intention to Work or Marry

You cannot:

• Take up any paid or unpaid employment. 
• Access public funds (benefits). 
• Marry or form a civil partnership (unless applying under the Marriage Visitor Visa). 

Even informal work or volunteering is not allowed under a standard visitor visa.

5. No Criminal or Immigration Offences

You are expected to have:

• No criminal convictions (particularly recent or serious ones). 
• No history of overstaying or breaching UK immigration laws. 

Documents Required for UK Visitor Visa

One of the most common reasons for UK visitor visa refusals is insufficient or unclear documentation. Submitting a complete and well-organised set of documents is key to satisfying the UK visitor visa requirements and avoiding delays or denials.

Below is a checklist of the essential documents you’ll need:

1. Valid Passport or Travel Document

• Must be valid for the duration of your stay. 
• Must have at least one blank page for the visa. 
• Should not be damaged or defaced. 

2. Completed Visa Application Form

• Apply online via the official UK Government website GOV.UK..
• Double-check all information before submission—errors can delay or derail your application. 

3. Visa Application Payment Confirmation

• Include the receipt or confirmation email of the visa fee payment. 

4. Passport-Sized Photograph

• Must meet UK photo standards (45mm x 35mm, plain background, no shadows). 

5. Proof of Financial Means

• Bank statements for the last 6 months.
• Payslips or a letter from your employer confirming income and leave.
• If self-employed, business registration documents and recent tax filings. 

6. Accommodation Details

• Hotel bookings or Airbnb confirmation.
• If staying with a friend or relative, a letter of invitation and proof of their accommodation (e.g. tenancy agreement or mortgage statement). 

7. Travel Itinerary

• Return flight bookings or travel plan outlining your intended movements.
• Not mandatory, but strongly recommended to show intent to return. 

8. Letter of Invitation (If Visiting Family or Friends)

• Should state the purpose and duration of the visit.
• Include host’s name, address, immigration status, and relationship to you. 

9. Employment or Education Verification

• Letter from employer confirming your role, salary, and approved leave.
• If studying, a letter from your school or university confirming enrolment. 

10. Additional Documents for Specific Categories

Depending on your visit type, you may also need:

• Medical letters for private treatment.
• Business invitations for work-related visits.
• Evidence of academic qualifications for short-term study. 

11. English Translations

Any document not in English or Welsh must be accompanied by a certified translation.

At Axis Solicitors we can help you review, organise, and present your documents to maximise your chances of success.

UK Visitor Visa Fees (2025 Update)

Understanding the UK visitor visa fees is essential for planning your trip, especially with updated costs in 2025. Visa fees are non-refundable, even if your application is refused, so it’s crucial to apply with confidence and the right documentation in place.

Current UK Visitor Visa Fees (as of 2025)

Can You Get a Refund?

No. Visa fees are non-refundable, even if:

• You withdraw your application after submission
• You are refused a visa
• You provide incorrect or incomplete information 

Fee Changes and Inflation

Visa fees are reviewed regularly and may change annually. The UK Government raised several visa and immigration fees in 2024, and further adjustments may come in response to inflation or Home Office policy shifts.

To stay current, always check the Home Office website or speak with a regulated immigration solicitor before applying.

Need help figuring out which visa category and fee applies to you? Axis Solicitors provides expert guidance tailored to your case—saving you time, money, and uncertainty.

How to Apply for a UK Visitor Visa

Applying for a UK visitor visa can be a straightforward process—provided you understand the steps, avoid common pitfalls, and submit complete documentation. Below is a detailed, step-by-step guide to help you meet the UK visitor visa requirements smoothly.

Step 1: Determine the Right Visa Type

Before you start, make sure:

• You fall under the Standard Visitor Visa category.
• Your visit purpose aligns with approved activities (tourism, family, business, etc.).
• You meet all eligibility and financial criteria. 

If your reason for visiting doesn’t fit the standard visitor route (e.g., marriage, long-term work or study), you may need a different visa type.

Step 2: Complete the Online Application Form

Visit the official UK Government visa portal: www.gov.uk/standard-visitor.

• Register and create an account.
• Fill in the application form (approx. 30–45 minutes).
• Answer all questions accurately—especially travel history, finances, and visit purpose. 

Pro Tip: Save a copy of your completed form for your records.

Step 3: Pay the Application Fee

As outlined in the previous section, the UK visitor visa fee is £115 for a 6-month stay. This must be paid online at the end of the application.

Keep your payment confirmation email, as it may be needed for your appointment or future reference.

Step 4: Book a Biometrics Appointment

Once payment is made, you’ll be redirected to book an appointment at a Visa Application Centre (VAC) in your country. You’ll need to:

• Submit fingerprints and a digital photograph.
• Submit original documents or upload them online before the appointment (depending on your VAC).
• Provide your passport. 

Some VACs offer optional services like:

• Priority processing
• Document scanning
• Courier return of passport 

Step 5: Upload Supporting Documents

You can upload documents online or submit them in person during your appointment, depending on local VAC policies.

Ensure all documents are:

• Clearly scanned
• Translated if not in English/Welsh
• Aligned with your application answers 

Step 6: Attend Your Appointment

Bring:

• Appointment confirmation
• Valid passport
• Printed application form
• Payment proof (optional but recommended)
• Any original documents not uploaded

The appointment typically lasts 15–30 minutes.

Step 7: Wait for a Decision

Visa processing times vary but typically range from 3 to 6 weeks, depending on:

• Your location
• Time of year
• Application volume

If you paid for priority or super-priority services, you could receive a decision in 24 hours to 5 days.

You’ll be notified by email or text once a decision has been made. If approved, your passport will be returned with the visa sticker (vignette) inside.

Common Application Mistakes to Avoid

• Submitting inconsistent information
• Failing to explain ties to your home country
• Not including proof of funds or travel plans
• Using fake or unverifiable documents
• Overstaying a previous UK visa

Avoiding these errors is crucial to a successful outcome. If in doubt, consult a regulated immigration expert.

Axis Solicitors offers full visa application support—from eligibility checks to document preparation and legal representation. 

UK Visitor Visa Processing Time and Validity

Understanding how long it takes to get a UK visitor visa—and how long it’s valid for—is essential when planning your trip. Timing your application correctly can prevent travel disruptions and help you meet all UK visitor visa requirements and fees without stress.

Standard Processing Time

For most applicants, the UK visitor visa processing time is:

• Standard Service: 3 to 6 weeks from the date of biometric submission.
• Priority Service: 5 working days (at additional cost).
• Super Priority Service: Next working day (where available, typically in major cities).

Note: These are average timelines and not guaranteed. Delays can occur due to incomplete documents, background checks, or peak travel seasons.

Factors That May Affect Processing Time

• Country of application – Some regions have higher volumes or stricter vetting.
• Complex cases – Prior visa refusals, criminal history, or incomplete submissions can slow down the process.
• Missing documents – If UKVI needs to contact you for more information, expect delays.

Validity of the UK Visitor Visa

The standard UK visitor visa comes in different durations:

Even with a long-term visa, you cannot live in the UK continuously. Frequent or prolonged stays may lead to scrutiny or refusal at the border.

Reapplying After Refusal

If your application is refused, the UKVI will provide a refusal notice stating the reasons. You generally cannot appeal, but you can reapply—after correcting the issues mentioned in the refusal.

Common reasons for refusal:

• Lack of financial evidence
• Insufficient ties to home country
• Dubious travel intentions
• Inconsistent or misleading documents

Frequently Asked Questions 

1. What are the latest UK visitor visa requirements and fees in 2025?

As of 2025, the UK visitor visa requirements and fees include a £115 application fee for a standard 6-month visa. Applicants must show they have a genuine reason to visit, adequate financial support, and strong ties to their home country. They must also provide a valid passport, complete the online form, attend a biometrics appointment, and submit supporting documents such as bank statements, accommodation details, and travel plans.

2. How much bank balance is required for a UK visitor visa?

There is no fixed minimum balance set by UKVI. However, your funds must clearly cover:

• Your round-trip travel costs,
• Living expenses in the UK,
• Any additional expenses (e.g. private medical treatment if applicable). 

Most applicants should be able to show at least £2,000–£3,000 in their account if visiting for 1–2 weeks, but context matters. A high balance with no transaction history may raise red flags. The focus is not only on the amount, but how you earned it, and whether it’s consistent with your lifestyle and job status.

3. Can I use a sponsor for my UK visit visa application?

Yes, a UK-based sponsor (usually a family member or friend) can support your visit by providing:

• A sponsorship letter,
• Proof of their immigration status,
• Bank statements,
• Accommodation proof. 

However, you still need to meet the UK visitor visa requirements on your own. A sponsor helps—but doesn’t replace—the need to demonstrate ties to your home country and intent to leave.

4. Is the UK visitor visa fee refundable if my application is refused?

No. One of the most misunderstood aspects of UK visitor visa fees is that they are non-refundable under any circumstance—even if your application is rejected or withdrawn. That’s why it’s critical to apply with full awareness of all UK visitor visa requirements to minimise the risk of refusal.

5. Can I work on a UK visitor visa?

No. Employment—paid or unpaid—is strictly prohibited. The UK visitor visa requirements clearly state that you must not intend to:

• Work or look for work,
• Volunteer,
• Sell goods or services,
• Do internships.

Breaching this rule can lead to visa cancellation and bans from future travel to the UK.

6. How soon can I apply before my planned travel date?

You can apply for a UK visitor visa up to 3 months before your intended date of travel. Given that standard processing takes 3–6 weeks, applying 6–8 weeks in advance is strongly recommended to ensure you get your passport back in time.

7. What if I want to stay longer than 6 months?

Under normal UK visitor visa rules, 6 months is the maximum length of stay per visit. You cannot extend the visa unless you’re:

• Receiving long-term private medical treatment,
• A senior academic engaged in specific permitted activities.

If you need to stay longer for any other reason, you must return home and apply for a more suitable visa from your country of residence.

8. What happens if my documents are not in English?

Any document not in English or Welsh must be accompanied by a certified translation that includes:

• Translator’s full name and contact details,
• Date of translation,
• Confirmation it’s a true and accurate translation.

Failure to include proper translations can lead to your application being refused for not meeting the UK visitor visa documentation requirements.

9. Can I include my family members in the same application?

No. Each person—including children—must submit a separate visa application and pay their own UK visitor visa fee. Group applications can be submitted together, but decisions are made individually.

10. Does holding a UK visitor visa guarantee entry?

No. Holding a visa does not guarantee entry. Upon arrival at a UK port of entry, border officials will:

• Review your documents again,
• Ask questions about your visit,
• Assess whether you still meet all UK visitor visa requirements.

If they believe your purpose is not genuine or your documentation is inconsistent, you can be refused entry even with a valid visa.

11. Can I reapply if my UK visitor visa is refused?

Yes, but first understand why it was refused. UKVI will issue a refusal notice, and you should only reapply after addressing the specific issues raised.

Common reasons for refusal include:

• Inadequate financial documentation,
• Weak ties to your home country,
• Doubts about your travel intentions,
• Inconsistent answers or forged documents.

Reapplying without correcting the previous issues will likely lead to another refusal—and another round of UK visitor visa fees.

12. Is it worth hiring an immigration solicitor for a UK visitor visa?

If your case is complex, has previous refusals, or you’re unsure about meeting the full UK visitor visa requirements and fees, hiring a solicitor can save you time and money in the long run. At Axis Solicitors, we assess your case, prepare all documents, and submit a legally sound application that maximises your approval chances.

Need help navigating UK visitor visa requirements and fees?

Let Axis Solicitors handle your application with precision and legal expertise. Avoid costly mistakes, refusals, and delays—get it right the first time. Speak to an immigration solicitor today for personalised advice.

Contact us to book a consultation to start your UK visitor visa journey.