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UK Standard Visitor Visa

Allows you to visit the UK for tourism, business, or to visit family and friends for up to 6 months.

Verified 2025-01-15

Quick Facts

Visa Fee
GBP 115
₹12,350
Processing Time
3 weeks
Validity
6 months
Max Stay
6 months
Interview
Not Required
Biometric
Required
Difficulty
Medium
Approval Rate
70-75%

Overview

The UK Standard Visitor Visa allows Indian citizens to visit the United Kingdom for tourism, business, or family visits for up to 6 months. The application is entirely online-based with biometric enrollment required at VFS Global centers across India. No interview is required unless specifically requested.

The UK visa process is known for being document-heavy. You must demonstrate sufficient funds, strong ties to India, and clear travel plans. Processing typically takes 3 weeks, and approval rates are good for well-prepared applicants with proper documentation.

First-time applicants usually receive a 6-month visa. Frequent travelers with good travel history can apply for long-term visas valid for 2, 5, or even 10 years, though the fee is higher.

Key Highlights

  • No interview required for most applicants
  • Processing time: 3 weeks standard
  • Visa fee: £115 for 6-month visa
  • Biometric enrollment mandatory
  • Can stay up to 6 months per visit
  • Long-term visas (2/5/10 years) available
  • Online application with document upload

Visa Types Available

Standard Visitor Visa (STANDARD)

For tourism, visiting family/friends, business activities, or medical treatment

Purposes:
  • • Tourism and leisure
  • • Visiting family and friends
  • • Business meetings and conferences
  • • Medical treatment
  • • Short-term study (up to 6 months)

Long-term Standard Visitor Visa (LONG-TERM)

For frequent visitors - valid for 2, 5, or 10 years

Purposes:
  • • Multiple visits over longer period
  • • Regular business trips
  • • Frequent family visits

Step-by-Step Application Process

1

Complete Online Application

Fill the visa application form on the UK Government website

⏱️ Duration: 30-45 minutes

→ Visit official website
2

Pay Visa Fee

Pay £115 online for 6-month standard visitor visa

⏱️ Duration: 10 minutes

3

Book Biometric Appointment

Schedule appointment at VFS Global center

⏱️ Duration: 15 minutes

→ Visit official website
4

Attend Biometric Appointment

Provide fingerprints and photograph at VFS center

⏱️ Duration: 30-60 minutes

5

Submit Documents

Upload supporting documents online or submit at VFS

⏱️ Duration: 1-2 hours

6

Wait for Decision

Passport returned with decision in 3 weeks

⏱️ Duration: 3 weeks

Fees Breakdown

Visa Application Fee GBP 115
Total (Approximate in INR) ₹12,350

Last updated: 2025-01-15

⚠️ Important Warnings

  • ⚠ Must show confirmed accommodation and return flight
  • ⚠ Bank statements from last 6 months required
  • ⚠ Cannot work or study long-term on visitor visa
  • ⚠ Overstaying can lead to 10-year ban
  • ⚠ Long-term visas cost significantly more

Pro Tips for Success

💡 Provide 6 months of bank statements
💡 Show strong employment ties
💡 Book refundable accommodation
💡 Prepare detailed travel itinerary
💡 Include invitation letter if visiting someone

Common Rejection Reasons & How to Avoid Them

Insufficient funds

Unable to demonstrate ability to fund UK trip

How to avoid:

Show minimum £500-1000 per person, 6 months bank statements

Lack of strong ties to India

Concern about intent to return

How to avoid:

Show employment, property, family ties in India

Incomplete documentation

Missing required supporting documents

How to avoid:

Follow checklist carefully, provide all requested documents

Official Sources