Get Your United Kingdom Visa Online
Fast visa processing for tourism, business, study, and family visits ā discover Britain's timeless charm
TrustpilotHow to Get Your UK Visa
Simple 4-step process ā most applications processed within 3-4 weeks
1
Complete the online application
Fill out our streamlined form with your travel plans, personal details, and purpose of visit. Our intelligent system validates every field in real-time, ensuring your application meets UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) requirements before submission. We guide you through the comprehensive questions required by the British authorities.
2
Upload required documents
Submit your passport scan, recent photograph meeting UK specifications, and supporting documents such as financial evidence, accommodation bookings, and travel itinerary. Our document specialists review every submission to ensure compliance with UKVI's strict requirements and provide guidance on additional documents if needed.
3
Attend biometrics appointment
Visit a designated Visa Application Centre (VAC) to provide your fingerprints and photograph. DoVisa helps you locate the nearest centre and prepare for your appointment. We provide a comprehensive checklist of documents to bring and guidance on what to expect during the biometrics process.
4
Receive your UK visa
Once approved, your visa vignette is placed in your passport. You can collect it from the VAC or opt for courier delivery. Welcome to the United Kingdom ā your journey through centuries of history, from medieval castles to modern metropolises, begins here.
Visa types needed for United Kingdom
United Kingdom Visitor Visa - 180 days, Multiple entry
The United Kingdom Visitor Visa provides access to London, Edinburgh, the Cotswolds, and British history and culture. Valid for 6 Months with multiple entry, this visa allows stays up to 180 days. Perfect for tourism, family visits, and business.
Applicants must submit the following documents:
- š Passport: Valid for at least 6 months with blank pages
- šø Digital Photo: Recent passport-style photograph
- āļø Travel Details: Confirmed travel itinerary
- šØ Accommodation: Hotel or host booking
- š³ Payment: Credit or debit card for fee
Important to know
- Maximum stay: 180 days per visit
- Print visa for presentation at immigration
UK Visa Requirements & Entry Information
Standard Visitor Visa
Up to 6 months
For tourism, visiting family, business meetings, and short courses
Business Visitor Visa
Up to 6 months
For conferences, negotiations, and commercial activities
Student Visa
Course duration
For studying at UK educational institutions with sponsorship
Transit Visa
Up to 48 hours
For passing through the UK to another destination
Essential Requirements
- Passport valid for entire duration of stay
- Recent digital photo meeting UK visa specifications
- Proof of sufficient funds (bank statements, payslips)
- Confirmed accommodation or host invitation letter
- Return or onward flight booking confirmation
- Supporting documents based on visa type
Standard Visitor Visa
The United Kingdom operates its own independent immigration system following Brexit, separate from the European Union's Schengen Area. Most visitors from outside the UK, EU, and visa-exempt countries require a Standard Visitor Visa to enter Britain for tourism, family visits, business activities, or short courses of study.
The Standard Visitor Visa allows stays of up to 6 months and can be issued with single, double, or multiple entry validity. For frequent travelers, long-term visit visas are available with 2-year, 5-year, or 10-year validity ā though each visit must still not exceed 6 months. These multi-year visas are ideal for those with family in the UK, regular business travelers, or those who frequently visit for leisure.
Citizens of the European Union, EEA countries, and Switzerland can visit the UK for up to 6 months without a visa using their passport or national ID card. Citizens of countries including the United States, Canada, Australia, Japan, and many others also enjoy visa-free access for visits up to 6 months. However, nationals from most other countries must apply for a visa before traveling.
Work, Study & Settlement Visas
Work Visas
The UK offers several work visa categories under its points-based immigration system. The Skilled Worker Visa is the main route for those with a job offer from a UK employer holding a sponsor licence. Applicants must meet English language requirements and earn at least the minimum salary threshold. Other work routes include the Global Talent Visa for leaders in academia, arts, or technology, and the Youth Mobility Scheme for young people from participating countries.
Student Visas
The UK is home to world-renowned universities including Oxford, Cambridge, Imperial College London, and the University of Edinburgh. The Student Visa requires a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) from a licensed institution, proof of English proficiency, and evidence of sufficient funds. Students can work part-time during term and full-time during holidays.
Family & Settlement
Family visas allow you to join relatives who are British citizens or settled in the UK. Routes include spouse/partner visas, parent visas, and child visas. The Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) pathway leads to permanent residency after meeting residence requirements.
Application Requirements & Process
Essential Documentation
All UK visa applications require:
ā¢ Valid passport: Must be valid for your entire intended stay with at least one blank page for the visa vignette
ā¢ Digital photograph: Recent photo meeting UK specifications (white or light grey background, clear face, no glasses)
ā¢ Financial evidence: Bank statements from the last 6 months showing sufficient funds to support yourself (and dependants if applicable)
ā¢ Accommodation details: Hotel bookings or invitation letter from host with their address and immigration status
ā¢ Travel itinerary: Return flight bookings and detailed travel plans within the UK
Biometrics Requirement
Most UK visa applicants must attend a Visa Application Centre (VAC) to provide biometric information ā fingerprints and a digital photograph. VACs are operated by VFS Global or TLScontact depending on your location. You'll need to book an appointment after submitting your online application.
TB Test Requirement
Applicants from certain countries (including India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, China, and many African nations) must provide a tuberculosis (TB) test certificate from an approved clinic if applying for a visa longer than 6 months.
Processing Times & Travel Tips
Processing Times
Standard visitor visa applications are typically processed within 3 weeks (15 working days) from your biometrics appointment. However, during peak seasons (summer months, December) processing may take longer. Priority services are available in many locations for faster processing within 5-7 working days, or Super Priority for next-working-day decisions at premium cost.
Student and work visa applications generally take 3-8 weeks depending on complexity. Settlement visa applications can take up to 24 weeks.
Entry Points
The UK's major international airports include London Heathrow (LHR) ā Europe's busiest hub, London Gatwick (LGW), Manchester (MAN), Edinburgh (EDI), Birmingham (BHX), and Glasgow (GLA). Eurostar trains connect London St Pancras to Paris and Brussels, and ferry services operate from various European ports.
Best Time to Visit
The UK enjoys mild weather year-round. Late spring (May-June) offers longer days and blooming gardens. Summer (July-August) brings warmest temperatures but also peak tourist crowds. Autumn (September-October) features beautiful foliage and cultural events. Winter offers festive Christmas markets and lower prices despite shorter days.
Why Choose DoVisa?
See the difference between applying yourself vs using our expert service
| Feature | Applying Yourself |  With DoVisa |
|---|---|---|
| Application reviewExpert review before submission | āNo expert check | ā100% reviewed by experts |
| Document validationCheck documents meet requirements | āRisk of rejection | āPre-checked for errors |
| Customer supportHelp when you have questions | āGovernment offices only | ā24/7 dedicated support |
| Form guidanceAssistance filling out forms | āComplex forms alone | āStep-by-step guidance |
| Status trackingKnow where your application is | āManual checking | āReal-time updates |
| Refund if deniedProtection if visa is rejected | āNo refund possible | āMoney-back guarantee |
1,000+Visas processed
24/7Expert support
4.7Customer rating
97%Approval rate
"UK visa requirements seemed overwhelming but DoVisa made it straightforward. Their checklist for the biometrics appointment was invaluable. Got my visa in 3 weeks!"
"Applied for a Standard Visitor Visa to see family in London. DoVisa helped prepare all the financial documents. Approved first time ā so relieved!"
"Good service overall. The application process is quite detailed but DoVisa guided me through each step. Took 4 weeks for approval but worth the wait."
"Second time using DoVisa for my UK visa. The 2-year multiple entry visa is perfect for my regular business trips to Manchester. Excellent support team!"
"Was nervous about the biometrics appointment but DoVisa prepared me well. Everything went smoothly and I'm now enjoying my holiday in Scotland!"
"Helpful support when I had questions about the invitation letter from my host. Visa approved in about 3 weeks. Would recommend for first-time UK applicants."
"Applied for a 5-year visitor visa for frequent family visits. DoVisa explained the additional requirements clearly. Great value for multiple trips!"
"The UK visa process has many steps but DoVisa made it manageable. Their document review caught an issue with my bank statements before submission."
"Decent experience with the UK visitor visa. Processing took longer than expected (4 weeks) but DoVisa kept me updated throughout. Now exploring London!"
UK Visa FAQs
What types of visas are available for the United Kingdom?
The UK offers a comprehensive range of visa categories. Visitor visas cover tourism, family visits, business activities, and short courses (up to 6 months). Student visas are for those studying at UK institutions with a sponsor. Work visas include Skilled Worker, Global Talent, and various sponsored routes. Family visas allow joining relatives who are British citizens or settled in the UK. Transit visas are for passing through the UK to another destination. Each visa type has specific eligibility requirements, permitted activities, and application procedures. The Standard Visitor Visa is the most common for tourists and short-term visitors.
Who needs a visa to visit the United Kingdom?
Visa requirements depend on your nationality. Visa-exempt nationals including citizens of the EU, EEA, Switzerland, USA, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, South Korea, and many other countries can visit the UK for up to 6 months without a visa. Visa-required nationals from countries including India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, China, Nigeria, and most African and Middle Eastern nations must obtain a Standard Visitor Visa before traveling. You can check your visa requirement on the official UK government website or through DoVisa's nationality checker. Even visa-exempt visitors must meet entry requirements at the border, including proof of funds and onward travel.
What is the Standard Visitor Visa?
The Standard Visitor Visa is the UK's main visa for short-term visits. It covers tourism, visiting friends and family, attending business meetings or conferences, participating in sports or creative events, receiving private medical treatment, and taking short courses of study (up to 6 months). The visa allows stays of up to 6 months per visit and is available with single, double, or multiple entry validity. For frequent travelers, long-term visitor visas with 2-year, 5-year, or 10-year validity are available ā though each individual visit cannot exceed 6 months. You cannot work or access public funds on a visitor visa.
What documents do I need for a UK visa application?
UK visa applications require comprehensive documentation. Essential documents include: a valid passport with at least one blank page, a recent digital photograph meeting UK specifications, completed online application form, and proof of payment. Supporting documents vary by visit purpose but typically include: bank statements from the last 6 months showing sufficient funds, employment letter or business registration, accommodation details (hotel bookings or invitation letter from host), travel itinerary including return flights, and evidence of ties to your home country. Business visitors need invitation letters from UK companies. Family visitors should provide host's proof of address and immigration status. DoVisa provides a detailed checklist based on your specific circumstances.
What are the financial requirements for a UK visitor visa?
The UK requires proof that you can support yourself during your visit without working or accessing public funds. While there's no fixed minimum amount, immigration officers assess your circumstances. Recommended evidence includes: personal bank statements from the last 6 months showing regular income and savings, payslips from recent months, employment letter stating salary and leave approval, and any sponsorship letters if someone else is funding your trip. As a general guideline, budget approximately GBP 100-150 per day for accommodation and living expenses in London, or GBP 70-100 in other areas. The key is demonstrating that your funds match your stated travel plans and that you have sufficient ties to return home.
How long does UK visa processing take?
Standard visitor visa applications are typically processed within 3 weeks (15 working days) from your biometrics appointment. However, times can vary based on application complexity and seasonal demand. Priority services are available in many locations: Priority Visa Service offers decisions within 5-7 working days, while Super Priority Service provides next-working-day decisions at higher cost. Student visas usually take 3-6 weeks, work visas 3-8 weeks, and settlement visas up to 24 weeks. We recommend applying at least 4-6 weeks before your intended travel date, or earlier during peak seasons (summer and December). DoVisa tracks your application status and provides regular updates.
What is the biometrics appointment and what should I bring?
After submitting your online application and paying fees, you must attend a Visa Application Centre (VAC) to provide biometric information ā fingerprints and a digital photograph. What to bring: your valid passport, appointment confirmation, application reference number, and all original supporting documents (you'll need to submit these). What to expect: the appointment takes 15-30 minutes; staff will scan your fingerprints and take a photo; you may be asked questions about your application. Document submission: you can submit originals which will be returned after processing, or use the document scanning service. DoVisa provides a comprehensive preparation checklist and guidance on what to expect at your specific VAC location.
Can I extend my UK visitor visa while in the country?
Visitor visa extensions are possible but strictly limited. You can apply to extend if you entered on a Standard Visitor Visa and have not yet reached the 6-month maximum stay. Extensions are typically granted only for: completing private medical treatment, ongoing legal proceedings, or exceptional circumstances. You cannot extend beyond 6 months total in any 12-month period on a visitor visa. Applications must be submitted online before your current visa expires, and you cannot travel outside the UK while awaiting a decision. If you need to stay longer for work or study, you must apply for the appropriate visa category ā often requiring you to return to your home country first. Overstaying your visa has serious consequences including future visa refusals.
Is the UK part of the Schengen Area?
No, the United Kingdom is not and has never been part of the Schengen Area. The UK maintained its own border controls even before Brexit. A UK visa does not allow travel to Schengen countries (most of continental Europe), and a Schengen visa does not allow entry to the UK. If you plan to visit both the UK and Schengen countries, you need separate visas for each. Ireland (Republic of Ireland) is also outside Schengen but has a Common Travel Area agreement with the UK ā however, visa requirements differ between the two countries. When planning a trip to Europe, carefully check visa requirements for each country you intend to visit.
Can I work in the UK with a visitor visa?
No, visitor visas strictly prohibit employment or receiving payment for work done in the UK. Permitted business activities include: attending meetings, conferences, and interviews; negotiating and signing contracts; gathering information for overseas employment; and site visits. However, you cannot take a job, provide services for a UK company, or receive payment from UK sources. Working illegally results in visa cancellation, deportation, and future visa bans. If you want to work in the UK, you need a Skilled Worker Visa with sponsorship from a licensed UK employer, or another appropriate work visa. The Youth Mobility Scheme allows young people from certain countries to work during a 2-year stay.
What if my UK visa application is rejected?
UK visa refusals are more common than many countries due to strict requirements. Common refusal reasons include: insufficient financial evidence, weak ties to home country, inconsistent information, inadequate documentation, or concerns about intentions. If refused: you'll receive a written explanation of the reasons. There is generally no right of appeal for visitor visa refusals, but you can apply again addressing the issues raised. Some refusals qualify for Administrative Review if there was a caseworking error. DoVisa's support: we review your refusal letter and advise on how to strengthen a fresh application. Our pre-submission document review helps avoid common pitfalls. If your visa is refused due to an error on our part, we provide a full refund of our service fee.
Do I need travel insurance for the UK?
While travel insurance is not a visa requirement, it is strongly recommended. The UK's National Health Service (NHS) provides emergency treatment, but visitors may be charged for certain services. Comprehensive travel insurance should cover: medical expenses (including emergency repatriation), trip cancellation, lost or delayed baggage, and personal liability. Some policies also cover visa refusal. EU/EEA citizens with a valid European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) or UK Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC) can access necessary healthcare during temporary stays. We recommend minimum coverage of GBP 1 million for medical expenses. DoVisa can recommend trusted insurance providers offering UK-specific coverage.
What is the best time to visit the United Kingdom?
The UK can be visited year-round, each season offering unique experiences. Late spring (May-June) brings longer days, blooming gardens, and the Chelsea Flower Show. Summer (July-August) offers warmest weather (15-25C), outdoor festivals, and longer daylight hours, but also peak crowds and prices. Autumn (September-October) features beautiful foliage in the countryside, harvest festivals, and comfortable temperatures. Winter (November-February) has festive Christmas markets, lower prices, and fewer tourists ā though days are short and weather is cold and wet. London is busy year-round. The Scottish Highlands and Lake District are best May-September. Avoid Bank Holiday weekends (especially late May and August) for cheaper travel.
What is the TB test requirement for UK visas?
Applicants from certain countries must provide a tuberculosis (TB) test certificate when applying for UK visas longer than 6 months. This includes most countries in Africa, Asia (including India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, China, and the Philippines), the Middle East, and parts of South America and Eastern Europe. The test must be conducted at a UK-approved clinic in your country and the certificate is valid for 6 months from the test date. You must provide the certificate with your visa application. The test typically involves a chest X-ray and costs vary by location. Visitor visa applicants (up to 6 months) generally do not need a TB test unless applying for specific medical or family reasons. Check the full list of TB test-required countries on the UK government website.
How do I prove ties to my home country?
Immigration officers assess whether you're likely to leave the UK at the end of your visit. Strong ties demonstrate reasons to return home. Evidence includes: Employment ā employment letter, payslips, leave approval letter showing your job continues; Property ā proof of home ownership or long-term rental; Family ā evidence of spouse, children, or dependents remaining at home; Business ā business registration, contracts, ongoing obligations; Education ā enrollment letters if currently studying; Financial ā assets, investments, bank accounts in your home country. The more compelling your reasons to return, the stronger your application. If you have previous immigration history showing you've respected visa conditions, include that evidence too.
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