Standard Visitor Visa
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A quick look
You can usually stay in the UK for up to 6 months.
No, this visa does not need to be accompanied by a Sponsor Licence.
Standard Visitor Visa
The Standard Visitor Visa allows you to visit the UK as a visitor. Under the visa, you can conduct tourist activities, business activities, and study for a qualification.
If you visit the UK regularly, the Long-term Standard Visitor Visa might be better for you instead.
Also, if you are just passing through the UK, then the Visitor in Transit Visa will be the best one for you. This is for very short visits, such as if you are changing flights on your way to another country.
Requirements
As well as a passport or travel document, you also need to be able to prove the following things before you come to the UK:
- You will be leaving the UK at the end of your visit
- You are able to support yourself and your dependants during your trip (or have funding from someone)
- You are able to pay for your return or onward journey
- You are not planning on living in the UK for extended periods through visits
- You do not plan to make the UK your main home
You may need to meet extra eligibility requirements if you are visiting the UK if you wish to undertake academic study whilst you are here. See the UK Government’s website for more.
Depending on your nationality, you will either have to apply for a Standard Visitor visa, or be able to visit the UK for up to 6 months without needing a visa. The Government has a simple questionnaire which tells you if you need to apply for a visa.
Please note: you may be asked questions at the UK border about your eligibility and the activities you plan to do.
How long can I stay?
You can usually stay in the UK for up to 6 months. You might be able to apply to stay for longer in certain circumstances, for example to get medical treatment.
However, there are other versions of the Standard Visitor Visa that last longer.
Aside from the previously linked Long-term Standard Visitor Visa, there is also the Standard Visitor Visa for medical reasons, and the Standard Visitor Visa for academics.
For medical reasons, the visa lasts up to 11 months. For academics, the visa lasts up to 12 months.
How much does a Standard Visitor Visa cost?
The visa costs £115, which allows you to stay for up to 6 months. The earliest you can apply for it is three months before you travel to the UK.
As the Standard Visitor Visa lasts for up to 6 months, you will not need to pay the Immigration Health Surcharge.
A Standard Visitor Visa for medical reasons or academics will cost you £200.
Ready for assistance?
If you have any questions about the changes or want legal advice, contact
Woodcock Law & Notary Public today. Contact us by phone on +44 (0)20 7712 1705 or
by email at info@woodcocklaw.co.uk.
