Summary: key points at a glance
- The UK visitor visa (also called the standard visitor visa UK) covers tourism, business, family visits, and limited short-term activities.
- Most visitors can stay up to 6 months per visit, even on long-term visas.
- Working, living in the UK long-term, or accessing public funds is not permitted under a visitor visa.
- Many refusals happen due to weak evidence, financial issues, or failing the genuine visitor test.
- Applications from some countries face higher scrutiny, but strong preparation with the help of a UK immigration solicitor can greatly improve your chances of success.
What is a Visitor Visa in the UK?
A UK visitor visa allows non-UK nationals to enter the UK temporarily for specific permitted activities such as tourism, visiting family or friends, business meetings, or short-term study. It is designed for people who intend to leave the UK at the end of their visit and who can support themselves financially without working. Most people refer to this as a UK tourist visa application, but legally it falls under the standard visitor visa UK category.
Types of UK Visitor Visas
Although there is technically one main visitor visa category (standard visitor visa), it is designed to cover a variety of purposes, including tourism, business, visiting family, short-term study, medical treatment, and special engagements. Each purpose has its own set of permitted activities, documentation requirements, and eligibility criteria, so selecting the correct purpose and providing the right supporting evidence is essential to avoiding refusals and ensuring a smooth application process.
1. Tourist and Leisure Visitor Visa
This is for people visiting the UK for holidays, sightseeing, or visiting friends and family.
Permitted activities include:
- Tourism and travel
- Visiting friends or relatives
- Attending social events
2. Business Visitor Visa
The UK business visitor visa is for short-term business activities only.
You may:
- Attend meetings or conferences
- Negotiate contracts
- Receive training (not deliver it)
You may not:
- Work for a UK company
- Be paid by a UK source (with limited exceptions)
3. Short-term Study Visitor Visa
Allows study for up to 6 months (or 11 months for English language courses) at an accredited institution.
4. Medical Treatment Visitor Visa
For private medical treatment where you can prove:
- A confirmed medical appointment
- Ability to pay for treatment
- Intention to leave after treatment
5. Permitted Paid Engagement Visa
A niche route for experts invited to the UK for a specific paid engagement (e.g., artists, lecturers, legal professionals).
6. Marriage Visitor Visa
This is required if you plan to get married or give notice of marriage in the UK but do not intend to settle.
How long can you stay in the UK on a Visitor Visa?
Most visitors can stay in the UK for up to 6 months per visit, even if they hold a long-term visitor visa. This rule applies regardless of whether the visa has been granted for:
- 6 months
- 2 years
- 5 years
- 10 years
A long-term visitor visa simply allows multiple entries over a longer period, but each individual stay must not exceed 6 months. It does not give permission to live in the UK on an ongoing basis.
UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) closely monitors travel history. If an applicant spends frequent or extended periods in the UK, or appears to be using repeated visits to effectively live in the country, this may lead to refusal on the basis that they are not a genuine visitor.
When assessing future applications, the Home Office may look at:
- How much time you have spent in the UK compared to your home country
- The gaps between visits
- Whether your travel pattern suggests residence rather than temporary visits
This is a common reason for refusal, particularly for holders of long-term visitor visas, and highlights the importance of demonstrating strong ties to your home country and a clear intention to leave the UK after each visit.
UK Visitor Visa cost
The UK visitor visa cost varies depending on the length of the visa you apply for. The Home Office fees are currently:
- 6-month visitor visa: £115
- 2-year visitor visa: £432
- 5-year visitor visa: £771
- 10-year visitor visa: £963
Longer visas can be convenient for frequent travellers, but it’s important to remember that each visit is still limited to a maximum of 6 months, regardless of the visa’s overall validity.
In addition to the Home Office application fee, applicants may also need to budget for additional costs, such as:
- Priority or super priority processing, where available
- Biometric enrolment fees at a visa application centre
- Certified document translations, if documents are not in English or Welsh
- Legal advice from UK immigration solicitors, which is optional but often valuable for complex cases, previous refusals, or applications from higher-risk countries
UK visitor visa fees are non-refundable, even if the application is refused. This makes it especially important to ensure that your application is accurate, well-supported, and properly prepared before submission.
Is a Visitor Visa allowed to work in the UK?
No. Working on a UK visitor visa is prohibited, and this is one of the most strictly enforced rules of the visitor route.
This includes:
- Paid employment for a UK or overseas employer
- Unpaid work, including internships, volunteering, or work experience
- Freelance work or providing services to UK-based clients
- Remote work, where the UK is used as a base to carry out work, even if the employer or clients are based overseas
Although some visitors assume that remote work for a non-UK employer is allowed, UK Visas and Immigration may still consider this a breach of visa conditions if it appears that you are effectively living or working in the UK rather than visiting temporarily.
Carrying out unauthorised work can lead to serious consequences, including refusal of entry at the UK border, visa cancellation, and difficulties with future UK visa applications. If your visit involves any form of work activity, it is important to check whether a different visa route, such as a work or business visa, would be more appropriate.
Can I get married on a UK Visitor Visa?
You cannot get married on a standard visitor visa.
If marriage or civil partnership is planned, you must apply for a marriage visitor visa. Using the wrong visa can lead to refusal or future immigration issues.
Can a UK Visitor Visa be extended?
In most cases, no! A UK visitor visa is intended for short, temporary stays and is not designed to be extended from within the UK.
Extensions are only permitted in very limited circumstances, such as where:
- You are receiving private medical treatment and need additional time to complete it
- There are exceptional, unavoidable reasons supported by strong evidence
For the vast majority of visitors, it is expected that you will leave the UK before your permitted stay ends and, if necessary, apply for a new visa from outside the UK.
Because extensions are rarely granted, UK Visas and Immigration places significant importance on whether you can demonstrate a clear intention to leave the UK at the end of your visit. Failing to do so is a common reason for refusal, particularly where an applicant appears to be using the visitor route to remain in the UK for longer periods.
If you think your circumstances may require a longer stay, it is important to seek advice on whether a different visa category would be more appropriate.
Get expert advice on your UK Visitor Visa
If you are unsure which UK visitor visa is right for you, concerned about refusal risks, or need help preparing a strong application, Mulgrave Law’s experienced UK immigration lawyers and solicitors can guide you every step of the way. We provide clear, practical advice tailored to your circumstances. Book a consultation today.
info@mulgravelaw.co.uk
020 7253 7248
Fill out our simple contact form
What documents are required for a UK Visitor Visa?
The documents required for a UK visitor visa will vary depending on your personal circumstances, the purpose of your visit, and whether you are travelling independently or being sponsored. However, most applications will typically include the following:
- A valid passport, with at least one blank page and enough validity for your intended stay
- Bank statements showing you have sufficient funds to support yourself during your visit, usually covering the last 6 months
- Evidence of employment or self-employment, such as an employment letter, payslips, or business registration documents
- Travel itinerary, including intended dates of travel and return
- Accommodation details, such as hotel bookings or confirmation of where you will be staying
- Sponsor letter, if you are staying with friends or family in the UK, confirming the relationship and accommodation arrangements
Depending on your situation, the Home Office may also ask to provide:
- Evidence of ties to your home country, such as property ownership, family responsibilities, or ongoing employment
- Proof of previous travel history, including visas and entry stamps
- Additional documents relating to business activities, study, or medical treatment
All documents must be genuine, consistent with the information in your application, and presented clearly. Discrepancies, missing explanations, or poorly organised evidence are a common reason for UK visitor visa refusals.
If you are unsure which documents apply to your situation, taking advice before submitting your application can help reduce the risk of refusal.
How long does a UK Visitor Visa take?
The UK visitor visa processing time is usually around 3 weeks from the date you attend your biometric appointment, for applications made outside the UK. This timeframe applies to most standard visitor visa applications, but it is not guaranteed.
Processing times can vary depending on several factors, including:
- The country from which you apply
- Seasonal demand, such as during peak travel periods
- The complexity of your application
- Whether additional checks or documents are required
Some applicants may have the option to use priority or super priority services, which can shorten waiting times. However, these services are subject to availability, vary by location, and do not guarantee approval or a fixed decision date.
Because delays can occur, legal professionals advise to apply well in advance of your intended travel date and avoid booking non-refundable travel until a decision has been received.
Countries where UK Visitor Visas are more difficult to obtain
Applications from certain countries face higher scrutiny due to:
- Previous overstay patterns
- Economic instability
- Document fraud risks
This does not mean refusal is inevitable.
Applicants from higher-risk countries must focus on:
- Strong financial evidence
- Clear ties to home country
- Well-explained travel purpose
This is where legal professional guidance often makes a significant difference.
Common mistakes made in UK Visitor Visa applications
1. Weak financial evidence
Low balances, unexplained deposits, or inconsistent statements raise red flags.
2. Failing the genuine visitor test
If UKVI believes you may overstay or work, the application will be refused.
3. Over-reliance on a sponsor
A sponsor cannot compensate for your own weak finances or ties.
4. Inconsistent information
Contradictions between forms, letters, and documents often lead to refusal.
5. Reapplying without fixing refusal reasons
Many repeat refusals happen because applicants do not address previous issues properly.
UK Visitor Visa Vs Marriage Visitor Visa Vs Spouse Visa
What is the difference between a Visitor Visa, Marriage Visitor Visa and a Spouse Visa?
The key difference is intention. UK Visas and Immigration assesses what you plan to do in the UK and how long you intend to stay.
- A visitor visa is for short, temporary stays only
- A marriage visitor visa is for getting married in the UK and then leaving
- A spouse visa is for living in the UK long term with your partner
Choosing the wrong visa can lead to refusal and future credibility issues.
Standard Visitor Visa: key points
A standard visitor visa UK is suitable if you are visiting temporarily for tourism, business or family reasons.
- Maximum stay: up to 6 months per visit
- Marriage or civil partnership: Not allowed
- Giving notice of marriage: Not allowed
- Long-term stay or settlement: Not permitted
- Work or public funds: Not allowed
Marriage Visitor Visa: key points
A marriage visitor visa is designed specifically for couples who want to get married or enter a civil partnership in the UK but do not plan to stay afterwards.
- Maximum stay: Up to 6 months
- Marriage or civil partnership: Allowed
- Giving notice at a register office: Allowed
- Switching to another visa in the UK: Not allowed
- Work or settlement rights: Not allowed
Spouse Visa: key points
A UK spouse visa is for people who want to live in the UK with their British or settled partner.
- Initial visa length: 30 months
- Marriage or civil partnership: Allowed
- Right to work and study: Yes
- Pathway to settlement and citizenship: Yes
- Financial and English language requirements: Apply
Frequently asked questions about UK Visitor Visas
1. What are the eligibility requirements for a UK visitor visa application?
You must show you will leave the UK at the end of your stay, can support yourself, have a genuine reason for the visit, and won’t work or settle in the UK. Evidence should match what you state on your form and support your intentions clearly.
2. What can I do as a standard visitor in the UK?
You can visit family or friends, travel for tourism, attend conferences or meetings, or take short courses. You cannot work, live permanently, or access public funds.
3. What does it mean to be a “genuine visitor”?
A genuine visitor intends to leave the UK at the end of their visit, has sufficient funds, and has a credible reason for visiting. The Home Office assesses travel history, financial stability, and ties to your home country.
4. Why might the Home Office doubt that I am a genuine visitor?
Red flags include frequent or long-term UK visits, inconsistent documents, weak financial evidence, or intentions that suggest work or settlement.
5. What funds do I need to show for a UK visitor visa?
You need to demonstrate that you can support yourself (and any dependents) during your stay without public funds. Bank statements, payslips, and sponsor letters are commonly required.
6. What counts as ‘frequent or successive visits’ to the UK?
Multiple visits in a short period or staying for extended periods without strong reasons may be considered frequent or successive and could affect approval.
7. How do I make an application for a UK visitor visa?
Applications are made online through the UK government website. You must provide supporting documents, attend a biometric appointment, and pay the visa fee.
8. How long will it take for my UK visit visa application to be decided?
Standard processing is around 3 weeks, but this may vary by country and season. Priority services can reduce waiting times.
9. What happens if my application for a UK visitor visa is refused?
Refusals usually include reasons. You may appeal in some cases, but often the best approach is to reapply after addressing the refusal reasons. Repeated refusals can affect future applications, it is advised to seek legal assistance from immigration lawyers.
10. Can I study or take a short course on a UK visitor visa?
Yes, short-term study (up to 6 months, 11 months for English language courses) is allowed, but full-time long courses require a student visa.
11. Can I work remotely while on a UK visitor visa?
No. Even remote work for overseas clients may be risky if it suggests living or earning in the UK.
12. Do I need an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) to visit the UK?
Some nationalities must obtain an ETA before travel which started in 2025. Check the UK government website for your country’s requirements.
13. Which UK visa do I need if I want to marry my partner?
If you want to marry in the UK and then leave, you need a marriage visitor visa. If you want to live in the UK after marriage, you need a spouse visa. A standard visitor visa is not suitable for marriage.
14. Can I switch from a visitor visa to a spouse visa in the UK?
No. You generally cannot switch from a visitor visa to a spouse visa from inside the UK. YouPage must apply from outside the UK.
15. What happens if I apply for a visitor visa but intend to settle?
Your application is likely to be refused for failing the genuine visitor test, and this can negatively affect future UK visa applications.
16. Is a marriage visitor visa easier than a spouse visa?
A marriage visitor visa has fewer requirements, but it does not allow settlement or switching. A spouse visa is more complex but leads to long-term residence.
17. Which visa is best if my partner lives in the UK?
If your partner lives in the UK and you plan to live together there, a spouse visa is usually the correct route.
18. Do I need legal advice to choose the right visa?
Legal advice is not mandatory, but it can help prevent refusals, especially where intentions may be questioned or previous refusals exist.
How can immigration lawyers help with UK Visitor Visas?
While many UK visitor visa applications are straightforward, a significant number of refusals occur unnecessarily due to incomplete evidence, unclear documentation, or misunderstandings of the rules. This is where expert legal guidance can make a real difference.
At Mulgrave Law, our experienced immigration lawyers can assist you by:
- Assessing refusal risk before you apply
We identify potential issues early and advise on the best strategy to maximise your chances of approval. - Advising on the correct visa type
Whether it’s a standard visitor visa, marriage visitor visa, or another category, we ensure you apply under the right route for your circumstances. - Reviewing and organising your documents strategically
We make sure your evidence is clear, complete, and aligned with UKVI requirements. - Preparing strong explanations for complex cases
If there are unusual circumstances, prior refusals, or higher-risk factors, we help present your case in the strongest possible way.
Legal advice is particularly valuable if:
- You are applying from a higher-risk country
- You have previous UK visa refusals
- You are unsure how to demonstrate ties to your home country or genuine intention to leave
Engaging immigration lawyers early saves time, reduce stress, and prevent unnecessary costs by avoiding avoidable refusals. Book your free consultation today.
info@mulgravelaw.co.uk
020 7253 7248
Fill out our simple contact form
Don’t leave your UK visitor visa application to chance get professional guidance and apply with confidence.