UK Visitor Visa Application: Complete Guide

uk visitor visa application

IN THIS SECTION

If you want to visit Britain for a short stay, you may need to make a UK visitor visa application.

The Home Office application process can appear daunting at first; the eligibility requirements are strict, and you will need to provide evidence to prove that you qualify as a visitor.

However, as we set out in this guide, you can improve the chances of your visa application being approved through careful planning and comprehensive supporting documents.

In this article, we’ll take you through the UK visitor visa application process, from determining your eligibility and gathering the necessary documents to submitting your application and understanding the costs involved.

 

Section A: What is a UK Visitor Visa?

 

The UK Government classifies routes within the Immigration Rules under specific categories, and what most people refer to colloquially as a “visitor visa” is, in fact, officially called the “Standard Visitor Visa”.

The UK Standard Visitor Visa is the visa required for short-term visits to the UK. The visa allows individuals to stay for up to six months for certain permissible activities, such as sightseeing, attending business meetings, participating in cultural events, or visiting family and friends.

The Standard Visitor Visa consolidated several previous visa categories under one comprehensive visa type, making it easier for applicants to understand which visa they need while streamlining the application process for various types of short-term visits.

 

Section B: Types of Visits Covered by the Standard Visitor Visa

 

Before making a UK visitor visa application, you will need to check that the activities you are planning while in the country are allowed under the visa conditions.

While the UK Standard Visitor Visa permits short-term visits for a range of different purposes, if your reason for coming to the UK does not fall within any of these, you will need to apply for an appropriate visa.

 

Read our comprehensive guide to UK visa options here >> 

 

Under the Standard Visitor visa, permissible activities for visitors include:

 

1. Tourism

The most common use of the Standard Visitor Visa is for tourism, allowing you to sightsee and visit Britain’s world-famous places and attractions. It also allows holders to participate in cultural events, such as attending festivals, exhibitions, and other cultural activities.

 

2. Business

Business travellers can use the Standard Visitor Visa to attend meetings, conferences, seminars, and other business-related events. This visa also covers short-term business activities such as negotiating contracts or investigating business opportunities. You can also attend training sessions or specific work-related activities that do not amount to employment.

 

Read more about the visitor visa for business visitors here >>

 

3. Family Visits

The Standard Visitor Visa allows you to visit family members residing in the UK, whether for special occasions, holidays, or simply spending time together. You can also accompany relatives for medical treatment or support them during significant life events.

 

4. Medical Treatment

The Standard Visitor Visa allows you to travel to the UK to receive private medical treatment, which can include both short-term and ongoing treatments, provided the total stay does not exceed six months.

 

Read more about getting a visa for a medical visit here >>

 

5. Short-Term Study

While the Standard Visitor Visa is not intended for long-term education, you can visit the UK for up to 6 months to study at an accredited institution, including English language courses, or to do short research relevant to your overseas course.

Medical, veterinary, nursing, midwifery, and dentistry students can undertake an optional additional placement. You can also sit entrance exams, retake exams or course modules, or do a PhD oral exam. Graduates from medical, dental, or nursing schools can do an unpaid clinical attachment. Additionally, you can take the OSCE or PLAB tests.

 

6. Academic Visitors

If you’re a scientist, researcher, or academic, you can participate in formal exchange arrangements with UK counterparts and carry out research either as part of your job or independently. Senior doctors or dentists can also engage in research, teach (not in a permanent post), and undertake clinical practice (not in a permanent position). Postgraduate researchers may need an Academic Technology Approval Scheme (ATAS) certificate. Additionally, you can visit for permitted paid engagements like giving a lecture or being an academic assessor, demonstrating expertise in your profession.

 

Read more about the UK visa for academic visitors here >>

 

7. Paid Engagements

You can visit the UK for certain paid engagements or events (a ‘permitted paid engagement’) if you have a written invitation from a UK-based organisation or client, can prove expertise in your profession, and are 18 or older. The engagement must be relevant to your expertise and main job in your home country. You can stay for up to six months but must complete the engagement within the first month.

 

Section C: Eligibility Criteria for the UK Standard Visitor Visa

 

The application process for the UK visitor visa is designed to assess whether you are eligible for this visa category. The criteria you’ll need to meet as a visitor to the UK include:

 

1. Valid Passport

Applicants must have a valid passport or travel document with at least one blank page. The passport should be valid for the entire duration of the stay in the UK.

 

2. Purpose of Visit

Clearly state the purpose of your visit in your application. This can include tourism, business meetings, family visits, medical treatment, short-term study, or other permissible activities.

 

3. Financial Proof

Applicants must provide proof of sufficient funds to support themselves during their stay in the UK. This can include bank statements, payslips, or a letter from a sponsor.

You’ll also need to give proof of where you will be staying, and your travel plans, including return or onward travel arrangements, must be provided.

 

4. Duration of Stay

Applicants must demonstrate that they intend to leave the UK at the end of their visit. This can be shown through evidence of ties to your home country, such as employment, family, or property.

 

5. Travel History

A record of previous travel can support your application, especially if you have a history of complying with immigration rules. This includes providing visas and entry stamps from previous travels.

 

6. Medical Treatment (if applicable)

If visiting for medical treatment, provide a letter from a medical professional in the UK detailing the treatment, its duration, and the estimated cost.

 

7. Invitation Letter (if applicable)

For family visits or business purposes, an invitation letter from the host in the UK may be required. This letter should include details of your relationship, the purpose of your visit, and where you will be staying.

 

Section D: Required Documents for the UK Standard Visitor Visa

 

Applying for a UK Standard Visitor Visa involves gathering and submitting certain documents to prove your eligibility, such as your ability to support yourself financially during your stay.

As a minimum, you will need to provide the following:

 

Document
Description
Valid Passport
Must be valid for the duration of your stay and have a blank page
Application Form
Completed online application form
Visa Fee Receipt
Proof of payment for the visa application fee
Photographs
Passport-sized photographs meeting UK requirements
Financial Proof
Bank statements, payslips, or sponsor letter
Travel Itinerary
Flight bookings, accommodation reservations, travel plans
Proof of Accommodation
Hotel bookings, invitation letter from host, rental agreements
Purpose of Visit Documentation
Invitation letters, business meeting details, medical appointment letters
Evidence of Ties to Home Country
Employment letters, property ownership documents, family ties
English Language Proficiency
Certificates or test results (if applicable)
Previous Travel History
Copies of visas and entry stamps from previous travels
Medical Treatment Documents
Letters from UK medical professionals detailing treatment

 

The exact documents to provide will depend on your specific circumstances, such as the purpose of your visit. For example, if you are coming to perform as a professional at an event, you will need a letter from your client detailing the engagement and the arrangements, or if visiting friends or family, it helps to have an invitation letter. Taking professional advice will ensure you provide a comprehensive submission that supports your application.

 

Read our full guide to visa application supporting documents here >>

 

Section E: How to Make a UK Visitor Visa Application

 

Applying for a UK Standard Visitor Visa involves several steps, from filling out the application form to submitting the necessary documents and attending a biometric appointment.

 

1. How to Fill Out the Visitor Visa Application Form

 

Step 1: Create a UKVI Account

Start by creating an account on the official UK government visa application website.

 

Step 2: Fill Out Personal Information

Enter your personal details, including your full name, date of birth, nationality, and passport information. Make sure the information is correct and as it appears on your passport. Double-check for any errors or typos.

 

Step 3: Specify the Purpose of Your Visit

State the reason for your visit (e.g., tourism, business, family visit). Select the appropriate category from the dropdown menu and provide additional details if required.

 

Step 4: Provide Travel Details

Enter your travel dates, accommodation information, and planned activities in the UK. Include your arrival and departure dates, addresses of where you will be staying, and a brief itinerary of your visit.

 

Step 5: Financial Information

To show you have sufficient funds to cover your stay in the UK, input details of your income, savings, and how you plan to finance your trip. Attach bank statements, payslips, or a sponsor letter if applicable.

 

Step 6: Previous Travel History

Provide information about your travel history, especially any previous visits to the UK or other countries. List the countries you have visited in the past ten years and any visas you have been granted.

 

Step 7: Additional Information

Answer questions related to your health, character, and any criminal history. Respond truthfully to all questions. This may include details about any previous criminal convictions or medical conditions.

 

Step 8: Review and Submit

Review all the information entered to ensure it is correct and complete. Check each section of the form, make any necessary corrections, and submit the application. Print a copy for your records.

 

Step
Description
Create an Account
Create a secure account on the UK government visa application website
Fill Out Application Form
Enter personal, travel, and financial details accurately
Upload Documents
Scan and upload required documents to the online portal
Pay Application Fee
Pay the visa fee using a credit or debit card
Schedule Biometric Appointment
Book an appointment at a Visa Application Center (VAC)
Attend Biometric Appointment
Provide fingerprints and a digital photograph
Track Application Status
Use the reference number to monitor your application’s progress
Await Decision
Wait for the visa decision, typically within 3 weeks
Receive Passport and Visa
Collect your passport with the visa or receive it via courier

 

2. Submitting Your Application

 

The next steps vary, depending on whether you are submitting the application online or in person.

 

a. Online Applications

If submitting online, you will need to upload a digital copy of your supporting documents to the online application portal. Make sure that the images are clear and easily readable to avoid any delays or issues during the review process.

The visa application fee then needs to be paid. Print the payment receipt as proof for your records and for during the later stages of your application process.

Next, schedule a biometric appointment at a Visa Application Centre (VAC) to provide your biometric information (fingerprints and a photograph). You will need to bring your passport and a printed copy of your application form to the VAC on the day of your appointment.

Certain applications may require physical copies of your documents. Follow the instructions provided during the online application process to submit any additional documents by mail.

 

b. In-Person Applications

If you are not submitting your application online, you’ll need to take the submission with you to your biometrics appointment at the VAC and submit your completed application form and supporting documents. Hand over these documents to the VAC staff, who will process your application and collect your biometric information.

 

Read our full guide to making a UK visa application here >> 

 

Section F: Visitor Visa Application Fees

 

You will need to pay the visa application fee before it can be processed.

 

1. Visa Application Fee

 

Most UK visitor visa applications, issued for up to 6 months, cost £115. However, fees vary depending on the length of your stay and any additional services you might require during the application process.

 

Visa Type
Duration
Fee (£)
Standard Visitor Visa
Up to 6 months
£115
Standard Visitor Visa for Medical Reasons
Up to 11 months
£200
Standard Visitor Visa for Academics
Up to 12 months
£200
Long-term Visitor Visa
Up to 2 years
£432
Long-term Visitor Visa
Up to 5 years
£771
Long-term Visitor Visa
Up to 10 years
£963
Priority Visa Service
5 working days
Additional £500
Super Priority Visa Service
Next working day
Additional £1000

 

2. Additional Fees

 

Additional fees may also apply when applying for a UK Standard Visitor Visa, such as optional services that can expedite the application process or provide additional convenience.

 

a. Priority Visa Service
The Priority Visa Service costs £500, though this may vary. This service expedites the processing of your visa application, typically reducing the time to five working days. It is particularly useful if you need to travel urgently or require a faster decision on your visa application.

 

b. Super Priority Visa Service
Costing £1000 per application, the Super Priority Visa Service offers a decision by the end of the next working day. This service is designed for extremely urgent travel needs, ensuring the quickest possible processing time.

 

c. User-Pay Visa Application Centre (VAC) Services
Costs for User-Pay VAC services vary. Some Visa Application Centres charge additional fees for optional services such as document checking, courier return services, or assistance with form filling.

 

d. Translation Services
Translation services costs vary, depending on the complexity and volume of documents. If any of your supporting documents are not in English or Welsh, certified translations will be required. This is necessary when submitting documents in other languages to ensure they are properly understood and accepted by the visa authorities.

 

e. Document Certification and Legalisation
The costs for document certification and legalisation (apostilling) also vary. Some documents may need to be certified or legalised to be accepted by UK authorities. This is often required for certain legal or official documents, particularly those related to financial or legal status.

 

Read our full guide to UK visa fees here >>

 

Section G: UK Standard Visitor Visa Processing Time

 

The time it takes from submitting your application to receiving a decision can vary based on several factors.

 

1. Standard Processing Times

 

The standard processing time for a UK Standard Visitor Visa is approximately three weeks (15 working days) from the date of your biometric appointment. This is the typical duration for most straightforward applications, ensuring that you have enough time to plan your visit accordingly.

 

Read more about UK visa processing times here >>

 

2. Expedited Processing

 

For those who need a quicker decision, the priority service reduces the processing time to about five working days. This option, available for an additional fee, is suitable for applicants who require a faster processing time due to travel schedules or other urgent needs.

The super priority service offers the fastest processing time, providing a decision by the end of the next working day. This service is ideal for extremely urgent travel requirements, ensuring that you receive your visa decision in the shortest time possible.

 

3. Factors Influencing Processing Times

 

Visa application processing times are subject to many different factors, such as:

 

a. Application Quality
Incomplete applications or missing documents often result in delays. Ensuring that all required documents are submitted correctly is crucial to avoid any hold-ups in processing. Thoroughly checking your application before submission can help prevent these issues.

 

b. Caseload
Processing times can be longer during peak travel seasons or holiday periods due to a higher volume of applications. Planning your application ahead of these busy periods can help mitigate potential delays caused by high demand.

 

c. Complex Cases
Some applications require additional background checks or have special circumstances, which may extend the processing time. Complex cases often take longer to review thoroughly, so being aware of this possibility can help manage expectations.

 

d. Additional Information Requests
Occasionally, the visa office might request further information or documentation, which can also extend the processing time. Responding promptly and accurately to any requests from the visa office can help minimise delays and keep your application on track.

 

Section H: Common Visitor Visa Application Mistakes to Avoid

 

Applying for a UK Standard Visitor Visa can be a complex process, and even small mistakes can lead to delays or rejections. Avoid these common errors to improve your chances of making a successful application:

 

1. Incomplete Application Forms

Missing or incorrect information in the application form often leads to delays or rejections. An example of this is failing to fill out all mandatory fields or providing inaccurate personal details. Reviewing your application form carefully before submission and using the checklist provided by the UK Government can help ensure all fields are completed accurately.

 

2. Insufficient Supporting Documents

Not providing all necessary documents can result in a negative decision. Missing bank statements, travel itineraries, or invitation letters are common issues. Making a comprehensive list of all required documents based on your visa category and purpose of visit and checking each document for completeness and relevance can prevent this error.

 

3. Lack of Financial Proof

Inadequate proof of funds frequently causes issues. An example is providing outdated bank statements or insufficient financial evidence. Ensuring your financial documents are up-to-date and clearly show sufficient funds, along with a detailed financial plan for your stay, can help demonstrate your financial stability.

 

4. Inconsistent Information

Inconsistent details across different documents can raise red flags. Examples include different names, dates, or travel plans listed in various documents. Verifying that all information provided in your application and supporting documents is consistent can avoid this problem.

 

5. Ignoring Visa Requirements

Overlooking specific requirements for your visa type can lead to rejections. Applying for a tourist visa but providing documents suggesting you intend to work is a common mistake. Familiarising yourself with the specific requirements for the Standard Visitor Visa and ensuring all documents align with the purpose of your visit is crucial.

 

6. Poor Quality Document Copies

Submitting unclear or poorly scanned copies of documents can result in rejection. Examples include blurry or incomplete scans of passports or financial documents. Scanning and photocopying documents clearly, using colour copies where possible, and ensuring all details are legible can help avoid this issue.

 

7. Failure to Demonstrate Intent to Return

Not convincingly showing that you intend to leave the UK at the end of your visit is another frequent issue. An example is a lack of ties to your home country, such as employment, family, or property. Providing evidence of employment, property ownership, family connections, or other commitments ensures your return after the visit.

 

8. Not Attending the Biometric Appointment

Missing your biometric appointment without rescheduling can result in application cancellation. Failing to attend the biometric appointment on the scheduled date is an example. Scheduling your biometric appointment promptly, preparing all necessary documents, and arriving early can ensure this step is completed smoothly.

 

Section I: Post-Application Steps for the UK Standard Visitor Visa

 

After submitting your UK Standard Visitor Visa application, there are several important steps to follow. Knowing what to expect and how to handle potential outcomes, such as visa refusals, can help you stay prepared and informed.

 

1. Check Your Visa Application Status

 

Once you’ve submitted your visa application, you can track its status in a number of ways:

 

a. Online Tracking
The Home Office offers an online tracking system allowing applicants – or their representatives – to monitor the status of a visa application. Use the reference number that was issued when the application was submitted, along with your date of birth, for an update on its progress.

 

b. Email Notifications
Opting in for email notifications during the application process allows you to receive updates on your application’s status automatically. These updates will inform you at various stages, including when your application has been received processed, and when a decision has been made. This service keeps you informed without needing to check manually.

 

c. Contacting the Visa Application Centre
For any questions or additional assistance, contacting the Visa Application Centre (VAC) where you submitted your application can be helpful. The UK government website provides contact details for your specific VAC. They can offer updates and guidance on your application status, ensuring you have the most accurate information.

 

d. Courier Service Updates
If you chose a courier return service for your documents, tracking information might be provided directly by the courier company. Using the tracking number given by the courier service, you can monitor the delivery status of your passport and visa documents. This method ensures you know exactly when to expect your documents.

 

2. UK Standard Visitor Visa Interview

 

As part of the UK Standard Visitor Visa application process, you may be required to attend an interview along with the biometric appointment.

Interviews are conducted to verify the information provided in your application, assess the credibility of your purpose of visit, and ensure that you intend to comply with the visa conditions.

Not all applicants are required to attend an interview. Interviews are generally requested if the visa officer needs additional information or clarification about your application.

If an interview is required, you will be notified by the Visa Application Centre (VAC) or the UK embassy/consulate handling your application.

You will receive details about the date, time, and location of the interview. Ensure you have all relevant documents ready and be punctual.

The interview typically lasts between 10 to 30 minutes, depending on the complexity of your case and the information required.

Be prepared to answer questions about your travel plans, financial situation, ties to your home country, and the purpose of your visit. Examples could include why you are visiting the UK, how long you plan to stay, where you will stay, how you will fund your trip and your plans after returning to your home country.

Answer questions clearly and honestly, provide concise information, and remain calm and polite throughout the interview.

You should also bring original copies of all documents submitted with your application, as the interviewer may request to see them.

 

3. Visa Refusal

 

Visa refusals are disheartening but do not necessarily mean that your plans to visit the UK are over. Follow these steps to understand your options and possible next steps:

 

a. Understanding the Refusal
Receiving a refusal letter outlining the reasons for the decision is the first step when your visa application is denied. Carefully reading this letter is crucial to understand the specific reasons for the denial. Common reasons include insufficient financial evidence, unclear travel plans, or doubts about your intent to return to your home country.

 

b. Correcting Errors and Reapplying
If the refusal is due to easily rectifiable issues, addressing these and reapplying for the visa is a viable option. Gathering additional or revised documents that address the reasons for refusal is essential. Submitting a new application with the corrected information and any additional documentation is the next step. It is important to note that you will need to pay the application fee again for a new application.

 

c. Appeal Process
When you believe the refusal was due to a case processing error, requesting an administrative review is an option. Checking eligibility for an administrative review is important, as this process is typically available for refusals based on factual errors or misinterpretations. Submitting a request for administrative review within 28 days of receiving the refusal notice (or 14 days if inside the UK) is required. Paying the administrative review fee, currently £80, and awaiting the outcome of the review, which will be conducted by a different official, will determine if the refusal is upheld or overturned.

 

d. Seeking Legal Advice
For complex cases or if you believe the refusal was incorrect, take legal advice. Our UK immigration experts can help you understand your options and can support you in preparing a stronger application or challenging the decision.

 

Read our full guide to dealing with a visa refusal here >>

 

Section J: Summary

 

Whether you’re visiting the UK for tourism, business, family visits, or other short-term purposes, thorough preparation and attention to detail will be critical to compiling your application and securing your visa.

 

Section K: Need Assistance?

 

DavidsonMorris are UK immigration specialists, providing visa application advice and support services to foreign nationals from across the globe. If you have a question about coming to the UK as a visitor, or making a UK visitor visa application, contact our experts.

 

Section L: UK Standard Visitor Visa FAQs

 

What is the UK Standard Visitor Visa?
The UK Standard Visitor Visa allows individuals to visit the UK for short-term purposes such as tourism, business, family visits, medical treatment, and short-term study. It typically permits a stay of up to six months.

 

How long can I stay in the UK with a Standard Visitor Visa?
The Standard Visitor Visa usually allows you to stay in the UK for up to six months. In some cases, such as for medical treatment or academic research, you may be able to apply for a longer stay.

 

What are the eligibility criteria for the Standard Visitor Visa?
Eligibility criteria include having a valid passport, proof of financial means to support your stay, a clear purpose of visit, and intent to return to your home country after your visit. You must also meet health and character requirements.

 

What documents do I need to apply for the Standard Visitor Visa?
Required documents include a valid passport, completed visa application form, visa fee payment receipt, financial proof, travel itinerary, accommodation details, and any relevant supporting documents for the purpose of your visit (e.g., invitation letters, business meeting details).

 

How do I apply for the Standard Visitor Visa?
The application process involves completing an online application form, paying the visa fee, scheduling and attending a biometric appointment, and submitting the required documents. You may also need to attend an interview.

 

How long does it take to process the Standard Visitor Visa application?
The standard processing time is approximately three weeks (15 working days). Priority services can expedite this to 5 working days or, in the case of super priority service, by the next working day.

 

Can I extend my stay in the UK on a Standard Visitor Visa?
Generally, you cannot extend your stay beyond the initial six months. However, under certain circumstances, such as receiving medical treatment, you may apply for an extension.

 

What should I do if my visa application is refused?
If your application is refused, you will receive a refusal letter explaining the reasons. You can correct the issues and reapply or request an administrative review if you believe there was an error in processing your application.

 

Can I work or study on a Standard Visitor Visa?
You cannot work or engage in long-term study on a Standard Visitor Visa. However, you can undertake certain short-term courses lasting up to six months, attend business meetings, and participate in some unpaid volunteer activities.

 

Do I need to provide biometric information?
Yes, all applicants must provide biometric information, including fingerprints and a digital photograph, at a Visa Application Centre (VAC).

 

Can I visit other countries from the UK on a Standard Visitor Visa?
While you can travel to other countries during your visit, you will need to check the visa requirements for those countries. Ensure you have a valid visa for re-entry into the UK if necessary.

 

What happens if I overstay my visa?
Overstaying your visa is a serious offence and can lead to a ban on future travel to the UK, fines, or other legal actions. Always ensure you leave the UK before your visa expires.

 

How can I check the status of my visa application?
You can track the status of your application online using the reference number provided when you submitted your application. Additionally, you may receive email notifications about your application status.

 

Section M: Glossary of Terms for the UK Standard Visitor Visa Application

 

Term
Definition
Administrative Review
A process to challenge the decision of a refused visa application, based on the grounds that there was a case processing error.
Application Fee
The cost associated with submitting a visa application, which varies depending on the type and duration of the visa.
Biometric Appointment
A mandatory appointment where applicants provide fingerprints and a digital photograph as part of their visa application.
Biometric Information
Fingerprints and a digital photograph collected during the biometric appointment to verify the identity of the applicant.
Certified Translation
An official translation of documents not in English or Welsh, required to accompany the original documents in the visa application.
Document Verification
The process of checking the authenticity and completeness of documents submitted with the visa application.
Eligibility Criteria
The specific requirements that an applicant must meet to qualify for a visa, including financial stability, purpose of visit, and intent to return to the home country.
Financial Proof
Documentation demonstrating that the applicant has sufficient funds to support themselves during their stay in the UK, such as bank statements or payslips.
Invitation Letter
A letter from a host in the UK inviting the applicant, often required for family visits or business purposes, detailing the relationship and purpose of the visit.
Long-term Standard Visitor Visa
A visa that allows multiple entries to the UK over a period of 2, 5, or 10 years, with each stay not exceeding six months.
Online Tracking System
An online tool provided by the UK government to track the status of a visa application using a reference number.
Priority Visa Service
An optional service that expedites the visa processing time to approximately 5 working days for an additional fee.
Processing Time
The time taken by the UK visa authorities to process and make a decision on a visa application, typically around 3 weeks for standard processing.
Refusal Letter
A letter from the UK visa authorities explaining the reasons for denying a visa application.
Short-term Study
Educational courses or training programs lasting up to six months that are permissible under the Standard Visitor Visa.
Standard Visitor Visa
The official term for the UK visa that allows short-term visits for tourism, business, family visits, medical treatment, and certain other purposes, typically for up to six months.
Super Priority Visa Service
An expedited service that provides a visa decision by the end of the next working day for an additional fee.
Travel Itinerary
A detailed plan of travel, including flight bookings, accommodation reservations, and planned activities, required as part of the visa application.
Ties to Home Country
Evidence of commitments or connections to the applicant’s home country, such as employment, family, or property, demonstrating the intent to return after the visit to the UK.
User-Pay Visa Application Center (VAC) Services
Optional services provided by Visa Application Centers, such as document checking and courier return services, which may incur additional fees.

 

Section N: Additional Resources

 

UK Government Visa and Immigration
https://www.gov.uk/browse/visas-immigration
The official UK government site offers detailed information on various visa types, application processes, fees, and eligibility requirements.

 

Apply for a Standard Visitor Visa
https://www.gov.uk/standard-visitor
This page provides a step-by-step guide on how to apply for a Standard Visitor Visa, including eligibility criteria, required documents, and the online application form.

 

Check if You Need a UK Visa
https://www.gov.uk/check-uk-visa
A tool to determine if you need a visa to enter the UK based on your nationality and purpose of visit.

 

Visa Fees
https://www.gov.uk/visa-fees
Comprehensive information on the current visa application fees for different types and durations of visas.

 

Track Your Visa Application
https://www.gov.uk/visa-processing-times
An official tool to track the status of your visa application using your reference number.

 

 

Author

Founder and Managing Director Anne Morris is a fully qualified solicitor and trusted adviser to large corporates through to SMEs, providing strategic immigration and global mobility advice to support employers with UK operations to meet their workforce needs through corporate immigration.

She is a recognised by Legal 500and Chambers as a legal expert and delivers Board-level advice on business migration and compliance risk management as well as overseeing the firm’s development of new client propositions and delivery of cost and time efficient processing of applications.

Anne is an active public speaker, immigration commentator, and immigration policy contributor and regularly hosts training sessions for employers and HR professionals

About DavidsonMorris

As employer solutions lawyers, DavidsonMorris offers a complete and cost-effective capability to meet employers’ needs across UK immigration and employment law, HR and global mobility.

Led by Anne Morris, one of the UK’s preeminent immigration lawyers, and with rankings in The Legal 500 and Chambers & Partners, we’re a multi-disciplinary team helping organisations to meet their people objectives, while reducing legal risk and nurturing workforce relations.

Read more about DavidsonMorris here

 

Legal Disclaimer

The matters contained in this article are intended to be for general information purposes only. This article does not constitute legal advice, nor is it a complete or authoritative statement of the law, and should not be treated as such. Whilst every effort is made to ensure that the information is correct at the time of writing, no warranty, express or implied, is given as to its accuracy and no liability is accepted for any error or omission. Before acting on any of the information contained herein, expert legal advice should be sought.

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