Name: Imran & Co Solicitors
Price range: $$$

Overview

UK tourist visa, officially known as a Standard Visitor visa, allows you to visit the UK for tourism, business, or to see family and friends. Here’s the latest information on the process as of 2024:

Eligibility Requirements

Purpose of Visit:

Tourism (holiday, vacation).
Visiting family or friends.
Business activities, such as meetings, conferences, or training.
Short courses of study or research.
Medical treatment.

Duration of Stay:

The visa is usually granted for up to 6 months.
For certain activities like academic research or private medical treatment, it can be granted for up to 11 months.

Intent to Leave:

You must prove that you will leave the UK at the end of your visit.

Financial Means:

You need to show that you can support yourself financially during your stay or have funding from someone else.

Accommodation:

You must have accommodation arranged for your stay in the UK.

Application Process

Online Application:

Complete the online application form on the UK government website.

Supporting Documents:

Passport and travel documents.
Proof of your travel plans (e.g., flight bookings, itinerary).
Financial documents showing you can support yourself (bank statements, pay slips).
Details of where you will be staying (hotel bookings, letter from friends/family if staying with them).
If employed, a letter from your employer confirming your leave.
If visiting family or friends, an invitation letter from your UK host.

Biometric Information:

Provide your biometric information (fingerprints and photograph) at a visa application centre.

Application Fee:

Pay the application fee (as of 2024, the fee is £100 for a 6-month visa).

Healthcare Surcharge:

Short-term visitors do not need to pay the healthcare surcharge, but you may need private medical insurance.

After Applying

Processing Time: It typically takes about 3 weeks to get a decision on your visa application.
Validity: The visa is usually valid for 6 months, but you can apply for a long-term Standard Visitor visa for 2, 5, or 10 years if you need to visit the UK frequently.

Important Considerations

Multiple Entries: A standard visitor visa generally allows multiple entries to the UK within its validity period.
Activities Allowed: While on a tourist visa, you cannot work, claim public funds, marry, or enter a civil partnership.
Intention to Leave: You must show strong ties to your home country, such as employment, family, or property, to prove your intention to return home after your visit.

Long-term Standard Visitor Visa

If you need to visit the UK regularly, you can apply for a long-term Standard Visitor visa, which can be valid for 2, 5, or 10 years. Each visit can last up to 6 months. You must show that you have a frequent and ongoing need to visit the UK, and that the reason for your visits is unlikely to change significantly in the long term.

Additional Information

Legal Advice: Consulting with an immigration adviser can help ensure your application meets all requirements.
Changes and Updates: Immigration rules can change, so always check the latest information on the official UK government website or consult with an immigration specialist.

For the most accurate and up-to-date information, refer to the UK government’s official website.

For Expert legal advice and assistance, reach out to Imran & Co Solicitors today.

02078715365

Book Appointment