United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland · short term business
Standard Visitor visa
Short-stay visa for tourism, visiting family, or permitted business activities up to 6 months.
Last reviewed:
Overview
The Standard Visitor visa permits stays of up to 6 months for tourism, family visits, short courses, and permitted business activities (meetings, conferences, certain paid engagements). Nationals of visa-exempt countries travelling short-term now need an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) instead.
Government fees
From around £115 for a standard 6-month visa. Long-term validity options carry higher fees.
Typical duration
Up to 6 months per visit; long-term visitor visas valid 2, 5, or 10 years (each stay still 6 months max).
Eligibility
Typical criteria
Genuine visitor intending to leave the UK at the end of the stay.
Sufficient funds to support the stay without working.
No work for UK businesses beyond the permitted business activities list.
Common blockers
Pattern of visits suggesting de facto residence rather than visits.
Intent to work or study beyond permitted scope.
Typical evidence
Travel itinerary and accommodation.
Bank statements demonstrating funds.
Employment or study evidence showing ties to home country.
Application pathway
Step 1
Confirm whether you need a visitor visa
Many nationalities are non-visa nationals and can use the ETA instead; others must apply for a Standard Visitor visa.
Step 2
Apply online
Submit the application with travel plans, funds evidence, and ties to home country.
Step 3
Biometrics and decision
Attend biometrics at a Visa Application Centre.
Step 4
Travel within validity
Stays of up to 6 months each; long-term validity visas permit multiple stays up to 10 years.
Also explored by
Compare United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland with
Related routes
Frequently asked questions
Can I work in the UK on a visitor visa?
No general employment is permitted. A specific list of "Permitted Activities" allows meetings, conferences, certain paid engagements for experts, and limited intra-company activities. Paid productive work for a UK employer is not permitted.
Do I need an ETA?
Nationals of visa-exempt countries visiting short-term need an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) rather than a Standard Visitor visa. The ETA scheme has rolled out progressively since 2023. Check GOV.UK for your nationality's current requirement.
Need tailored advice?
We do not provide legal advice. For an application that depends on your exact circumstances, consult a regulator-listed immigration advisor.
Find a regulated advisor →