Tourism & family visits
Plan a holiday, reconnect with family or spend time with friends in the UK.
Tourist visitor guidanceUK STANDARD VISITOR VISA
Your UK visit.
Your UK visit.
A clearer way forward.
From family reunions to new experiences, make your visit plans with confidence. Get practical guidance on your visitor visa application and supporting documents.
Tourism · Family visits · Business · Study
Make the visit count.Start with the right guidance.
Up to 6 monthsUsual length of a standard visit
Plan aheadPrepare a clear purpose and evidence
Personal guidanceSupport tailored to your visit
A visit with a purpose01 / EXPLORE 02 / CONNECT 03 / DISCOVER 04 / HEALTH 05 / SHARE 06 / LEARN
What brings you to the UK?
Choose the guidance that fits your plans. Your nationality, proposed activities and circumstances determine which permission you need.
Business visits
Understand the visitor route for meetings, conferences and other permitted business activities.
Business visitor guidanceAcademic visits
Get guidance on the visitor requirements for eligible academic and research activities.
Academic visitor guidanceMedical treatment
Discuss a planned visit for private medical treatment and the supporting evidence you may need.
Medical visitor guidancePaid engagements
Check whether your proposed professional engagement fits the visitor rules.
Paid engagement guidanceShort study & courses
Explore whether a short course, exam or study activity is permitted during your visit.
Check study activitiesGetting married or passing through?These plans may need a different route. Explore the Marriage Visitor visa or Transit visa.
Before you applyBuild a clear picture
Build a clear picture
of your visit.
A strong application explains your plans, how the trip will be funded and why you will return home.
- Your travel documentA passport or travel document valid for your stay.
- Your reason for visitingA clear itinerary and activities that fit the visitor rules.
- Your fundingEvidence of how you or your sponsor will cover the trip.
- Your plans to leaveEvidence supporting a temporary visit and onward travel.
Check whether you need a visa first.Depending on nationality, an ETA or another entry arrangement may apply. Use the official visa checker →
Your document checklist
Prepare your supporting evidence
Your document list should reflect your circumstances. We can help identify relevant evidence.
- Passport and relevant travel history
- Visit dates and accommodation plans
- Evidence of funds and the source of support
- Employment, business or other home ties
- Host invitation or event details, where relevant
- Evidence required for your specific activities
Translations may be needed for documents that are not in English or Welsh.
Discuss my documentsSupport at every step01 02 03 04
From first question to a prepared application.
Understand the route, organise your evidence and move forward with a practical plan.
Tell us your plans
Share your purpose of travel, timing and any previous immigration issues.
Confirm your route
We assess your circumstances and explain the suitable service and fees.
Prepare your evidence
Get guidance on the application and the supporting documents relevant to you.
Plan the next steps
Understand submission, biometrics and what to expect after applying.
Your questions, answered
A little clarity before you travel.
How long can I visit the UK?
Most standard visits are for up to six months. Longer stays may be possible for certain medical or academic visits, subject to the relevant conditions.
Does everyone need a visitor visa?
No. Your nationality and circumstances determine whether you need a visa, an ETA or neither. Check the official requirements before making an application.
Can I work while visiting?
Visitors generally cannot take employment in the UK. Limited business activities and specific permitted paid engagements have their own conditions. Ask us to check your proposed activities.
Can I apply after a previous refusal?
A previous refusal does not automatically prevent a new application. It is important to disclose your history and address the reasons for refusal with suitable evidence.
Do I need to buy travel tickets before applying?
You need to explain your travel plans and how you will fund the journey. Purchasing tickets does not guarantee a visa; consider the risk before making non-refundable bookings.
Can you help me choose the right visitor route?
Yes. Tell us why you want to visit, your planned activities and your circumstances. We can discuss the relevant route and the support available.
General information checked on 28 October 2026. Read the official GOV.UK visitor guidance. Requirements can change; individual advice depends on your circumstances.
LET’S TALK ABOUT YOUR VISITYour next step
Your next step
starts here.
Tell us a little about your plans. Our team can help you understand your options and the support available.
020 3911 1115 →info@immigrationvisaexpert.comPlease share a brief overview in the form. You can discuss detailed documents with the team when needed.