visit visa uk 2 years

Do you need a visa to go to the United Kingdom?

Jun 25, 2022 • 3 min read

Here's the visa info you need for a visit to Scotland, Wales, England and Northern Ireland © Andrew Merry / Getty Images

Traveling between England , Scotland , Wales and Northern Ireland reveals both the shared culture and distinct local flavors that contribute to the UK . Save for the occasional inconvenience of long lines at passport control and security, entering and leaving the UK was fairly straightforward in the past. Now, due to Brexit, information on visa requirements has changed for EU citizens and immigration restrictions are often on the news in the UK. It's essential to check with your local British embassy, high commission or consulate before leaving home.

What you need to know about visas in the UK

The UK government has a handy online guide to help you check if you need a UK visa . Britain is not a member of the Schengen Zone, so you will need to show your passport when arriving and leaving from a UK border point.

Visas are generally not needed for stays of up to six months for tourism or visiting friends and family. This applies to citizens of the EEA (European Economic Area) nations, Switzerland, Australia, Canada, New Zealand, Japan, Israel, and the USA.

Following Brexit, the EU Settlement Scheme is the system that EU citizens who are already living in the UK need to follow, but there is also a family permit you can apply for if you’re a family member of someone from the EU, Switzerland, Norway, Iceland or Liechtenstein. ​​It lets you come to the UK for up to 6 months. You can work and study, and come and go as many times as you want before the permit expires.

Anyone wishing to work, do business or academic research in the UK will need to apply for a visa, as will students wishing to study for longer than six months. The Youth Mobility Scheme , for Australian, Canadian, Japanese, Hong Kong, Monégasque, New Zealand, Sammarinese and Icelandic citizens aged 18 to 30, allows working visits of up to two years, but must be applied for in advance. Those coming from Hong Kong (if you have a SAR passport), Japan, South Korea and Taiwan must be selected in the Youth Mobility Scheme ballot before they can apply.

Tourists from China, India, Kenya, Nigeria, South Africa and many other destinations , will need to apply for the Standard Visitor visa . It lasts six months, costs £100 and must be applied for online in advance of travel. A decision is usually provided within three weeks. Applications to extend your stay must be made before your visa runs out, but there are strict limitations. If you know you want to be in the UK beyond six months, it's best to apply for the more costly long-term Standard Visitor visa, which lasts for two (£376), five (£670) or ten (£837) years.

Commonwealth citizens with a UK-born parent may be eligible for Right of Abode , which entitles them to live and work in the UK. You can only get the right to abode through marriage if you’re a female Commonwealth citizen. Commonwealth citizens with a UK-born grandparent could qualify for a UK Ancestry visa, allowing them to work full-time for up to five years in the UK. You should get a decision on your visa within three weeks when applying from outside the UK and the fee is £531.

British immigration authorities have always been tough; you may be required to demonstrate proof of onward travel or an outbound departure date (for example, a flight booking home), and possibly evidence that you have sufficient funds to support yourself while in Britain.

This article was first published March 2021 and updated June 2022

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How to Apply for a Long-Term UK Visitor Visa

Welcome to our guide on navigating the intricacies of applying for a UK Long-Term Visitor Visa. Whether you’re seeking to explore the UK’s historical treasures, pursue educational opportunities, or reunite with loved ones, the United Kingdom offers a wealth of experiences for extended stays. However, embarking on this journey requires a clear understanding of the application process, eligibility criteria, and essential documents. In this post, we’ll walk you through the step-by-step procedure and provide some valuable tips to enhance your chances of securing a UK Long-Term Visitor Visa.

What is a Long-Term Visitor Visa?

When submitting an application for a Standard Visitor visa , applicants are able to indicate the desired length of the visa. Ordinarily, the Standard Visitor visa is chosen by individuals wishing to visit the United Kingdom for a temporary period of up to six months. However, it is also possible to apply for a long-term Standard Visitor visa , which allows for multiple entries to the United Kingdom for a period of two, five or ten years. Each entry to the United Kingdom is limited to a maximum of 6 months on  any individual visit. This route is desirable for those who have an ongoing need to visit the United Kingdom and seek to avoid making multiple entry-clearance applications.

Requirements for a Long-term Visitor Visa 

Visa national vs non-visa national.

To be eligible for a long-term visitor visa, applicants need to demonstrate to UK Visas & Immigration (UKVI) that they are a visa national . Visa nationals require entry clearance prior to travelling to the United Kingdom as a visitor, whereas non-visa nationals can normally seek entry as a Visitor on arrival at the UK border. The list of nationalities which require entry clearance is set out in Appendix Visitor: Visa national list here .

Suitability

Those applying for entry clearance on a long-term Standard Visitor visa must not fall for refusal under the Immigration Rules part 9 .

Genuine Visitor

For an application to succeed, the UKVI decision maker must be satisfied that an applicant is a genuine visitor . To meet this requirement, an applicant must show that they:

• Will leave the United Kingdom at the end of their visit;
• Will not live in the United Kingdom for extended periods of time;
• Are genuinely seeking entry for a purpose permitted by the visitor routes;
• Will not undertake any prohibited activities, and;
• Have sufficient funds to cover all reasonable costs in relation to their visit, without working or accessing public funds in the United Kingdom.

When applying for a long-term Standard Visitor visa, the evidence submitted in support of these factors ought to demonstrate an ongoing need to visit the United Kingdom as a visitor. The risks of insufficiently demonstrating a recurring need to travel to the United Kingdom when making this application are outlined below.

The Home Office acknowledges that where a person holds a long-term Standard Visitor visa for two, five or ten years, their reason for visiting is likely to differ over time; this is permissible if the person intends to continue undertaking permitted visitor activities. For an in-depth look at what activities are permitted and what activities are prohibited on a Standard Visitor visa, please see this article .

In assessing whether an applicant is a genuine visitor, UKVI caseworkers will refer to the Visit Guidance which lists a number of different factors, including:

• Immigration history in both the United Kingdom and other countries, and their record of compliance with immigration rules;
• Previous patterns of travel to the United Kingdom;
• Personal and economic ties to their home country, and;
• The credibility of their intentions in light of their personal, family and economic circumstances.

In the case of Sawmynaden (Family visitors – considerations) [2012] UKUT 00161 (IAC), the Upper Tribunal set out relevant factors in assessing whether an applicant genuinely seeks entry as a visitor. See our previous article Visit visas – avoiding refusal for not showing a ‘genuine intention to visit’ for more information on the factors considered in Sawmynaden .

The Visit Guidance further provides a non-exhaustive list of factors which may lead a decision maker to doubt whether an applicant is genuine, including:

• A lack of family or economic ties to to their home country and familial connections in the UK;
• Previous attempts to deceive the Home Office in an application made by the applicant, the sponsor or any other relevant party;
• Discrepancies in the statements made in an application;
• The information provided in an application cannot be verified;
• The reasons for the visit or the information submitted lacks credibility, or;
• A luggage search at the border reveals items which contradict their intention to visit.

Application Process For a Long-Term Visitor Visa 

Those applying for entry clearance as a long-term Standard Visitor must apply from overseas in a country where they have a right of residence using the specified online form, “Apply for a UK visit visa”. The form allows applicants to select the length of the visa they wish to apply for.

The length of the visitor visa will determine the application fee. As of writing this article, the prices for Standard Visitor visas are listed as follows:

6 month Standard Visitor visa £100

2 year long-term Standard Visitor visa £376

5 year long-term Standard Visitor visa £670

10 year long-term Standard Visitor visa £837

Once the appropriate fee has been paid and the application has been submitted, applicants are able to upload all supporting documents online and book an appointment to enrol their biometrics. These appointments additionally require the provision of an identity document (ordinarily a passport) which confirms the applicant’s nationality and identity. Applications made for a Standard Visitor visa are typically decided within three weeks of attending a biometrics appointment. 

The Risks of Applying for a Long-Term Visitor Visa

It is important for applicants to be aware that there are several risks when applying for a long-term visitor visa. 

Refusal of a Long-Term Standard Visitor Visa

As with the six month Standard Visitor visa, there is a risk of an application being refused. In the event of a refusal, applicants are very unlikely to have a legal right of appeal; a right of appeal is only possible where the visit engages human rights considerations. Applicants may otherwise be able to pursue judicial review proceedings as a remedy. You may wish to speak to one of our barristers for expert advice on making a fresh visit visa application if your application has been refused.

Issuing of a Shorter Long-Term Visitor Visa

If UKVI are not satisfied that an applicant meets the eligibility requirements for the duration of the visa applied for, they may alternatively be issued a shorter visa than was applied for. In this instance, the difference in the application fees will not be refunded. 

Applicants Under 18

Applicants under the age of 18 must consider that their long-term Standard Visitor visas will be valid only for 6 months after they have turned 18.

Risk of Visa Cancellation

There is a chance that a long-term Standard Visitor visa might be cancelled if a caseworker has reason to believe that an applicant is using frequent and successive visits to make the United Kingdom their home. The use of a long-term Standard Visitor visa to make the United Kingdom one’s home could prompt a refusal in future visa applications. Visa nationals should carefully consider this possibility when travelling on a long-term Standard Visitor visa.

Contact Our Immigration Barristers

For expert advice and assistance with an application for a long-term Standard Visitor visa, contact our Immigration Barristers on 020 3617 9173 or complete our enquiry form below.

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Long-term Visitor Visa

Home > UK Visas > Visitor Visas  > Long-term Visitor Visa

A quick look

The visa can last for two, five or 10 years, with each of your individual stays in the UK being limited to a maximum of six months (180 days) each.

No, this visa does not need to be accompanied by a sponsor licence .

You can travel to do business in the UK, but cannot take full time or part time work.

The long-term Standard Visitor Visa is for people who want to or currently do visit the UK regularly.

The visa can be used for a several scenarios, including:

• Spending several weeks or months in the UK each year on holiday
• Making multiple business trips to the UK
• Visiting family members in the UK
• Taking part in regular sports or creative events

Requirements

If you need a long-term Standard Visitor Visa, you need to apply online before you travel to the UK. You will also need to attend an appointment at a Visa Application Centre (VAC). 

The visa is granted to those who have a credible reason to frequently visit the UK. This could be to visit family, go sightseeing, or conduct business trips to the UK. 

To be eligible for the visa, you must demonstrate that you have stable finances as well as strong ties to your home country. You must also not intend to make the UK your main home or intend to stay in the UK for longer than is permitted. 

The earliest you can apply is 3 months before you travel.

You may be given a shorter visa than requested if UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) believe you cannot meet the eligibility requirements for the duration of the visa you applied for.

How long can you stay?

The time you can stay in the UK depends on which type of visa you acquire. The visa can last for two, five or 10 years, with each of your individual stays in the UK being limited to a maximum of six months (180 days) each.

If you are under 18-years-old when you apply, your long-term Standard Visitor Visa will only be valid for up to six months after you turn 18.

How much does a Long-term Visitor Visa cost?

The cost of each visa depends on how long you wish it to be valid for. As mentioned above, there are various times that a long term visa can last for. 

A two year visa costs £432; a five year visa costs £771; and a 10 year visa costs £963.

Each person must submit their own application and pay the fee, and each person needs to attend their own appointment at a VAC.

Please note: You will not get a refund of the application fee if you get a shorter visa or if your application is refused.

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Visa Traveler

Exploring the world one country at a time

UK tourist visa: Requirements and application procedure

Updated: September 9, 2023

The UK tourist visa requirements are clear and easy to understand. UK tourist visa application is online but the rest of the process requires an in-person appointment for biometrics.

The UK or the United Kingdom is comprised of England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland. To visit any of these four countries, you would need a UK tourist visa. UK tourist visas are valid for 6 months and you can stay up to 180 days in the UK.

The UK tourist visa application process is long and there is no status tracking. Make sure to start your UK visa process at least two months from your intended date of travel to the UK.

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UK TOURIST VISA REQUIREMENTS BY NATIONALITY

Minimum passport validity required to enter the UK

• Passport must be valid for the entire stay in the UK

Visa EXEMPT nationalities

Unlimited entry.

• This requirement will change from 01 Jan 2021 when UK will no longer be part of the EU
• Czech Republic
• Liechtenstein
• Netherlands
• Switzerland

6-month entry

• You must carry all documents needed for a visitor visa to show at the port of entry if asked
• Visa is REQUIRED if you have a criminal record or refused entry into the UK before
• Anguilla (British territory)
• Antigua and Barbuda
• Bermuda (British territory)
• Bonaire, St Eustatius and Saba (Dutch territory)
• British Virgin Islands (British territory)
• Cayman Islands (British territory)
• Costa Rica
• El Salvador
• Falkland Islands (British territory)
• Hong Kong
• Marshall Islands
• Montserrat (British territory)
• New Zealand
• Papua New Guinea
• Pitcairn Island (British territory)
• San Marino
• Solomon Islands
• South Korea
• St Kitts and Nevis
• St Lucia
• St Maarten
• St Vincent and The Grenadines
• Timor Leste
• Trinidad and Tobago
• Turks and Caicos Islands (British territory)
• United States of America
• Vatican City

Visa REQUIRED nationalities

• Afghanistan
• Bosnia and Herzegovina
• Burkina Faso
• Cape Verde
• Central African Republic
• Congo, Dem. Rep. of
• Congo, Rep. of
• Cote d’Ivoire
• Dominican Republic
• Equatorial Guinea
• Guinea-Bissau
• North Korea
• North Macedonia
• Palestinian Territories
• Philippines
• Saudi Arabia
• Sierra Leone
• South Africa
• South Sudan
• Sri Lanka
• São Tomé and Principe
• Turkmenistan

Electronic Visa Waiver (EVW) required nationalities

• United Arab Emirates

24-hour VISA-FREE entry at Heathrow airport

• Eligible to request a 24-hour VISA-FREE entry at London’s Heathrow airport if holding a valid visa from the US, Canada, Australia, New Zealand or any EU/Schengen country
• Must be in transit to/from the country of visa (Ex: if holding a Canada visa, you must be in transit to/from Canada only)
• Onward flight must be within 24 hours (on the same day or next day before midnight)
• Granting the 24-hour entry is at the sole discretion of the immigration officer
• Applies to all nationalities

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UK TOURIST VISA APPLICATION PROCESS

First, check if you need a visitor visa to travel to the UK in the “UK tourist visa requirements by nationality” section above.

Alternatively, you can check your eligibility and requirements on the UK gov website .

Validity of UK tourist visa

UK tourist visas are valid for 6 months from the date of visa issue.

Example: If your UK visa was issued on January 15, the visa will be valid until July 15. 

NOTE There have been instances where visas were issued with validity starting from the date of travel mentioned in the visa application. 

When to apply for UK visa

You can apply for a UK visa up to 3 months in advance.

Example: If you plan to visit the UK on April 15, you can apply for your UK visa on or after January 16.

Also, keep in mind that you must apply for your UK visa at least 3 weeks prior to your travel, otherwise, you may not receive your visa on time. There are no refunds if you receive your visa after your travel date. 

IMPORTANT The UK visa process can take up to 3 weeks and even longer in some cases. I strongly recommend applying for your UK visa at least 2 months in advance.

How long can you stay in the UK?

The UK tourist visa allows you to stay up to 180 days in the UK. But if you stay that long continuously in the UK on a tourist visa, you will have serious trouble getting another UK visa in the future or entering the UK next time.

Here is my advice. Stick to the days you have mentioned in your UK visa application. A few days more or less is fine. But staying months on your UK tourist visa will pretty much look like you “live in the UK” rather than “vacation/holiday”. 

Application procedure

The UK visa application is online. You must apply for the visa online at the UK Visas and Immigration website

Below are the steps you will go through for your UK tourist visa application

• Go to the UK Visas and Immigration website
• Select your preferred language, type of visa, your country, nearest visa application center, etc
• Create a login using email and password
• Complete in the application form
• Sign the declaration
• Pay visa fee
• Submit the application
• Download and print the submitted visa application form
• Make an appointment at your nearest UK visa application center
• Attend the appointment at your nearest UK visa application center
• Submit your passport, visa application and supporting documents at the visa application center
• If applying from the US, Australia or New Zealand, mail your passport, visa application and biometrics receipt to your nearest visa application center
• Pickup/receive the passport when the visa decision is made

Below are some of the information you will provide in the application form

• Your travel dates to the UK
• Your hotel address and telephone number in the UK
• Your total estimated cost for the trip
• Your present home address and how many years you’ve lived there
• Your parents’ names and their dates of birth
• Your annual income
• Your travel history for the past 10 years
• Your employer details including the address and telephone number

Documents required

The following are the documents required for UK visitor visa application 

• Completed online visa application form with GWF number
• A passport-size photo (optional)
• If employed – an employment letter on company letterhead indicating your length of employment, salary, role, etc.
• If self-employed – a business registration document indicating your business name, date of business, etc.
• If student – a letter from the school/university on the letterhead indicating your enrollment, leave of absence, etc.
• Proof of funds ( bank statements or payslips for the last 6 months)
• Proof of legal residence (if applying from a 3rd country. you must submit a copy of your visa or residence permit of that country)

Do you need flight tickets and hotel bookings for the UK visa application?

UKVI has stopped asking for flight tickets and hotel bookings for UK visa applications. But some nationalities are still being asked to submit flight tickets and hotel bookings.

When you complete your online UK visa application, you will see a checklist of documents to be uploaded. Check if you are asked to submit flight tickets and hotel bookings.

Even if you are asked to submit your flight tickets and hotel bookings, you should not book any flights/hotel until your UK visa is approved.

For flights, get a price quote from British Airways which can be used as a flight itinerary for your UK visa application. Visa ticket booking agencies such as DummyTicket offer flight itineraries for the UK visa for $19, valid for 2-3 weeks.

For hotel, book a refundable or pay at check-in hotel on booking.com or Expedia . Cancel the booking after your visa is approved.

For more options, check out my detailed flight itinerary and hotel reservation articles.

Photo requirements

A passport-size photo is only required if are exempt from biometrics. All tourist visa applicants MUST give their biometrics. Your fingerprints and digital photos are taken during your biometrics appointment.

Since all tourist visa applicants MUST give their biometrics, a passport-size photo is not required. But, I suggest bringing one with you on the day of your biometrics appointment just in case.

Visa application fee

The UK tourist visa application fee is £95 GBP. You will pay this fee in your local currency. Due to exchange rates, you may end up paying about £2 – £5 GBP more.

You can use the UK home office visa fee wizard to find out the exact visa fee that you would need to pay in your local currency. 

If you are applying for a long-term UK tourist visa, below is the visa fee for 2, 5 and 10-year tourist visas. 

• 2 years: £361 GBP
• 5 years: £655 GBP
• 10 years: £822 GBP

Visa appointment

As part of the online application process, you will be prompted to make a visa appointment at your nearest UK Visa Application Center . Visa Application Centers are run by either VFSGlobal or TLSContact in conjunction with UK Visas and Immigration.

On the day of the appointment, you will give your biometrics (fingerprints and photo) and submit your original documents. You must bring all your original documents along with one photocopy of each including your passport.

Applicants from the USA, Australia (Adelaide and Hobart only) and New Zealand

You must give your biometrics at your nearest Biometric Enrollment Center and later send/post your documents to the nearest UK Visa Application Center.

During your online UK visa application, you will be prompted to make a biometrics appointment at your nearest Biometric enrollment center.

• Biometric enrollment centers in the USA are run by the US Homeland Security.
• Biometric enrollment centers in Australia are run by the Department of Immigration and Border Protection.
• Biometric enrollment centers in New Zealand are run by Immigration New Zealand.

The biometrics appointment takes about 10-15 minutes. You will give your fingerprints and photo. You will receive an acknowledgment stamp on the biometric appointment confirmation.

You must then mail your original passport, visa application, biometric confirmation with the stamp, supporting documents and return postage to the UK Visa Application Center you have selected during your online visa application.

You will be notified via email when the UK Visa Application Center receives your documents.

Visa processing time

The UK tourist visa processing takes up to 3 weeks. There have been incidents where UKVI has taken over 2 months to process, especially when the visa applications are “not straightforward”.

UKVI considers a visa application “not straightforward” if additional information is required to process the visa. Additional information can be, verifying information, background check or requesting additional documents. UKVI usually notifies you in such cases and requests any additional documentation necessary.

Keeping such incidents in mind, ALWAYS apply for your UK visa at least 2 months prior to your travel.

If you have to travel sooner, you should purchase the “Priority Visa Service” while applying online. Or at least before you mail/submit your documents. This way your visa application will be processed within 5 working days.

PERSONAL EXPERIENCE When I applied for my UK visa, the visa processing time was about 2 weeks. I had a planned trip to Canada before my trip to the UK. My trip to Canada was in 4 weeks, so I thought I had enough time to apply for my UK visa. However after I submitted my passport, the email confirmation said the visa process would take up to 4 weeks. I panicked. I went ahead and paid for the priority visa service. I panicked again. Then I emailed a formal visa withdrawal request, so I could at least get my passport back and make my trip to Canada. However, my visa was processed within 2 days of paying the priority visa service fee. Please do not make the same mistake as I did. Apply for your UK visa at least 2 months prior to your travel.

Visa application status tracking

Online visa application tracking is NOT AVAILABLE on the UK Visas and Immigration website. To track your UK visa application status, you must use UK Visas and Immigration’s email or phone option, which unfortunately is NOT FREE.

UKVI charges for all phone and email inquiries. 

Below are UK Visa and Immigration phone, email details and charges.

PHONE Telephone: +44 2034811736 Available 24 hours from Monday to Friday Calls cost £1.37 per minute plus any international call charges

EMAIL Email communication must be initiated via Email UK Visas and Immigration Email inquiries cost £5.48. Follow-up emails after that are not charged. You will receive a response to your email within 2 working days.

You must give out your credit card information for billing when you start the phone inquiry. For email, you must fill out the payment form and then you can submit your email inquiry.

PERSONAL OPINION Email inquiries generally receive a standard response saying that your application is “in process”. Phone inquiries are slightly better and cheaper.

Priority visa service

If you would need to travel to the UK urgently, you can opt for the “Priority Visa Service”.  This service is expensive and may not be available in all countries. If available, you will see the option in your online UK visa application. 

• Priority visa service fee: £220 GBP
• Visa processing time: Guaranteed in 5 working days

Priority visa service must be purchased during your online visa application. This will ensure your visa is processed within 5 days.

Purchasing this service after you have submitted/mailed your documents will take much longer than 5 working days. You must first pay the fee on the Visa Application Center (VAC) website and then email the receipt to the Visa Application Center where you have submitted/sent your documents. It can take more than a day for the VAC staff to locate your packet and push it into the priority queue

PERSONAL EXPERIENCE I purchased my priority service after I had mailed my documents. My visa application was approved within two days of buying the priority visa service.

Super priority visa service

If you would need to travel to the UK immediately, you can opt for “Super Priority Visa Service”. This service comes with a hefty price tag, so purchase this service only in super urgent, emergency cases. 

• Super priority visa service fee: £956 GBP
• Visa processing time: Guaranteed in 24 hours

Cancel your UK visa application

If you haven’t given your biometrics at the visa application center yet, you can cancel your UK visa application and get a full refund of your visa fee. The procedure to cancel your UK visa application depends on at what stage your application is in.

Application not submitted and fee not paid : If you haven’t paid your fee and haven’t submitted your application, there is a “Delete Application” option that will delete your current visa application.

Application not submitted but fee already paid : If you have already paid your fee and have not yet submitted your application, you can still delete your application but you may have to send a formal refund request in writing to the visa application center.

Application submitted, fee paid but haven’t given your biometrics : If you haven’t given your biometrics at VFS/BLS, you can cancel your application and request for a refund. The refunds take 4 weeks. 

Application submitted, fee paid, biometric given , and documents/passport already submitted: If you have already given your biometrics and submitted your documents/passport, you CANNOT cancel your visa application anymore. You can only WITHDRAW your visa application. You must email the visa application center a formal withdrawal request. Upon receipt of the withdrawal request, the visa application center will return/mail your passport back. Any visa fee and priority service fee paid are not refundable. 

IMPORTANT Even though UKVI says the refunds are processed in 4 weeks, it usually takes 8 weeks or even longer. There have been instances where applicants waited several weeks and some even gave up on their refunds. However, I have seen applicants having success in getting their refunds by reminding UKVI with phone calls or emails. It costs about $5 USD to email them, but it helps in getting your refund eventually. 

Withdraw your UK visa application

The UK visa application center keeps the passport for the entirety of the visa process, which could be 3 weeks or more. There may be emergencies where you need to have your passport with you. The only way to request your passport back is by formally withdrawing your visa application. 

If you withdraw your application, the visa fee and any priority service fee you have paid are NOT refundable.

To withdraw a visa application, you must submit a withdrawal request along with the reason for the withdrawal to the visa application center via email. It might take up to 72 hours for the consulate to locate your packet and send it back to you.

You must first call/email the UK Visas and Immigration mentioning your intention to withdraw your application. They will guide you through the process of withdrawing your application. Usually, the UK visa application withdrawal request should be a signed document with personal information including the GWF number. This document must be printed and signed. It must be scanned and emailed to the visa application center. Below is a sample withdrawal request letter.

Dear Sir/Madam,

I hereby request to withdraw my UK visa application. I understand that the visa fee is non-refundable. I also understand that my package may not be shipped for up to 72 hours.

Full Name of the Applicant: <name> GWF Number: <GWF number> Date of Birth: <date of birth> Nationality: <Nationality> Country of Residence: <Country of residence> Passport number: <Passport number> Type of Visa Applied: General Visit (up to 6 months) Biometric taken date:  <biometric date> Visa application centre’s address:  <address of the visa application center where you have submitted your documents> Contact number of the applicant: <Your phone number>

Priority Service Paid: <YES/NO> Priority Service Paid On: <Priority service purchased date>

Reason for Withdrawal: Emergency international travel has been scheduled. I need to have my passport in order to travel. Please return my passport as soon as possible. Thank you!

<Your signature here> Signed: <Your full name> Date: <date>

IMPORTANT Cancellation or withdrawal is NOT a refusal. It WILL NOT affect your future UK visa applications. You don’t need to mention it in your future UK visa applications either.

ENTERING AND LEAVING THE UK

Entering the UK by air

At the immigration, the officers may ask you questions about your trip, how long you plan to stay, your next destination, etc. You may be asked to show your return/onward ticket and your hotel booking. If you are traveling on a one-way ticket, you can use OnwardTicket to get proof of your onward ticket. 

PERSONAL EXPERIENCE: The immigration officer at Heathrow Airport asked me to show my return/onward ticket. I had a print of my onward ticket, so quickly took it out and gave it to the immigration officer.

Leaving the UK by air

If you are flying out of Heathrow Airport, make sure to arrive early. The airport is huge and you may have to take a bus from the gate to the flight.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What is GWF number in UK visa application ?

GWF reference number is the unique visa application number that was provided to you on your visa application submission. You must provide your GWF number when calling or emailing UK Visas and Immigration. Without the GWF number, UK Visas and Immigration will not be able to provide you with a status update on your visa application.

What to do if my UK visa application is refused?

If your UK visa application is refused, the first thing is to understand the  reasons for your UK visa refusal . If the reason is due to missing information, proof of funds or documentation, make sure to fix these the next time you apply for your UK visa.

Write a detailed cover letter explaining the reasons for your previous visa refusal, missing information/documentation and any additional information/documentation that you have provided in the new application. This will help the ECOs cut to the chase and focus on the new information/documentation.

There is no “appeal” for UK visa. So, re-apply for your UK visa by making sure you have the new information, proofs and documents that were lacking previously. You must pay the visa fee again as the fee paid for your previous application was non-refundable.

If you do not know the reason for your visa refusal/denial, give at least 6 months before you apply for the visa again. 

Can I get my UK visa application fee refund if denied?

No. The visa fee and any priority service fee paid are non-refundable if your visa application is denied. The visa fee is also non-refundable in incidents where the visa is approved for less number of days than requested.

I’m planning to visit the UK and Schengen countries on a single trip. Should I apply for my UK visa first or Schengen visa first?

If you plan to visit the UK and Schengen countries on a single trip, ALWAYS apply for your UK visa first. 

UKVI keeps the passport for the entirety of the visa process and there is no visa status tracking. Calls and emails to customer service are charged. Even if you pay and contact, you will usually get a canned response. If your UK visa is refused, there is no “appeal”. You can only re-apply, which means you have to repeat the entire process again.

On the other hand, the Schengen visa application process is much streamlined. There is application tracking, customer service and appeal. 

I highly recommend applying for your UK visa first and get done with it. After that, apply for your Schengen visa. 

When applying for your UK visa, show a “UK-only” itinerary for your UK visa. This eliminates the need for submitting your Schengen visa, flights in/out of the Schengen region, etc. 

The UK tourist visa requirements are clear and easy to understand. But, the visa application process is long and expensive. Apply at least 2 months in advance, and follow all the proper steps and documentation. Tourist visas are usually multiple-entry with 6 months validity.

WRITTEN BY THIRUMAL MOTATI

Thirumal Motati is an expert in tourist visa matters. He has been traveling the world on tourist visas for more than a decade. With his expertise, he has obtained several tourist visas, including the most strenuous ones such as the US, UK, Canada, and Schengen, some of which were granted multiple times. He has also set foot inside US consulates on numerous occasions. Mr. Motati has uncovered the secrets to successful visa applications. His guidance has enabled countless individuals to obtain their visas and fulfill their travel dreams. His statements have been mentioned in publications like Yahoo, BBC, The Hindu, and Travel Zoo.

PLAN YOUR TRAVEL WITH VISA TRAVELER

I highly recommend using these websites to plan your trip. I use these websites myself to apply for my visas, book my flights and hotels and purchase my travel insurance.

01. Apply for your visa

Get a verifiable flight itinerary for your visa application from DummyTicket247 . DummyTicket247 is a flight search engine to search and book flight itineraries for visas instantly. These flight itineraries are guaranteed to be valid for 2 weeks and work for all visa applications.

02. Book your fight

Find the cheapest flight tickets using Skyscanner . Skyscanner includes all budget airlines and you are guaranteed to find the cheapest flight to your destination.

03. Book your hotel

Book your hotel from Booking.com . Booking.com has pretty much every hotel, hostel and guesthouse from every destination.

04. Get your onward ticket

If traveling on a one-way ticket, use BestOnwardTicket to get proof of onward ticket for just $12, valid for 48 hours.

05. Purchase your insurance

Purchase travel medical insurance for your trip from SafetyWing . Insurance from SafetyWing covers COVID-19 and also comes with a visa letter which you can use for your visas.

Need more? Check out my travel resources page  for the best websites to plan your trip.

LEGAL DISCLAIMER We are not affiliated with immigration, embassies or governments of any country. The content in this article is for educational and general informational purposes only, and shall not be understood or construed as, visa, immigration or legal advice. Your use of information provided in this article is solely at your own risk and you expressly agree not to rely upon any information contained in this article as a substitute for professional visa or immigration advice. Under no circumstance shall be held liable or responsible for any errors or omissions in this article or for any damage you may suffer in respect to any actions taken or not taken based on any or all of the information in this article. Please refer to our full disclaimer for further information.

AFFILIATE DISCLOSURE This post may contain affiliate links, which means we may receive a commission, at no extra cost to you, if you make a purchase through a link. Please refer to our full disclosure for further information.

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Applying for Long-term UK Visitor Visas

In this guide, we are going to tell you what you need to know about Long-term UK Visitor Visas. We will cover the different types of Long-term UK Visitor Visas, including 2-year, 5-year, and 10-year visas.

For more information on Long-term UK Visitor Visas, including requirements, fees, and general guidance for each of the different available durations (2, 5, and 10 years), get in touch with us today. Call us on 020 4502 8582 , or contact us online .

Request a call back from our immigration experts

Page contents, what is a long-term uk visitor visa, do you need to apply for a long-term uk visitor visa, types of long-term uk visitor visas, what are the requirements for a long-term uk visitor visa, what are the eligibility criteria for long-term uk visitor visa, how to apply for long-term uk visitor visa, what documents are needed for long-term uk visitor visa application, how to write your long-term uk visitor visa supporting letter, what are the long-term uk visitor visa fees, what is the long term visit visa processing time, what happens after i apply, what happens after my application is approved.

• How Can London Immigration Lawyer Help?

Frequently Asked Questions

The Long-term Visitor Visa is a standard UK visitor visa that allows individuals to stay in the United Kingdom for up to six months at a time.

The visa is designed for individuals who wish to visit the UK regularly for a holiday or vacation or to see their family or friends.

To qualify for the Long-term Visitor Visa, individuals must prove that they have enough funds to support themselves during their stay in the UK and that they have a return ticket to their home country.

It is important to note that the Standard Visitor visa has replaced the Business Visitor Visa , Family Visitor Visa, Child Visitor visa, Student Visitor Visa, and Marriage Visitor Visa.

If you’re from outside the EEA and want to stay in the UK for more than six months at a time, you’ll need to apply for a Long-term visitor visa.

Depending on your purpose of visit, the visitor visa can be granted for 2 years, 5 years or 10 years duration.

It is important to note that Long-term Visitor Visas are not work visas and they do not give you the right to work in the UK, even if you are granted a Long-term UK Visitor Visa for 10 years.

There are three Long-term visitor visas available: 2-year, 5-year and 10-year. Depending on your purpose for the visit and the length of stay you wish to have in the UK, you can choose one of these visas.

2-year UK Visitor Visa

The 2-year UK Visitor Visa allows you to stay in the United Kingdom for up to 2 years. This visa is for people who want to visit the UK for leisure, to see family, or to receive private medical treatment.

You can apply for a 2-year UK Visitor Visa if you are aged 18 or over and have enough money to support yourself during your stay.

You will also need to show that you have a return ticket and that you intend to leave the UK at the end of your trip. If you are granted a 2-year UK Visitor Visa, you will be able to enter the country for up to 6 months at a time.

Get in touch with our expert immigration lawyers receive assistance on Long-term UK Visitor Visas. Contact us

5-year Long-term UK Visitor Visa

The 5-year UK Visitor Visa allows you to stay in the United Kingdom for up to 5 years. This visa is for people who want to visit the UK for pleasure.

You can apply for this visa if you are a citizen of a country that is not in the European Economic Area or Switzerland.

You must also have a valid passport and enough money to support yourself during your stay. In addition, you will need to provide proof of your travel plans, accommodation, and financial support when you apply for this visa.

If you are granted a 5-year UK Visitor Visa, you will be able to enter the UK multiple times during the 5-year period. This visa does not allow you to work in the UK.

10-year UK Visitor Visa

The 10-year Long-term UK Visitor Visa allows you to stay in the United Kingdom for up to 10 years. This visa is for people who want to visit the UK for leisure and sightseeing.

To qualify, you must be a citizen of a country outside the European Economic Area (EEA) and meet certain eligibility criteria, such as having enough money to support yourself without working or claiming benefits in the UK.

The requirements for Long-term UK Visitor Visas vary depending on your purpose of visit, but there are some general requirements that all applicants must meet. The requirements are:

Reason to visit the UK

You must have a genuine, credible and ongoing reason to visit the UK for the duration of your chosen Long-term UK Visitor Visa.

Examples include sightseeing, leisure and personal visits, visiting family or friends, receiving medical treatment and participating in cultural events.

Accommodation and maintenance

You must have enough funds to pay for your accommodation and living costs during your stay in the UK.

This includes having a return ticket and enough money to support yourself without having to work or claim benefits in the UK.

To demonstrate that they meet the financial requirements for Long-term UK Visitor Visas, applicants must provide evidence of their financial resources.

This could include bank statements, payslips and/or letters from employers.

Rules relating to third-party sponsorship

If you are being sponsored by a third party, they will need to meet certain criteria as set out by the Home Office.

This includes providing evidence of their financial standing and an undertaking that they will cover your costs during your stay in the UK.

Frequent or successive visits

You must show that you are not likely to become an ‘overstayer’ in the UK, i.e., remain in the country for longer than your visa allows.

This means that you must demonstrate that you have strong ties to your home country and plan to make frequent visits back home.

The ‘suitability’ rules

You must demonstrate that you comply with the UK’s immigration rules and do not pose any criminal or security risk to the UK. Under the suitability rules, the UK visitor visa must (or may) be refused under the following grounds:

• Threatening the public order or security of the UK.
• Having committed serious criminal offences.
• Having previously violated immigration law in any country.
• A medical doctor has certified that you have a contagious illness or disease.

For assistance with Long-term UK Visitor Visas, get in touch with us today. Contact us

To be eligible for a Long-term UK Visitor Visa, you must:

• Be a citizen of a country outside the European Economic Area (EEA) and Switzerland.
• Have enough money to support yourself during your stay in the UK without working or claiming benefits.
• Have a valid passport and return ticket.
• Meet all other Long-term UK Visitor Visa eligibility criteria (as outlined previously).

The process of applying for the visa is similar to the process of applying for any other UK visa.

You will need to complete an online application form and provide supporting documents, such as a valid passport, return ticket, proof of accommodation and financial support during your stay in the UK.

You may also be asked to attend an interview at the British Embassy or High Commission. You should do the application 3 months prior to the intended travel date.

During your online application, you will be required to provide the following details:

• The dates and times you want to visit the UK.
• Where you plan to stay during your visit.
• The cost of your trip.
• Your current home address and how long you’ve lived there.
• Details of any criminal, civil or immigration offences you may have committed in the past.

To apply for the visas, you must provide the following documents:

• A passport or travel document that is valid for the whole of your stay in the UK. There must be a blank page in your passport for your Standard Visitor visa.
• A valid return ticket or proof of onward travel.
• Proof of sufficient funds to pay for your accommodation and living costs during your stay in the UK, such as bank statements, payslips and money exchange receipts.
• Proof that you have a genuine reason to visit the UK, such as an invitation letter from a relative or friend.
• Any supporting documents related to the Long-term UK Visitor Visa you are applying for, such as a marriage certificate if you are visiting a spouse or partner.

If you are applying for a Long-term UK Visitor Visa, you must provide a supporting letter alongside your application form.

Your supporting letter should explain why you’re visiting the UK and how long you plan to stay. It should also include the following information:

• Your name, address and passport number.
• The purpose of your visit, including details of any family ties or work commitments in the UK.
• The length of your stay in the UK and where you plan to stay during this time.
• Your financial means, such as proof that you can afford your trip and accommodation while you are there.

To increase your chances of Long-term UK Visitor Visa approval, you should also provide evidence of your ties to your home country, such as proof that you have a job and a place to return to when your stay in the UK is over.

If you have any questions about Long-term UK Visitor Visas, our team is happy to assist. Contact us

The fees for the visas vary depending on the duration of your stay. The table below outlines the Long-term UK visitor visa fees for each type of Long-term UK Visitor Visa available:

The Long-term UK Visitor Visa processing time varies and is usually determined by the type of Long-term UK visitor visa you are applying for. The Long-term UK Visitor Visa fees vary depending on the duration of your stay.

For a Standard Visitor visa, the fee is £100 for 6 month’s stay. A Standard Visitor visa for medical reasons costs a fee of £200 for 11 month stay.

A Long-term Standard Visitor visa for academics costs £200 for 12 month stay. For a Long-term UK Visitor Visa of 2 years duration, the fee is £376 for 6 months per visit.

Similarly, a Long-term UK Visitor Visa of 5-year duration requires a fee of £670 for 6-month visits. Finally, a Long-term UK Visitor Visa of 10 years duration requires a fee of £837 for 6-month visits.

Once you have completed your Long-term UK Visitor Visa application online, you will be asked to attend an appointment at the British Embassy or High Commission to provide biometric information.

This includes a digital photograph and fingerprints. If you have any additional documents or supporting letters that haven’t been included on your Long-term UK Visitor Visa application, you can bring them to your appointment.

Your visa application will then be processed by the Immigration Office. This can take up to 6 weeks.

You will receive a confirmation letter if your Long-term UK Visitor Visa application is approved. This will include your visa documents and a vignette (sticker) in your passport, which is valid for the duration of your Long-term UK Standard Visitor Visa.

Once in the UK, you are allowed to do the activities specified on your Long-term UK Visitor Visa, such as visiting family or friends and travelling.

But you are not allowed to enter into a civil partnership, work or study without applying for an appropriate visa.

Also, you are not allowed to live in the UK for extended periods of time and must leave the country after your Long-term UK Visitor Visa has expired.

How Can London Immigration Lawyers Help?

It can be difficult to navigate the Long-term UK Visitor Visa application process, and that’s where London Immigration Lawyer can help.

We have a team of highly experienced immigration experts who are on hand to provide advice and support with UK visa applications.

From completing the paperwork to guiding you through the biometric appointment process, our lawyers will be with you every step of the way. Some of the services we provide include the following:

• Advising on Long-term UK Visitor Visa requirements and eligibility criteria.
• Assisting with the Long-term UK Visitor Visa application process.
• Providing advice on Long-term UK Visitor Visa documents and evidence needed for your application.
• Representing clients in Long-term UK Visitor Visa appeals hearings.
• Advising on Long-term UK Visitor Visa renewals.

If you require assistance with Long-term UK Visitor Visa applications, contact London Immigration Lawyer on 020 4502 8582 or contact us online and speak to an experienced lawyer. We can provide the help and guidance you need to make sure your application is successful.

Last modified on January 17th, 2023 at 4:05 pm

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With our Application Package, your dedicated immigration lawyer will advise you on your application process and eligibility. Your caseworker will then complete and submit your forms to the Home Office on your behalf.

The Fast Track Package

Our Fast-Track Application Package is a premium service for those who need to submit their application in time with their deadlines. Your case will become a top priority for our lawyers and you will benefit from our highest-quality services.

The Appeal Package

By choosing our Appeal Package, you can rely on our lawyers’ legal knowledge and experience to ensure you have the highest chance of a successful appeal. We will also fully represent you in any hearings/tribunals.

If you wish to find out assistance on Long-term UK Visitor Visas, our team is happy to assist. Learn more

Related pages for your continued reading.

Spouse visa, family visas, indefinite leave to remain, british citizenship, spouse visa extension, can i visit the uk for 6 months every year.

Yes, you can visit the UK for up to 6 months in any 12-month period if you have a Long-term UK Visitor Visa. However, you must leave the UK after your Long-term UK Visitor Visa has expired and you cannot live in the UK for extended periods of time.

Can I visit the UK twice a year?

Yes, you can visit the UK twice a year. There is no specific maximum period of time you can spend in the UK; however, each visit must not exceed 6 months.

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UK Standard Visitor Visa

The UK Standard Visitor Visa is a short-term visa which allows individuals to visit the UK to engage in a range of permitted activities.

What is the UK Standard Visitor Visa?

The UK Standard Visitor Visa, also known as a Visitor Visa, is a popular option for individuals seeking to visit the United Kingdom for a short period of time to engage in a diverse range of permitted activities. More specifically, with a UK Visitor Visa, individuals can enter the UK for the purposes of tourism, business and study amongst others.

Applicants who are successful in their UK Visitor Visa application will be able to stay in the UK for up to 180 days (6 months). In limited circumstances individuals may be able to apply to stay in the UK for a longer period of time. Please note that not everyone will require a visa to visit the UK for less than 6 months. If you are a national or citizen of one of the countries or territories listed in Immigration Rules Appendix Visitor: Visa national list , then you will require entry clearance prior to coming to the UK (i.e. you will need a visa prior to travelling to the UK).

In order to apply for a UK Visitor Visa, an online application must be made from outside of the UK. As part of the application process, you will be required to meet a set of eligibility requirements, provide supporting documents, and depending on your circumstances, you may be required to attend an appointment at a visa application centre.

UK Standard Visitor Visa Eligibility Requirements

To be eligible for a UK Standard Visitor Visa, you will need to prove that you meet the following requirements:

• You intend to come to the UK for a short-term visit (a visit of less than six months).
• You intend to leave the UK at the end of your visit.
• You have sufficient funds to financially support yourself and your dependents (family members) for the duration of your visit.
• You can pay for your return or onward journey (and any other additional costs relating to your visit).
• You will not live in the UK by making frequent or successive visits to the country.

Please be aware that if your purpose for visiting the UK is related to studying, doing a placement, taking an exam, being an academic, senior doctor, dentist, or for medical reasons, there might be additional eligibility criteria that you need to fulfill . To ensure you have a clear understanding of the specific requirements you need to meet to apply for a UK Visitor Visa, get in touch to receive a free consultation with an expert immigration lawyer.

Genuine Visitor Requirement

The Home Office will assess your Visitor Visa application to ensure that they are satisfied that you are a genuine visitor. This means that they are satisfied that you:

Will leave the UK at the end of your visit.

Will not attempt to live in the UK for extended periods of time by making frequent or successive visits.

Are visiting the UK for a permitted reason and you will not engage in a prohibited activity.

Have sufficient funds to financially support your visit and pay for your onward travel.

Sufficient Funds Requirement

The Home Office does not outline a specific amount that you are required to show as proof of sufficient funds to adequately accommodate and maintain yourself (and any dependents) while in the UK. Nonetheless, border officials may enquire about the cost of your accommodation and request evidence that you have the funds available to cover the costs of visiting the UK. As part of their assessment they will take your ongoing financial commitments into consideration.

What can you do with a Visitor Visa?

If you are on a Visitor Visa, you will be allowed to engage in the following activities during your visit:

• Visit the UK for tourist purposes (i.e. you are on holiday).
• See family or friends.
• Volunteer for up to 30 days (with a registered charity).
• Pass through the UK to another country (i.e. you are ‘in transit’).
• Engage in certain business activities (e.g. attending an interview or meeting).
• Take part in a school exchange programme.
• Take part in a recreational course for up to 30 days (e.g. a dance course).
• Study , do a placement or sit an exam.
• Come to the UK as an academic , senior doctor or dentist.
• Come to the UK to receive private medical treatment .

What can’t you do with a Visitor Visa?

If you are on a Visitor Visa, you cannot engage in the following activities during your visit:

• Do paid or unpaid work for a UK company or as a self-employed person.
• Claim public funds in the UK.
• Attempt to live in the UK for long periods of time by making frequent or successive visits to the country.
• Get married or register a civil partnership or give notice of marriage or civil partnership. If you would like to carry out any of these activities while in the UK, you will need a Marriage Visitor Visa .

Schedule a free consultation

If you would like to know more about the UK Visitor Visa, or would like advice in relation to another UK visa, then please get in touch with us to speak to an expert immigration lawyer and claim your free consultation.

Please see our disclaimer for full information regarding consultation availability.

UK Visitor Visa Application Process

How to apply for a uk visitor visa.

When applying for a UK Visitor Visa, an online application must be submitted . If you are applying with relatives then it is important that each person has their own application and pays the respective application fee.

After submitting your application, you may be required to attend a biometric appointment at a visa application centre in the country where you will be visiting the UK from. During this biometric appointment, your fingerprints and photograph will be taken and you will also be required to submit your passport. It is worth noting that certain visa application centres offer the option to retain your passport for a fee.

Once you have attended your biometric appointment at a visa application centre, your application will be forwarded to UK Visas and Immigration for processing.

Supporting documents for a Standard Visitor Visa

As part of the Standard Visitor Visa application process, you will be required to show that you are a genuine visitor . To be able to demonstrate this and satisfy immigration officials you can provide supporting documents which show that:

• You are coming to the UK to do a permitted activity.
• You will leave the UK at the end of your visit.
• You can support yourself and any dependents during your visit.
• You can pay for your return or onward journey.

How much does a UK Visitor Visa cost?

The cost of a UK Visitor Visa starts at £115 for a Standard Visitor Visa. However, the cost of the Visitor Visa will vary depending on the duration of the visa, with longer-term visas incurring higher fees. Please see the table below for a full, updated breakdown of UK Visitor Visas (Correct at the time of writing - 4th October 2023).

How long does a UK Visitor Visa take to process?

After attending your appointment at a visa application centre (if applicable) it will take around 3 weeks for a decision to be made on your UK Visitor Visa application . Depending on availability, you may be able to pay to receive a ‘priority service’ where you will get a decision within 5 working days or a ‘super priority’ service where you will get a decision by the end of the next working day.

When can I apply for a UK Standard Visitor Visa?

If you need a UK Standard Visitor Visa, you must make an online application before you travel to the UK. The earliest you can apply for a Visitor Visa is 3 months before you travel to the UK.

How many days can you stay on a Standard Visitor Visa?

On a Standard Visitor Visa, you will be able to stay in the UK for up to 180 days (6 months) . During this time you will be able to come to the UK and engage in a range of permitted activities which include tourism and certain business activities. In limited circumstances, you may be able to apply to stay longer in the UK.

Extending the Standard Visitor Visa

The possibility of extending your Standard Visitor Visa is dependent on the duration of your stay in the UK. If your stay has been less than 6 months, you have the opportunity to apply for an extension. For example, if your initial UK Visitor visa granted you 3 months of leave, you can extend it by an additional 3 months.

However, it's important to note that extending a UK Visitor visa beyond a 6-month period is generally limited to specific circumstances , which include:

• You are a patient receiving medical treatment.
• You are an academic and you meet the eligibility requirements.
• You are a graduate who is retaking the Professional and Linguistic Assessment Board (PLAB) test or are doing a clinical attachment.

Why work with Paragon Law?

Securing a Visitor Visa for the UK can present challenges in certain situations. However, our team of immigration lawyers and solicitors possesses expertise in dealing with Visitor Visa applications. With their knowledge and experience, they are fully equipped to assist clients in navigating through any complexities that may arise, ensuring comprehensive support for all individuals, regardless of their circumstances.

Standard Visitor Visa Fees

Our fees reflect the service required and the complexities of the case. For a tailored quote please consult one of our immigration lawyers. As an immigration law firm, we offer our clients an initial consultation with an immigration lawyer in order to get more detail about your case.

Enquire now about the UK Visitor Visa

Our expert immigration lawyers are able to support you to make an application for a Standard Visitor Visa. To find out more about how we can help you, fill out the form below and one of our immigration advisors will get back to you shortly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Once you have attended a biometric appointment, you can typically expect to receive a decision within 3 weeks. Depending on availability, you may be able to pay to receive a ‘priority service’ where you will get a decision within 5 working days or a ‘super priority’ service where you will get a decision by the end of the next working day.

How long can I stay in the UK with a Standard Visitor Visa?

With a Standard Visitor Visa, you will be able to stay in the UK for up to 6 months. However, if you are coming to the UK to receive private medical treatment then you are able to stay in the UK for longer.

There is the possibility of applying for a long term standard visa which lasts two years, five years, and ten years. However, visa holders can only stay in the UK for a maximum of six months per visit.

Can I extend a Standard Visitor Visa?

Extending a Standard Visitor Visa is limited to very specific circumstances.

A standard six-month Visitor Visa costs £115. Whereas, a long-term Visitor Visa costs £400 for a two-year visa, £771 for a five-year visa, and £963 for a 10-year visitor visa.

- Correct at the time of writing (5th October 2023).

Student Visa

If you plan to enroll in an eligible program at an approved educational institution in the UK for a period exceeding six months, you may need a student visa, which will permit you to remain in the UK for up to five years.

Working in the UK

If you don't meet the eligibility criteria for the Visitor visa and wish to work in the UK, there are other work-related visas available that may better suit your requirements.

Youth Mobility Visa

If you are aged between 18 and 30 and are a national of an eligible country, then you may be able to apply for the Youth Mobility visa which will enable you to work and live in the UK for up to two years.

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Is There a UK Visitor Visa 180 Days Rule?

Anne morris.

• 11 January 2023

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It’s a common misconception that overseas visitors can only spend up to 6 months in any 12-month period in the UK. That is not to say that a 180-day rule does not exist, it does, but only insofar as the maximum length of stay for each standard visit is limited to 6 months.

In this guide, we look at the so-called ‘UK visitor visa 180 days rule’, dispelling the myth that visitors cannot stay in the UK for more than 180 days in total in any given year.

What is the misconception when it comes to the 180-day rule?

The 180 day visitor rule is commonly misunderstood as meaning that any person who enters the UK with a visitor visa cannot stay more than 180 days in any single 12-month period. This common misconception has also taken the shape of the 6 month time-limit set out under the rules being misinterpreted as a rule that visitors can spend no more than 6 months out of any 12 months inside the UK. In reality, the ‘UK visitor visa 180 days rule’ does not exist in this way. For example, it is not the case that if an overseas national comes to the UK with a visitor visa and stays between January to May and, having returned to their home country, comes back to the UK under a new visa for a further stay in October of the same year, they would only be able to stay for an additional month. Similarly, if that same person initially came to the UK on a long-term visitor visa, spent 5 months in the UK and then sought to re-visit later in the year, it is not the case that they would only be allowed to stay for a further four weeks. As such, the 180-day rule is misconceived.

How long can visitors stay in the UK?

Under the UK’s Immigration Rules for visitors, or otherwise under immigration law in the UK, there is no such thing as the ‘UK visitor visa 180 days rule’. The true position, when it comes to a standard visitor visa, is as follows: for those seeking to visit the UK to undertake the activities as permitted under the rules, for example, for the purposes of tourism, visiting friends and family, or for short business trips, a visa will be granted for ‘up to 6 months’.

The maximum 6-month rule essentially means that an overseas national, when coming to the UK as a standard visitor to take a holiday, spend time with loved ones or to do business, will be able to stay for no more than 6 months at a time. In some cases, depending on the reason for their visit, a visa may only be granted for the time required for their specified purpose. However, with the grant of a new visa, or with a multiple entry visa valid over several years, there is no limit as to how long someone can spend in the UK during the course of any 12-month period, such as ‘6 months in 12’. This means that, at least in theory, an overseas national can leave the UK following a full 6-month visit, re-apply for a visa from overseas and subsequently return to the UK, even if this is just a few short weeks later.

Multiple entry rules for UK visitors

For regular visitors to the UK, it is possible to apply for a multiple-entry visa over 2, 5 or 10 years, where there is again no specified time limit over which a long-term visa-holder can spend in the UK in any given period — provided each visit does not exceed the maximum period for that stay, typically 6 months. As such, even though a multiple-entry visa will not allow an overseas national to come to the UK for more than 6 months at any one time, it will enable the visa-holder to enjoy multiple UK trips over prolonged periods. In this way, the visa-holder will not be required to re-apply for a visa every time they decide to visit the UK, but can use the same visa a number of times over its’ specified period of validity.

Equally, a standard visitor visa, provided that this is not endorsed as ‘single’ or ‘dual-entry’, can be used multiple times. This means that the visa-holder can depart and re-enter the UK as many times as they want within the visa’s validity period, up to a maximum of 6 months.

If a visitor holds a multiple-entry visa and they want to stay for longer than their visa expiry date, it is also possible for them to apply to extend their permission for up to the maximum 6 months permitted for standard visitors. For example, if a visitor arrives in the January and their long-term visitor visa is due to expire in the March, provided they continue to meet the visitor rules, they can extend for up to 6 months as a standard visitor, until the June.

An in-country application can also be made to extend a standard visa, so as to complete the full 6 months in the UK as a visitor where a shorter period has initially been granted, although an application must be made before the original permission expires.

What are the risks for visitors of multiple prolonged stays?

Under the visitor rules, provided each stay in the UK does not exceed the permitted length of stay endorsed on the visa, this does not, of itself, prevent a visitor from using their visa for multiple stays in quick succession. However, this is where the rules become tricky.

To be eligible for a visa, visitors must meet a genuine visitor requirement. Under this requirement, amongst other things, they must not use their visa to live in the UK for extended periods through frequent and successive visits, or make the UK their main home. As such, where a long-term visitor visa is used for multiple prolonged stays over a short timeframe, this may raise suspicions that the visa-holder’s intentions are not genuine.

In those cases where an individuals’ recent travel history reveals back-to-back visits, each one up to the maximum 6-month time limit, this is likely to be construed by immigration officials as a breach of the rules. This means that, on arrival in the UK, a visa-holder may be refused entry . They also run the risk of having their visitor visa curtailed , presenting potentially insurmountable difficulties when re-applying for entry clearance at a later date.

Equally, for those citizens of countries that qualify for visa-free travel to the UK, known as non-visa nationals, in circumstances where their travel history reveals excessive visits within a short space of time, they may also find themselves being refused entry on arrival. Having been refused entry, these individuals would be well-advised to apply for a visa in advance before seeking to re-enter the UK although, as with non-visa nationals subject to immigration control, any adverse immigration history may still work against them.

Ironically, therefore, the mythical 180-day rule can still be applied in practice. This is because visiting the UK for more than 180 days in a 12-month period could lead to a finding by both immigration officials at a UK port of entry, and Home Office caseworkers tasked with making a visa decision, that an individual is a non-genuine visitor.

Importantly, in the official Home Office ‘Visit guidance’ on how to assess if an applicant is making the UK their main home, caseworkers are advised to check a visitor’s travel history, including how long they are spending in the UK and how frequently they are returning. Specifically, caseworkers are advised to look at the number of visits made over the course of the past 12 months, including the length of stay on each occasion, the time elapsed since the last visit and if this amounts to them spending more time in the UK than in their home country. So whilst the ‘UK visitor visa 180 days rule’ is not in any way codified, adherents to this myth do tend to have less trouble being granted entry to the UK as visitors.

What are the immigration options for longer term stays?

Notwithstanding the potential risks for regular visitors to the UK around long-term visitor visas, provided this type of visa is not used excessively, they can still be an ideal way to visit the UK a number of times over several years. Importantly, if a person holds a multiple-entry visa, it is likely that their reasons for visiting the UK will differ over time and should not, of itself, cast any doubt on their genuineness and credibility. This is permissible, provided the via-holder continues to intend to undertake one or more of the permitted visitor activities.

However, for overseas nationals who would like a more reliable option for longer term stays, the type of visa potentially available will very much depend on the reason for them coming to the UK. Under the UK’s Immigration Rules, there are various long-term visa options for those looking to come to the UK to work, to study or to join immediate relatives.

There are various different work visas under the rules, each with their own route-specific requirements, such as having the offer of a job that meets the minimum skill and salary requirements from a UK-licensed sponsor for the skilled worker visa. There are also certain unsponsored longer term work routes, including the global talent visa and the graduate visa, plus the scale up visa, sponsored only for the first 6 months of work in the UK.

The conditions of stay and length of time granted under a work visa can vary, depending on the chosen route, although many work visas will provide the successful visa-holder with a path to settlement. This means that, provided the visa-holder meets a continuous residence requirement, they can eventually apply for indefinite leave to remain (ILR) in the UK.

Study visas

Even though a foreign visitor can study for up to 6 months in the UK under a long-term visitor visa, provided certain eligibility requirements are met, for overseas nationals looking to undertake a lengthy course of study in the UK, they will need a student visa .

An applicant can apply for a student visa to undertake a course of study in the UK if they have been offered a place on a course by a UK-licensed sponsor and have enough money to support themselves. The student visa-holder will then be permitted to stay in the UK for the full duration of their course. On successful completion of their studies, the visa-holder will also have the option of applying for an unsponsored graduate visa to look for work.

Family visas

There are various long-term family visas available to allow an overseas national to live with their immediate family in the UK, including a spouse visa, a visa for parents of children living in the UK and a visa for adult dependent relatives. These visas are specifically aimed at overseas nationals coming to live with someone already settled in the UK. As such, the successful visa-holder, provided they continue to meet the eligibility requirements, will eventually be able to apply for ILR to be able to settle in the UK themselves.

It is also possible for immediate relatives of overseas nationals to apply for a visa as the dependant of someone currently in the UK with permission as either a migrant worker or student. This may represent a more suitable long-term alternative to a visitor visa, allowing overseas couples and their children to live together in the UK until the permission of the primary visa-holder comes to an end and they are required to return to their home country.

Importantly, however, before deciding on the right visa, it is always best to seek expert immigration advice, exploring all available options to help decide which one works best.

180 day rule FAQs

Is the uk 180 day rule per visit or per year.

The 180-day rule for UK visitors applies per visit, not per year. Under the visitor rules, an overseas national can cumulatively stay for more than 180 days in any 12-month period over the course of two or more separate trips.

Can I leave the UK after 6 months and come back?

It is possible to stay in the UK for up to 6 months under a long-term visitor visa, and then depart and return shortly after, provided the visa is not being used to live in the UK for extended periods.

How many times can you visit UK in a year?

Under a multiple-entry visa, you can visit the UK several times over a 12-month period, limited to 6 months each stay, where the rule that a person cannot stay more than 180 days in any given year is a myth.

Can I leave and reenter UK on visitor visa?

You can leave and re-enter the UK under a multiple-entry visitor visa, although you must not use your visa to live in the UK for extended periods through frequent and successive visits, or to make the UK your main home.

Last updated: 11 January 2023

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 500 and 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

• Anne Morris https://www.davidsonmorris.com/author/anne/ Immigration & Societal Contributions
• Anne Morris https://www.davidsonmorris.com/author/anne/ A Guide to the Study Visa UK System
• Anne Morris https://www.davidsonmorris.com/author/anne/ The Principles of Immigration Sponsorship
• Anne Morris https://www.davidsonmorris.com/author/anne/ The UK Points Based System: A Guide

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.

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UK Multi Entry Visa Rules and How to Apply

By Amar Ali, Immigration Solicitor

The UK Multi-Entry Visitor Visa (also called Long-Term Standard Visitor Visa), is valid for 2 years, 5 years, or 10 years and enables holders to make multiple visits to the UK for up to 6 months each time. The Standard Visitor Visa (also called Type C Visitor Visa) differs from the Long-Term Visitor Visa as it is normally only issued for up to 6 months (or 12 months for academics). It is important to note that while there is no limit to the number of times you can enter and leave the UK on a Multi-Entry Visit Visa, you must not use this visa as a way of living permanently in the UK through frequent or successive visits.

UK Multi-Entry Visa Rules

As a UK Multi-Entry Visa holder, it is important to adhere to the immigration rules at all times, specifically:

• You must not intend to make the UK your permanent home by making frequent or successive visits. If the Home Office suspect that you are doing so, they may cancel your visa.
• Your entry as a visitor must be for a genuine and permitted purpose (e.g. tourism, to visit family or friends, or for medical reasons). Remember, you cannot use a visitor visa to do paid or unpaid work for a UK company, work as a self-employed person, claim benefits, or marry or register a civil partnership.
• You must leave the UK before you exceed the maximum duration of 6 months for each stay.
• You must have sufficient funds to support yourself and your dependants during your stay in the UK.

UK Multi-Entry Visa requirements

To make a successful application for a UK Multi-Entry Visa for 2 years, 5 years, or 10 years, you will need to demonstrate that you meet the following eligibility requirements:

• You must be at least 18 years
• As an academic, senior doctor or dentist
• Business activities – e.g. business meetings or interviews
• Medical treatment
• Recreational courses of up to 30 days
• School exchange programme
• Tourism (e.g. a holiday or vacation)
• Transiting through the UK to another country
• Visiting family or friends
• Volunteering for up to 30 days with a registered charity
• You must have a genuine need to make regular visits to the UK (e.g. if you are a parent of adult children living in the UK or if you need to come here for regular business-related visits)
• You must have sufficient funds to pay for your onward or return journey
• You must not meet any grounds for refusal (e.g. prior breaches of the immigration rules, certain criminal convictions)

Please note, the eligibility requirements are the same whether you are applying for a 2-year, 5-year, or 10-year multi-stay visitor visa. What matters is that you must have a genuine and valid reason for needing a long-term visa. The Home Office understands that it is likely that your reasons for visiting the UK will change over time, hence you can use your long-term visa for any valid purpose while your visa remains valid.

To ensure that your long-term visa application is approved for your preferred duration, please speak to our friendly professional immigration team in complete confidence on 020 3744 2797 or by email at [email protected] .

How to apply for a UK Multi-Entry Visa

To apply for a UK Multi-Entry visitor visa, you will need to complete the online application form 1 and pay the application fee as follows:

• 2-year multi-stay visitor visa: £400
• 5-year multi-stay visitor visa: £771
• 10-year multi-stay visitor visa: £963

You will also need to provide any documents and additional information requested by the Home Office; these may include:

• the exact dates you will be in the UK
• where you will stay
• how much your stay will cost
• your present home address and how long you have lived there
• the names and dates of birth (if known) of your parents
• your annual income
• details of any criminal, civil or immigration offences
• your travel history over the past 10 years
• your employer’s address and telephone number
• your partner’s name, date of birth and passport number
• the name and address of anyone paying for your trip
• the name, address and passport number of any family members you have in the UK

Alternatives to UK Multi Entry visa

If the multi-entry visa does meet your exact needs, you may be able to consider the standard visitor visa or the following visa alternatives:

Paid Permitted Engagement (PPE) visa

The PPE visa is for foreign nationals who have been invited as an expert in their profession by a UK organisation or client. This visa is aimed at certain professionals, including:

• Professional artists, entertainers and musicians
• Professional sportspersons
• Qualified lawyers representing a client in the UK
• Lecturers giving a series of lectures
• Academics in the role of student examiner or assessor
• Air pilot examiners

If granted a PPE visa, you will be able to visit the UK for a maximum of 1 month (this cannot be further extended).

Adult Dependant Relative visa

The Adult Dependant Relative visa is part of the family visa scheme and enables foreign nationals to come to the UK to be cared for by relatives here. The relative in the UK must be settled here and have sufficient funds to support themselves. In practice, it can be extremely difficult to make a successful application for an adult dependant relative visa given the strict requirements (i.e. applicants must be able to prove they cannot be cared for in their home country).

1 GOV.UK: Online visa application form

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2-year long-term Standard Visitor visa

(6 months per visit), 2-year long-term standard visitor visa (6 months per visit):.

If you need to visit the UK regularly for business or other reasons, you can apply for a 2-year long-term Standard Visitor visa. This visa allows you to visit the UK for up to 6 months per visit. Our team of visa consultants can help you with your visa application and ensure that you have the best chance of success.

Frequently Asked Questions

The 2-year long-term Standard Visitor visa is a type of visa that allows multiple entries to the UK for up to 6 months per visit over a 2-year period.

Anyone who meets the eligibility criteria for a Standard Visitor visa can apply for a 2-year long-term visa. This visa is particularly useful for those who need to travel frequently to the UK for business, leisure or other purposes.

The requirements for a 2-year long-term Standard Visitor visa are the same as those for a Standard Visitor visa. Applicants must show that they intend to leave the UK at the end of each visit, have sufficient funds to cover their stay in the UK without working or accessing public funds, and have a valid reason for their visit.

 The 2-year long-term Standard Visitor visa allows multiple entries to the UK for up to 6 months per visit. However, each visit must be for a specific purpose, and you must not stay in the UK for more than 6 months in any 12-month period.

No, you cannot work in the UK on a Standard Visitor visa, including the 2-year long-term visa.

You can study in the UK for up to 30 days on a Standard Visitor visa, including the 2-year long-term visa. However, you cannot enroll in a course of study that lasts for more than 30 days or work in the UK. If you plan to study in the UK for longer than 30 days, you will need to apply for a Student visa.

No, you cannot extend a 2-year long-term Standard Visitor visa. If you need to stay in the UK for longer than 6 months, you will need to leave the UK and apply for a new visa.

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YOLK DESIGN STUDIO | 2023

Desperate EU tries to restart pre-Brexit deal with new UK visa planned

T he European Union (EU) has proposed a new freedom-of-movement-style deal to a future Labour government in an attempt to woo it to make closer ties to the bloc.

If approved, the new scheme would see those aged 18 to 30, the majority of which voted against Brexit, allowed to go to EU member states for up to four years to work, travel and study.

In reciprocation, Europeans in the same age group would be able to come to the UK potentially plugging gaps in the British workforce for waiters, baristas and au pairs.

Rishi Sunak's Conservative government has already approached a number of EU member states in an attempt to win more youth mobility schemes.

The European Commission is making the offer of an EU-wide deal because the UK had spoken with a number of states to discuss youth mobility.

If a deal is reached, it would be Brussels' first youth mobility treaty with a third country.

Under the bloc's offer, Britain would have to agree to equal treatment on tuition and visa fees, and healthcare surcharges.

Sir Keir Starmer has already indicated his government would seek closer ties with the EU if his party wins the election.

Announcing the proposal on Tuesday, Maros Sefcovic, the EU's Brexit negotiator, said: "The United Kingdom's withdrawal from the European Union has hit young people in the EU and the UK who would like to study, work and live abroad particularly hard.

"Today, we take the first step towards an ambitious but realistic agreement between the EU and the UK that would fix this issue. Our aim is to rebuild human bridges between young Europeans on both sides of the Channel."

The UK already has reciprocal schemes with 10 non-EU countries including Australia, New Zealand, Canada, Japan and Iceland.

These agreements allow those eligible to travel and work in Britain without needing a sponsor or meeting other requirements, such as salary thresholds, without significantly contributing to net migration.

The EU makes it clear that the scheme would not replace existing paths to obtaining visas and either side would have the ability to reject applications because of threats to public security and health.

However, negotiations could still take some time with the EU's 27 member states still required to agree on the commission's proposal.

European Parliament elections and the general election are also likely to act as stumbling blocks to talks beginning.

Industry bosses and campaigners have been pushing for an EU-wide visa scheme to make it easier for young Britons to travel and work in the bloc and vice-versa for some time.

Naomi Smith, the chief executive of Best for Britain, told the Telegraph: "The UK Government must now respond in kind.

"Until a reciprocal EU-UK youth mobility scheme is formalised, our young people will continue to be robbed of the irreplaceable formative experiences their parents and older siblings enjoyed, because of a failed Brexit project they did not vote for."

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The life and music of Amy Winehouse, through the journey of adolescence to adulthood and the creation of one of the best-selling albums of our time. The life and music of Amy Winehouse, through the journey of adolescence to adulthood and the creation of one of the best-selling albums of our time. The life and music of Amy Winehouse, through the journey of adolescence to adulthood and the creation of one of the best-selling albums of our time.

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EU proposes youth mobility agreement with UK to help youngsters travel, work and live in both areas

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen addresses a media conference at the conclusion of an EU Summit in Brussels, Friday, March 22, 2024. European Union leaders on Friday discussed plans to boost investment and the economy. (AP Photo/Geert Vanden Wijngaert)

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BRUSSELS (AP) — The European Commission proposed Thursday to start negotiations with the United Kingdom to allow young people to move freely, work and study in both regions after Brexit — the U.K.'s departure from the EU four years ago.

According to the EU, the withdrawal of the United Kingdom from the EU following a referendum in 2016 has damaged mobility between the two areas.

“This situation has particularly affected the opportunities for young people to experience life on the other side of the Channel and to benefit from youth, cultural, educational, research and training exchanges,” the Commission said.

When the U.K. was still a member of the economic and political bloc, its nationals had the right to live and work freely in the EU, with reciprocity for EU nationals in the U.K. Under the agreement proposed by the EU’s executive arm, EU and UK citizens between 18 and 30 years old would be eligible to stay up to four years in the destination country.

The deal would also allow equal treatment of EU and UK students in the field of university tuition fees. Most EU students must now pay international tuition fees if they want to study in the U.K. The Commission says these vary between 11,400 and 38,000 pounds ($14,200-$47,300) per year and are a strong deterrent for EU students who generally don’t have to pay as much within the bloc.

The Commission’s recommendation will be discussed by EU member countries who must give the green light before the executive arm can start negotiations with the UK.

“We have successful Youth Mobility Schemes with 13 countries, including Australia and New Zealand, and remain open to agreeing them with our international partners, including EU member states,” the British government said in a statement.

The U.K. has its own Youth Mobility Scheme, which it has offered to some EU member states. The Commission believes the British plan is less ambitious than its own proposal.

“Our agreements provide a valuable route for cultural exchanges providing partner countries are also willing to offer the same opportunities for young British people,” the British government added.

Follow AP’s coverage of Brexit at https://apnews.com/hub/brexit

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• Visas and immigration
• Family in the UK

Family visas: apply, extend or switch

Apply as a partner or spouse.

To apply as a partner, you and your partner both need to be 18 or over.

Your partner must also either:

• be a British or Irish citizen
• have settled in the UK - for example, they have indefinite leave to remain, settled status or proof of permanent residence
• be from the EU, Switzerland, Norway, Iceland or Liechtenstein and have pre-settled status - they must have started living in the UK before 1 January 2021
• have a Turkish Businessperson visa or Turkish Worker visa
• have protection status (leave to remain as a refugee, permission to stay as a refugee or a person with humanitarian protection)
• have permission to stay as a stateless person

You and your partner must intend to live together permanently in the UK after you apply.

If your partner has settled or pre-settled status you may be able to apply to the free EU Settlement Scheme .

What you’ll need to prove

You must be able to prove one of the following:

• you’re in a civil partnership or marriage that’s recognised in the UK
• you’ve been living together in a relationship for at least 2 years when you apply
• you are a fiancé, fiancée or proposed civil partner and will marry or enter into a civil partnership in the UK within 6 months of arriving
• you’ve been in a relationship for at least 2 years when you apply but you cannot live together, for example because you’re working or studying in different places, or it’s not accepted in your culture

You also need to prove you:

• have a good knowledge of English
• meet the financial requirements

If you cannot provide this proof you may still be able to apply for a visa or extend your permission to stay if:

• you have a child in the UK who is a British or Irish citizen or has lived in the UK for 7 years and it would be unreasonable for them to leave the UK
• it would breach your human rights to stop you coming to the UK or make you leave

If you’re applying as a fiancé, fiancée or proposed civil partner

You must prove that:

• any previous marriages or civil partnerships have ended
• you plan to marry or become civil partners within 6 months of arriving in the UK

You will not be able to work or study during your engagement.

You’ll need to apply for permission to extend your stay in the UK when you marry or enter into a civil partnership. If your application is approved, you’ll have the right to work or study in the UK.

How to prove your relationship

Send evidence that:

• comes from the government, a bank, landlord, utility provider, or a medical professional
• confirms your relationship with your partner - for example, that you live together, share expenses or are married or in a civil partnership
• is less than 4 years old

You can use things like:

• a marriage certificate or civil partnership certificate
• a tenancy agreement, utility bills or council tax bills confirming that you live at the same address or pay bills together
• a bank statement from a joint bank account, or confirming that you live at the same address
• a letter from your doctor or dentist confirming that you live at the same address

If you do not have any evidence that meets these criteria, there is other evidence you can provide instead, including:

• a one-off bill like vet’s fees or home repair costs
• letters confirming you and your partner are on the voting register for the same address
• student finance paperwork confirming that you live at the same address

If you do not live together

If you cannot live together because of work or study, or for cultural reasons, you’ll need to prove that you have an ongoing commitment to each other. You can do this by providing evidence that you:

• communicate regularly with each other  
• support each other financially  
• care for any children you have together  
• spend time together as a couple, for example on holiday or at events

How long you can stay

You can stay in the UK for 2 years and 9 months on this visa. If you’re applying as a fiancé, fiancée or proposed civil partner, you can stay for 6 months.

After this you’ll need to apply to extend your stay.

If you extend or switch to this visa

If you extend your family visa or switch to this visa you can stay in the UK for 2 years and 6 months.

How to apply

You’ll need to prepare information and evidence to provide with your application.

How you apply depends on whether you’re in the UK or not.

Outside the UK

You must apply online from outside the UK .

You must apply online in the UK .

If you cannot pay the fee

You can apply for a fee waiver if you cannot pay the fee because you:

• do not have a place to live and cannot afford one
• have a place to live but cannot afford essential living costs like food or heating
• have a very low income and paying the fee would harm your child’s wellbeing

Apply for a fee waiver online from outside the UK .

Apply for a fee waiver online from inside the UK .

Get help to apply online

You can get help with completing the online visa application form if you:

• do not feel confident using a computer or mobile device
• do not have internet access

You can only use this service if you’re applying in the UK.

You cannot get immigration advice through this service.

How long it takes

If you apply outside the UK you’ll usually get a decision within 24 weeks.

If you apply inside the UK and you meet the financial requirements and English language requirements , you’ll usually get a decision within 8 weeks.

If you apply inside the UK and you do not meet the financial requirements and English language requirements, it currently takes about 12 months to get a decision.

You may be able to pay for a faster decision .

Applying with your children

You can add children to your application as dependants if both of the following apply:

• they are under 18 when you apply, or were under 18 when they were first granted leave
• they do not live an independent life

Your child is living an independent life if, for example, they’ve left home, got married and had children.

When you can settle permanently

The earliest you can apply to settle in the UK (called ‘indefinite leave to remain’) is after you’ve lived in the UK for 5 years continuously on a family visa as a partner.

You cannot include time you’ve spent in the UK:

• on any other visa
• as a fiancé, fiancée or proposed civil partner

The rules are different if you applied before 9 July 2012.

If you applied before 9 July 2012

You can only extend your family visa if all the following are true:

• you were given permission to stay in the UK as a partner before 9 July 2012
• you are not eligible to settle in the UK
• you have not been granted or refused another visa

You must also prove that:

• you have knowledge of English  
• you and your partner have enough money to financially support yourself and your dependants without relying on public funds

Check the information and evidence you’ll need to prove your income.

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Cap Reached for Additional Returning Worker H-2B Visas for the Early Second Half of FY 2024

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services has received enough petitions to reach the cap for the additional 19,000 H-2B visas made available for returning workers for the early second half of fiscal year (FY) 2024 with start dates from April 1 to May 14, 2024, under the H-2B supplemental cap temporary final rule (FY 2024 TFR) . April 17, 2024, was the final receipt date for petitions requesting supplemental H-2B visas under the FY 2024 early second half returning worker allocation.

We are still accepting petitions for H-2B nonimmigrant workers for the additional 20,000 visas allotted for nationals of El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, Haiti, Colombia, Ecuador, and Costa Rica (country-specific allocation) who are exempt from the returning worker requirement, as well as those who are exempt from the congressionally mandated cap. Please see Temporary Increase in H-2B Nonimmigrant Visas for FY 2024 for information on the 20,000 visas set aside for nationals of El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, Haiti, Colombia, Ecuador, and Costa Rica.

Starting April 22, 2024, we will begin accepting petitions for workers for the late second half of FY 2024, requesting employment start dates from May 15 to Sept. 30, 2024. The 5,000 visas made available under this allocation are limited to returning workers who were issued H-2B visas or held H-2B status in fiscal years 2021, 2022, or 2023, regardless of country of nationality.

Additional information on the FY 2024 supplemental visas is available on the  Temporary Increase in H-2B Nonimmigrant Visas for FY 2024 page.