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UK Visa Supporting Documents Checklist 2024

Anne morris.

• 14 May 2024

IN THIS SECTION

When applying for a UK visa , you will be required to compile and submit a number of supporting documents.

The purpose of these documents is to prove that you are eligible for that particular visa and that you meet both the general UK immigration requirements as well as the specific criteria of the category you are applying under, such as:

a. Standard Visitor Visa:  For those who wish to visit the UK for leisure, tourism, business-related activity or to see family and friends.

Read more generally about Visitor Visas here >>

b. Work Visa:  For individuals who intend to take up employment in the UK, ranging from short-term contracts to long-term professional engagements.

Read more generally about Work Visas here >>

c. Student Visa: Designed for international students who are planning to undertake studies at UK institutions.

Read more generally about Study visas here >>

d. Family Visa: For those who are joining a family member who is a resident in the UK.

Read more generally about Family Visas here >>

Your supporting documents will significantly influence the outcome of your visa application. Understanding which documents are needed for your particular visa type is the first step towards a successful application. You also need to ensure that the documents are in the required format.

UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) , the Home Office department responsible for processing visa applications, will then assess your eligibility based on the information you provide in your application form and the supporting documents that you submit.

Issues with your supporting documents can result in unwanted delays in processing or potentially a refusal of your application if insufficient proof of your eligibility has been provided.

In this guide, we will outline the main documents to submit when making a UK visa application . Since the requirements vary by visa type, taking advice on your application will help ensure you are meeting the relevant procedural requirements by submitting all the necessary documents in the required format.

For advice on your circumstances or a specific application, contact our UK immigration experts .

Section A: Checklist of UK Visa Supporting Documents

When applying for a UK visa , all applicants must provide supporting documents to prove their eligibility. These documents are relied on to verify your identity, intent, financial stability and purpose for being in the UK.

While the requirements for supporting documents can vary significantly depending on the type of visa you are applying for, anyone applying for a UK visa must submit certain basic documents, such as:

1. Passport and Travel Information

a. Valid passport:  Your current passport should be valid for the entirety of your stay, with at least one blank page for the visa. Include colour photocopies of the photo page and any previous visas.

b. Any previous passports:  Submit all old passports you possess to provide evidence of your travel history.

c. Travel itinerary (if applicable):  If applicable, include a detailed plan of your stay in the UK, including dates, locations, and purposes of travel. This is particularly relevant for tourist visas.

2. Financial Documents

a. Bank statements:  Provide recent statements (typically the last 3-6 months) to prove you have sufficient funds for your visit . These should clearly show your name and the account balance.

b. Salary slips:  Recent payslips (usually for the last 3-6 months) to demonstrate steady employment and income.

c. Proof of financial means to support stay in the UK:  This could include additional documents like a letter from your employer stating your salary, financial dependency documents if someone is supporting you financially, or proof of pension if applicable.

3. Employment and Academic Documents

a. Employment letters:  An employment letter from your current employer that outlines your role, salary, length of employment, and the purpose of your visit to the UK (if related to your job).

b. Academic Records (for student visas): Admission letters, Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) form, and transcripts or certificates from your current or previous educational institutions.

4. Accommodation Details

a. Address in the UK:  Details of where you will stay throughout your visit . This could be a residential address, a hotel, or other temporary accommodation.

b. Booking Confirmations: If applicable, include reservations for hotels or rentals, which confirm your planned accommodations.

5. Additional Documents

a. Birth certificates:  Needed primarily if you are applying for visas that involve  family members, such as dependents or spouses.

b. Marriage certificates (if applicable):  Required for those applying for visas based on their partnership or marriage to a UK citizen or resident.

c. Previous UK visas (if applicable):  If you have previously been to the UK, include copies of your old visa stickers or stamps as proof of prior compliance with UK immigration laws.

Section B: Proving Visa Eligibility

In addition to providing proof of identity, applicants under specific routes must show that they meet the requirements of that visa category, for example:

1. Standard Visitor visa

a. Financial Evidence:  Proof of financial means to cover your stay in the UK, such as bank statements or payslips.

b. Accommodation Details:  Information on where you will stay during your visit , which could be a hotel booking or an invitation letter from friends or family .

c. Travel Itinerary:  A plan outlining your activities and travel within the UK, if applicable.

2. Work Visa

a. Employment Documents:  Job offer letter, employment contract, and evidence of employment history.

b. Salary Information:  Recent payslips or a tax return showing your current financial status.

c. Professional Qualifications:  Relevant diplomas or certificates.

3. Student Visa

a. Admission Proof:  A Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) from a UK institution.

b. Academic Documents:  Transcripts, diplomas, and proof of previous education.

c. Financial Evidence:  Proof of sufficient funds to cover tuition and living expenses, which can include bank statements, scholarship letters, or financial guarantees.

4. Family Visa

a. Proof of Relationship:  Marriage certificates, birth certificates, or proof of partnership.

b. Financial Stability:  Documents showing that you or your family members can financially support themselves during their stay.

c. Accommodation:  Evidence of adequate living arrangements in the UK.

5. Long-Term Visas

For those applying for visas longer than six months, additional documents such as medical certificates or tuberculosis test results may be required.

The specific documents to be provided can vary by application; as such it is recommended to take professional advice to ensure your submission is comprehensive in evidencing eligibility.

Section C: Additional Documents for Specific Circumstances

When applying for a UK visa , certain scenarios require additional documents beyond the standard checklist. These special cases include applications involving dependents, medical treatment visitors, and those applying for long-term study or work visas.

1. Dependants

When dependants are included in a visa application, whether accompanying or joining the main applicant in the UK, additional documentation is required to establish the relationship and the dependant’s circumstances:

a. Proof of Relationship: Birth certificates for children, marriage certificates for spouses, or civil partnership registration documents.

b. Financial Dependency: Documents showing that dependents are financially reliant on the main applicant, such as bank statements or financial guarantor’s details.

c. Consent for Children: If travelling alone or with one parent, a consent letter from the non- travelling parent(s) is often required, detailing permission for travel and details of the stay in the UK.

d. Previous Immigration History: If dependants have previously travelled or lived abroad, copies of visas and entry/exit stamps should be included.

2. Medical Treatment Visitors

Individuals visiting the UK for medical treatment must provide additional documents related to their health and the treatment plan:

a. Medical Diagnosis: A letter from a doctor or medical consultant in the home country detailing the medical condition and the need for treatment in the UK.

b. Treatment Plan: Correspondence from the UK medical facility confirming the arrangement for treatment, including the nature and duration of the treatment and an estimate of the cost.

c. Proof of Financial Means: Evidence that the applicant has sufficient funds to pay for the treatment and associated expenses, such as bank statements or a letter from a sponsor.

d. Accommodation and Travel Details:  Information about where the applicant will stay during the treatment and travel plans to and from the UK.

3. Long-Term Study or Work Visa

For those planning to stay in the UK for an extended period for study or work, additional documentation is required to support the extended duration of their stay:

a. CAS for Students: A Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies is mandatory for student visa applicants, detailing the course, duration, and institution.

b. Academic Qualifications: Transcripts, diplomas, and certificates relevant to the course of study or job requirements.

c. Employment Offer and Contracts: For work visa applicants, a detailed job offer letter, employment contracts, and evidence of the employer’s license to sponsor workers may be required.

d. TB Screening: Applicants from certain countries must provide a tuberculosis test result if they are coming to the UK for more than 6 months.

e. Police Clearance: In some cases, especially for those staying longer than 12 months, a police certificate stating that the applicant has no criminal record may be necessary.

4. Standard Visitor Visa

If someone is sponsoring your visit to the UK, whether for a visit, work, or study , documentation to prove this sponsorship , including the sponsor’s financial documents and a letter of invitation, must also be included.

Section D: How to Organise Your Supporting Documents

When compiling your documents, it pays to stay organised and to arrange your documentation in a way that will allow the caseworkers to find the relevant information easily.

1. Order of Documents

Typically, you should arrange your documents in the order that they are listed in the visa application guidelines. For example:

a. Application Forms: Place your completed and signed visa application form at the top of your document stack.

b. Identification Documents: Include your current passport, any previous passports, and national ID cards next.

c. Travel Information: If applicable, include your detailed travel itinerary, tickets, or travel bookings.

d. Financial Documents: Group all financial documents together, such as bank statements, salary slips, and proof of financial means.

e. Employment or Academic Documents: Depending on your visa type, include employment letters, contracts, or academic records.

f. Accommodation Details: Provide proof of where you will stay in the UK, like hotel bookings or a rental agreement.

g. Additional Supporting Documents:  This includes birth certificates, marriage certificates, and any previous UK visas.

h. Special Case Documents: Place any extra documents required for dependents, medical visitors, or long-term visas last.

2. Number of Copies

Always provide the original documents unless specifically stated otherwise by the UKVI. In addition, it is advisable to bring one photocopy of each original document, including passport pages, marriage certificates, and financial statements. UKVI may keep these copies for their records.

It’s also wise to have an additional set of photocopies for your own records in case the originals are lost or delayed.

3. Translation Requirements

Any document not in English or Welsh must be accompanied by a fully certified translation. The translation must include confirmation from the translator that it is an accurate translation of the original document, the date of the translation, and the translator’s full name and signature. Also, the translator should provide their contact details and qualifications.

When submitting translated documents, always include the original document along with the certified translation.

4. Labelling and Securing Documents

Clearly label each section of your documents, possibly using dividers or tabs, so that each category is easily accessible. Avoid stapling documents; instead, use a clip or a file folder to keep the documents together securely without damaging them.

5. Review Before Submission

Before submitting your visa application, do a thorough review of your documents to ensure everything is complete and in order. Make sure all forms are signed and dated.

Double-check that your documentation meets the most current guidelines provided by UK Visas and Immigration, as requirements can change.

Section E: Myths about UK Visa Supporting Documents

Debunking common myths about UK visa supporting documents can help avoid confusion and misunderstandings about the visa rules and reduce the potential for delays or refusals.

Myth 1: More documents mean a higher chance of approval. Quality over quantity is the principle that applies here. The UK visa application process requires specific documents to prove eligibility and intent. Submitting more documents than what is asked for does not necessarily increase your chances of approval and might even confuse the process. Stick to the necessary documents listed in the guidelines.

Myth 2: Electronic copies of documents are sufficient for the application. While some parts of the application may be completed online, UK Visas and Immigration generally requires original documents or certified copies as part of the application process. You should provide physical documents as specified in the application instructions unless explicitly stated otherwise.

Myth 3: Once you have a visa, you can stay in the UK as long as you want. A visa grants you permission to enter the UK for a specific period and purpose as stated on the visa. Overstaying your visa can lead to serious legal consequences, including a ban from re-entering the UK for a certain period.

Myth 4: Financial proof from any source is acceptable to show you can support yourself. Financial documents must come from credible sources, such as your bank or a legal financial institution. The funds shown must be readily available to you. Borrowed money or showing sudden large deposits without a credible explanation can lead to suspicions about the genuineness of the funds and potentially result in a visa refusal.

Myth 5: If you are denied a visa once, you are permanently barred from reapplying. Being denied a visa does not prohibit you from reapplying in the future. However, it is crucial to address the reasons for the previous denial in your new application,  ensure that you meet all the criteria and provide all the necessary documentation the next time you apply.

Myth 6: A visa application can be expedited by paying extra fees. While the UK does offer priority services for an additional fee, which can expedite the processing of your application, this does not guarantee a successful outcome. The priority service simply means your application will be processed faster than the standard processing time.

Myth 7: You don’t need a visa if you’re just transiting through the UK. Depending on your nationality and the duration and nature of your stop, you may need a transit visa even if you don’t leave the airport. Always check the specific requirements before you travel to ensure you comply with the UK’s entry rules.

Section F: Summary

Whether you are visiting the UK for leisure, planning to study , work or join family , you will need to ensure that you provide evidence that proves you qualify for that visa.

However, UK visa rules and requirements are subject to frequent change. To prevent any issues or errors in your application, stay updated with the most current guidelines and procedures. Always refer to the official UK government website for the latest information on visa types, required documentation, application procedures, and processing times, or contact our UK immigration specialists for personalised guidance on your visa application.

Section G: Need Assistance?

DavidsonMorris are recognised UK immigration experts. We work with UK visa applicants to support them with application management, including guidance on supporting documents. For specialist advice, contact us.

Section H: FAQs on UK Visa Supporting Documents

How long does it take to process a UK visa application? The processing time for a UK visa can vary depending on the visa category and the applicant’sapplicant’s country. Generally, most visas are processed within 15 working days, but it can take longer during peak seasons or for more complex cases. It is advisable to apply well in advance of your intended travel date.

What if my documents are not in English or Welsh? Documents not in English or Welsh must be accompanied by a certified translation. The translator must certify that it is an accurate translation of the original document, and the certification should include the translator’s contact details, qualifications, signature, and date.

Can I submit digital copies of my documents, or are originals required? Generally, original documents are required for the visa application. However, you should provide photocopies of each original document. Digital copies may be acceptable for certain parts of the application process, but this will be specified in the application guidelines.

How recent must my bank statements be when applying for a visa? Bank statements should be no older than 28 days before the date of your visa application. They should clearly show your name, the account number, the financial institution’s name and logo, and the financial transactions covering at least the last three to six months.

What should I do if my visa application is denied? If your visa application is denied, you will receive a letter explaining the reasons for the refusal. You can apply again and address the reasons for refusal in your new application. In some cases, you may also have the right to appeal the decision or request an administrative review.

Do I need a visa if I am transiting through the UK? If you do not leave the airport and will transit within 24 hours, you may not need a visa. However, if you need to pass through UK border control (i.e., leave the airport), you may require a transit visa. Check the specific requirements based on your nationality and the rules at the time of your transit.

Can I extend my visa while in the UK? Yes, you can apply to extend your visa from within the UK if you meet the eligibility criteria for an extension and your current visa category allows it. Ensure you apply before your current visa expires, and be prepared to provide updated supporting documents.

Section I: Glossary for UK Visa Applications

Biometric Residence Permit (BRP):  A document that visa holders staying in the UK for more than six months receive on arrival, which serves as proof of the holder’s right to stay, work , or study in the UK.

CAS (Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies):  An official document issued by a licensed educational institution in the UK that an international student needs to apply for a study visa.

Dependant:  A family member of the main applicant (such as a spouse, partner, or child under 18) who is applying for a visa to accompany or join the main applicant in the UK.

Entry Clearance:  A visa or entry clearance sticker placed in the passport by a British embassy or consulate, granting the holder permission to enter the UK.

Home Office:  The UK government department responsible for immigration, security, and law and order, which includes the administration of the immigration system.

Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR):  Permission to stay in the UK permanently without any time restrictions on one’s stay.

Leave to Enter:  Permission granted by Border Force officers at the point of entry that allows an individual to enter the UK for a specific purpose.

National Insurance Number:  A unique number used to track an individual’s tax and national insurance contributions in the UK.

PBS (Points-Based System): The immigration management system used by the UK, where applicants receive points based on criteria such as qualifications, salaries, and sponsorship to qualify for different types of visas.

Right of Abode:  The right to live and work in the UK without any immigration restrictions, which is typically available only to British citizens and some Commonwealth citizens under certain conditions.

Sponsor Licence:  A permission granted to an organisation, allowing it to sponsor workers or students from outside the UK.

Visa National:  A person from a country whose nationals need a visa to enter the UK for any purpose, including tourism, family visits , or business trips.

Visitor Visa:  A visa intended for those who wish to enter the UK for a short period for activities such as tourism, visiting family , or business—usually valid for up to six months.

Section J: Additional Resources

UK Visas and Immigration (GOV.UK) – Official Home Page https://www.gov.uk/government/organisations/uk-visas-and-immigration The official portal for all visa and immigration matters in the UK, providing detailed guides, application forms, and the latest policy updates.

Guide to Visa Application Fees (GOV.UK) https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/visa-regulations-revised-table A comprehensive listing of fees associated with various types of visa applications.

UK Visa and Immigration Visa Processing Times https://www.gov.uk/visa-processing-times This page allows applicants to check the estimated processing times for visas based on the visa type and the applicant’s location.

Apply for a UK Visa (GOV.UK) https://www.gov.uk/apply-uk-visa Direct link for visa applications, including information on how to start your application online.

UK Points-Based Immigration System: An Introduction https://www.gov.uk/guidance/new-immigration-system-what-you-need-to-know Information about the UK’s points-based immigration system  that outlines how individuals from outside the UK can qualify to work or study .

Check if You Need a UK Visa (GOV.UK) https://www.gov.uk/check-uk-visa A useful tool that helps users determine whether they need a UK visa based on their nationality, purpose of visit , and other criteria.

Biometric Residence Permits (BRPs) – Official Information https://www.gov.uk/biometric-residence-permits Details about obtaining and using a BRP, which is required for those staying in the UK for longer than six months.

Healthcare for Visa Holders in the UK https://www.gov.uk/healthcare-immigration-application Information about how immigration status affects access to healthcare in the UK, including how to pay the health surcharge.

UK Border Control – Entering the UK https://www.gov.uk/uk-border-control Important details on what to expect when arriving in the UK, including customs regulations and entry procedures.

Official Solicitors and Legal Advice (GOV.UK) https://www.gov.uk/find-a-legal-adviser Provides resources to find legal advisers who specialise in UK immigration law .

Immigration Law Practitioners’Practitioners’ Association (ILPA) http://www.ilpa.org.uk/ A professional association that promotes and improves advice and representation in immigration, asylum, and nationality law in the UK.

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/ Employment Case Law Update August 2024
• Anne Morris https://www.davidsonmorris.com/author/anne/ Employers May Have to Offer Four-Day Week
• Anne Morris https://www.davidsonmorris.com/author/anne/ Employment Contract: An Employers Guide
• Anne Morris https://www.davidsonmorris.com/author/anne/ Interview Legalities & Compliance for Employers

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.

Legal Disclaimer

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

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UK Visitor Visa from India: Everything You Need to Know

Last Update: 27-08-2024

Aditya Jain

United Kingdom

Excited about going to the UK, but overwhelmed with the visa process? We feel you. This comprehensive blog tells you everything you need to know to obtain your UK visitor visa from India.

From essential documentation to in-depth application procedure, visa fees, validity, practical tips and more, we’ll cover all the details. Our objective is to make your journey to the UK stress-free.

⚡Quick Summary

Do I Need a UK Visitor Visa from India?

Yes, as an Indian citizen, you typically need a UK visitor visa to enter the UK for tourism or short stays. UK standard visitor visa allows you to visit the UK for up to 6 months. Ensure you apply at least 3 months in advance and meet all the requirements for a successful application.

Table of Contents

Uk visitor visa overview, eligibility requirements for uk standard visitor visa, documents required for uk visitor visa.

• How to Apply for a UK Tourist Visa?

UK Visitor Visa Validity

UK Visitor Visa Fees from India

Uk visitor visa processing time, uk visitor visa extension process for indians, reasons for uk visitor visa rejections.

As a Standard Visitor, you can visit the UK for various purposes, including tourism, business, short-term study (up to 6 months), and other permitted activities. Generally, you can stay in the UK for up to 6 months. In specific situations, such as seeking medical treatment, you may apply to extend your stay.

Permitted Activities

As a Standard Visitor, you can:

• Tourism : Visit the UK for holidays or vacations.
• Family and Friends : See family or friends.
• Volunteering : Volunteer for up to 30 days with a registered charity.
• Transit : Pass through the UK on your way to another country.
• Business : Engage in certain business activities like meetings or interviews.
• Permitted Paid Engagements : Participate in paid activities as an expert, such as giving lectures or performing.
• Recreational Courses : Take part in a recreational course lasting up to 30 days, like a dance course.
• Study : Study, do a placement, or take an exam.
• Medical : Visit the UK for medical reasons.

Prohibited Activities

You cannot:

• Work : Perform paid or unpaid work unless it’s a permitted paid engagement or event.
• Claim Public Funds : Access public benefits or support.
• Long-Term Stay : Live in the UK for extended periods through frequent visits.
• Marriage or Civil Partnership : Marry or register a civil partnership; apply for a Marriage Visitor visa instead.

To qualify for a Standard Visitor visa, you must:

• Valid Passport : Have a passport or travel document valid for your entire stay.
• Evidence of Departure : Show you will leave the UK at the end of your visit.
• Financial Support : Demonstrate that you can support yourself and any dependants during your stay or have financial backing from someone else.
• Return Journey : Prove you can pay for your return or onward journey, or have someone else funding it.
• No Long-Term Residence : Ensure you are not using the UK for long-term residence through frequent visits.

Additional requirements may apply if you are visiting for study, academic purposes, permitted paid engagements, or medical reasons.

Following are the documents required for UK visitor visa from India:

UK visitor visa document checklist

How to apply for uk visitor visa from india, apply for a uk visitor visa through vfs global.

Step 1: Research on Your Visa Type: Begin by finding the right visa for your trip and ensuring you meet all UK visitor visa requirements. Learn about the documents required, processing time, and fees. If your documents aren't in English, consider translating them first.

Step 2: Get Your Documents Ready: Make sure you have all the documents needed for a Netherlands visa. Keep reading ahead for a complete checklist.

Step 3: Apply for Your UK Tourist Visa: Head to the UK Visas and Immigration website to apply for your visa.

Step 4: Pay Your Fees: You'll be required to pay a visa fee upon application submission. Once you have paid your UK visa fees, you will be given a reference number that starts with GWF.  This number will be helpful if you need to make changes to your visa application or appointment.

Step 5: Book an Appointment at a VFS Visa Application Centre: Upon completion of your visa application form and payment of the visa fee, you will be directed to the VFS Global website to book an appointment at a Visa Application Centre, so your biometric data (fingerprints and photograph) can be recorded.

Step 6: Upload Your Documents: Digitally submit all the documents required for your UK visit visa application. You can scan your documents at the Visa Application Centre with their Document Scanning Assistance option. An additional fee applies for this service.

Step 7: Visit the Visa Application Centre: Attend your appointment at the Visa Application Centre to submit your biometrics and get your photograph clicked. Take your valid passport with at least one page that is blank on both sides. Children under 16 years old need to be accompanied by an adult.

Step 8: Get Your Visa: Once a decision is made on your application, you can collect your documents from the Visa Application Centre or have them delivered to you for an extra fee. Please do not attend the Visa Application Centre until you have been contacted to do so. To collect your documents in person; bring the receipt issued by the Visa Application Centre and a valid Government identification card.

Locations for UK Visitor Visa Application in India

Apply UK Visitor Visa from India through Teleport

Teleport makes applying for a UK visa straightforward and stress-free. Follow these steps for a smooth application process:

• Start Your UK Visa Application: Go to Teleport's UK visa application page and select 'Start Application.'
• Enter Basic Information and Make Payment: Provide your basic information like passport details. Teleport allows you to either automatically populate your data or enter it by hand. Opt to pay the visa fee either in full or partially upfront.
• Collect Your Documents: A Teleport Relationship Manager will guide you through collecting all necessary UK visit visa documents. 
• Appointment Booking: Your Relationship Manager will schedule a UK visa appointment at the visa application centre on your behalf.. He/she will also upload all the documents on the UK embassy website.
• Visit the Visa Application Centre: Visit the visa centre with your passport, appointment confirmation letter and a checklist of all documents required for UK visa application. Submit your biometrics. Your Relationship Manager will be available to guide you throughout the process.

This UK visitor visa fee is non-refundable and subject to change. Additional fees may apply depending on factors such as foreign exchange fluctuations, courier delivery charges (if availed), etc. Following are the UK visitor visa cost based on different visa types:

The UK visitor visa processing time can be around 3 to 5 weeks after an appointment with the embassy. To avoid last-minute hassles, start your UK visit visa application process up to 3 months before your intended travel date.

You may be able to extend your stay if you have permission to be in the UK for less than 6 months. You can extend your stay up to a total of 6 months. For instance, if you've already spent 4 months in the UK, you're eligible to apply for a 2-month extension.

You can apply to stay in the UK for longer than 6 months if you're a patient receiving medical treatment. You need to apply while you’re still in the UK and before your current visa expires.

When applying for a UK visa, knowing what could potentially lead to denial is crucial for strengthening your application and boosting the likelihood of getting approved. Here are some important considerations:

• Lack of Proper Documentation: All UK visit visa or tourist visa documents you submit must be authentic, complete, and satisfactory. Submitting incorrect or misleading information can cause your application to be rejected immediately and may lead to potential bans on future applications.
• Lack of Funds: Inadequate proof of financial stability and inability to cover the cost of your stay can lead to rejection. Maintain a minimum bank balance for UK tourist visa of around INR 3,00,000 per applicant.
• Weak Ties to India: UK authorities may question your intentions to return to India, if you cannot demonstrate strong ties, such as family, property, or employment in India, and, hence, may reject your visa application.
• Questionable Travel Record: A history of overstaying visas in other countries could be seen as a red flag, suggesting a risk of not adhering to UK’s visa regulations.
• Intentions Under Scrutiny: Not being able to convincingly explain the reason for your visit and its consistency with your planned activities might arouse suspicion. For example, expressing plans to work on a visa that doesn't allow employment could result in denial.

Learn more about UK visas

Teleport UK Visa Application page

UK Standard Visa Application Form

About UK Standard Visitor Visa

UK Visa Application Centre List

VFS Global for UK Visa

UK Transit Visa

UK Visa Processing Time

Securing UK visas can pose challenges. Through this blog, we aim to simplify the process of obtaining a UK tourist visa for Indians. Should you have any questions, \reach out to us on 073148 52914 or drop us a message on WhatsApp . 

Opt to apply with Teleport for a no-fuss UK tourist visa from India. Our user-friendly platform simplifies the entire process so you have one less worry thing to worry about - your visa!

Safe travels!

To get a UK Standard Visitor visa for tourism, you must fill out an application form online, submit the required fee and supporting documents and attend an appointment at a VFS visa application centre.

For a UK tourist visa, it is recommended to have a minimum bank balance of at least INR 3,00,000 when applying from India. This amount helps demonstrate your financial ability to cover the costs of your trip, including accommodation, travel, and daily expenses. It's important to show consistent financial stability over several months rather than a sudden large deposit.

The UK visit visa cost are as follows:

• Visa with 6 months validity: Embassy Fees: ₹ 12,527
• Visa with 2 years validity: Embassy Fees: ₹ 47,057
• Visa with 5 years validity: Embassy Fees: ₹ 83,983
• Visa with 10 years validity: Embassy Fees: ₹ 1,04,897

No, the UK Standard visitor visa does not allow for dependents to accompany the primary visa holder.

No, travel insurance is not mandatory for obtaining a UK tourist or UK business visa . However, we strongly recommend it. Having travel insurance provides financial protection in case of unforeseen circumstances such as medical emergencies, trip cancellations, lost luggage, or other travel-related issues.

No, you cannot visit other countries in the Schengen Area with a UK Standard Visitor Visa. The UK Standard Visitor Visa only allows you to visit the United Kingdom for tourism or leisure. It does not grant you access to other. countries in the Schengen Area

Yes, a 3-month bank statement showing a balance of at least INR 3,00,000 is generally considered sufficient for a UK tourist visa. It is important to ensure that the bank statement is clear of any inappropriate transactions and demonstrates consistent financial stability to support your trip.

The processing time for a UK visitor visa from India is typically around 3 weeks. However, it is advisable to apply well in advance of your intended travel date to account for any potential delays.

Read more about visas

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UKVI launches Super Priority Visa (SPV) service in Hong Kong

Customers applying for a UK visa in Hong Kong will now have the option of paying to get a faster decision on their application.

A Super Priority Visa (SPV) is an optional, paid-for service that customers in select locations around the world can purchase, in addition to the visa fee, to receive a faster decision on their visa application.  

This is the first time customers in Hong Kong will be able to take advantage of the optional service. 

Customers who choose SPV will usually receive a decision on their UK visa application by the end of the next working day if your appointment is on a weekday. It could take 2 working days after your appointment if your appointment is at the weekend or on a bank holiday. 

Customers should be aware that it can take longer than 2 working days, for example if the Home Office needs to ask you for more information. 

The fee for the Super Priority Visa Service is currently £1,000, plus the standard fee for the type of visa being applied for.

The processing time for a Standard UK visa is 15 working days, although this excludes evenings, weekends or national, public holidays, and in some instances applications may take longer.  

The very latest visa decision waiting times for each visa category are published on gov.uk . This also includes additional information about the priority services for those applying outside of the UK.

Speaking of the launch announcement, the Consul General to Hong Kong & Macau Brian Davidson CMG said:

I am excited to announce that the Super Priority Visa service is now available in Hong Kong. This new service will be beneficial for our customers in the business and trade sector as well as those customers who need a decision on their visa faster and at short notice. The introduction of this service will give customers more flexibility and demonstrates our ongoing commitment to enhancing the visa services available for Hong Kongers travelling to the UK.

Additional information:

• UKVI starts processing your application only once you’ve attend your appointment at the VAC to provide your fingerprints and a photograph  (biometric information)
• the information in your application is not accurate or requires further consideration.
• you need to provide further evidence, for example evidence of funds.
• your supporting documents need to be verified.
• you need to attend an interview.
• further information is required on your personal circumstances (for example if you have a criminal conviction)
• UKVI is experiencing increased visa demand.
• you will be contacted within the current processing times if your application will take longer
• if the decision takes longer, you will not usually get your money back. Find out about  getting a refund of your priority service fee
• partner or spouse
• adult coming to be cared for by a relative
• you cannot get a decision by the end of the next working day if you use the ‘UK Immigration: ID Check’ app

for more information about the range of added value services available to customers in Hong Kong please check VFS’ website:  https://visa.vfsglobal.com/hkg/en/gbr/premium-services  

• the latest global processing times for different category of UK visa can be found here: www.gov.uk/guidance/visa-processing-times-applications-outside-the-uk
• for the latest visa fees (including the price of our www.gov.uk/government/publications/visa-regulations-revised-table ) please check out our website: www.gov.uk/government/publications/visa-regulations-revised-table
• applicants are reminded to only visit the Visa Application Centre once they have confirmation that their passport is ready for collection
• please note, the SPV service is currently not available for BN(O) visa applicants. Further announcement will be made in due course if there are any changes to this although customers applying for a BN(O) visa already have the option of a 5-day Priority Visa (PV) service as part of their application process

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