Visitor Visa
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Visitor Visa:
The Visitor Visa allows individuals to travel to the UK for a temporary period, typically up to 6 months, for purposes such as tourism, family visits, business, or other permitted activities.
Typically, visitors are allowed to stay in the UK for up to 6 months. However, in specific cases, such as requiring medical treatment, you may be eligible to apply for an extended stay.
Whether you need a visa to enter the UK depends on your nationality. It is advisable to verify your visa requirements before submitting an application.
What You Need to Do
1. Confirm that your planned activities in the UK are allowed under the Standard
Visitor category.
2. Ensure you meet all eligibility criteria for a Standard Visitor visa.
3. Check whether you are required to apply for a visa based on your nationality.
4. If a visa is necessary, complete your application online.
Permitted and Prohibited Activities
Permitted Activities
As a Standard Visitor, you may enter the UK for the following purposes:
● Tourism: Enjoying a holiday or vacation.
● Visiting Family or Friends: Spending time with loved ones.
● Volunteering: Participating in voluntary work for up to 30 days with a registered charity.
● Transit: Passing through the UK en route to another country.
● Business: Engaging in specific activities, such as attending meetings or job interviews.
● Professional Events: Performing certain paid activities (referred to as “permitted paid engagements”), such as delivering lectures or performing in your professional capacity.
● Educational Activities: Joining a school exchange program or undertaking recreational courses (up to 30 days), such as a dance class.
● Short-Term Study: Studying, taking exams, or completing placements.
● Academics and Healthcare Professionals: Visiting as an academic, senior doctor, or dentist.
● Medical Treatment: Receiving healthcare services.
Prohibited Activities
While visiting the UK as a Standard Visitor, you are not permitted to:
● Undertake paid or unpaid work for a UK company or as a self-employed individual, unless it qualifies as a permitted paid engagement.
● Access public funds or benefits.
● Reside in the UK for extended periods through frequent or back-to-back visits.
● Marry, register a civil partnership, or give notice of marriage or partnership unless you apply for a Marriage Visitor visa.
Eligibility Requirements
To enter the UK, you must have a valid passport or travel document covering the duration of your stay. Additionally, you must demonstrate:
● Intent to Leave: You will exit the UK at the end of your visit.
● Financial Stability: You can financially support yourself and any dependants during your stay or have someone else covering your expenses.
● Travel Arrangements: You have the means to pay for your return or onward travel or have this cost covered by a third party.
● No Long-Term Stay: You will not use frequent or successive visits to make the UK your primary residence.
Additional eligibility criteria may apply if you are visiting the UK for:
● Studying, placements, or exams.
● Permitted paid engagements.
● Medical purposes.
● Work as an academic, senior doctor, or dentist.
Do You Need a Visa to Visit the UK?
Your entry requirements depend on your nationality:
● Standard Visitor Visa: Required before travel for some.
● Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA): Allows visits up to 6 months without a visa for eligible travelers.
● Visa-Free Entry: Some nationals can visit for up to 6 months without a visa or
ETA.
Even if a visa is not required, you must meet Standard Visitor eligibility criteria and may be questioned at the border about your plans. If you have a criminal record or were previously denied entry, consider applying for a visa regardless of exemption.
How Our Immigration Advisors Are Able To Help
Should you be interested in applying for a UK Partner and Family Visa, please do not hesitate to get in touch with us through dialling +44 (0)20 7253 6888 or emailing info@ukvisapartners.com. We always endeavour to provide our clients with the highest standard of service!