Overview
The UK Standard Visitor Visa allows nationals of non-visa-exempt countries to visit the United Kingdom for up to 6 months per visit for tourism, business meetings, short study courses (up to 6 months), and some paid activities. It is valid for up to 10 years with multiple entries permitted, though each stay is limited to 6 months.
Since Brexit, EU, EEA, and Swiss nationals no longer automatically have the right to live and work in the UK, but they do not require a visa for short visits. Most non-EU nationals who need a visa must apply online through the UKVI portal.
Eligibility and What You Cannot Do
You can use a Standard Visitor Visa for: tourism; visiting family or friends; attending business meetings, conferences, or interviews (not taking up employment); receiving private medical treatment; getting married or registering a civil partnership; and undertaking a course of study up to 6 months.
You cannot: work for a UK employer; receive payment from a UK source for any activity; claim public funds; live in the UK long-term. Even if your employer sends you to the UK for work-related activities, there are specific permitted and prohibited activities. If in doubt, check the full list in the Immigration Rules or seek legal advice before applying.
Required Documents
Applications are submitted online at the UKVI portal. You will then book an appointment at a Visa Application Centre (VAC) to have your biometrics taken and to submit supporting documents. Prepare:
- Valid passport and all previous passports (showing travel history and prior visas)
- Bank statements for the last 6 months (personal and, if self-employed, business accounts)
- Evidence of employment: employer letter confirming position, salary, and authorised annual leave
- Evidence of accommodation in the UK (hotel bookings, host invitation letter)
- Return travel booking or confirmed itinerary
- Cover letter detailing the purpose of your visit, itinerary, and confirmation that you intend to return home
- Evidence of ties to your home country: property ownership, ongoing employment, family commitments
- Visa application fee: £115 for a standard 6-month visit visa
Your Financial Evidence
The strength of your financial evidence is one of the most significant factors in UK visitor visa decisions. Officers are not looking for a specific minimum balance — they are assessing whether your financial situation is credible for the visit you have described. A person claiming a 1-week tourism visit should have funds consistent with 1 week of UK travel, not 6 months.
Common reasons for refusal related to finances: sudden large deposits with no explanation; statements that don't match income claimed; use of another person's account without explanation. If a family member is funding your trip, provide their bank statements plus a signed sponsorship letter clearly stating they are covering your costs and their relationship to you.
Writing a Strong Cover Letter
Your cover letter is your opportunity to tell a coherent story that the supporting documents confirm. It should state: who you are and your relationship to any hosts; the exact purpose of your visit; your travel dates and itinerary; why you are visiting the UK specifically; your current employment or circumstances; and why you will return home at the end of your visit.
Avoid vague language. Instead of 'I want to visit the UK for tourism,' write: 'I will be visiting London from 12–19 June 2026 to attend the Victoria and Albert Museum's [exhibition name] and visit my university friend [Name] who works at [Employer]. I have confirmed accommodation at [Hotel] for nights 1–4 and will stay with my friend at [Address] for nights 5–7. I will return on 19 June as I am due in the office on 22 June.' Specificity builds credibility.