United Kingdom Visas

The United Kingdom, a historic land steeped in tradition, is known for its iconic landmarks, vibrant cultural scene, and world-leading universities. It's a magnet for travellers, students, and history buffs.

Home to four distinct nations - England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland - each with unique character and heritage, the UK offers a captivating mix of ancient castles, bustling cities, and picturesque countryside. With over 38 million international visitors in 2023 and 758,855 international students, the UK's appeal is clear.

However, depending on where you're from and why you're visiting, you may need a visa.

This guide will walk you through the visa application process, outline the necessary documents, and provide all the details you need to make sure your trip to the land of Shakespeare, afternoon tea, and the Beatles is smooth and unforgettable.

When do you need a visa for United Kingdom?

The UK has a range of visas for tourism, business, work, study, and family reasons. Let's take a closer look at the key options.

• EU, EEA, and Swiss citizens: If you're an EU, EEA, or Swiss citizen, the rules for coming to the UK have changed since Brexit. As of October 2024, EU citizens can stay in the UK for up to six months without a visa. After this time, a relevant visa is required.
• Visa-exempt countries: Citizens of certain countries, including the US, Canada, and Australia, can visit the UK for up to six months without a visa, providing they meet the immigration rules. However, since late 2023, the Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) has gradually replaced visa waivers for some nationalities.
• Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA):
  • The ETA is a new requirement for many visitors who previously didn't need a visa for short stays. It allows travel to the UK for up to six months for tourism, visiting family and friends, business, or short-term study. It also applies to those transiting through the UK.
  • As of September 2024, the ETA is mandatory for citizens of Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE.
  • From January 8, 2025, it will be required for eligible citizens from other non-European countries, including the US, Canada, and Australia. Applications for these nationalities open on November 27, 2024.
  • From April 2, 2025, it will be required for eligible citizens from European countries. Applications for these nationalities open on March 5, 2025
  • An ETA costs £10, permits multiple journeys, and is valid for two years or until your passport expires, whichever is sooner.
• Other nationalities: If you're not from a visa-exempt country or eligible for an ETA, you'll need to apply for a Standard Visitor visa before you travel.
• Long stays and other purposes: If you plan to stay in the UK for more than six months or intend to work or study there, you'll need a specific long-stay visa, regardless of your nationality.

Remember:

• Be cautious of non-GOV.UK websites offering visa assistance, as they may provide inaccurate information or charge unnecessary fees.

United Kingdom visa requirements

• Valid passport or travel document: Your passport or travel document must be valid for your intended stay in the UK.
• Completed application form: Fill out the online application form accurately and completely. The form can be found on the UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) website.
• Proof of sufficient funds: You need to demonstrate that you have enough money to support yourself during your stay in the UK without relying on public funds. The required amount will depend on the type of visa and the length of your stay.
• Tuberculosis (TB) test results: Citizens of certain countries may need to provide a TB test certificate.

Specific requirements for common visa types

• Standard Visitor Visa:

  ◦ Evidence of your intention to leave the UK at the end of your visit (e.g., return flight ticket, proof of ties to your home country)

  ◦ Evidence of your ability to support yourself financially during your stay

  ◦ Details of your planned activities in the UK

• Skilled Worker Visa:

  ◦ A valid certificate of sponsorship reference number from a UK employer

  ◦ Proof of English language proficiency

  ◦ Details of the job offer, including job title, annual salary, and occupation code

  ◦ Your employer's name and sponsor licence number

• Marriage or civil partnership Visitor Visa:

  ◦ Evidence that you intend to marry or form a civil partnership in the UK during your visit

  ◦ Proof of your relationship with your partner

  ◦ Evidence of your ability to support yourself financially during your stay

• EU, EEA, or Swiss Citizens:

  ◦ If you're an EU, EEA, or Swiss citizen and plan to work in the UK for more than six months, you'll need a visa. Check the UK government website for the latest guidance on the specific requirements. You won’t need a visa if you don’t plan to work or study.

Remember:

• It's essential to check the specific requirements for your chosen visa category on the official UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) website or consult the British embassy or consulate in your country.
• All documents should be in English or translated by a certified translator.

United Kingdom visa application process

Applying for a UK visa typically involves an online application and, in some cases, an in-person appointment. Here's a breakdown of the general process:

Choose the right visa

Determine the visa type you need based on your nationality, reason for travel, length of stay, and personal circumstances. Use the official government website to find the appropriate visa category.

Prepare your application

• Online application: Complete the online application form on the UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) website. Provide accurate and complete information.
• Supporting documents: Gather all necessary documents per the specific visa requirements. Depending on your visa type, this may include proof of funds, accommodation, travel arrangements, and other relevant documents.
• Pay the application fee: Pay the visa application fee online. The cost varies depending on the visa type and duration of stay. You may also need to pay the healthcare surcharge if applicable.

Prove your identity

• Visa Application Centre Appointment: For most applicants, you'll need to book an appointment at a visa application centre to provide your biometric information (fingerprints and photograph).
• 'UK Immigration: ID Check' App: Some applicants may be able to prove their identity using the 'UK Immigration: ID Check' smartphone app.

Attend your appointment (if applicable)

• Visa Application Centre: Attend your scheduled appointment, submit your supporting documents, and provide your biometric information.
• 'UK Immigration: ID Check' App: Follow the instructions in the app to scan your identity document, provide a digital photo, and upload your supporting documents.

Wait for a decision

The processing time for your visa application can vary depending on the visa type and other factors. You'll receive a decision letter or email once your application has been processed.

Receive your visa (if approved)

• Vignette: If your application is flourishing and you provided your biometrics at a visa application centre, you'll receive a vignette (visa sticker) in your passport.
• Online Immigration Status: If you use the 'UK Immigration: ID Check' app, you can view your immigration status information online.
• Biometric Residence Permit (BRP): If you're coming to the UK for more than 6 months, you'll need to collect a BRP after you arrive.

Remember:

• Apply well in advance of your planned travel date, as processing times can vary.
• Double-check all information and requirements before submitting your application.
• If you have any questions or concerns, contact the UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) or the visa application centre for assistance.

How to get Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) or settled status in the UK?

Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR), also known as settled status, is the key to settling down in the UK. It gives you the right to live, work, and study in the UK without any time restrictions, and you can even apply for British citizenship down the line.

Different paths to ILR

There are a few different routes to ILR, depending on your situation:

• Work route: If you've been working in the UK on a work visa for a certain period (usually 5 years), you might be eligible. The exact requirements depend on your specific visa type and salary.
• Family route: If you have a close family member (partner, parent, child, etc.) who's settled in the UK, you might be able to apply to join them permanently.
• 10-Year route: If you've lived in the UK continuously for 10 years or more, there's a specific route you can take to apply for ILR.
• UK Ancestry Visa: If you're a Commonwealth citizen with a UK Ancestry visa, you can apply for ILR after 5 years.

Special cases

There are also special rules for situations like:

• The death of your partner
• The end of a relationship due to domestic violence
• If you're a refugee or have humanitarian protection

Important to know:

• If you or your family member is an EU, EEA, or Swiss citizen, you can apply for settled status under the EU Settlement Scheme instead of ILR.
• Some Commonwealth citizens might have the "right of abode" in the UK, which means they can live and work there without any restrictions.
• You can usually apply for British citizenship after having ILR for a certain period.

Learn More

How to get British citizenship?

Gaining British citizenship opens doors to various benefits, like the right to vote, work without restrictions, and access to public services. But it's not a simple process, and the eligibility requirements depend on your individual circumstances.

Main paths to British citizenship

• Born in the UK: You don't automatically get British citizenship just by being born in the UK. It depends on when you were born and your parents' status. You'll need to check your eligibility and may need to apply.
• Married to a British citizen: If you're married to or in a civil partnership with a British citizen and have lived in the UK for at least 3 years with either Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) or settled status under the EU Settlement Scheme, you can apply for citizenship.
• Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR): If you have ILR, you can usually apply for citizenship after living in the UK for another 12 months.
• Settled status (EU Settlement Scheme): If you have settled status under the EU Settlement Scheme, you can usually apply for citizenship after living in the UK for another 12 months.
• Other routes: You may also be eligible for citizenship if you have a British parent, another type of British nationality, a parent with British overseas territories citizenship, are stateless, previously renounced your citizenship, or fall under special circumstances.

Special cases and considerations

• Commonwealth citizens: You might be eligible to apply for citizenship under the Windrush scheme if you or your parent arrived in the UK before 1973 and you've lived in the UK without long absences.
• Right of Abode: Some Commonwealth citizens may have the 'right of abode' in the UK, allowing them to live and work there without restrictions. You can apply to prove you have this right.

Remember:

• Eligibility is key: It's crucial to check if you meet the specific requirements for your chosen path to citizenship before applying.
• Professional advice: If you're unsure about your eligibility or need help with the application process, consider consulting an immigration advisor.

Learn More