What is a Visitor Visa?
The Standard Visitor Visa enables its holders to come to the UK for a short amount of time.
An individual can only enter the UK on a Visitor Visa for a reason deemed permissible. Such reasons include:
- To take part in business-related activities or sporting/arts activities
- To take part in leisure activities such as tourism or visiting friends and family
- To receive private medical treatment
If the reasons for which you intend to come to the UK are different to these, it may be that this visa is not appropriate and that an alternative type of visa needs to be applied for.
How long will I be able to stay in the UK for?
Normally you will be able to stay in the UK for up to 6 months. It should be noted that you cannot switch into a long term visa from within the UK whilst here on a visit visa. However, there are some circumstances in which you may be able to stay longer:
- If you’re travelling to the UK for private medical treatment, you can stay for up to 11 months
- If you’re an academic travelling to the UK for research purposes, you and your partner may be able to stay for up to 12 months
Will I be eligible?
There are a number of requirements that must be satisfied in order to demonstrate eligibility. The main point to demonstrate is that you intend to leave the UK either prior to or on the expiry date of your visa.
You must prove that you are able to support yourself (and any dependants you intend to bring with you) financially during your time in the UK.
You must demonstrate that you are able to pay for your onward journey once your time in the UK comes to an end.
You must have proof of the business activities or other activities you intend to participate in during your time in the UK.
It is hugely important that you understand which activities are permitted under the terms of the visa. Taking part in activities that are not permitted will mean that you are in breach of these terms.
