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Planning a trip to the United Kingdom? If so, selecting the correct visitor visa is essential. In most cases, the UK provides several short-stay visa types depending on your travel purpose. Therefore, choosing the right option can make the application process smoother.
Below, you will find a clear explanation of each category; moreover, every option comes with different conditions, validity periods and documentation needs.
Among UK visitor options, the Standard Visitor visa is the most commonly issued and normally allows stays of up to six months. Moreover, it combines several purposes that were earlier offered under separate categories.
Under this category, applicants may travel for:
In this case, the visa is designed for people travelling to the UK to marry or form a civil partnership.
Key requirements include:
Therefore, those wishing to live in the UK after marriage should apply for a Family visa instead.
In specific situations, professionals invited by UK-based organisations for short paid assignments fall under this category.
Typical examples include:
Generally, the stay is limited to one month, and arrangements must be finalised before applying.
When travelling through the UK en route to another country, a transit visa may be required. In most situations, Indian passport holders must apply in advance.
Broadly, two main types apply:
By contrast, the Short-Term Study visa applies to English-language programmes lasting more than six months and up to 11 months.
In addition, important conditions include:
In such situations, parents accompanying children under 12 studying in independent UK schools may apply under this category.
To qualify, parents must:
Applicants from India usually pay the following fees. However, the INR amount may change based on the exchange rate. Consequently, applicants should confirm the latest figures before payment.
Naturally, costs vary by visa duration:
(INR amounts change with exchange rates.)
In certain cases, for stays longer than six months, a TB test from an approved clinic is required.
To begin with, preparing the correct documents is essential for a successful application. Therefore, collecting them early will save time later.
Accordingly, applicants should prepare:
In addition, applicants must show sufficient funds:
Most importantly, strong home-country connections are essential.
Salaried applicants:
Self-employed applicants:
Students:
Retirees:
Furthermore, you must clearly outline your travel intentions.
Finally, submitting a complete application with accurate documents greatly improves your approval chances. Consequently, seeking professional guidance can further strengthen your case.
