UK Visitor Visa: How to Visit the UK for Tourism or Business

What Is a Visitor Visa?

A Visitor visa allows you to enter the UK for short-term visits — typically up to 6 months. It's for tourism, business meetings, family visits, or medical treatment.

Do You Need a Visitor Visa?

Citizens of some countries need a visa to visit the UK. Others can enter without a visa for short visits. Check if you need a visa on the gov.uk website.

You need a Visitor visa if you're a national of a country that requires one (check the official list).

You don't need a Visitor visa if you're a national of a country on the "visa national" exemption list — you may be able to enter with just your passport.

What Can You Do on a Visitor Visa?

• Tourism — sightseeing, visiting landmarks
• Business — meetings, conferences, interviews (but not paid work)
• Family visit — visiting relatives
• Medical treatment — private medical care
• Study — short courses (up to 6 months)

What You Cannot Do

• Work — you cannot take paid employment
• Study long-term — you need a Student visa for that
• Access public funds — you cannot claim benefits
• Live in the UK long-term — this is a short-term visa
• Switch to another visa — you must leave and apply from outside the UK

How to Apply

1. Apply online on gov.uk
2. Pay the application fee (£100 for 6 months, or more for longer validity)
3. Provide biometric information at a visa centre
4. Submit your passport and supporting documents

Documents You'll Need

• Valid passport
• Proof of funds (bank statements)
• Travel itinerary
• Accommodation booking
• Letter of invitation (if visiting someone)
• Ties to your home country (job, property, family)

Key Tips for Approval

1. Show strong ties to your home country — proof you'll leave
2. Provide evidence of funds — enough money for your trip
3. Be honest about the purpose of your visit
4. Apply early — at least 3 weeks before your trip

For more about UK visas, see our UK visas guide.