UK Visitor Visas (Types & Requirements)

A UK Visitor visa allows foreign nationals to visit their families for a short period of 6 months. Depending on your nationality, you may not need a visa to visit the UK.  You should check if you need a visa before you apply.

Our experienced immigration solicitors in London are here to help with all types of UK visas, asylum, nationality, appeals, or immigration issues. Call us today on 02039300554 to speak with our London immigration solicitors or book an appointment online for a confidential consultation.

What you can and cannot do (‘permitted activities’)

You can visit the UK as a Standard Visitor:

• for tourism, for example on a holiday or vacation
• to see your family or friends
• to volunteer for up to 30 days with a registered charity
• to pass through the UK to another country (‘in transit’)
• for certain business activities, for example attending a meeting or interview
• for certain paid engagements or events (a ‘permitted paid engagement’) as an expert in your profession, for example to give lectures or perform
• to take part in a school exchange programme
• to do a recreational course of up to 30 days, for example a dance course
• to study, do a placement or take an exam
• as an academic, senior doctor or dentist
• for medical reasons

You cannot:

• do paid or unpaid work for a UK company or as a self-employed person, unless you’re doing a permitted paid engagement or event
• claim public funds (benefits)
• live in the UK for long periods of time through frequent or successive visits
• marry or register a civil partnership, or give notice of marriage or civil partnership – you’ll need to apply for a Marriage Visitor visa

What are the requirements for a UK visitor visa?

You must have a passport or travel document to enter the UK. It should be valid for the whole of your stay.

You must be able to show that:

• you’ll not live in the UK for extended periods through frequent or successive visits, or make the UK your main home
• you’ll leave the UK at the end of your visit
• you’re able to support yourself and your dependants during your trip (or have funding from someone else to support you)
• you’re able to pay for your return or onward journey (or have funding from someone else to pay for the journey)

How much does a UK standard visitor visa cost?

A Standard Visitor visa costs £127 for up to 6 months. The earliest you can apply is 3 months before you travel.

How long can I stay in the UK on a visitor visa?

A Standard Visitor visa to the UK generally allows for a stay of up to 6 months.

Can I change a visitor visa to a work permit in the UK?

No, it is generally not possible to switch from a UK visitor visa to a work permit (now called a Skilled Worker visa) while in the UK.

How much is a marriage visitor visa?

It costs £127 to apply for a UK Marriage Visitor Visa. You can submit your application for a Marriage Visitor Visa three months ahead of your intended date of travel to the UK.

Why Choose Our Immigration Solicitors In London?

Are you looking for trusted immigration solicitors in London to help you with your UK visa or immigration matter? Here are a few good reasons of why you should choose our immigration solicitors:

• Our team of expert immigration solicitors in London has years of experience handling all types of UK visa and immigration matters.
• We offer clear and competitive fees with flexible payment options, so you know exactly what to expect—no hidden costs.
• Every case is different. We give personalised advice and solutions based on your unique situation.
• We respond quickly, keep you updated, and work to meet all Home Office deadlines.
• Whether it’s a Skilled Worker visa, Spouse visa, or British citizenship—we handle all UK immigration applications and appeals.
• Our London immigration lawyers have a strong track record in winning difficult cases, including visa refusals and Judicial Reviews.
• You can speak to our solicitors via phone, video call, or email—no need to travel to our office.
• We are fully regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority, ensuring you get trusted and professional legal services.
• Need urgent help? We offer same-day appointments to assist with last-minute applications or legal emergencies.
• We help UK employers with Sponsor Licences, Skilled Worker visas, and compliance with immigration law.
• Our office is based in London, Croydon, easily accessible by public transport for in-person appointments.