01 · Overview
What is the Standard Visitor route?
It covers common short visits such as tourism, seeing family or friends, selected business activities and eligible short study. Whether a traveller needs a visa, another travel authorisation or neither depends on their circumstances and nationality.
02 · Eligibility logic
The application must tell one coherent story.
The evidence should support a permitted purpose, sufficient funds for the visit and return journey, and a credible intention to leave the UK after the visit.
03 · Documents
Build evidence around the facts of the trip.
Typical evidence may include a valid passport, personal circumstances, funds, travel plans, invitations or relationship evidence where relevant, and appropriate translations for documents not in English or Welsh.
04 · Application route
From online application to decision.
Check the official route, complete the online application accurately, follow the required identity and document steps, and wait for the decision before making avoidable non-refundable commitments.
05 · Applicants under 18
Consent and care arrangements matter.
Young visitors need suitable travel and accommodation arrangements, appropriate financial support and parental or guardian consent.
06 · Boundaries
A visitor is not a worker or resident.
Visitor permission has limits. Check the official rules for permitted activities and do not assume that study, work, repeated residence or other activities are automatically allowed.
07 · Official sources
Use the source of truth before you submit.
Use GOV.UK and the official visa application service for the latest eligibility, documentation, fee and processing guidance.
Official UK visitor guidance ↗