To visit the United Kingdom for short-term stays, you may need to obtain either a Standard Visitor visa or an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA), depending on your nationality and the purpose of your visit.

1. Standard Visitor Visa

For tourism, visiting family or friends, short business trips, and medical treatment.

Eligibility & Duration:

• Stay up to 6 months per visit.

• Must not work, study for long-term courses, or claim public funds.

• In some cases, an extension up to 11 months (for medical treatment) or 12 months (for academic visitors) is possible.

Who Needs It?

• Travelers from countries that require a visa to enter the UK.

• Citizens of visa-exempt countries may need an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) starting in 2025

Cost & Processing Time:

• £115 for a 6-month visa.

• Long-term options available:

  • 2 years (£432)

  • 5 years (£771)

  • 10 years (£963)

• Processing time: Around 3 weeks, with faster options for an extra fee.

2. Marriage Visitor Visa

For individuals who plan to get married or enter a civil partnership in the UK but do not intend to settle there.

Key Details:

• Stay for up to 6 months.

• Cannot work, study long-term, or switch to another visa.

• Must leave the UK after the visit.

Fees & Processing Time:

• £115 for a 6-month visa.

• Standard processing time: around 3 weeks.

3. Transit Visa

For travelers passing through the UK on their way to another destination.

Types of Transit Visas:

• Direct Airside Transit Visa (DATV):

  • For travelers not leaving the airport.

  • Cost: £35.

• Visitor in Transit Visa:

  • For those leaving the airport but staying in the UK for less than 48 hours.

  • Cost: £64.

Who Needs It?

• Not required for individuals holding a valid visa for Canada, the US, Australia, or New Zealand.

• Some nationalities are exempt—check requirements before traveling.

How to Apply

1. Check if you need a visa – Use the UK Visa Checker.

2. Apply online – Complete the application on Gov.uk.

3. Book an appointment – Attend a visa center if biometrics are required.

4. Provide supporting documents, including:

   • A valid passport.

   • Travel itinerary and accommodation details.

   • Proof of financial means.

   • Invitation letter (if visiting for family/business purposes).

5. Pay the visa fee and submit your application.

6. Wait for a decision – Processing takes around 3 weeks, with faster options available for an extra charge.