For tourism, seeing family and friends, short business trips and short courses — stays of up to 6 months.
✓ Last checked against gov.uk: July 2026A Standard Visitor visa costs £135 and lets you stay for up to 6 months. Passing through the UK? A Visitor in Transit visa costs £74.50.
The earliest you can apply is 3 months before you travel. You must apply online before you leave for the UK.
It depends on your nationality — some visitors only need an electronic travel authorisation (ETA), and some can visit visa-free for up to 6 months. Check gov.uk for your country.
Visit for tourism or to see family and friends · do certain business activities · volunteer up to 30 days with a registered charity · take a recreational course of up to 30 days · study a short course · come for private medical treatment.
Do paid or unpaid work for a UK company or as a self-employed person (except permitted paid engagements) · claim public funds · live in the UK through frequent visits · marry or register a civil partnership on this visa.
Source: gov.uk — Standard Visitor visa
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