Planning to see London, Edinburgh or the Scottish Highlands? Indian passport holders need a UK Standard Visitor visa for tourism, visiting family or short business trips. Here is what you should know before applying.
Who should apply for a Standard Visitor visa?
The Standard Visitor visa covers holidays, visiting friends and family, attending events and short business activities. It normally allows you to stay for up to 6 months per visit. Frequent travellers can also apply for long-term visit visas valid for 2, 5 or 10 years.
Application steps
- Complete the online application on the official UK government website and pay the fee.
- Book a biometrics appointment at a visa application centre in India.
- Upload or submit your supporting documents.
- Give fingerprints and a photograph at the centre.
- Wait for the decision and collect your passport.
Important documents
- Valid passport and old passports with travel history
- Bank statements for the last 6 months
- Salary slips, ITR or business registration
- Leave letter from your employer or proof of studies
- Travel itinerary and accommodation details
- Invitation letter if you are visiting family or friends
Expert tip: Large unexplained deposits in your bank account can raise questions. Keep your finances consistent and explain any big transactions with documents.
Processing time
A decision on a visitor visa usually takes around 3 weeks after your biometrics appointment. Priority services may be available for an extra fee. Apply at least 1–2 months before travel, especially during the summer and holiday season.
