Section A: Standard Visitor Visa
Under the UK Immigration Rules, the overarching category for short-term entry is the Visitor route, set out in Appendix V. Within this, the Standard Visitor visa is the main visa type covering most general visits to the UK, such as tourism, visiting family, business meetings, short study, and medical treatment.
In everyday use, people often refer to the “UK visitor visa” as though it is a single visa. In fact, there are a number of specific visas under the Visitor route. The Standard Visitor visa is the most widely used, but there are separate sub-routes such as the Marriage Visitor visa and Transit visas. These are distinct visa types, each with their own eligibility rules and conditions, but all sit under the Visitor framework.
The UK Standard Visitor Visa applies to both visa nationals (who must obtain a visa in advance) and non-visa nationals (who must have a valid ETA and seek permission to enter on arrival). Whether you’re planning to visit the UK for a holiday, sampling UK culture or exploring business opportunities, you will need to have secured the correct visitor visa to avoid issues at the border and to start your time in the UK in the right way.
1. What is the Standard Visitor Visa?
Travellers from designated visa national countries need a visa to visit the UK for up to six months, with multiple visits permissible within the visa’s validity period.
The Standard Visitor Visa accommodates several purposes:
a. Tourism: For those visiting the UK for leisure, sightseeing, or to see family and friends.
b. Business: Business-related activities include attending meetings, conferences, seminars, or interviews.
c. Short-term Study: This visa allows for short educational courses lasting up to 6 months. English language courses lasting 6 to 11 months require a separate Short-term Study visa.
d. Medical Treatment: Visitors may come to the UK to receive certain types of medical treatment.
e. Academic Visitors: Scientists, researchers, academics, senior doctors, and dentists can undertake specific activities as academic visitors. In some cases, academics can apply for permission to stay for up to 12 months.
f. Permitted Paid Engagements: Certain experts invited by a UK-based organisation can carry out specific paid engagements under the Standard Visitor route. The paid engagement itself must be completed within 30 days, although your overall visit can be up to 6 months if your main purpose fits the Visitor rules.
| Visa Type | Purpose | Maximum Stay | Work Allowed? | Extension Possible? |
| Standard Visitor Visa | Tourism, visiting family or friends, business meetings, short courses (up to 6 months), certain medical treatment | Up to 6 months per visit (some academics may be granted up to 12 months) | No (permitted business activities only) | No (only limited cases, e.g. medical treatment or eligible academics) |
| Marriage Visitor Visa | To marry or form a civil partnership in the UK without settling | Up to 6 months | No | No |
| Direct Airside Transit Visa (DATV) | Airside transit without passing UK border control | Up to 24 hours (airside only) | No | No |
| Visitor in Transit Visa | Landside transit when passing through UK border control | Up to 48 hours | No | No |
| Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) | Pre-travel authorisation for non-visa nationals to visit or transit | Up to 6 months per visit (Visitor rules apply) | No (Visitor conditions apply) | N/A (ETA is an authorisation, not a visa extension route) |
3. Permissible Activities
The UK Visitor visa is tightly regulated, with clear boundaries between what is permitted and what is prohibited. Permissible activities include tourism, visiting family and friends, attending business meetings, negotiating and signing contracts, and taking short recreational or educational courses lasting up to six months. Certain medical treatments are also allowed if applicants can show arrangements are in place and they can meet the costs. Academics and senior doctors or dentists may be admitted for research or formal exchanges, in some cases for up to twelve months. These allowances are designed to ensure genuine visitors can carry out limited activities that do not amount to employment or settlement.
Incidental remote work relating to your overseas employment is generally permitted if it is not the main purpose of the visit.
Prohibited activities are just as significant. Visitors cannot work in the UK, whether paid or unpaid, and cannot undertake internships, produce goods or provide services. They cannot access public funds or use the visa as a way of settling or repeatedly extending stays. Marriage or civil partnerships cannot be carried out on a Standard Visitor visa and instead require a Marriage Visitor visa. Breaching these conditions is a serious immigration offence, leading to visa refusal, cancellation of leave, and long-term consequences for future UK and other visa applications.
| Activity | Allowed? | Notes |
| Tourism and leisure | Yes | Includes sightseeing, visiting friends or family, and general holidays. |
| Business meetings and conferences | Yes | Permitted business activities only; no paid work or service delivery. |
| Short courses (up to 6 months) | Yes | Short educational or recreational courses are permitted. English language courses longer than 6 months require a Short-term Study visa. |
| Medical treatment | Yes | Permitted with evidence of treatment arrangements and ability to pay. |
| Academic research | Yes (limited) | Eligible academics may be granted permission for up to 12 months with evidence of status and purpose. |
| Work or employment | No | You cannot take up employment, produce goods, or provide services in the UK. |
| Accessing public funds | No | Visitors are not entitled to benefits or state support. |
| Marrying or civil partnership (without correct visa) | No | A Marriage Visitor visa is required to marry or register a civil partnership in the UK. |
| Studying long-term | No | Short courses up to 6 months are permitted; English language courses of 6–11 months require the Short-term Study (English language) visa. |
4. Eligibility and Application Process
To be eligible for a Standard Visitor Visa, applicants must prove that they:
a. Plan to leave the UK at the end of their visit.
b. Can support themselves and any dependents for the duration of the trip.
c. Can pay for their return or onward journey and any other costs related to their visit.
d. Have a genuine reason for their visit and will not undertake any prohibited activities, such as accessing public funds or marrying or entering into a civil partnership without holding a Marriage Visitor visa.
5. Application Process
Step 1: Determine Eligibility
Ensure your trip falls under the activities permitted by the Standard Visitor Visa. Familiarise yourself with the eligibility criteria, such as proving you’ll leave the UK at the end of your visit and can support yourself during your stay.
Step 2: Complete the Online Application
Visit the official UK government website to complete the visa application form (VAF) for the Standard Visitor Visa. The application fee must be paid online as part of your application process. Ensure you receive a confirmation of payment.
Step 3: Book and Attend Your Biometric Appointment
After submitting your online application, you must book an appointment at a Visa Application Centre (VAC) to provide your biometric information (fingerprints and a photograph). Bring your passport, a printout of your appointment confirmation, and all the required supporting documents to your appointment.
Step 4: Wait for a Decision
Once your application is processed, you will be informed about the decision. Depending on the service options available in your country, your passport will either be returned to you by mail, or you’ll need to pick it up from the VAC.
Step 5: Prepare for Your Trip
If your visa is approved, check the visa vignette in your passport for any errors and understand the conditions of your visa. Once you have your visa, you can travel to the UK.
6. Required Documents
Applicants must provide several documents, including:
a. A valid travel document or passport.
b. Evidence of the purpose of the visit (e.g., letter of invitation, travel itinerary).
c. Proof of accommodation and return travel.
d. Financial evidence showing enough funds to cover all expenses during the stay.
The specific documents will depend on the nature of your planned activities. For example, as an academic visitor, you may need to provide evidence from your employer outlining the research.
7. Processing Times
Visa processing times can vary, but applicants should generally receive a decision within three weeks of the visa application centre appointment. However, this timeframe may extend during peak travel seasons or due to individual circumstances requiring further scrutiny.
Priority and super-priority services may be available in some locations for an additional fee.
You can read our extensive guide to the Standard Visitor Visa here >>
DavidsonMorris Strategic Insight
While you may only be coming to the UK briefly, the Home Office still treats visitors as equal immigration risks as those applying for longer-term visas. Your application has to be sufficiently comprehensive to persuade the Home Office that you are a genuine visitor, and will leave the UK by the end of your permitted stay.
Applicants also have to take care not to apply as a visitor when their activities really fall under another category. The wrong application will be refused.
Section B: Transit Visa
When your travel plans require you to pass through the UK en route to another destination, you might need a Transit Visa. Many travellers are exempt depending on their nationality or if they hold certain visas, but where a visa is required, the following rules apply.
1. What is the Transit Visa
The UK transit routes are designed for certain travellers who do not intend to stay in the UK but need to pass through its borders.
A Transit Visa is required if you are passing through the UK to another country, will not go through UK border control, and are from a country that does not have a visa exemption for transit.
You will also need a Transit Visa if you are going through UK border control but leaving the UK within 48 hours, even if you are from a country that normally does not require a visa for short stays. This includes changing airports or leaving the airport for any reason.
DavidsonMorris Strategic Insight
Transit rules are often overlooked by visitors. Transit permissions are closely monitored by airline staff, who will deny boarding if you don’t have the right visa or permission, possibly leaving you stranded.
Never assume that your nationality exempts you from needing permission to transit the UK – double check the rules well in advance of your planned travel so that you have time should you need to apply for a Transit visa.
Section C: Marriage Visitor Visa
If you plan to come to the UK to get married or enter into a civil partnership without intending to stay or settle afterwards, you’ll need a Marriage Visitor Visa.
1. What is the Marriage Visitor Visa
The Marriage Visitor Visa is designed for those who wish to celebrate their marriage or civil partnership in the UK without intending to stay long-term. This could include getting married or registering a civil partnership in the UK, or holding a symbolic wedding ceremony in the UK even if you are legally married elsewhere.
The Marriage Visitor Visa is valid for 6 months, and you must leave the UK at the end of this period or before the visa expires.
You cannot switch to another visa category from within the UK on this visa, and employment and access to public funds are not permitted during your stay.
2. Application Process
To apply for a Marriage Visitor Visa, you will need to follow these steps:
a. Online Application
Start by filling out the visa application form on the UK government website. This form will ask about your travel plans, personal information, and details of your wedding or civil partnership.
b. Fee Payment
The application fee for the Marriage Visitor Visa must be paid online during the application process.
c. Book and Attend an Appointment
After submitting your online application, you must book an appointment at a visa application centre. Here, you’ll provide your fingerprints and photograph (biometric information) and submit your supporting documents.
3. Supporting Documents
You’ll need to provide several documents with your application, including:
a. A valid passport or travel document.
b. Proof of your relationship with your partner, such as communication records or photos.
c. Details of your wedding or civil partnership plans, including dates and venues.
d. Evidence of your financial ability to cover the trip and wedding expenses, such as bank statements.
e. Information about where you will stay in the UK.
f. Proof that you intend to leave the UK after your visit, such as a letter from your employer or education institution.
Please read our detailed guide to the Marriage Visitor Visa here >>
DavidsonMorris Strategic Insight
Without a Marriage Visitor visa, you cannot get married in the UK. The Home Office gives this route special attention to prevent it from being misused a backdoor to settlement. Even couples with genuine plans can face a visa refusal if they don’t adequately evidence their plans and arrangement.
Section D: Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA)
The UK has introduced an ETA scheme for travellers from countries that previously did not require a visa for short stays or transits through the UK.
1. What is Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) for the UK
The Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) is a digital authorisation for visa-exempt visitors, allowing them to travel to and enter the UK. It is designed to pre-screen travellers for security purposes before they arrive at the UK border.
The ETA is required for visiting and transiting passengers, ensuring that individuals without a visa can still be checked before travelling.
The ETA represents a significant shift in the UK’s approach to managing the entry of visa-exempt visitors, aiming to simplify the entry process while maintaining high security and immigration standards akin to other global electronic travel authorisation systems such as the USA’s ESTA programme.
The ETA scheme now applies to all non-visa nationals, including US and EU nationals. Irish citizens remain exempt.
2. Who needs an ETA?
The ETA requirement applies to nationals from countries that do not need a visa for short visits to the UK or for transiting. This includes tourists, business visitors, and individuals in transit to other destinations.
The list of nationalities requiring an ETA has expanded in phases and now includes all non-visa nationals. Travellers are advised to check if their country is on the UK’s ETA list before travelling.
All relevant travellers, including children and babies, require an ETA. Certain groups, such as diplomats or those with other types of official status, may be exempt.
3. How to Apply for an ETA
Applying for an ETA is a straightforward process:
a. Application form
Travellers must complete the application form, which is available on the official UK government website or through the official app.
The form will require basic personal and contact information and answers to questions related to security and immigration history.
b. Application Fee
It costs £16 to apply for the ETA, payable online during submission.
c. Documentation
Applicants must have their valid passports on hand when completing the form, and a photograph must be uploaded.
d. Approval and Notification
After applying, travellers will receive their ETA approval electronically, typically within three days.
Authorisation is linked to the passport used during the application process. While no physical document is required at the border, it is advisable to save an image of the confirmation to your phone or print out a copy to avoid issues when travelling.
Please read our detailed guide to the UK ETA here >>
DavidsonMorris Strategic Insight
So-called non-visa nationals now have to have a valid ETA permit before they can visit the UK. The ETA is also limited in its scope, so if the ETA scheme would not cover your travel, you’ll need to go through the visa application process.
Section E: ADS Agreement for Chinese Tour Groups
Chinese citizens planning to come to the UK as part of a tourist group should look at the Chinese tour group visa for streamlined visa application processing.
1. What is the ADS Agreement for Chinese Tour Groups
The Approved Destination Status (ADS) Agreement is a bilateral tourism arrangement between the United Kingdom and China. Established to encourage and simplify the process for Chinese tourists wishing to visit the UK in groups, the ADS Agreement plays a crucial role in boosting cultural exchange and tourism between the two nations. It facilitates streamlined visa application processes for Chinese citizens touring the UK as part of organised groups.
The ADS Agreement allows Chinese tour groups to apply for UK visas faster and more efficiently than the standard visitor visa application procedure through an accredited process. The visa allows visits of up to 30 days.
This agreement is designed for tour groups with at least five people and is organised by travel agencies approved and recognised under the ADS scheme.
These travel agencies are vetted and authorised by both the Chinese and UK governments, ensuring a high standard of service and reliability.
2. Benefits for Chinese Citizens Touring the UK in Groups
The ADS scheme encourages cultural exchange by facilitating group tours to the UK, allowing Chinese citizens to explore British culture, history, and landmarks.
One of the primary benefits of the ADS Agreement is the simplified and expedited visa application process for group members, making it easier for Chinese tourists to plan and book their UK tours.
The cost of visas and processing fees are also typically lower for ADS tour groups compared to individual applications.
Compared with travelling as an individual, ADS-accredited tour groups provide safety and convenience, with arrangements for accommodation, transport, and itineraries handled by experienced travel agencies.
3. How to Apply through an ADS-Licensed Travel Agent
a. Find an ADS-Licensed Travel Agent
Under the ADS Agreement, Chinese tourists interested in travelling to the UK should start by identifying a travel agency in China with an ADS licence. These agencies are authorised to organise tour groups to the UK under this specific agreement.
b. Choose a Tour Package
Select a tour package that fits your interests and schedule. ADS-licensed travel agents offer packages covering different attractions, cities, and durations.
c. Application Process
The travel agency will handle the visa application process on behalf of the group. This typically includes collecting necessary documentation from each traveller, filling out application forms, and submitting the applications to the UK visa authorities.
d. Prepare Required Documents
Travellers will need to provide personal and travel documents to the travel agency, which may include a valid passport, completed visa application forms, and possibly additional information depending on the specific requirements of the tour package.
e. Wait for Approval
Once the travel agency submits the visa applications, the group must wait for approval from the UK visa authorities. The travel agency will keep the group informed about the status of their application and any further steps needed.
Read our extensive article on Chinese Tour Group Visa here >>
DavidsonMorris Strategic Insight
The ADS scheme is incredibly rigid. Only licensed agencies can apply, and the group size and itinerary will come under Home Office scrutiny.
Section F: Summary
Embarking on a journey to the United Kingdom, a land steeped in history and bursting with cultural diversity, requires careful planning—especially when considering the visa requirements. The correct visa grants you entry and ensures your trip aligns with your intentions, whether you’re soaking in the sights, undertaking business activities, or celebrating a wedding.
The diverse range of visa options, from the Standard Visitor Visa to the provisions under the ADS Agreement for Chinese tour groups, caters to international visitors’ varied needs and purposes.
Understanding the rules of each visa type is vital to ensure compliance with UK immigration laws and to avoid unnecessary complications.
As regulations and requirements are subject to ongoing changes, staying informed about the latest visa policies and procedures is essential.
For expert advice and assistance with UK immigration and visas, DavidsonMorris can help. As recognised specialists in UK immigration, we provide guidance, support, and the most current information to ensure your visit to the UK is planned with confidence. Contact our experts today.
Section G: FAQs
Do I need a visa to visit the UK?
It depends on your nationality and the purpose of your visit. Visa nationals must apply for a Visitor visa before travelling, while non-visa nationals usually need an ETA for short stays but still have to meet Visitor rules at the border.
How long can I stay in the UK with a Standard Visitor Visa?
The Standard Visitor Visa allows you to stay in the UK for up to 6 months per visit. For certain activities, like academic research or accompanying a student, you may be able to stay up to 12 months.
Can I extend my visa while in the UK?
Most visitor visas, including the Standard Visitor Visa, cannot be extended. In very limited circumstances, such as for medical treatment or if you are an eligible academic, you may be able to apply for an extension.
What is the Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA), and do I need one?
The ETA is a requirement for visa-exempt visitors to the UK, introduced to enhance border security. As of 2025, it applies to all non-visa nationals, including EU and US nationals. Irish citizens are exempt.
How do I apply for a Marriage Visitor Visa?
You can apply online through the UK government’s official website. You’ll need to provide evidence of your wedding plans in the UK, prove that you intend to leave after your visit, and show that you have enough money to support yourself during your stay without working.
What documents do I need for a Transit Visa?
For a Transit Visa, you’ll typically need your current passport, proof of your onward journey (such as flight tickets), and sometimes a visa for your next destination if required.
Can I work in the UK with a Visitor Visa?
You cannot take up employment, produce goods or provide services or undertake paid work. However, permitted business activities (e.g., meetings, conferences, signing contracts) are allowed under the Visitor rules.
How can I find an ADS-licensed travel agent for a trip from China to the UK?
Both the Chinese and UK governments approve ADS-licensed travel agents. A list of licensed agents is usually available through the Chinese National Tourism Administration or the UK Embassy’s website in China.
What if my visa application is denied?
If your visa application is denied, you will receive a letter explaining the reasons for the refusal. You can apply again, but it is essential to address the reasons for the refusal in your new application.
Where can I get current information and assistance with my UK visa application?
For the most accurate and up-to-date information, always refer to the UK government’s official immigration website. DavidsonMorris can guide you through the application process for personalised assistance and legal advice.
Section H: Glossary
| Approved Destination Status (ADS) Agreement | A bilateral agreement between the UK and China that facilitates group tours from China to the UK through accredited travel agencies, allowing visits of up to 30 days. |
| Biometric Information | Unique physical characteristics, such as fingerprints and photographs, used for identification during the visa application process. |
| Direct Airside Transit Visa (DATV) | A type of UK visa required by certain nationals who are transiting through the UK without passing through border control, valid for up to 24 hours. |
| Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) | A mandatory entry requirement for all non-visa nationals as of 2025, involving a pre-travel authorisation process to enhance border security. Irish citizens are exempt. |
| Healthcare for Visitors | Visitors are not required to pay the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS). NHS treatment must be paid for unless it is an emergency or you qualify for an exemption. |
| Marriage Visitor Visa | A visa that allows individuals to get married or register a civil partnership in the UK during a short stay without the intention of settling in the UK afterwards. |
| Standard Visitor Visa | A visa for tourists, people visiting family and friends, business visitors, and short-term students, allowing a stay of up to 6 months per visit. Does not permit work. |
| Transit Visa | A visa required for some travellers passing through the UK en route to another country, available as either a Direct Airside Transit Visa (DATV) or a Visitor in Transit Visa. Many travellers are exempt if they hold certain visas. |
| Visitor in Transit Visa | A visa for travellers who need to pass through UK border control while on their way to another country, allowing a stay of up to 48 hours. |
| Visa Application Centre (VAC) | Authorised centres where visa applicants submit their biometric information and supporting documents as part of the application process. |
| Visa Exemption | A policy allowing citizens of certain countries to enter the UK without a visa for short stays or specific purposes, subject to conditions. |
Section I: Additional Resources and Links
| Resource | Description | Link |
| UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) | The official government site for visa applications, immigration rules, and detailed guides on different visa types. | https://www.gov.uk/government/organisations/uk-visas-and-immigration |
| VisitBritain | The national tourism agency provides travel advice, highlights top attractions, and offers planning tools for visitors. | https://www.visitbritain.com/en |
| NHS Choices | Information on healthcare services for visitors in the UK, including how to access medical treatment and emergency services. | https://www.nhs.uk/nhs-services/visiting-or-moving-to-england/how-to-access-nhs-services-in-england-if-you-are-visiting-from-abroad/ |
| UK Border Control | Guidance on what to expect when arriving in or leaving the UK, including customs regulations. | https://www.gov.uk/uk-border-control |
