If you’re planning a trip to the UK for tourism, visiting family and friends, business, or other short-term purposes, Global Compass Consultants (GCC) is here to assist you in applying for the UK Standard Visitor Visa. Our experienced team will guide you through the process and help maximize your chances of a successful application.

Processing Time:
The UK visitor visa application is generally processed within 3 to 6 weeks, depending on the UK embassy or visa center.

Visa Validity:
The UK Standard Visitor Visa is typically valid for 6 months, but you can apply for a long-term visitor visa valid for 2, 5, or 10 years if you have frequent travel plans. However, you can only stay up to 6 months per visit.

Stay Period:
Visitors are usually allowed to stay for up to 6 months. Shorter periods may be granted based on your travel purpose and documentation.

UK Government Fees

Visa Application Fees:

• Standard Visitor Visa (6 months): 100 GBP
• Long-term Standard Visitor Visa (2 years): 376 GBP
• Long-term Standard Visitor Visa (5 years): 670 GBP
• Long-term Standard Visitor Visa (10 years): 837 GBP

Basic Requirements for a UK Visitor Visa (Tourism Purpose)

Documents Needed:

1. Completed Visa Application Form (UK Visa and Immigration Portal)
2. Valid Passport: With at least one blank page
3. Visa Application Fee Payment Receipt
4. Two Passport-Sized Photos: Meeting UK visa photograph requirements
5. Proof of Funds: Bank statements or financial documents showing you can afford the trip
6. Travel Itinerary: Flight bookings, accommodation details, or tour bookings
7. Invitation Letter (if applicable): If staying with family or friends
8. Proof of Ties to Home Country: Employment letter, property ownership, or family commitments
9. Previous Travel History: Copies of previous visas or travel documents, if applicable
10. Accommodation Information: Hotel booking or invitation from a host
11. Current Immigration Status (if applicable): Residence permit or visa from another country if you’re not applying from your home country

Requirements for a UK Business Visitor Visa

For business-related visits, including attending meetings, conferences, or signing contracts, you’ll need:

• Invitation Letter from the UK Organization
• Proof of Business Activities: Contracts, agreements, or business-related documents
• Company Registration Documents
• Proof of Ongoing Business Activities: Invoices, receipts, or shipping orders, if applicable

Requirements for a UK Visitor Visa for Family or Friends

When visiting family or friends, additional documents may include:

• Invitation Letter: From your host in the UK, outlining your relationship and the purpose of your visit
• Proof of Host’s Legal Status: UK passport, residence permit, or visa
• Financial Support Documents (if applicable): If the trip is sponsored by the host, provide their bank statements or proof of income

Requirements for a UK Transit Visa

If you are passing through the UK en route to another destination and need to stay for a short period, you may apply for a UK Transit Visa. Documents needed include:

• Completed Application Form (UK Visa Portal)
• Valid Passport
• Proof of Visa for Onward Destination
• Travel Itinerary: Confirmed flight tickets to your final destination
• Proof of Funds: To cover expenses during the transit

Contact Global Compass Our team at GCC is here to assist you with every step of the UK visitor visa application process. We are available from 9 am to 6 pm, Monday through Saturday. Feel free to email us anytime, and we’ll get back to you within one business day.