Typical purposes
Tourism, business meetings, family visits, medical treatment, and short courses.
Visit visas overview
Visit routes are designed for short stays and specific purposes. Rules on work, study, and access to public funds are limited, so confirm your conditions on the official site.
When to apply
Most visit visas can be applied for up to 3 months before travel; check ETA timelines separately.
Common evidence
Valid passport, travel plans, accommodation, financial evidence, and ties to your home country.
Common visit routes
Select the route that matches your purpose. Some travellers only need an ETA rather than a full visa.
Visit visas
Short stays, transit, marriage visits, and organised tours.
Core routes
- Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) for visa-free visitors
- Standard Visitor visa
- Visitor in Transit visa
Special visit routes
- Marriage Visitor visa
- Chinese tour group visitor visa
Official starting points
Use the official links below to confirm eligibility, fees, and application steps for your exact route.
Check if you need a visa
Use the official checker to confirm whether you need a visa or ETA.
Fees finder
Filter by location, category, and type to see published fees in GBP.
Guidance hub
Route checkpoints, evidence patterns, and process notes.
Full visa directory
Browse all UK visa categories on one page.