UK Visitor Visa: Requirements, Costs & Application Tips 2026

The Standard Visitor Visa allows people from many countries to visit the UK for tourism, family visits, business meetings and other approved purposes. Our visitor visa solicitors in Bolton explain what you need to know for 2026.

Do You Need a UK Visitor Visa?

Citizens of many countries require a visa to visit the UK. In 2023, the UK introduced the Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) for visa-exempt nationals, which is not a visa but an entry permission linked to your passport. Nationals who require a visa must apply for a Standard Visitor Visa before travelling.

Permitted Activities on a Visitor Visa

You can use a Standard Visitor Visa for: tourism and leisure, visiting family or friends, attending business meetings or conferences, studying a short course (up to 6 months), undertaking permitted paid engagements, receiving private medical treatment and attending a wedding (though not getting married — a Marriage Visitor Visa is required for that).

What You Cannot Do

You cannot: work (including self-employment), receive a salary from a UK source for any activity (except permitted paid engagements), access public funds, or extend your stay beyond 6 months (or 11 months for certain permitted paid engagement visas).

Visitor Visa Application Costs (2026)

• Standard Visitor Visa (up to 6 months): £115
• Long-term visit visas: from £400 (2 years) to £963 (10 years)

Key Evidence for a Strong Application

The most important elements of a visitor visa application are demonstrating genuine intention to visit for the stated purpose, ties to your home country (job, family, property), and financial means. Many refusals result from failing to demonstrate that you will leave the UK at the end of your visit.

Multiple-Entry and Long-Term Visitor Visas

If you visit the UK regularly, a long-term visitor visa (2, 5 or 10 years) allows multiple visits without reapplying each time. Each visit is still limited to 6 months, and you cannot spend more time in the UK than outside it.