UK Tourist Visa for Indians

The UK Standard Visitor Visa enables travellers from India and other non-EEA countries to visit the UK for a range of short-term purposes. Let’s see who it is for?

This visa is perfect for Indian:

1. Tourists exploring the UK's sights and attractions.
2. Business professionals attending meetings, conferences, or training sessions.
3. Individuals visiting family or friends in the UK.
4. Students enrolled in brief academic courses.
5. Patients seeking private medical treatment.

Typically valid for 6 months, with options for longer-term visas (2, 5, or 10 years), though each visit must not exceed 6 months.

You can stay up to 6 months per visit. Longer-term visas still require that each stay does not exceed this limit, except for specific medical purposes.

The visa allows multiple entries within its validity period, provided each stay is within the 6-month limit.

If you are still unsure about if this is the right visa or do you actually need to apply for one, visit this website to find out.

1) Fill out the application form:

The first step is to complete the online application form, known as Form VAF1A. This is the mainapplication form where you provide your personal details, travel history, and purpose of visit.

• Return to Application Later: The form can be lengthy, so if you need to pause, use the "Return to this application later" button to save your progress. This ensures that your data is not lost, and you can continue filling it out at a later time.

• Ensure Accuracy: Make sure that all the information you provide matches your supporting documents for the USA visa. Discrepancies can lead to delays or even rejection.

• Previous Travel History: You will need to provide details of your travel history over the past 10 years. This includes all the countries you have visited, even if only for short trips. If you have travelled extensively, it can strengthen your application. If you have a lot of stamps on your passport, you can consider adding a minimum of 4 years of travel history.

ProTip: If you are applying as a couple, one person can be the primary applicant, and both applications will be linked. The advantage here is that both will either get approved together or face rejection together.

2) Schedule Your Appointment

Once you’ve submitted your visa application form you’ll receive a GWF Number

• Create an Account:

Register on the VFS portal to proceed. Use the GWF number to log in.

• Pay the Visa Fee:

The Visa fee for minimum 6 months entry is 13007.00 rupees. Apart from this, you’ll also have to pay additional ₹3,000 to ₹5,000 at VFS, for the services they provide (such as photo, scanning, SMS updates, courier services, etc.)

• Mode of payment

Visa Fee Payment: Payment can be made via debit/credit card, UPI, or net banking on the VFS portal. This process cannot be done in cash . Additional VFS UK VIsa Fees: These can be paid at the VFS centre via cash, card, or UPI.

• Schedule Your Appointment:

Unlike a US visa, you don’t have a Face-to-face interview (f2f). You have to book only one appointment with VFS global for your biometrics. At this appointment, you will need to carry a receipt of your VFS appointment, your application, and the receipt of payment.

• On the day of your appointment

Arrive at the VFS Center: Bring your appointment letter, application ID, and all required documents. Document Submission: Submit all your documents at the VFS centre. A professional may ask you basic questions about your trip, but this is not always required.

Biometrics: Your fingerprints and photograph (no need to carry a physical photograph) will be taken. Ensure your fingers are free of cuts or damage, as this could affect the quality of your fingerprint scan.

Passport Submission: Leave your passport at the VFS centre for processing. It typically takes 15 to 20 working days to receive your visa, but this may vary based on application volume.

Pro Tip: Keep both digital and physical copies of your application and all submitted documents. Dress tidily according to the photo guidelines to ensure your application is processed smoothly.

1. Application Process:

• Follow the standard visa application process.

• Include details about your sponsor and their support in your application.

2. Eligibility Requirements for Sponsors:

• Genuine Relationship: Must have a genuine personal or professional relationship with the visitor. Include details of your sponsor in the application. This may include the sponsor's personal information, relationship to you, and proof of their ability to support you financially during your stay.

• Compliance: Ensure the visitor will adhere to UK immigration laws.

• Financial Support: Attach any required documents that verify the sponsor's financial status and relationship with you. These documents may include bank statements, employment letters, or other financial proofs.

• Location: Sponsors do not have to be based in the UK. If you are outside the UK, compliance with immigration laws for the visitor is not required.

3. Supporting Documents:

• Proof of Accommodation: Evidence of where the visitor will stay.

• Proof of Financial Means: Recent bank statements showing sufficient funds.

• Invitation Letter: A letter detailing the purpose of the visit, your relationship with the visitor, and the stay duration. Ensure it follows Paragraph 35 Part I of the Immigration rules.

• Relationship: Additional Evidence (if applicable): For sponsors outside the UK, include documents proving your relationship with the visitor and financial stability.

4. Legal Aspects:

Family visitor visas are available for those outside the EEA and Switzerland, allowing stays of up to 6 months.

5. Paying the Visa Fee:

• The UK visa price is ₹13,007 for a minimum 6-month entry.

• Additional VFS UK visa fees between ₹3,000 and ₹5,000 apply, depending on the services chosen.

• Pay the visa fee online and the additional fees at the VFS centre.

6. Booking Your Appointment:

• Just like standard applicants, book a single appointment with VFS Global for biometrics.

• At the appointment, bring your appointment receipt, application form, and fee payment receipt.

7. On the Day of Your Appointment:

• Arrive with all required documents, submit them, provide biometrics, and leave your passport for processing. Processing typically takes 15 to 20 working days.

You only need to submit your passport and supporting documents at the VFS centre. There is no mandatory in-person interview as part of the standard visa process.

In rare instances, the Home Office may request an interview if they need additional information to process your application. This is not common and usually occurs if there are specific concerns or questions about your application.

If an interview is required, you will receive details and instructions via email. The communication will provide the necessary information about the interview process, including the date, time, and location.

Visa authorities have a knack for spotting fake or dummy tickets. Instead of risking it, go for refundable or flexible tickets. This approach shows you’re serious about your travel plans and avoids any potential issues with your application. It’s a straightforward way to stay on the safe side and keep your intentions clear.

Your visa application’s success is in the details. Take the time to double and triple-check every document. Any mistakes or missing information can lead to delays or even rejection. Organise everything meticulously and ensure each document is accurate and complete. This careful preparation pays off by strengthening your application and avoiding unnecessary complications.

A well-written cover letter can make a big difference. Briefly outline your travel plans and underscore your commitment to returning home. This one-page summary helps visa reviewers quickly grasp the purpose of your trip and your intent to go back. It’s a professional touch that adds clarity and seriousness to your application.

If your bank balance is on the lighter side, show additional assets like mutual funds or gold. This demonstrates you have resources to cover your expenses and return home if needed. Including details of liabilities such as home loans further proves your ties to your home country, making it clear that you have compelling reasons to return.

Don’t wait until the last minute to apply for your UK visa. You can submit your application up to 3 months before your travel date. This early application period gives you plenty of time to address any unexpected issues and ensures everything is in order well before your trip. It’s a proactive step that helps you avoid stress and last-minute rushes.

If you’re unsure about filling out your visa form, the embassy’s website is your go-to resource. It offers detailed instructions and answers to common questions, making the process clearer and more managea.

An invitation from a family member in the UK can significantly strengthen your application. It adds credibility and shows you have local support, which can be a game-changer in the approval process. It’s a great way to demonstrate that you have meaningful connections in the UK and a solid reason to visit.

A well-laid out itinerary speaks volumes about your travel plans. Provide detailed information about your trip, including accommodation bookings and activities. This not only strengthens your application but also shows that you’ve put thought into your visit. A comprehensive itinerary helps visa reviewers see that your trip is well-planned and genuine.

Visa officers look for a consistent pattern of income in your bank statements. Sudden large transfers or discrepancies can raise suspicion. Ensure that your account activity reflects a steady flow of income and regular transactions. This helps to confirm that your financial situation is stable and supports your visa application.

When applying for a UK visa, you need to demonstrate that you have enough funds to cover your stay. Generally, you should show a minimum of ₹3 lakh in your bank account. To be precise, calculate your expected expenses by multiplying your trip duration by the average daily cost (around £100 per day + other expenses). For instance, if you’re planning a 10-day trip, you should ideally have at least £1,000 (approx. ₹1 lakh) available, plus additional 1500 to 2000 pounds in funds to cover any emergencies or extra expenses.

If you need to speed up your visa application due to an emergency, you have a couple of options available. You can choose from:

● Priority Service: This option accelerates the processing time significantly but comes with a higher fee.

● Express Service: This is the fastest option available, typically getting your visa processed in just a few days, but it also incurs substantial additional costs. Both services can help you get your visa sooner, but they do come with a significant price tag. Be sure to check with the VFS centre for specific details on the costs and processing times for these expedited services.

While face-to-face interviews aren’t typical, be prepared for the possibility of additional questions or follow-ups. If necessary, the visa authorities might contact you for more information. Staying prompt and responsive to such requests can help keep your application on track and demonstrate your willingness to cooperate.

Always provide truthful and accurate information in your application. Misrepresenting facts or providing false information can lead to severe consequences, including visa rejection or a ban on future applications. Honesty is the best policy when dealing with visa applications.

To enter the UK from India, you need a valid UK visa, passport, and travel documents. Depending on your purpose, apply for a tourist, student, or work visa online, submit your documents, and attend a biometrics appointment.

You typically need to show a minimum of ₹3 lakh per person in your bank account for living expenses. This assures the visa officer that you have the means to cover your stay and return in case of emergencies. The exact amount may vary based on your visa type and circumstances.

Yes, if you are employed, a leave approval letter from your employer is generally required as proof of your intention to return to your job after visiting the UK

While many Indians successfully obtain UK visas, approval depends on fulfilling all requirements, such as providing accurate documentation, showing strong ties to your home country, and showcasing sufficient financial stability. It’s also important to have a clear travel plan and valid reasons for your visit, ensuring the visa officer that you intend to return after your trip.

Yes, the UK Embassy may verify your bank balance through the bank statements you provide to ensure you meet financial requirements.

You generally need to submit your bank statement. However, if someone else is sponsoring you, like your father, you can use their statement along with a sponsorship letter.

A UK tourist visa for six months costs approximately ₹13,153, but the fee may vary depending on the type and duration of the visa.

To apply successfully, complete the online application accurately, provide required documents (bank statements, travel itinerary, etc.), attend your biometrics appointment, and show sufficient funds and intent to return. All these points are discussed in detail in our blog.

No, generally a face to face interview is not required, but in some cases, the visa officer may ask for one to clarify details about your application.

Travel insurance is not mandatory for a UK visa, but it's recommended for medical emergencies or trip cancellations during your stay.