Complete guide to the UK Standard Visitor visa

The UK Standard Visitor visa covers tourism, family visits and short business trips. The application is entirely online, followed by a biometrics appointment at a visa centre.

Caseworkers look for three things: a clear purpose, funds that genuinely support the trip, and strong reasons to return home. Everything you submit should support one of those three.

Bank statements should show a steady pattern rather than a sudden deposit. If someone is sponsoring you, include their statements, proof of income and a short letter explaining the relationship.

Your itinerary, hotel bookings and leave approval should all agree on the same dates. Small mismatches create doubt, and doubt is what leads to refusals.