Journey to Britain: How to Get Your UK Tourist Visa

UK TOURIST VISA PROCEDURE

Purpose: Tourism, visiting friends/family, attending events, or short courses (under 6 months)

📝 Documents Required

1. Valid Passport
Ensure your passport has a minimum of 6 months validity from your intended date of arrival in the UK.

2. Visa Application Form
Complete the online application form available

3. Photograph
Provide a recent passport-sized photograph that meets UKVI standards.

4. Financial Proof
Demonstrate your ability to support yourself during your stay by providing:

• Bank statements for the last 6 months
• Income Tax Returns for the last 2–3 years
• Employment Proof (if salaried):
• Employment letter on company letterhead
• Leave sanction letter
• Salary slips for the last 3 months
• If self-employed or a business owner, include:
• Business registration proof (e.g., GST certificate, Shop Act, MSME)
• Partnership deed or sole proprietorship declaration (if applicable)
• Company bank statements for the last 6 months
• Income Tax Returns – personal and business
• Business website or proof of business activity (invoices, photos, etc.)
• Chartered Accountant (CA) Certificate detailing income, assets, and business turnover (optional but recommended)

5. Travel Itinerary
Provide details of your travel plans, including return flight bookings and hotel reservations.

6. Invitation Letter
If visiting family or friends, include:

• Letter from your UK host with their address, your relationship, and the purpose of your visit
• Copy of your host's passport/residence permit
• Proof of relationship (e.g., birth certificate, marriage certificate)

7. Travel Insurance
While not mandatory, it is recommended to have travel insurance for the duration of your stay.

⏳ Processing Time

• Standard Processing: Approximately 3 weeks (15 working days)
• Priority Service: Approximately 5 working days (additional fee applies)
• Super Priority Service: Approximately 1 working day (additional fee applies)

Processing times may vary depending on the volume of applications and individual circumstances.

💰 Visa Fee

As of July 1, 2025, the UK Tourist Visa fees are:

• Short-term (up to 6 months, single or multiple entry): £127
• Long-term (valid for up to 2 years): £475
• Long-term (valid for up to 5 years): £848
• Long-term (valid for up to 10 years): £1,059

Please note that visa fees are subject to change and may vary based on the type of visa and duration.

🏢 VFS Appointment & Visa Submission Process

Step 1: Book VFS Appointment

• After completing the online application and paying the visa fee, you will be redirected to the VFS Global portal to:
• Schedule your biometric appointment
• Select additional services (priority visa, courier, SMS updates, etc.)
• Choose a convenient VFS center in your city

Step 2: Visit the VFS Center

On the appointment day, carry the following:

• Printed Visa Application Form
• Appointment Confirmation Letter
• Original Passport
• All supporting documents (as listed above)
• Biometric Enrollment: Fingerprints + digital photo

Step 3: Application Processing

• After submission, your documents are forwarded to the UK Embassy/High Commission.
• You’ll receive a tracking ID to monitor your application status on the VFS portal.

Step 4: Passport Collection

• You’ll be notified via email/SMS once a decision is made.
• You can:
• Collect your passport in person (bring ID and receipt)
• Opt for courier delivery (if selected)

If approved, a visa vignette (sticker) will be placed in your passport indicating:

• Visa type
• Validity dates
• Number of entries

Embarking on a journey to the UK is an exciting adventure. By following the outlined procedures and preparing your application meticulously, you can enhance your chances of a successful visa outcome. Remember, the key to a smooth application process is thorough preparation and timely submission.