Standard Visitor Visa
For tourism, family visits, and short business trips
Who Can Apply?
- Tourists visiting UK attractions
- Family members of UK residents
- Business visitors (no paid work)
- Medical treatment seekers
- Short-term study (up to 6 months)
Key Requirements
- Valid passport (6+ months validity)
- Proof of sufficient funds
- Return travel booking or evidence
- Accommodation details
- Genuine intention to leave UK
Processing & Fees
- Standard: ~3 weeks
- Priority: 5 working days
- Super Priority: Next day
- Fee: £115 (standard)
- IHS surcharge: Not required
Student Visa
For studying at a UK-licensed educational institution
Who Can Apply?
- Students aged 16+ studying in the UK
- Must have CAS from licensed sponsor
- Degree, postgraduate, or foundation courses
- English language courses (11+ months)
Key Requirements
- Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS)
- Proof of English proficiency (IELTS, etc.)
- Financial evidence (tuition + living costs)
- Valid passport
- Parental consent (if under 18)
Processing & Fees
- Standard: ~3 weeks
- Fee: £490 (outside UK)
- IHS Surcharge: £776/year
- Work rights: 20 hrs/week (during term)
Skilled Worker Visa
Work for a UK employer with a Certificate of Sponsorship
Who Can Apply?
- Offered a job by a licensed UK employer
- Role on the eligible occupations list
- Meets the minimum salary threshold
- Meets English language requirement
Key Requirements
- Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) from employer
- Job at required skill level (RQF3+)
- Salary ≥ £38,700/year (general threshold)
- English B1 level minimum
- Sufficient personal savings
Processing & Fees
- Standard: 3–8 weeks
- Fee: £719–£1,420 (depends on duration)
- IHS Surcharge: £1,035/year
- Can lead to Indefinite Leave to Remain
Family Visa
Join a spouse, partner, parent, or child settled in the UK
Who Can Apply?
- Spouse or partner of a UK citizen/resident
- Dependent children under 18
- Parent of a UK child
- Adult dependent relatives
Key Requirements
- UK sponsor earning ≥ £29,000/year
- Genuine relationship evidence
- English A1 level (partners)
- Adequate accommodation
- No recourse to public funds condition
Processing & Fees
- Standard: 6–12 weeks
- Fee: £1,846 (outside UK)
- IHS Surcharge: £1,035/year
- Can extend and apply for ILR after 5 years
Business & Investor Visas
Routes for entrepreneurs, investors, and global business leaders
🚀 Innovator Founder Visa
For experienced business people wanting to set up an innovative, scalable business in the UK. Requires endorsement from an approved body.
Initial: 3 years | Salary: N/A💰 Investor Visa (Investor Migrant)
For high-net-worth individuals investing in the UK. Requires significant capital investment in UK businesses or government bonds.
Initial: 3 years | Investment: £2M+🌟 Global Talent Visa
For leaders or potential leaders in academia, research, digital technology, arts, culture or film. Requires endorsement.
Up to 5 years | No job offer needed📋 Sole Representative Visa
For employees of an overseas company posted to set up a branch or subsidiary in the UK.
Initial: 3 years | ILR after 5 yearsOther Visa Routes
Additional visa categories for specific purposes
Transit Visa
For passing through UK en route to another country. Required for most non-EEA nationals.
Youth Mobility Scheme
For 18–30 year olds from participating countries to live and work in the UK for up to 2 years.
Graduate Visa
For international students who have completed a UK degree. Live and work for 2–3 years post-study.
Medical Treatment Visa
For those seeking private medical treatment in the UK under the Standard Visitor route.
Media & Press Visa
For journalists and reporters covering UK events under the Creative Worker route.
High Potential Individual
For graduates from top global universities without a job offer. 2 year unsponsored route.
Not sure which visa applies to you?
Follow our step-by-step guide or get in touch with our team for personalised advice.