United Kingdom Visas
Capital London · Currency GBP · UK Visas and Immigration (Home Office)
The UK operates a points-based immigration system. Short visits use the Standard Visitor visa (or an ETA for visa-exempt nationals). Longer stays for study, work and settlement require a sponsored route, and most applicants pay the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) for NHS access.
ETA (Electronic Travel Authorisation) rolling out for visa-exempt visitors.United Kingdom visas at a glance
| Visa type | Fee | Processing | Stay / validity | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tourist / Visit Standard Visitor Visa |
GBP 115 (6 months) | Usually within 3 weeks | Up to 6 months per visit | View → |
| Student Student Visa |
GBP 524 (from outside the UK) | Usually within 3 weeks | Length of the course + short buffer | View → |
| Work / Skilled Skilled Worker Visa |
GBP 719–1,639 (length-dependent) | Usually within 3 weeks (outside the UK) | Up to 5 years, extendable | View → |
| PR / Immigration Indefinite Leave to Remain (Settlement) |
GBP 2,885 | Usually within 6 months (priority available) | Permanent (must not stay outside the UK 2+ years) | View → |
Visa types for United Kingdom
Standard Visitor Visa
Tourism, visiting family, business meetings or short courses for up to 6 months.
- Processing: Usually within 3 weeks
- Stay: Up to 6 months per visit
- Validity: 6 months (2/5/10-year options available)
Student Visa
Study at a licensed UK sponsor, with a 2-year Graduate Route work visa after graduation.
- Processing: Usually within 3 weeks
- Validity: Length of the course + short buffer
Skilled Worker Visa
Employer-sponsored work visa for eligible skilled jobs meeting the salary threshold; leads to settlement.
- Processing: Usually within 3 weeks (outside the UK)
- Validity: Up to 5 years, extendable
Indefinite Leave to Remain (Settlement)
Permanent settlement after typically 5 years on a qualifying route; a step toward British citizenship.
- Processing: Usually within 6 months (priority available)
- Validity: Permanent (must not stay outside the UK 2+ years)
Embassies, consulates & visa centres
UK Visa Application Centre (VFS Global)
New Delhi, India
VFS Global, Shivaji Stadium Metro Station, Connaught Place, New Delhi, India
Biometrics and document submission for UK visas.
British High Commission
New Delhi, India
Shantipath, Chanakyapuri, New Delhi 110021, India
United Kingdom visa FAQs
What visa types does United Kingdom offer?＋
VisaViews covers 4 United Kingdom visa types: Tourist / Visit, Student, Work / Skilled, PR / Immigration. Each has its own eligibility criteria, fees and processing times.
Does United Kingdom have an eVisa or visa-free entry?＋
ETA (Electronic Travel Authorisation) rolling out for visa-exempt visitors.
How much is a United Kingdom tourist visa?＋
The Standard Visitor Visa costs GBP 115 (6 months). Fees are indicative and can change — always confirm on the official source.
How long does a United Kingdom visa take to process?＋
Processing time varies by visa type; the Standard Visitor Visa typically takes Usually within 3 weeks.
Who handles United Kingdom visas and immigration?＋
United Kingdom visas and immigration are administered by UK Visas and Immigration (Home Office). The official portal is https://www.gov.uk/browse/visas-immigration.