A Complete Guide for UK Visitor Visa from India - 2025-2026

The United Kingdom, commonly referred to as the UK, is an island nation in Europe. Cities like London, Oxford, Edinburg, and Manchester are among the must-see tourist destinations. The country's world-class museums, eye-catching gardens, fascinating history, and spectacular events attract people across the world.

Do you have travel plans to the UK? This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about the UK Tourist Visa Application, including the UK Visa Requirements for Indians, the latest UK Visa Fees 2025, processing times, and how to apply.

Do Indians Need a Visitor Visa for the UK?

Yes, Indians do need a UK visitor visa to travel to the United Kingdom. Whether you're visiting for tourism, meeting family or friends, seeking medical treatment, or for business purposes, this visa is a must. The UK visitor visa allows you to stay in the country for a short duration. To apply, you must meet specific UK Visa Requirements for Indians, including submitting the necessary documents like proof of finances, travel details, and supporting letters. Make sure to check the most updated guidelines before applying.

Types of Standard Visitor Visas and Their Validity

The UK government issues different types of standard visitor visas. Refer to the table below to understand the types of standard visitor visas and their validity.

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What are the Documents Required for UK Visitor Visa?

The candidate will be obliged to submit certain important documents to process their UK visitor visa.

• A valid passport or a travel document: The visitor's passport should be valid as long as they stay in the UK. The passport should have a minimum of one blank page.
• A fully completed UK tourist visa online application form with valid information.
• A color photograph of the candidate that was taken within the last month. The photo should be in size 45mm*35mm (for physical photos) and 600 pixels*750 pixels (for digital images). To understand all the requirements for the visa photo, please visit and Get a passport photo.
• A detailed travel itinerary of the visitor that summarizes the arrival date, departure date, places that the candidate plans to visit, etc.
• A letter of invitation that is written and signed by the citizen or a legal resident of the UK. It is important to note that the letter of invitation is not mandatory but is highly recommended.
• Documents showing the past 10-year travel history of the candidate.
• A copy of the UK visa fee receipt.
• Bank statements of the past three months are proof that the candidate can fund their stay in the UK.
• Any document that proves that the candidate will return to India. This could include a return flight booking or other documents that demonstrate your intention to return.
• If the candidate is visiting the country for a period exceeding 6 months, the visitor has to submit their tuberculosis test results.

What is the Cost of a UK Visitor Visa?

For a regular standard visitor visa, the candidate is required to pay a fee worth 100 Pounds as a visa application fee. If the candidate is applying for a long-term standard visitor visa, the application fee is determined by the duration of the stay.

The table below gives a detailed summary of the fee details for different durations.

Can UK Tourist Visa Fee be Refunded?

• The UK tourist visa application fee is generally non-refundable. This means if your visa application is rejected or if you are granted a visa for a shorter period than what you requested, the fee will not be refunded. However, if you decide to cancel your application before submitting your biometrics (fingerprints and photographs), the visa fee may be refunded. It's important to note that once the biometric submission is completed, the fee becomes non-refundable, even if the visa is ultimately denied. Always review the process carefully to avoid unnecessary costs.

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How Long does it take to Process UK Visitor Visa?

As of 2025, the processing time for a UK Visitor Visa is typically 3 weeks from the date of submission for applications made outside the UK. However, it's important to note that processing times may vary depending on several factors, such as the volume of applications, any additional information or documentation required, and the specifics of your application. To avoid any potential delays or issues, it is strongly advised to apply at least 3 months before your planned travel date. This will provide ample time for visa processing an

UK Tourist Visa Application Process

Follow these 6 main steps to apply for a UK visitor visa:

Step 1: Understand the different types of visitor visas available for the UK and select the one that meets your requirements.

Step 2: Visit GOV UK to start your application process. Complete the online application form on the official UK government website. Fill in the form with the utmost care by providing all the correct details.

Step 3: Pay the visa application fees to proceed with the UK visa application process.

Step 4: Schedule and attend a biometric appointment at a visa application center. Take a printout of the appointment confirmation mail and ensure that you carry all the necessary documents when you go for the appointment.

Step 5: Submit all supporting documents along with your biometrics.

Step 6: Track your application to know the status of your UK visitor visa.

How to Extend a UK Visitor Visa?

You can extend your UK Visitor Visa for an additional 6 months under the following conditions:

• Medical Treatment: If you're receiving medical treatment in the UK.
• Academic Purpose: If you're an academic or an accompanying family member of an academic.
• PLAB Test: If you need to retake the Professional and Linguistic Assessments Board (PLAB) test.
• You must apply for the extension before your visa expires.
• The fee for the extension is £1,000.
• Ensure that all necessary documents are submitted for a smooth process.

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The candidate is required to apply for an extension before their visa expires by paying a fee of 1000 Pounds.

Is the Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) System Now in Place?

Yes, as of 2025, the UK has introduced the Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) system for visitors. This new system aims to simplify the visa process and speed up the entry of short-term travelers into the UK. The ETA will be required for all visitors planning to stay in the UK for under 6 months, whether for tourism, business, or family visits. The good news is that applying for the ETA is straightforward and can be done entirely online before your travel. The application process is quick, and once approved, travelers can enter the UK with less hassle, eliminating the need for a traditional visa in many cases. The ETA is expected to make travel to the UK easier and faster, especially for short-term visitors. Make sure to apply for your ETA in advance of your trip to ensure a smooth entry into the UK.

Is the UK Open for Indian Tourists in 2025?

Yes, as of 2025, the UK is open to Indian tourists holding a valid visitor visa. There are no pre-arrival COVID-19 testing requirements or mandatory quarantine upon arrival. This applies regardless of vaccination status. However, it's important to note that individual airlines or transport hubs may have their own health and safety protocols, such as mask-wearing or health screenings. Therefore, it's advisable to check with your airline or the relevant authorities for any specific requirements before traveling.