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Visa Info

United Kingdom Visa for Indian Passport Holders

Indian nationals need a UK Standard Visitor visa, applied for online with a biometric appointment before travel.

Visa required Standard Visitor visa is typically valid for 6 months, with longer options (2/5/10 years) available

Passport validity

Valid for the intended duration of stay

Stay duration

Standard Visitor visa is typically valid for 6 months, with longer options (2/5/10 years) available

Fee

Fee tiers apply by validity length — check the current UK government fee schedule before applying

Processing time

Standard processing is around 3 weeks; priority/super-priority services are available for a fee

Official source & latest news

Documents required

  • Valid passport with blank pages
  • Recent digital passport-size photograph
  • Proof of financial means (bank statements, salary slips)
  • Proof of ties to India (employment letter, property, family)
  • Detailed travel itinerary and accommodation proof
  • Invitation letter if visiting friends/family

Step-by-step: how to apply

  1. 1

    Apply online via the UK government visa portal

    Complete the Standard Visitor visa application form with personal, travel and financial details.

  2. 2

    Pay the visa fee

    Pay online as part of the application submission.

  3. 3

    Book a biometric appointment

    Schedule an appointment at your nearest VFS Global visa application centre.

  4. 4

    Attend the appointment

    Submit your documents, provide fingerprints and a photograph at the centre.

  5. 5

    Track your application

    Use the online tracking system while your application is processed.

  6. 6

    Collect your passport with visa

    Once approved, collect your passport (with visa vignette) from the centre or via courier.

Good to know

  • Apply well in advance of your travel date — standard processing can take up to 3 weeks, longer during peak seasons.
  • Strong proof of ties to India (job, property, family) helps demonstrate intent to return and supports the application.
  • A visa refusal doesn't bar reapplication, but addressing the refusal reasons carefully is important.

Frequently asked questions

How far in advance can I apply for a UK visa?

You can generally apply up to 3 months before your intended travel date.

Can I work in the UK on a Standard Visitor visa?

No, this visa is for tourism, business meetings, and short courses — not for employment.

This guide is general information for Indian passport holders, not legal or immigration advice. Visa rules, fees, documents and processing times change often — always confirm current requirements on the United Kingdom government's official immigration or embassy website, or through a licensed visa agent, before applying or booking non-refundable travel.