Visitors
A visitor is a non-British or non-Irish national who enters the UK for a temporary purpose and is typically granted permission to stay for up to six months. Visitors may undertake a range of permitted activities, including tourism, visiting family and friends, short-term study, and specified business or academic engagements.
Types of Visitor
The UK recognises a number of visitor categories, each intended to facilitate different types of short-term travel and activities. Identifying the correct visitor route is essential to ensure individuals are granted the appropriate immigration permission and remain compliant with the UK's Immigration Rules throughout their stay.
The Standard Visitor route is the principal visitor category within the UK immigration system and is intended for individuals seeking to travel to the United Kingdom for a temporary period of up to six months. The route facilitates short-term visits for a wide variety of purposes, provided that the individual does not intend to undertake activities that fall outside the scope of the Visitor Rules.
Visitors entering under this route must not intend to live in the UK for extended periods through frequent or successive visits, access public funds, undertake employment unless specifically permitted, or establish the UK as their main place of residence. The route is therefore designed to support genuine temporary visits while maintaining the distinction between visitors and those requiring permission under a work, study, or settlement route.
The Standard Visitor route is widely used by tourists, family members, business professionals, academics, researchers, healthcare professionals, and other specialists who need to enter the UK for a limited and clearly defined purpose.
For universities and research institutions, the Standard Visitor route supports international academic engagement and collaboration. Overseas academics, researchers, guest speakers, external examiners, and research collaborators may undertake a range of permitted activities during a temporary visit to the UK, including research collaboration, knowledge exchange, and participation in academic events. However, activities that constitute employment, involve a substantive role, or amount to filling a vacancy within a UK organisation are not permitted under the Visitor Rules.
While the Immigration Rules provide detailed provisions governing what visitors may and may not do in the UK, the table below summarises some of the most common activities that may be undertaken under the Standard Visitor route:
| Category | Examples of Permitted Activities |
|---|---|
| Tourism and Leisure | Holidays, sightseeing, recreational travel, attending cultural or sporting events as a spectator. |
| Family and Personal Visits | Visiting friends, family members, partners, or attending family events such as weddings and celebrations. |
| Business Activities | Attending meetings, conferences, seminars, interviews, trade fairs, contract negotiations, site visits, or receiving brief training. |
| Academic Activities | Participating in research collaborations, delivering lectures, examining students, attending conferences, presenting papers, or taking part in scholarly discussions and academic events. |
| Short-Term Study | Undertaking a course of study, training programme, or educational activity lasting up to six months. |
| Medical Treatment | Receiving private medical treatment in the UK where the relevant requirements are met. |
| Permitted Paid Engagements | Certain experts and professionals may undertake specific paid engagements where permitted by the Immigration Rules and all eligibility requirements are satisfied. |
Marriage/Civil Partnership Visitor
The Marriage or Civil Partnership Visitor route is for individuals coming to the UK to marry, form a civil partnership, or give notice. It is intended for short-term visits of up to six months where the individual will leave the UK after the ceremony and does not intend to settle.
Transit Visitor
The Transit Visitor route applies to travellers who are passing through the UK on their way to another country. This can include airside transit, where the traveller does not pass through UK border control, or landside transit, where they enter the UK before continuing their journey. Transit visitors must be travelling onwards to another destination, hold any required permission to enter that destination country, and remain in the UK solely for transit purposes.
Eligibility Requirements
To be granted permission as a visitor, applicants must meet the requirements of the Visitor Rules. This includes demonstrating that they are visiting the UK for a genuine temporary purpose, can support themselves financially during their stay, and will engage only in permitted activities.
Each application is assessed by the Home Office on its individual circumstances and the evidence provided.
Where these requirements are not met, or sufficient evidence is not provided, an application may be refused. The following sections explain the main eligibility requirements in more detail:
The Visitor Rules require applicants to demonstrate that they are genuine visitors. This includes showing that the purpose of their visit is permitted under the route and that they intend to leave the UK at the conclusion of their visit.
To satisfy the Genuine Visitor requirement, applicants must be able to demonstrate that they meet the following key requirements:
| Requirement | Description |
|---|---|
| Intention to Leave the UK | The applicant must genuinely intend to leave the UK at the end of their visit. |
| Temporary Visit | The applicant must not live in the UK through frequent or successive visits or make the UK their main home. |
| Permitted Activities | The applicant must only undertake activities permitted under the Visitor route. |
| Financial Requirement | The applicant must have sufficient funds to support themselves during their stay and for onward travel, or have suitable financial support available. |
When assessing whether an applicant is a genuine visitor, the Home Office will consider the circumstances of the application as a whole, including the purpose of the visit, previous travel and immigration history, and the applicant's personal, professional, and economic ties outside the UK.
Applicants should provide clear evidence to support their application, such as proof of employment, financial resources, travel arrangements, accommodation details, or other evidence demonstrating strong ties outside the UK. Failure to satisfy the Genuine Visitor requirement may result in a visa refusal or refusal of entry at the UK border.
The Visitor route permits a wide range of activities; however, visitors must ensure that their proposed activities fall within the scope of those allowed under the Immigration Rules. Engaging in activities that are not permitted may result in a visa refusal, cancellation of permission, refusal of entry, or adverse consequences for future immigration applications.
The following table outlines key activities that are generally prohibited under the Visitor route:
| Prohibited Activity | Description |
|---|---|
| Employment in the UK | Taking up employment or filling a role within a UK organisation. |
| Ongoing Work for a UK Organisation | Working for a UK business or organisation on a regular or ongoing basis. |
| Self-Employment | Establishing or operating a business as a self-employed person. |
| Work Placements or Internships | Undertaking a work placement or internship unless specifically permitted under the Visitor Rules. |
| Accessing Public Funds | Claiming benefits or accessing public funds. |
| Long-Term Residence | Using frequent or successive visits to make the UK their main place of residence. |
Visitors must also not receive payment from a UK source unless this is specifically permitted under the Immigration Rules. Even where no payment is received, activities that amount to employment may still be prohibited. All activities undertaken during the visit must be consistent with the purpose of entry and permitted under the Visitor route.
Applicants under the Visitor route must demonstrate that they have sufficient funds to cover the costs of their visit without working in the UK or relying on public funds. This includes travel, accommodation, and day-to-day living expenses for the duration of their stay.
The Home Office will consider whether the applicant has sufficient funds to meet the costs associated with their visit, including:
| Requirement | Description |
|---|---|
| Maintenance and Living Costs | The applicant must have sufficient funds to support themselves throughout their visit. |
| Accommodation Arrangements | The applicant must be able to pay for their accommodation and living expenses while in the UK. |
| Return or Onward Travel | The applicant must be able to cover the cost of their return journey or onward travel. |
| No Reliance on Work or Public Funds | The applicant must not need to work in the UK or access public funds to support their visit. |
There is no fixed minimum amount that visitors must hold. Instead, the Home Office will assess whether the applicant's financial circumstances are consistent with the purpose, duration, and expected costs of the visit.
When assessing financial circumstances, the Home Office may consider factors such as income, employment status, savings, available funds, and any ongoing financial commitments. Applicants should ensure that any financial evidence submitted is clear, credible, and supports the intended visit. Failure to demonstrate adequate maintenance and accommodation may result in a visa refusal.
Visa Nationals and Non-Visa Nationals
Visitors to the UK are classified by UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) as either visa nationals or non-visa nationals, depending on their nationality. This distinction determines the immigration requirements that apply before travel.
Visa nationals must obtain a visa before travelling to the UK. Non-visa nationals can generally travel without a visa for visits of up to six months, although an ETA may be required. In all cases, visitors must satisfy the requirements of the Visitor route and undertake only those activities permitted under the Immigration Rules.
A non-visa national is an individual who is not normally required to obtain a visitor visa before travelling to the UK. Instead, they may travel to the UK and seek permission to enter on arrival, provided they meet the requirements of the Visitor route. Permission to enter may be granted through the eGates system, where eligible, or following examination by a Border Force officer.
In addition, many non-visa nationals are now required to obtain an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) before travelling to the UK. Travellers should therefore check the latest entry requirements in advance of travel to ensure they hold the appropriate permission and documentation for their visit.
Electronic Travel Authorisation
The Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) is a digital permission to travel to the UK for eligible individuals. It is part of the UK Government's border security and pre-travel screening process and applies to travellers who do not normally require a visa for visits of up to six months.
An ETA is not a visa. It provides permission to travel to the UK and request entry as a Standard Visitor on arrival. However, obtaining an ETA does not guarantee entry to the UK, as all travellers are still subject to immigration checks and must satisfy a Border Force Officer that they meet the requirements of the Visitor route.
The ETA scheme applies to non-visa nationals travelling to the UK for stays of up to six months. This includes travel for:
- Tourism and visiting family or friends
- Business visits
- Transit through the UK
- Short-term study of up to six months, including attending resit examinations or graduation ceremonies
From 25 February 2026, travellers who require an ETA will not be permitted to board transport to the UK without one. UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) uses the ETA scheme to carry out immigration and security checks before travel.
The table below provides an overview of the key requirements, eligibility criteria and application process for the UK's Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) scheme:
| Area | Details |
|---|---|
| Who Needs an ETA? | Most eligible non-visa nationals visiting the UK for up to six months, including tourism, business, academic visits, short-term study, and certain transit journeys. |
| Who Does Not Need an ETA? | British and Irish citizens, UK visa holders, individuals with existing UK immigration permission, and visa nationals required to obtain a visa before travel. |
| Cost and Validity | An ETA costs £20 and is normally valid for two years, or until the passport used in the application expires, whichever comes first. |
| How to Apply | Apply online via the UK ETA app or GOV.UK using passport details, a digital photograph, and personal information. |
| Processing Times | Most applications are decided quickly, but travellers should apply at least three working days before travel. |
| Important Requirement | Travellers must use the same passport that was used to obtain the ETA. |
The ETA scheme forms part of the UK's move towards a more secure and digital border system. It allows the Government to assess traveller information before arrival while helping to streamline the entry process for eligible visitors.
A visa national is an individual who is required to obtain a visa before travelling to the UK as a visitor. Unlike non-visa nationals, visa nationals cannot normally seek permission to enter as a visitor on arrival and must instead obtain entry clearance before travelling.
To be granted a Visitor visa, applicants must demonstrate that they meet the requirements of the Visitor route and satisfy the Home Office that they are genuine visitors who intend to comply with the conditions of their stay. This includes showing that they are travelling for a permitted purpose, have sufficient funds to support their stay, and intend to leave the UK at the end of their visit.
The UK Government publishes a list of nationalities that require a visa before travel. Individuals should confirm their immigration requirements before making travel arrangements, as travelling without the appropriate visa where one is required will normally result in refusal of entry to the UK.
Standard Visitor Routes
The Standard Visitor route is the primary immigration route for individuals travelling to the UK for short-term visits. It enables visitors to come to the UK for a range of temporary purposes for up to six months, provided they meet the requirements of the Visitor Rules.
This route covers a variety of visit types, including tourism, visiting friends and family, business activities, and academic engagements. Within the Standard Visitor category, there are also specific sub-routes and provisions tailored to particular purposes, such as study, permitted paid engagements, and activities for academics and researchers.
While the Standard Visitor route offers flexibility, all visitors must ensure that their planned activities fall within those permitted under the Immigration Rules. They must also meet key requirements, including the intention to leave the UK at the end of their visit and the ability to support themselves financially without working or accessing public funds.
A clear understanding of the Standard Visitor route and its permitted activities is important to ensure compliance with UK immigration requirements and to minimise the risk of delays, refusals, or challenges at the border.
The General Business Visitor provisions within the Standard Visitor route allow overseas nationals to undertake a range of short-term business and professional activities in the UK. These provisions are intended for temporary visits where the individual remains employed and paid overseas, and where the primary purpose of the visit is not to undertake substantive employment in the UK.
Permitted business activities will typically be linked to the visitor's overseas employment and are generally incidental to their role outside the UK. The route enables individuals to undertake specific business-related activities on a temporary basis, provided they do not perform work beyond the activities permitted under the Visitor Rules.
General Business activities that may be undertaken by individuals visiting the UK for business purposes include the following:
| Activity | Description |
|---|---|
| Meetings and Conferences | Attending meetings, conferences, seminars, or interviews. |
| Talks and Speeches | Giving a one-off talk or a short series of talks or speeches, provided the events are not organised as commercial activities and the organiser does not make a profit. |
| Contract Negotiations | Negotiating and signing contracts or agreements. |
| Trade Fairs and Exhibitions | Attending trade fairs or exhibitions for promotional purposes, provided no direct selling takes place. |
| Site Visits and Inspections |
Undertaking site visits, inspections, and fact-finding activities. |
| Training and Briefings | Receiving training, information, or briefings linked to overseas employment. |
The Academic Visitor is a sub-category of the Standard Visitor route for overseas academics undertaking permitted academic activities in the UK on a temporary basis.
While visitors are normally granted permission to stay for up to six months, Academic Visitors may be granted permission for up to 12 months, subject to meeting the relevant eligibility requirements.
Eligibility
The Academic Visitor category is intended for overseas researchers, academics, scientists, and senior doctors or dentists who wish to undertake permitted academic activities in the UK on a temporary basis.
Any individual seeking to undertake an academic visit in the UK for a period exceeding six months must obtain entry clearance as a Standard Visitor (Academic Visitor category) prior to travel, irrespective of whether they are a visa national or non-visa national.
In addition to meeting the general requirements of the Visitor route, Academic Visitors must satisfy specific eligibility criteria relating to their academic qualifications and employment. Applicants seeking permission to stay beyond six months must be able to demonstrate their academic expertise and ongoing employment in their specialist field.
| Eligibility Requirement | Requirement Details | Typical Supporting Evidence |
|---|---|---|
| Standard Visitor requirements | Must meet all requirements of the Standard Visitor route. | Evidence that the applicant meets the Visitor route requirements, including the purpose of the visit, maintenance and accommodation arrangements, and intention to leave the UK at the end of the visit. |
| UK host invitation | Must have a formal invitation from a UK host department or institution. | A letter from the UK host institution confirming the purpose, nature and duration of the visit, together with details of the academic activities to be undertaken. |
| Academic qualifications | Must be highly qualified within their academic field or area of expertise. | Evidence of relevant academic qualifications, professional credentials, publications, research experience, or other proof of expertise. |
| Overseas academic employment | Must be currently employed in their field by an overseas academic institution or institution of higher education. | A letter from the overseas employer confirming the applicant's current role, academic status, and length of employment. |
| Continued employment | Must remain employed in that role throughout their visit to the UK. | A letter from the overseas employer confirming that the applicant will remain employed during the visit and has approval to undertake the proposed academic activities in the UK. |
Where the visit involves postgraduate-level research in certain sensitive subject areas, an Academic Technology Approval Scheme (ATAS) certificate may also be required before any research activity can begin. This requirement can apply to specific science, engineering, and technology disciplines. As ATAS applications can take several weeks to process, applicants should check whether approval is required and, where applicable, apply well in advance of their proposed travel date.
Permitted Activities
The Academic Visitor route provides an opportunity for overseas academics to undertake permitted academic engagements in the UK while maintaining their employment and professional links with their home institution overseas.
| Permitted Activity | Details |
|---|---|
| Formal Exchange Arrangements | Participate in formal exchange arrangements with academic counterparts at UK institutions. |
| Private Research | Undertake private research for personal academic purposes while on sabbatical leave from an overseas academic institution. |
| Knowledge Sharing and Academic Events | Share knowledge and expertise, deliver lectures, and participate in conferences, seminars or similar academic events, provided these are not organised for profit. |
| Research, Teaching or Clinical Practice | Eminent senior doctors or dentists may undertake research, teaching or clinical practice in the UK, provided the activity does not amount to filling a permanent teaching or employment position. |
The Permitted Paid Engagement (PPE) route forms part of the Standard Visitor route and is designed for individuals who have been invited to the UK to undertake specific paid activities that relate directly to their recognised professional expertise. The engagement must be arranged before travel, and any payment received must be for a permitted activity under the Visitor Rules.
Individuals entering the UK under the Permitted Paid Engagement provisions may undertake certain pre-arranged paid activities within their area of professional expertise. The table below outlines some of the most common examples:
| Activity | Description |
|---|---|
| Lectures and Presentations | Delivering lectures, presentations, or talks within the individual's area of expertise. |
| Academic Examinations | Taking part in examinations, assessments, or viva examinations. |
| Professional Panels | Participating in judging panels, selection panels, or professional events. |
| Expert Contributions | Providing short-term expert input, advice, or specialist knowledge in their professional field. |
Although PPE Visitors may be granted permission to stay in the UK for up to six months, any paid engagement must be completed within the first 30 days of arrival. After this period, the visitor may remain in the UK as a Standard Visitor but must not undertake any further paid work.
As with all visitors, PPE Visitors must intend to leave the UK at the end of their visit, undertake only permitted activities, and must not take up employment or fill a role within a UK organisation. The PPE route provides universities and other organisations with a compliant way to benefit from international expertise on a short-term basis.
The Academic Technology Approval Scheme (ATAS) & Trusted Research
Overseas researchers visiting the University of Glasgow for academic or research-related purposes may be required to secure Academic Technology Approval Scheme (ATAS) clearance prior to commencing their activities in the UK. This requirement applies to certain research undertaken in designated subject areas at PhD level and above, and forms part of the UK's commitment to safeguarding sensitive research and technology.
- Exempt National: The visitor is not an exempt national.
- Research Activity: The visitor intends to undertake research in the UK.
- ATAS-Categorised Subject Area: The proposed research includes activity at PhD level or above in an ATAS‑relevant subject area.
Researchers visiting under the Standard Visitor route are not required to obtain an ATAS certificate before submitting a visa application. However, where ATAS is required, a valid certificate must be obtained before any research activity can commence in the UK.
The University strongly recommends that visitors who require ATAS clearance obtain a valid ATAS certificate before travelling to the UK. Where applicable, hosting arrangements should not be finalised until ATAS approval has been granted.
Taking these steps at an early stage helps to avoid unnecessary delays, reduces the risk of disruption to the proposed visit, and ensures that research activities can begin as planned upon arrival.
Nationals of certain countries are exempt from the requirement to obtain an Academic Technology Approval Scheme (ATAS) certificate.
This exemption applies to nationals of:
- Australia
- European Economic Area (EEA)
- Canada
- Japan
- New Zealand
- Republic of Korea
- Singapore
- United States of America
Individuals from these countries do not need to apply for ATAS clearance when undertaking eligible study or research in the United Kingdom.
Visiting researchers may be required to obtain Academic Technology Approval Scheme (ATAS) clearance before travelling to the UK if they intend to undertake certain research activities, particularly in sensitive subject areas at PhD level or above. ATAS helps protect advanced research and technology while enabling international collaboration across UK institutions.
ATAS clearance may be required where a visitor is undertaking any of the following activities:
| Research Activity | Description |
|---|---|
| Information Gathering and Data Collection | Gathering information or data for a specific project that directly relates to overseas employment or supports independent research. |
| Academic Exchange Arrangements | Participating in formal exchange arrangements with UK academic counterparts. |
| Independent and Collaborative Research | Conducting research independently or as part of a research group. |
| Research in ATAS-Controlled Subject Areas | Undertaking research at PhD level or above in a subject area requiring Academic Technology Approval Scheme (ATAS) clearance. |
Researchers attending meetings, conferences, seminars, interviews, workshops, or delivering presentations without conducting research activities do not normally require ATAS clearance.
|
Biological Sciences: |
Engineering: |
Mathematical and Computer Sciences: |
Medicine (and Allied Subjects): |
|---|---|---|---|
|
CAH03-01-02 - Biology (non-specific) |
CAH10-01-01 - Engineering (non-specific) | CAH09-01-01 - Mathematics | CAH02-02-01 - Pharmacology |
|
CAH03-01-03 - Ecology and Environmental Biology |
CAH10-01-07 - Civil Engineering | CAH09-01-02 - Operational Research | CAH02-02-02 - Toxicology |
|
CAH03-01-06 - Zoology |
CAH10-01-02 - Mechanical Engineering | CAH11-01-01 - Computer Science | CAH02-02-03 - Pharmacy |
|
CAH03-01-04 - Microbiology and Cell Science |
CAH10-01-04 - Aeronautical and Aerospace Engineering | CAH11-01-02 - Information Technology | CAH10-01-06 - Bioengineering, Medical and Biomedical Engineering |
|
CAH03-01-05 - Plant Sciences |
CAH10-01-05 - Naval Architecture | CAH11-01-03 - Information Systems | |
|
CAH10-03-05 - Biotechnology |
CAH10-01-08 - Electrical and Electronic Engineering | CAH11-01-04 - Software Engineering | |
|
CAH03-01-07 - Genetics |
CAH10-01-09 - Chemical, Process and Energy Engineering | CAH11-01-05 - Artificial Intelligence | |
|
CAH02-05-03 - Biomedical Sciences (non-specific) |
|||
|
CAH03-01-08 - Molecular Biology, Biophysics and Biochemistry |
|||
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CAH03-01-01 - Biosciences (non-specific) |
|||
|
CAH03-01-10 - Others in Biological Sciences |
|
Physical Sciences: | Technologies: |
Veterinary Sciences, Agriculture and Related Subjects: |
|---|---|---|
|
CAH07-02-01 - Chemistry |
CAH10-03-03 - Polymers and Textiles | CAH05-01-02 - Others in Veterinary Sciences |
|
CAH10-03-07 - Materials Science |
CAH10-03-01 - Minerals Technology | CAH06-01-02 - Agricultural sciences |
|
CAH07-01-01 - Physics |
CAH10-03-02 - Materials Technology | |
|
CAH07-01-02 - Astronomy |
CAH10-03-04 - Maritime Technology | |
|
CAH26-01-05 - Others in Geographical Studies |
||
|
CAH07-04-01 - Physical Sciences (non-specific) |
||
|
CAH07-04-03 - Sciences (non-specific) |
||
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CAH07-04-04 - Natural Sciences (non-specific) |
The University of Glasgow places great value on international engagement and collaboration. Our global partnerships and networks play an important role in supporting world-leading research and enabling the exchange of knowledge, expertise and innovation.
International collaboration brings significant benefits, but it is also important to be aware of potential risks, particularly where sensitive research, data, technologies or intellectual property may be vulnerable to misuse or exploitation.
Trusted Research is guidance developed jointly by the National Protective Security Authority (NPSA) and the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) to help protect the integrity of international research collaborations. It provides practical advice for researchers, university staff and funding bodies on identifying and managing risks, while supporting open and productive research partnerships.
By following Trusted Research principles, the University can continue to collaborate internationally while safeguarding its people, research and intellectual property.
For more information, please visit the Research and Innovation Service website
Visa Application
International visitors who require a Standard Visitor visa should ensure that they apply before making travel arrangements.
Prospective visitors who require a Standard Visitor visa must obtain their visa before travelling to the UK. Applications must be submitted online from outside the UK, and visitors should ensure that they allow sufficient time for their application to be processed before making travel arrangements.
Before applying, visitors should ensure that they understand the immigration requirements relevant to their proposed visit and have gathered the necessary evidence to demonstrate that they meet the conditions of the Visitor route.
Applications can be submitted up to three months before the intended date of travel. While most applications are decided within a few weeks, processing times can vary depending on the country of application, local demand, and individual circumstances.
A summary of the visa application process is provided below:
| Stage | Requirements |
|---|---|
| 1. Submit Application | Complete the online visa application, select the Standard Visitor route, provide details of the proposed academic activities, and pay the relevant visa fee. |
| 2. Verify Identity | Attend a Visa Application Centre, if required, to provide fingerprints and a digital photograph and submit a passport or travel document. |
| 3. Submit Supporting Documents | Provide evidence supporting the purpose of the visit, academic status, finances, and intention to comply with Visitor route requirements. |
| 4. Receive Decision | UKVI will assess the application and notify the applicant once a decision has been made. |
Detailed guidance on the Standard Visitor visa application process, including eligibility requirements, fees, supporting documents, and processing times, can be found on the UK Government website:
When applying for a Visitor visa, applicants are required to pay the relevant application fee. The fee payable will depend on the type and duration of the visa being applied for. Current fees are outlined below:
| Visitor Visa Type | Length of Visa | Fee |
|---|---|---|
| Standard Visitor Visa | Up to 6 months | £127 |
| Standard Visitor Visa (Long-term) | 2 years | £475 |
| Standard Visitor Visa (Long-term) | 5 years | £848 |
| Standard Visitor Visa (Long-term) | 10 years | £1,059 |
| Visitor (Academic Category) | More than 6 months and up to 12 months | £220 |
Applications for a UK Standard Visitor visa submitted from outside the UK are typically processed within three weeks, in line with Home Office customer service standards
The processing period begins from the date the applicant provides their biometric information, rather than the date the online application is submitted. This will be either:
- The date the applicant attends a Visa Application Centre (VAC) to provide fingerprints and a photograph; or
- If eligible, the working day after the applicant verifies their identity using the UK Immigration: ID Check app.
The processing period ends when the applicant receives an email confirming the decision on their application.
Family members may accompany a visitor to the UK; however, each individual must meet the requirements of the Visitor route in their own right. The Standard Visitor route does not provide a dependant category, meaning partners, spouses, children, and other family members cannot be included as dependants on another person's visitor application.
Any family member who requires a visa must submit their own application. Each application is considered independently by UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) and assessed on the individual's circumstances and the purpose of their visit. Meeting the Visitor route requirements for one family member does not automatically mean that accompanying family members will qualify for entry clearance or permission to enter the UK.
Family members travelling as visitors must comply with the same conditions as any other visitor. They must only undertake activities permitted under the Visitor Rules, must not work in the UK unless they hold separate immigration permission that allows employment, and must leave the UK before their visitor permission expires.
Children accompanying visitors are not permitted to attend a state-funded school. However, they may attend an independent fee-paying school, provided they meet the school's admission requirements and any relevant immigration requirements.
Applicants should ensure that all accompanying family members have the appropriate immigration permission in place before travelling to the UK.