Visit visas are normally for six months. If you visit the UK regularly you could apply for a two-year, five-year or ten-year multi visit visa, but the longest period you can stay during each visit is still six months.
In rare circumstances it may be possible to obtain an extension of your visa, for example, you came to the UK for medical reasons and are still receiving treatment.
Types of visit visas
Standard visit visa
This is the general visa that needs to be applied for when anyone is wanting to visit the UK for reasons such as to see family or friends, to travel, on business, or to receive medical treatment.
Marriage or civil partnership visit visa
This is a visit visa purely to enter the UK for the purpose of getting married or entering into a civil partnership and then returning to one’s home country. It is not to be confused with a Fiancé(e) or Proposed Civil Partnership visa where the ultimate intention is to stay in the UK after the marriage on a long-term basis.
What are the requirements of a visit visa?
- You must meet the suitability requirements – for example past immigration history and any criminal convictions will be taken into consideration.
- The intention to return to your home country at the end of your visit.
- Adequate financial support to cover the cost of your travel and stay here in the UK (and that of any dependants) as well as sufficient funds for your return journey.
- There is adequate accommodation for you to stay whilst here.
- You must not be making the UK your home through frequent visits.
- If applying for a marriage or civil partnership visit visa you must provide proof of the planned marriage or civil partnership as well as evidence you are free to marry or enter into a civil partnership.
Do we offer legal aid?
We do not offer legal aid, but represent you on a fee paying basis if you do not qualify for legal aid.
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