Visa requirements
UK Visa Requirements for Indians 2026: Complete Guide
Quick answer: Indian passport holders need a UK Standard Visitor Visa (Tourism category) for short-term stays up to 6 months. Apply online at gov.uk/standard-visitor-visa. Cost: £127 for 6-month, £480 for 2-year multiple-entry. Biometrics required at VFS Global India centers.
Standard Visitor Visa for Indians
Required for all tourism, business meetings, family visits, and short courses. Single entry or multiple entry. Maximum 6 months per visit.
Application process
Apply online at gov.uk/standard-visitor-visa. Pay fee online. Book biometrics appointment at VFS Global (multiple Indian cities). Submit passport + documents at biometrics appointment. Receive decision in 3-15 business days.
Documents required
Passport valid 6+ months. Recent passport photo. Bank statements (3-6 months). Salary slips (if employed). Tax returns. Travel itinerary. Hotel bookings. Onward flight tickets. Employment letter (if employed) or business registration (if self-employed). Sponsor letter (if family-funded).
Costs
Standard Visitor Visa (6 months single entry): £127. 2-year multiple entry: £480. 5-year multiple entry: £876. 10-year multiple entry: £1,098. Priority service (5 business days): +£500. Super-priority (24 hours): +£1,000.
Processing time
Standard: 3-15 business days from biometrics. Priority: 5 business days. Super-priority: 24 hours.
Biometrics centers in India
VFS Global runs 15+ application centers across India — Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, Chennai, Hyderabad, Kolkata, and others. Book biometrics online at vfsglobal.co.in.
Common rejection reasons
Insufficient financial documentation. Weak ties to India (no stable job, no property). Previous visa overstay. Suspected immigration intent. Incomplete documentation.
Tips for approval
Show stable employment + income. Demonstrate clear travel plans. Provide hotel + flight bookings. Show intention to return (property, family, job). Be honest about purpose of visit.