UK Tourist Visa for Indian Citizens : The United Kingdom remains one of the most visited destinations for Indian travellers, whether for tourism, family visits, short business trips or leisure travel.
Indian passport holders must obtain a Standard Visitor Visa before travelling to the UK. There is no visa-on-arrival facility for Indian citizens.
Applications are submitted online through the official UK government portal, followed by a biometric appointment at a Visa Application Centre. Below is a complete guide to eligibility, required documents, fees, validity and how to improve your chances of approval.
Do Indian Citizens Need a Visa to Visit the UK?
Yes. Indian passport holders are required to apply for a UK Standard Visitor Visa before travelling. There are no exceptions for tourism purposes unless:
- You hold a British passport, or
- You have valid UK immigration status permitting entry
For short-term visits such as tourism, visiting friends or attending events, the Standard Visitor Visa is the correct category.
Types of UK Tourist (Visitor) Visas
The UK offers both short-term and long-term visitor visas. All allow a maximum stay of 6 months per visit, regardless of overall validity.
| Visa Type | Validity | Maximum Stay Per Visit | Entry Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard Visitor Visa | 6 months | Up to 6 months | Multiple entry |
| Long-Term Visitor Visa | 2 years | Up to 6 months | Multiple entry |
| Long-Term Visitor Visa | 5 years | Up to 6 months | Multiple entry |
| Long-Term Visitor Visa | 10 years | Up to 6 months | Multiple entry |
Important: Even a 10-year visa does not allow stays longer than 6 months per visit.
UK Tourist Visa Requirements for Indian Applicants
To apply successfully, applicants must provide clear documentation showing:
Mandatory Documents
- Valid passport (minimum 6 months validity, 2 blank pages)
- Online visa application form confirmation
- Appointment confirmation for biometrics
- Recent passport-size photograph (if required by VAC)
- Bank statements (last 6 months)
- Travel itinerary
- Proof of accommodation (hotel booking or host details)
- Cover letter explaining purpose of visit
- Proof of employment or business ownership
- Income Tax Returns (recommended for credibility)
If Sponsored
- Sponsor’s passport copy
- Sponsor’s financial documents
- Invitation letter explaining relationship and purpose
If Employed
- No Objection Certificate (NOC) from employer
- Salary slips
If Self-Employed
- GST registration
- Business registration documents
Optional but supportive documents:
- Fixed deposits
- Property documents
- LIC policies
- Previous travel history
There is no officially stated minimum bank balance, but applicants must demonstrate sufficient funds to cover the entire trip without public assistance.
UK Tourist Visa Fees for Indians (2026)
Visa fees vary based on validity.
| Visa Validity | Fee (Approx. INR) |
|---|---|
| 6 months | ₹18,000 |
| 2 years | ₹47,460 |
| 5 years | ₹88,232 |
| 10 years | ₹1,09,833 |
Note:
- Fees are non-refundable if the visa is refused.
- Rates may change based on exchange rates and UK Home Office updates.
UK Tourist Visa Processing Time
Standard processing time is approximately:
- 15 to 20 working days after biometrics
Delays may occur due to:
- High application volume
- Additional document requests
- Background verification
Priority services may be available for faster decisions (typically 2–5 working days) for an additional fee.
Applicants can apply up to 3 months before their intended travel date.
How to Apply for a UK Tourist Visa Online
Step-by-step process:
- Visit the official UK visa application website
- Select “Standard Visitor Visa”
- Complete the online form
- Upload supporting documents
- Pay the visa fee online
- Book and attend biometric appointment
- Submit passport at Visa Application Centre
After submission, applicants can track their application through the Visa Application Centre or email updates.
UK Visa on Arrival for Indians
Indian citizens are not eligible for visa-on-arrival in the UK.
A valid visa must be obtained prior to travel, regardless of whether the visit is for:
- Tourism
- Business meetings
- Transit
- Study
- Work
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for a UK Standard Visitor Visa, applicants must demonstrate:
- Genuine intention to visit temporarily
- Clear travel purpose (tourism, family visit, etc.)
- Sufficient funds for entire stay
- Strong ties to India (job, business, property, family)
- Intention to leave the UK at the end of visit
Failure to prove these factors is one of the most common reasons for refusal.
How to Avoid UK Tourist Visa Rejection
To improve approval chances:
- Complete the application accurately
- Ensure financial statements are consistent
- Provide strong proof of return intent
- Avoid discrepancies in travel history
- Submit clear and organised documentation
Visa refusals often occur due to incomplete financial proof or unclear travel purpose.
How Long Can Indians Stay in the UK?
A UK Standard Visitor Visa allows:
- Up to 6 months per visit
Visitors cannot:
- Work
- Access public funds
- Extend the visitor visa beyond permitted limits
Overstaying can affect future visa applications.
Is Travel Insurance Required?
Travel insurance is not mandatory for a UK tourist visa.
However, it is strongly recommended because:
- Medical treatment in the UK is expensive for visitors
- Insurance covers emergencies, cancellations, lost baggage and delays
- Adventure or sports activities may require specific cover
Always review policy terms carefully before purchase.
Benefits of a UK Tourist Visa
A UK Standard Visitor Visa allows you to:
- Visit family and friends
- Travel for leisure
- Attend short business meetings
- Seek private medical treatment
- Enter multiple times (if granted multi-entry visa)
Long-term visitor visas reduce the need to reapply frequently.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Do Indians need a visa to visit the UK?
Yes. Indian passport holders must apply for a Standard Visitor Visa before travelling.
2. How long does UK tourist visa processing take?
Typically 15–20 working days after biometrics, unless priority service is chosen.
3. What is the minimum bank balance required?
There is no fixed amount, but applicants should show sufficient funds to cover travel, accommodation and living expenses.
4. Can Indians work in the UK on a tourist visa?
No. Employment is not permitted on a visitor visa.
5. How early should I apply?
You can apply up to 3 months before your travel date.
6. Is travel insurance mandatory?
No, but it is highly recommended.
7. How long can I stay on a UK tourist visa?
Up to 6 months per visit, regardless of overall visa validity.