In 2023, 38 million international residents visited the UK. This comes as no surprise, as many overseas individuals visit the UK to sightsee, study and explore business opportunities.
If you’re planning to visit the UK this winter, now is the time to prepare before upcoming national holidays delay visa processing. In this article, we’ll discuss which countries require a visitor visa and those who are exempt, including the permitted activities that can take place under it.
Who Needs a Visa to Visit the UK?
You will need a standard visitor visa if you plan to travel to the UK for reasons including tourism, business, medical treatment or short-term study (a full list of ‘permitted activities’ is detailed later).
Every country on the ‘visa national’ list needs a visitor visa – examples include Jamaica, Ukraine, Thailand and Nigeria. You must apply two to three months before travelling to ensure you have the right travel documentation.
Not sure if your country is on the list? Don’t overlook this – you must check if you need a visa before you apply for one.
Which Countries Can Enter Without a Visa?
If your country is not on the ‘visa national’ list, you are classed as a ‘non-visa national’. This means you do not need to apply for a visitor visa. Even without this visa, you must still meet the eligibility criteria, and you may be questioned at the UK border to confirm this.
By mid-2025, the Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) will be required worldwide for visa-exempt travellers visiting the UK. An ETA is simply your digital permission to travel to the UK, and currently, only six countries can apply for this. More nationalities can apply from the 27th of November, 2024, as outlined on the official government website.
What Activities Fall Under a UK Visitor Visa?
On a standard visitor visa, you can visit the UK for several reasons:
- Tourism: You can sightsee and visit family or friends as long as you agree to leave the UK at the end of your stay.
- Business: You can conduct business activities, such as attending meetings or interviews, signing deals or contracts, and conducting site visits and inspections.
- Short-term study: You can undertake educational courses lasting up to six months or do short-term research and placements relevant to your course overseas. For long-term studies, apply for a student visa.
- Medical treatment: You may enter the UK if you have medical treatment, either at an NHS or private hospital, or if you’re donating an organ.
- Paid engagements: You can carry out certain paid engagements or events at the invitation of a UK-based client. These visitors are often experts in their field, such as a qualified lawyer representing clients.
- Academic visit: As a scientist, researcher or academic, you can participate in work-related duties, such as research, short-term teaching or if you’re undertaking clinical practice (short term).
Head to our visitor visa page for a comprehensive outline of these permitted activities.
How Long Does It Take to Get a Visitor Visa?
A standard visitor visa can take up to three weeks to process. Your application may take longer if it requires further evidence or has inaccurate information. This list is not exhaustive, and for some applicants, this may result in rejection.
At Holmes & Partners, we’ll ensure you have all the required documentation to expedite the application process. Our immigration consultants will support you throughout and be available should you need further help or information.
Want to Visit the UK? Our Immigration Experts Can Help.
Holmes & Partners is a leading immigration firm specialising in UK visas for schools, businesses and individuals. If you’re planning to sightsee or visit for business, our experienced team can help you on your way.
Contact us today to start your visitor visa application journey.
