Tourist Visa & Visit Visa - UK
If you're an Indian national looking to visit the UK for tourism, to see family or friends, or for other short-term activities, you'll need a UK Tourist and Visitor Visa. The most common type, the Standard Visitor Visa, generally lets you stay for up to 6 months, with longer options available (2, 5, or 10 years) if you plan to visit frequently. To apply, you'll need to go online to the UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) website and book a biometric appointment at a Visa Application Centre (VAC). Make sure to have all your documents ready: a valid passport, proof of financial means, travel itinerary, accommodation details, and a cover letter explaining your visit's purpose. The processing time is usually about 3 weeks but can vary. While you don't need a local sponsor, showing ties to India, like your job or family, can help your case. Travel insurance is a good idea, though not mandatory. For the latest information, check the official UK government website or talk to a visa advisor.
Documents Required for UK Visa for Indian Citizens
To apply for a UK Tourist and Visitor Visa, you will need to provide scanned copies of the following documents:
-
Passport: Include the first and last pages of your passport.
-
Previous Visa Copies: Provide copies of all previous visas.
-
Bank Statement: Ensure you have a bank statement showing a sufficient balance to cover your trip expenses.
-
Payslips: Submit your recent payslips.
-
Income Tax Returns: Include your income tax returns.
​
If someone in the UK is inviting you, you will also need:
-
Invitation Letter: A letter from your inviter explaining the purpose and duration of your visit.
-
Inviter's Passport: Copies of the first and last pages of your inviter's passport.
-
BRP Card: A copy of the inviter's Biometric Residence Permit (if applicable).
-
Address Proof: Proof of the inviter's address in the UK.
This list covers the basic requirements, but we provide a customized checklist tailored to each applicant's specific circumstances.
UK Visa Processing Services at Sanctum
Our Comprehensive Visa Assistance Services
​
-
Filling the Application Form: We fill out the application form accurately.
-
Crafting a Travel Plan: We help you create a detailed and well-structured travel itinerary.
-
Drafting a Detailed Cover Letter: We write a comprehensive cover letter explaining the purpose of your visit.
-
Recommending Documents: We suggest the necessary documents for your visa application based on your circumstances.
-
Dummy Flight Reservations: We can offer dummy flight reservations for visa purposes, although this is not a mandatory requirement.
-
Visa Fee Payment Assistance: We assist you with the payment of the visa fee.
-
Scheduling Visa Appointments: We help you schedule your biometric appointment at the Visa Application Centre (VAC).
-
Uploading Documents: We assist in uploading all necessary documents to the Home Office site.
-
Biometric Appointment Preparation: You only need to carry your biometric appointment letter and passport to the appointment. Physical documents do not need to be submitted for UK visa processing.
UKÂ Visa Processing Time
At Sanctum Consulting, most UK visa cases are processed within 2 to 5 days once we receive all required documents. The UK Embassy typically takes 10 to 22 days for regular processing. If you opt for express service, the processing time is reduced to 5 working days.
​
For assistance with the application form and document formats, please WhatsApp your query to 9030040088.
United Kingdom Visa FAQ , Places to Visit and Things to do Â
UK Visa-Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is a UK Tourist and Visitor Visa? A UK Tourist and Visitor Visa allows Indian nationals to visit the UK for purposes such as tourism, visiting family or friends, attending business meetings, or other short-term activities. 2. Who needs a Tourist and Visitor Visa to enter the UK? Indian nationals require a visa to enter the UK for tourism or visiting purposes. This visa is necessary for all short-term visits. 3. How can I apply for a UK Tourist and Visitor Visa? You can apply online via the UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) website. After submitting your application, you will need to schedule a biometric appointment at a Visa Application Centre (VAC). 4. What documents are required for the visa application? Typically, you will need the following documents: •A valid passport with at least six months of validity remaining. •A completed visa application form. •Proof of financial means (bank statements, payslips). •Travel itinerary and accommodation details. •A cover letter explaining the purpose of your visit. •Copies of previous visas. •Income tax returns. If you are invited by someone in the UK, you will also need: •An invitation letter. •Copies of the inviter's passport (first and last pages). •The inviter's Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) card (if applicable). •Proof of the inviter's address in the UK. 5. How long does it take to process a UK Tourist and Visitor Visa? The processing time is generally around 3 weeks. For express service, the processing time can be reduced to 5 working days. 6. How long is a UK Tourist and Visitor Visa valid for? A standard UK Tourist and Visitor Visa is usually valid for up to 6 months. However, frequent travelers can apply for longer-term visas, valid for 2, 5, or 10 years. 7. Can I extend my stay in the UK on a Tourist and Visitor Visa? No, you cannot extend your stay beyond the visa’s validity period. You must leave the UK and reapply for a new visa if you wish to return. 8. Do I need a local sponsor for my visa application? No, a local sponsor is not required. However, if you have one, it can strengthen your application. Showing ties to India, like employment or family, is important. 9. Is travel insurance mandatory for a UK Tourist and Visitor Visa? Travel insurance is not mandatory but is highly recommended to cover medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and other unexpected events. 10. Do I need to provide biometrics for the visa application? Yes, you must provide biometrics (fingerprints and a digital photograph) at a Visa Application Centre (VAC) as part of the application process.
Places to Visit and Things to do at United Kingdom
Top Places to Visit and Things to Do in the United Kingdom 1. London •Buckingham Palace: Witness the Changing of the Guard ceremony and explore the royal residence. •The British Museum: Discover world history and culture with exhibits from ancient civilizations. •The Tower of London: Visit this historic castle and see the Crown Jewels. •London Eye: Enjoy panoramic views of the city from this iconic Ferris wheel. •West End Theatre: Catch a world-class musical or play in London's theatre district. 2. Edinburgh •Edinburgh Castle: Explore this historic fortress with stunning views of the city. •Royal Mile: Stroll down this historic street connecting the castle to Holyrood Palace. •Arthur’s Seat: Hike up this ancient volcano for breathtaking views of Edinburgh. •Edinburgh Festival: Experience the world’s largest arts festival held every August. 3. Bath •Roman Baths: Visit the well-preserved Roman bathing complex. •Bath Abbey: Explore the stunning Gothic architecture of this historic church. •Pulteney Bridge: Walk along this picturesque bridge with shops and cafes. •Thermae Bath Spa: Relax in the natural thermal waters and rooftop pool. 4. Lake District •Lake Windermere: Take a boat cruise on England's largest lake. •Hiking and Walking: Explore scenic trails like Scafell Pike, the highest peak in England. •Beatrix Potter Museum: Visit the home and museum dedicated to the famous children's author. 5. Oxford •University of Oxford: Tour the historic colleges and beautiful campus. •Bodleian Library: Visit one of the oldest libraries in Europe. •Punting on the River Cherwell: Enjoy a relaxing boat ride through the scenic waterways. 6. York •York Minster: Marvel at the Gothic architecture of this magnificent cathedral. •The Shambles: Wander through this charming medieval street. •York Castle Museum: Learn about York’s history through interactive exhibits. 7. Liverpool •The Beatles Story: Dive into the history of the legendary band. •Royal Albert Dock: Explore museums, galleries, and shops along the waterfront. •Liverpool Cathedral: Visit the largest cathedral in the UK. 8. Cornwall •St Ives: Enjoy the beautiful beaches and art galleries in this coastal town. •Tintagel Castle: Discover the legendary birthplace of King Arthur. •Eden Project: Explore the world’s largest indoor rainforest in this impressive biomes complex. 9. Scottish Highlands •Loch Ness: Search for the mythical Loch Ness Monster. •Ben Nevis: Hike the highest mountain in the British Isles. •Isle of Skye: Explore dramatic landscapes, castles, and charming villages. 10. Cardiff •Cardiff Castle: Tour this historic castle with Roman and Norman roots. •Principality Stadium: Catch a rugby match or concert in this iconic venue. •Cardiff Bay: Enjoy waterfront dining, entertainment, and attractions. 11. Cambridge •University of Cambridge: Visit the renowned colleges and their picturesque grounds. •The Fitzwilliam Museum: Explore a vast collection of art and antiquities. •Punting on the River Cam: Experience the traditional boat ride through scenic college backs. 12. Stratford-upon-Avon •Shakespeare’s Birthplace: Learn about the life and works of William Shakespeare. •Royal Shakespeare Theatre: Watch a performance by the Royal Shakespeare Company. •Anne Hathaway’s Cottage: Visit the home of Shakespeare’s wife. The United Kingdom offers a rich blend of history, culture, and natural beauty, ensuring a memorable experience for every traveler.