UK Visa Guide 2025 for Indian Travelers

🏳️ Country Overview

Country Name - UK(United Kingdom)

Planning a trip to the UK? Here’s your comprehensive guide to navigating the UK visa application process from India. Whether you’re traveling for tourism, business, study, or family reasons, this guide covers everything you need to know.

Indian passport holders require a visa to enter the UK. The UK offers various visa types based on the purpose of your visit. Applications are processed by the UK Home Office, and appointments are managed through VFS Global in India.

📝 Visa Types & Basic Requirements

Types of Visas Available

Standard Visitor Visa – For tourism, business, or short-term study.
Marriage Visitor Visa – To marry or register a civil partnership in the UK.
Short-Term Study Visa – For English language courses up to 11 months.
Health and Care Worker Visa – For medical professionals with a job offer.
Skilled Worker Visa – For qualified professionals with a UK job offer.
Global Business Mobility Visa – For intra-company transfers and other business-related activities.
Student Visa – For full-time study at a recognized institution.
Family Visa – To join family members in the UK.
Transit Visa – For passing through the UK en route to another country.

Age Requirement

No specific age restrictions. However, applicants under 18 may need additional documentation, such as parental consent.

Passport Validity

Validity: At least 6 months beyond your planned date of arrival in the UK.
Blank Pages: At least 1 blank page for visa stamping.

Visa Validity

Visitor Visa: Valid for up to 6 months; stay duration per visit is up to 6 months.
Long-Term Visitor Visa: Valid for 2, 5, or 10 years; stay duration per visit is up to 6 months.
Student Visa: Valid for the duration of the course.
Work Visas: Valid for up to 5 years, depending on the job offer.

Stay Duration Allowed

The maximum stay duration allowed in the UK depends on the type of visa you hold. Here’s a detailed breakdown to help you plan your trip 📅:

🛂 Visitor Visas

Standard Visitor Visa (Tourism, Business, Family Visit, Short Courses)
⏳ Stay Allowed: Up to 6 months per visit
🔁 Multiple visits are allowed during the visa validity, but you can’t live in the UK for extended periods by frequent or successive visits.

🎓 Student Visas

Short-Term Study Visa (English language courses)
⏳ Stay Allowed: Up to 11 months
Student Visa (Full-time academic course)
⏳ Stay Allowed: Duration of your course + 1-2 months depending on course length:
- Course less than 6 months: + 7 days
- Course 6–12 months: + 1 month
- Course over 12 months: + 2 months

💼 Work Visas

Skilled Worker Visa / Health and Care Worker Visa
⏳ Stay Allowed: Valid for up to 5 years depending on your job contract
🔁 Can be extended or lead to permanent residency

💍 Marriage Visitor Visa

⏳ Stay Allowed: Up to 6 months
❌ No extension permitted

👨‍👩‍👧 Family Visa (Joining Family in the UK)

⏳ Stay Allowed: 2.5 years initially, can be extended
✔️ Can lead to settlement (Indefinite Leave to Remain)

✈️ Transit Visa

⏳ Stay Allowed: Usually 24 to 48 hours (depends on flight layover)
❌ Not valid for leaving the airport unless it’s a Visitor in Transit visa

Number of Entries

Visitor Visas: Single or multiple entries, as specified.
Long-Term Visitor Visas: Multiple entries.
Other Visas: As per the visa type and conditions.

💸 Fees & Processing for UK(United Kingdom) Visa

Visa Fee

Visa Type	Fee (INR)
Standard Visitor Visa (up to 6 months)	₹13,153
Long-Term Visitor Visa (2 years)	₹40,080
Long-Term Visitor Visa (5 years)	₹71,419
Long-Term Visitor Visa (10 years)	₹88,179
Marriage Visitor Visa	₹13,153
Short-Term Study Visa	₹22,874
Student Visa	₹38,694
Skilled Worker Visa (up to 3 years)	₹66,622
Health and Care Worker Visa	₹26,329
Transit Visa	₹3,731

Note: Fees are subject to change. Always refer to the official website for the most current information.

Processing Time

Typically ranges from 15 to 30 working days, depending on the visa type and individual circumstances. It’s advisable to apply well in advance.

When to Apply

It’s recommended to apply for your UK visa:

Standard Visitor Visa: At least 3 months before your intended travel date.
Student Visa: At least 6 months before your course start date.
Work Visas: At least 3 months before your employment start date.

Applying early ensures sufficient time for processing and any additional documentation that may be required.

📄 Documents & Proof

Documents Required

Valid passport.
Completed visa application form.
Passport-sized photographs (as per specifications).
Proof of travel arrangements (flight bookings, accommodation).
Financial documents (bank statements, salary slips).
Purpose-specific documents (e.g., invitation letters, university acceptance letters).
Visa fee payment receipt.
Biometric appointment confirmation.

Financial Proof

You must demonstrate sufficient funds to cover your stay. Acceptable documents include:

Recent bank statements (last 6 months).
Salary slips.
Income tax returns.
Sponsorship letters (if applicable).

Translations Needed?

All documents submitted in the UK visa application must be in English or accompanied by a certified English translation. This includes:

Bank statements.
Income tax returns.
Marriage or birth certificates.
Educational certificates.

Ensure that translations are accurate and certified to avoid delays or rejections.

Visa Photo Specifications

Size: 45mm x 35mm.
Background: Plain white.
Face: Neutral expression, mouth closed, eyes open.
Headgear: Only for religious or medical reasons; must not obscure the face.
Glasses: Not permitted unless for medical reasons; no reflections.

👩‍⚖️ Interviews, Biometrics & E-Visa

Interview Required

Generally, no interview is required. However, you may be called for an interview or additional documentation if necessary.

Biometric Requirement

Yes. Biometric data (fingerprints and photograph) must be submitted at a visa application center as part of the application process.

E-Visa Available?

No. The UK does not offer e-Visas for Indian passport holders. All applications must be submitted through the official visa application process.

📌 Application & Tracking

Application Process

Determine Visa Type: Identify the appropriate visa category based on your purpose of visit.
Complete Application: Fill out the online application form on the UK government website.
Pay Fee: Pay the visa application fee online.
Book Appointment: Schedule an appointment at your nearest VFS Global center.
Prepare Documents: Gather all required documents, including passport, photographs, financial proof, and purpose-specific documents.
Attend Appointment: Submit your biometric data and documents at the VFS center.
Track Application: Monitor the status of your application online.
Receive Decision: Collect your passport with the visa decision.

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Dependents & Work

Dependents Info

Dependents (spouse and children under 18) can accompany the main visa holder under certain visa categories:

Skilled Worker Visa: Spouse and children can apply as dependents.
Student Visa: Dependents can apply if the student is on a course that is at least 9 months long and meets certain financial requirements.
Health and Care Worker Visa: Spouse and children can apply as dependents.

Each dependent must submit a separate application and provide necessary documentation, including proof of relationship and financial support.

Working Rights

Your ability to work in the UK depends on the type of visa you hold:

Standard Visitor Visa: Not permitted to work.
Student Visa: Limited to part-time work during term time and full-time during holidays.
Skilled Worker Visa: Permitted to work in the job specified in your certificate of sponsorship.
Health and Care Worker Visa: Permitted to work in health or social care roles.

Always refer to the specific conditions attached to your visa to understand your working rights.

Visa Extension Info

Visitor Visa: Generally, cannot be extended.
Other Visas: Extensions may be possible; refer to the specific visa type for details.

Note: Always apply for an extension before your current visa expires.

🌍 Embassy & Support

VFS/Global Partner Centers

VFS Global manages UK visa applications in India. They have centers in major cities:

Delhi
Mumbai
Chennai
Bengaluru
Hyderabad
Kolkata
Ahmedabad
Pune

Visit the VFS Global website to find the nearest center and book appointments:

👉 https://visa.vfsglobal.com/ind/en/gbr/

Embassy Locations

UK Diplomatic Missions in India

These are the official UK government offices handling consular services, including visa applications:

1. British High Commission – New Delhi

Address: Shantipath, Chanakyapuri, New Delhi 110021
Contact: Contact Form
Public Access: By appointment only
Operating Hours: Monday to Friday, 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Consular Assistance: Available 24/7 for emergencies

2. British Deputy High Commission – Mumbai

Address: Urmi Axis Building, 3rd Floor, Behind Famous Studio, Opp. E Moses Road, Mahalaxmi (West), Mumbai – 400 011
Contact: Contact Form

3. British Deputy High Commission – Bengaluru

Address: 22, Gopalan Innovation Mall, Bannerghatta Main Rd, Sarakki Industrial Layout, 3rd Phase, J. P. Nagar, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560076
Contact: Contact Form

4. British Deputy High Commission – Chennai

Address: Fagun Towers, Third Floor, No 74, Ethiraj Salai, Egmore, Chennai – 600 008
Contact: Contact Form

5. British Deputy High Commission – Hyderabad

Address: Unit 1, Lower Concourse, Punjagutta Metro Station, 8-2-340/1, Punjagutta Rd, Punjagutta Officers Colony, Punjagutta, Hyderabad, Telangana 500082
Contact: Contact Form

6. British Deputy High Commission – Kolkata

Address: Rene Tower, Plot No. AA-I, 1842, Rajdanga Main Road, Kasba, Kolkata 700107
Contact: Contact Form

🏢 UK Visa Application Centers (Managed by VFS Global)

These centers handle the submission of visa applications and biometric data:

1. New Delhi

Address: Mezzanine Floor, Baba Kharak Singh Marg, Shivaji Stadium Metro Station, Connaught Place, New Delhi 110001
Operating Hours: Monday to Friday, 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Booking: VFS Global – New Delhi

2. Mumbai (North)

Address: Trade Centre, ‘G’ Block, First Floor, Bandra Kurla Complex, Bandra (East), Mumbai – 400 051
Operating Hours: Monday to Friday, 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Booking: VFS Global – Mumbai North

3. Mumbai (South)

Address: Urmi Axis Building, 1st Floor, Behind Famous Studio, Opp E Moses Road, Mahalaxmi West, Mumbai 400011
Operating Hours: Monday to Friday, 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Booking: VFS Global – Mumbai South

4. Bengaluru

Address: Gopalan Innovation Mall, 22, Bannerghatta Main Rd, Sarakki Industrial Layout, 3rd Phase, J. P. Nagar, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560076
Operating Hours: Monday to Friday, 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Booking: VFS Global – Bengaluru

5. Chennai

Address: Fagun Towers, Second Floor, No 74, Ethiraj Salai, Egmore, Chennai 600008
Operating Hours: Monday to Friday, 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Booking: VFS Global – Chennai

6. Hyderabad

Address: Unit 1, Lower Concourse, Punjagutta Metro Station, 8-2-340/1, Punjagutta Rd, Punjagutta Officers Colony, Punjagutta, Hyderabad, Telangana 500082
Operating Hours: Monday to Friday, 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Booking: VFS Global – Hyderabad

7. Kolkata

Address: Fifth floor, RENE Tower, Plot No. AA-I, 1842, Rajdanga Main Road, Kasba, Kolkata 700107
Operating Hours: Monday to Friday, 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM

8. Ahmedabad

Address: 1st Floor, Shivalik Shilp, Iskcon Cross Road, S.G. Highway, Ahmedabad – 380015
Operating Hours: Monday to Friday, 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Booking: VFS Global – Ahmedabad

9. Pune

Address: Viman Nagar Road, Clover Park, Viman Nagar, Pune – 411014
Operating Hours: Monday to Friday, 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Booking: VFS Global – Pune

10. Chandigarh

Address: SCO 186–188, 1st Floor, Sector 8C, Madhya Marg, Chandigarh – 160009
Operating Hours: Monday to Friday, 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Booking: VFS Global – Chandigarh

11. Cochin (Kochi)

Address: 1st Floor, Coastal Chambers, M. G. Road, Ravipuram, Kochi – 682015
Operating Hours: Monday to Friday, 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Booking: VFS Global – Kochi

12. Jalandhar

Address: 911, 9th Floor, Best Western Summerlea, G.T. Road, Jalandhar – 144001
Operating Hours: Monday to Friday, 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Booking: VFS Global – Jalandhar

13. Jaipur

Address: Mangalam Signature Tower, 5th Floor, Ajmer Road, Near SBBJ Bank, Jaipur – 302006
Operating Hours: Monday to Friday, 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Booking: VFS Global – Jaipur

🦠 Health & Rejections

Covid-19 Guidelines

As of May 2025, the UK has lifted most COVID-19 travel restrictions. However, it’s essential to stay updated on:

Any reintroduction of testing or quarantine measures.
Requirements for travelers from specific countries.
Health and safety protocols in place at airports and public places.

Always check the official UK government website or consult with your airline for the latest travel advisories.

Common Rejection Reasons

Insufficient financial proof.
Incomplete or incorrect application.
Lack of ties to home country (e.g., employment, family).
Previous immigration violations.
Failure to provide required documents.

💡 Final Notes

Important Tips

Early Application: 🗓️ Apply well in advance—UK visas can take time depending on demand and season.
Travel Insurance: ✈️ It’s not mandatory but highly recommended to cover medical and travel emergencies.
Ties to India: 🔗 Show strong connections to India (job, family, property) to prove you will return.
Avoid Fake Documents: ❌ Submission of fraudulent or altered documents can lead to a 10-year ban.
Correct Visa Type: ✅ Apply for the visa that matches your purpose—don’t misuse tourist visas for studying or working.
Keep Copies: 📑 Always keep a copy of all submitted documents and your visa for future reference.

✅ Visa-Free or Visa-on-Arrival Countries (With Valid UK Visa)

Country	Entry Type	Notes
Turkey	E-visa	Allowed with a valid UK visa
Georgia	Visa-free (90 days)	UK visa must be valid and previously used
Philippines	Visa-free (14 days)	With valid UK, US, Schengen, Japan, or Australia visa
Qatar	Visa-free or ETA	Valid UK visa allows visa-free entry
Serbia	Visa-free (90 days)	With a valid UK visa
Montenegro	Visa-free (30 days)	UK visa must be valid
Bosnia & Herzegovina	Visa-free (30 days)	UK visa must be used previously
North Macedonia	Visa-free (15 days)	UK visa must be valid
Albania	Visa-free (90 days)	Valid UK visa required
Mexico	Visa-free (180 days)	Valid UK visa required (multiple-entry)
Dominican Republic	Visa-free	Must hold valid UK visa
Panama	Visa-free (up to 30 days)	UK visa must be used previously
Belize	Visa-free	UK visa must be valid and multiple-entry

💡 Bonus Travel Tip: If you hold a valid UK visa, you can visit several other countries like Turkey, Georgia, Mexico, the Philippines, and Albania without needing a separate visa. This can make your UK trip even more rewarding by allowing multi-country travel with minimal hassle. Just ensure your UK visa is valid, multiple-entry, and previously used, and check the latest rules on each destination’s official site.

FAQs

❓ Do Indians get a UK visa easily?

UK visas are granted if all eligibility criteria are met, including accurate documentation, financial proof, and travel intent. It’s not difficult if you apply correctly.

⏳ How long does a UK visa take in India?

Standard processing time is 15 working days, but it can take longer during peak seasons or if additional checks are required. Priority and super-priority services are available for faster processing.

✅ How do I know if my visa is approved?

You’ll receive an email or SMS from VFS or UKVI. You can also track your application online using the VFS Global tracking link.

⚠️ Can the visa be rejected after the interview?

Yes. A visa can still be refused even after an interview if documents are incomplete, your intent is unclear, or you fail to meet visa conditions.

📦 What is the next step after visa approval?

Collect your passport from the VFS center (or receive it by courier). Check the visa sticker for accuracy (name, validity dates), and then book your travel.

Table of Contents