Step-by-Step Guide to British Visa

The United Kingdom is known for its rich history in culture and global influence. The path to enter the UK is very complex as it involves a lot of rules and regulations. The given below is the comprehensive guide that aims to demystify the process of a British visa, providing a clear roadmap for those seeking to visit, work, or live in the UK. All types of visas have different requirements and different processing times. The aspirants will also get to know about the different countries that require British visas.

Also Read: An Overview of UK Visa Restrictions

What is a British Visa? 

A British Visa is nothing but a UK visa that is a legal status or an official document that allows individuals from different parts of the world to enter, stay, study, or work in the UK. There are different types of British visas. A visa can be a stamp on the passport or a document issued by the UK embassy or consulate. 

Who Needs a British Visa?

Citizens who belong to countries such as Switzerland, or other commonwealth countries do not require a British visa to enter the UK. Find the list of countries given below whose citizens need a visa to enter the UK:

Afghanistan

Algeria

Central African Republic

Chad

China

Republic of the Congo

Cuba

Eritrea

Ghana

Iran

Liberia

Libya

Mali

Naura

Niger

North Korea

Russia

Sudan

Syria

Turkmenistan

Yemen

Types of British Visa (UK Visa)

Check below the different types of British visas as per the requirements:

• Work Visas
• Business Visas
• Study Visas
• Visitor Visas
• Family Visas
• Settlement Visas
• Transit Visas

Also Read: Study Abroad: 10 Types Of Visas That Can Unlock Your Dream of Studying Overseas

Application Process

To apply for a British visa the candidates can check below the mentioned steps to apply:

• Choose the right type of visa as per the requirement
• Start applying for the type of visa selected
• Pay the application fees
• Choose the visa application centre and book an appointment
• Upload all the required documents

Also Read: All About Work Visa: Application Process, Appointment, Fees

Documents Required 

There are certain documents required for a British Visa that the candidates should submit to get a British visa:

• The candidates are required to submit the British visa application form.
• Two passport-size photographs are required.
• The candidates must have a valid passport.
• Candidates must provide proof of their financial funds.
• Candidates must carry proof of accommodation with them.
• If the candidates are going to stay in the UK for longer than 6 months they have to provide their biometric information.
• Receipt of paid UK fees.

Bank Balance Needed for a UK Visa 

The minimum bank balance needed for a UK visa can vary depending on the visa type. For example, for a student visa, the applicant must have a minimum balance of £1,334 per month (for up to 9 months) for pursuing courses within London. For pursuing courses outside London, the student must maintain a bank balance of  £1,023 per month (for up to 9 months). On the other hand, for a skilled worker visa, a minimum balance of  £1,270 in the bank account. For visitor visa there is no specific budget set. However, the applicant must have a daily budget of  £100 to £150.

Processing Times for Overseas Applications

Check below the different processing times for different types of British Visa:

Types of Visa	Processing time
Standard Visitor	3 weeks
Permitted Paid Engagement	3 weeks
Marriage Visitor	3 weeks
Chinese tour group	3 weeks
Transit	3 weeks
Student	3 weeks
Child Student	3 weeks
Study English in the UK	3 weeks
Family visas	24 weeks
Skilled Worker	3 weeks
Health and Care Worker	3 weeks
Government Authorised Exchange	3 weeks
Charity Worker	3 weeks
Creative Worker	3 weeks
International Agreement	3 weeks
Seasonal Worker	3 weeks
Religious Worker	3 weeks
Global Talent	3 weeks
Youth Mobility Scheme	3 weeks
India Young Professionals Scheme visa	3 weeks
UK Ancestry	3 weeks
High Potential Individual (HPI)	3 weeks
Innovator Founder	3 weeks
Start-up	3 weeks
Overseas Domestic Worker	3 weeks
Graduate Trainee	3 weeks
Secondment Worker	3 weeks
Senior or Specialist Worker	3 weeks
Representative of an Overseas Business	3 weeks
Service Supplier	3 weeks
UK Expansion Worker	3 weeks
British National (Overseas)	12 weeks
International Sportsperson	3 weeks
Minister of Religion	3 weeks
Scale-up Worker	3 weeks
Homes for Ukraine	As quickly as possible
Ukraine Family Scheme	As quickly as possible

Fees

Check below the British visa fees for different categories:

Types	Visa Validity	Stay Period	Entry Type	Visa Fees
6 Months Short Term UK Visa	6 Months	6 Months	Multiple Entry	INR 10,299/-
2 years Long Term UK Visa	2 Years	6 Months	Multiple Entry	INR 34,649/-
5 years Long Term UK Visa	5 Years	6 Months	Multiple Entry	INR 61,749/-
10 Years Long Term UK Visa	10 Years	6 Months	Multiple Entry	INR 76,999/-

FAQs

We hope you now understand what is a British Visa, the application process, availability, etc. Want to apply for a Visa for your study abroad journey? Drop us a comment in the section below, or you can connect with a visa expert at Leverage Edu, and we will guide you on your dream journey!