Visiting Family in the UK: Your Complete Guide to the UK Visitor Visa

Are you living outside of the UK and planning to visit your loved ones in the UK? Whether it is to spend time with family after years apart, attend a special occasion, or to simply view historical sites together, the UK Visitor Visa may be the route you will need to apply under. In the below blog, we will talk you through the key elements of this visa including eligibility, documents, common mistakes and tips on how you can make your application as strong as possible.

What is a UK Visitor Visa?

The UK Standard Visitor Visa allows you to visit the United Kingdom for up to 6 months for leisure, tourism or to visit family and friends. The route has some significant restrictions such as you cannot work or study long term. However, you are able to experience British culture and history, see family and friends in person and have a great time.

Who Can Apply

You can typically apply for a UK Visitor Visa if you:

• You are from a country listed on the Visa National List: Immigration Rules - Immigration Rules Appendix Visitor: Visa national list - Guidance - GOV.UK

• You have a genuine reason (like visiting family) and intend to leave before your visa expires

• Have enough funds to cover your trip

• Have strong ties to your country of residence- such as family, employment, business or property- to show you are likely to return home

Eligibility Checklist

To qualify, you must show:

1. Purpose of Visit: Visiting family or friends (provide a letter of invitation to support).

2. Financial Stability: Evidence that you can pay for travel, accommodation and daily expenses.

3. Intent to Return: Documents showing employment, ongoing studies or family ties to your country of residence.

4. Accommodation & Relationship Proof: Details of where you will stay and who you will visit.

Documents Required

Here is a list of documents you will need for your application:

• Valid passport (with at least one blank page).

• Visa application form (completed online).

• Recent passport-sized photograph.

• Proof of finances (bank statements, salary slips, tax returns).

• Letter of invitation from your family member in the UK.

• Evidence of their immigration status (copy of e-visa or British passport).

• Travel itinerary and accommodation details.

• Proof of ties to your country of residence- employment letter, business registration, family relationships.

Application Process (Step-by-Step)

1. Online application: Complete the UK Government’s online form

2. Pay the visa fee: Currently £115 for a 6-month visa (as of 2025).

3. Book a biometrics appointment at a VFS Global centre in India.

4. Submit documents either in person or digitally.

5. Wait for a decision—typically within 3 weeks (priority options available).

Common Questions

Can my family sponsor me?

Yes. They can provide a letter of invitation and financial documents showing they can host you.

How long can I stay?

Up to 6 months per visit. Frequent visits may raise suspicion of living in the UK long-term.

Can I extend my visa?

Generally, no—unless there are exceptional compassionate reasons (e.g., medical emergencies).

Final Thoughts

The UK Visitor Visa process may appear straightforward, but meticulous preparation is crucial—especially for family visits from India, where UK Visas & Immigration closely examines ties to home.

If you approach it transparently, provide well-organised documentation, and demonstrate a genuine visit, your chances of success are high. Reach out to us at info@ctcadministration.com for support through the process.