Can I visit the UK, and for what?
One route covers almost every short visit — tourism, family, business, short study, medical treatment — and one legal test decides every application: the genuine visitor test in Appendix V. Start with the question closest to your trip.
What is the Standard Visitor visa, in one place?
The complete route — who needs a visa, the purposes, the full fee table, applying and after the decision. Read the complete visitor visa guide
What is the genuine visitor test?
Leave at the end of your visit, don't live here through frequent visits, a permitted purpose, no prohibited work, and sufficient funds — paragraph V 4.2, requirement by requirement. Read the eligibility guide
What am I allowed to do on this visa?
Business meetings and trade fairs, volunteering for 30 days, short courses, exams — and the work line around all of it. Read the permitted activities guide
Can I be paid for a talk or performance?
Only as a permitted paid engagement: an invited expert, a written invitation, and the engagement in your first month. Read the permitted activities guide
I'm coming for medical treatment. What applies to me?
Private care, reciprocal NHS care or organ donation — plus an 11-month visa at £234 when treatment runs longer. Read the medical treatment guide
Can someone else pay for my trip?
Yes — if they have a genuine relationship with you, are not in breach of immigration laws, and can and will support you for the whole stay. Read the eligibility guide
Fresh in this section
NEW UK Visitor Visa Guide: The Standard Visitor Route, Explained in Full
The complete UK visitor visa guide: who needs a visa, permitted activities, the genuine visitor test, the full fee table, applying, and after approval.
NEW UK Visitor Visa Eligibility: The Genuine Visitor Test, Requirement by Requirement
UK visitor visa eligibility explained: Appendix V's genuine visitor test, third-party support, prohibited work, and the extra rules for special visits.
NEW UK Visitor Visa Permitted Activities: What You Can and Cannot Do
UK visitor visa permitted activities: tourism, business, volunteering, short study and paid engagements — and what counts as prohibited work in the UK.
NEW UK Visitor Visa for Medical Treatment: Private Care, NHS Reciprocal Care and Organ Donation
The UK visitor visa for medical treatment: private care, reciprocal NHS treatment, organ donation, the 11-month medical visa, and extending your stay.