United Kingdom Visa

Types of United Kingdom Visas

The United Kingdom offers an array of visa categories for Indian citizens, catering to travel, employment, education, and more. The range of United Kingdom visa types ensures that every travel need is covered.

Key UK Visa Categories for Indian Passport Holders

Visitor Visa: For short trips, tourism, or visiting family and friends in the UK, you can opt for a short-term visitor visa. This visa is also ideal for short-term business trips.

Work Visa: Issued to individuals with job offers or sponsorships from UK employers. The visa is confirmed with a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) from a licensed UK sponsor. There are also different categories, such as skilled worker or Intra-company transfer.

Student Visa: Allows Indian students to pursue full-time education at UK institutions. Financial documents must show the ability to pay all tuition fees and living expenses.

Family Visa: For those looking to join immediate family members already residing in the UK. You may be eligible for a family visa if your spouse, partner, parent, or child is present and settled in the UK. Supporting documents must show the genuineness of the relationship and have enough funds to support the applicant and family members, if applicable.

Multiple Entry Visa: Frequent travellers can benefit from long-term entry flexibility. It allows several visits to the UK without needing to reapply each time, ideal for business or family visits.

Transit Visa: Required for airport stopovers en route to another country. There may be times while on a layover, you will have to clear UK immigration, depending on your travel itinerary.

United Kingdom Visa On Arrival

At the moment, there is no visa on arrival for Indian citizens travelling to the United Kingdom. All Indian passport holders have to obtain the corresponding visa before they leave for the UK. Making an application in advance is required in order to avoid any last-minute complications in travel.

How to Apply for United Kingdom Visa on MakeMyTrip

Indian citizens can conveniently apply for United Kingdom visa from India through MakeMyTrip’s streamlined process. Here’s how you can begin:

• Select the United Kingdom as your travel destination.
• Choose your reason for travel - tourism, work, study, or business.
• Upload a clear copy of your passport’s front page.
• Complete your payment through a secure online gateway.
• A dedicated MakeMyTrip visa expert will connect with you for the next steps.
• Submit your completed United Kingdom visa application, supporting documents, and biometric data.
• Children below 12 years of age are exempt from biometrics.
• Choose between passport collection or doorstep courier delivery (charges apply).
• At select visa centres, MakeMyTrip offers in-person assistance via field officers.
• Some applicants may be required to attend an interview, based on the Embassy's discretion.
• You can track your application status using the ‘My Trips’ feature on MakeMyTrip.
• Once the Embassy processes your application, you'll receive real-time notifications.

Whether you’re securing your United Kingdom visa appointment or checking United Kingdom visa appointment available dates, MakeMyTrip ensures everything is just a click away.

United Kingdom Visa Fee

Here’s an overview of United Kingdom visa fees from India:

Visa Type	United Kingdom Visa Fee
Short-term (up to 6 months, single or multiple entry)	₹15,427
Short-term (up to 6 months, single or multiple entry) for Children	₹15,427

These charges are incurred if you would like to opt for a short-term visa for adults or children. There might be additional service fees charged.

Documents Required for United Kingdom Visa Application

If you plan to apply for a UK visa, you’ll need to provide a particular document for the purpose of your visit, which could include tourism, business, study, or transit. The documents are important for a decision maker to establish valid intent, identity and financial means for the person applying for the visa, and it is critical that all documentation is complete and accurate to support a positive visa decision. The following documentation is generally required:

• Passport: Must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your travel date with two blank pages.
• Application Form: Filled out online and printed with signatures on both pages and the declaration.
• Photographs: Two recent passport-sized photos on a white background.
• Bank Statement: Last 6 months’ statement, duly signed by the bank and showing sufficient funds.
• Income Proof: ITRs or Form 16 for the past three financial years.
• Travel Itinerary: Details of flights, accommodations, and daily travel plans.
• Appointment Letter: Confirmation of your visa appointment with the QR code.

United Kingdom Tourist Visa: Requirements and Application Process

Planning a holiday to the UK? Here’s what you need to know:

The United Kingdom tourist visa is designed for those visiting the UK for sightseeing, experiencing culture, or getting together with family and friends. This visa is usually no longer than 6 months.

Key Requirements:

• Valid Passport: With a minimum validity of 6 months.
• Photographs: Passport-sized, recent, and meeting UK standards.
• Travel Plans: Documented proof of flights and accommodation.
• Financial Proof: Evidence of funds to support your stay.
• Visit Purpose: A letter explaining your travel intentions and itinerary.

Processing Time: The average time to receive a UK tourist visa is around 10 to 15 working days.

Benefits of Applying for a United Kingdom Visa Online

MakeMyTrip offers a seamless online experience for UK visa applications:

• Step-by-step guidance from expert visa consultants.
• Instant document review to eliminate application errors.
• Upload your documents online - no need for paper submissions.
• Clear breakdown of United Kingdom visa fees for Indian travellers.
• Real-time updates through the ‘My Trips’ dashboard.

United Kingdom Visa Processing Time in India

A standard United Kingdom visa application processing time in India is approximately 10 to 15 working days. Though various factors can impact the processing time, such as the type of visa you are applying for (tourist, business, student, etc.), the accuracy and completeness of the supporting documentation, the seasonal demand, and the current application workload of the UK Embassy or Visa Application Centre. It is wise to apply in advance of your planned ``` travel dates to accommodate any unforeseen delays, as well as any verification requests that may be necessary.

How to Track Your United Kingdom Visa Application Status on MakeMyTrip

Tracking your visa application has never been easier. Just:

• Log in to your MakeMyTrip account.
• Navigate to the ‘My Trips’ section.
• In this section, you can monitor your United Kingdom visa status online in real time.

United Kingdom Visa Extension and Renewal

Typically, a UK tourist visa is extendable only in special situations, such as:

• You were issued a visa for less than 6 months initially.
• You are undergoing medical treatment and need more time.

To extend your stay for medical reasons, you must prove:

• Payments for the current treatment have been settled.
• You can afford and commit to covering future treatment costs.

Common Reasons for United Kingdom Visa Rejection

Here are some of the most frequent reasons for visa denials. If you want to increase your chances of getting your visa approved, avoid these common mistakes:

• Wrong Information: Make sure your entries are correct and up to date.
• Insufficient Funds: Your application must demonstrate that you can financially support yourself during your entire stay.
• Incorrect Documents: Your application must include all required documentation, all of which must also be appropriate for the visa you are applying for.
• Medical: Provide current documentation if medical reasons apply to your visa.
• Previous Visa Problems: If you have had a visa denial before, explain why in detail.

United Kingdom Visa Cancellation and Refund Process

You may cancel your visa application, but United Kingdom visa cancellation charges may apply depending on the processing stage. Once your application is submitted for the issuing authority’s review, no refunds will be provided.

To check your United Kingdom visa cancellation status, log in to MakeMyTrip or connect with customer support.

United Kingdom Visa for Business Travellers

Indian nationals travelling to the UK for business meetings, conferences or business activities can apply for a United Kingdom business visa with MakeMyTrip’s guided support.

• Purpose: Multiple visits allowed with a stay of up to 180 days per entry.
• Type: Multiple Entry Visa
• Validity: Ranges from 180 days to 10 years

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About the United Kingdom Visa

Do Indians need a visa to visit the UK?

Yes, all Indian citizens must apply for a visa before travelling to the UK. This includes short stays for tourism, business, study, or family visits. The most common visa for short visits is the Standard Visitor Visa, valid for up to 6 months.

Can I enter the UK with a Schengen visa?

No, a Schengen visa is not valid for entry into the UK. You must apply for a separate UK visa regardless of any existing Schengen permissions.

How can I get a UK visa from India?

You can apply for a United Kingdom visa through MakeMyTrip’s simple online process. Their visa experts provide end-to-end support, from document preparation to appointment booking. Make sure to apply well in advance, ideally 4–6 weeks before your travel date.

Is visa on arrival available for the UK?

No, the UK does not offer a visa on arrival for Indian travellers. You must obtain a valid visa before boarding your flight to the UK. Travelling without a visa will result in denial at the airline check-in or immigration desk.

How long does it take to get a UK visa?

The processing time typically ranges from 10 to 15 working days. Delays may occur based on application volume or additional document requirements. During peak travel seasons or if interviews are required, processing may extend up to 30 days.

Can I extend my tourist visa in the UK?

Only in special cases, such as medical treatment, is it subject to additional proof and documentation. Standard tourist visas are non-extendable under normal circumstances. Applications for extensions must be submitted before your current visa expires.

What documents are required for a UK visa from India?

Documents include a valid passport, a recent photo, proof of funds, accommodation details, a travel itinerary, and a visa application form. You may also need an invitation letter, employer NOC, or study admission letter, depending on the visa type. All documents must be in English or accompanied by certified translations.

What is the validity of a UK tourist visa?

Most UK Standard Visitor Visas are valid for 6 months, allowing multiple entries. Frequent travellers can also apply for long-term visas valid for 2, 5, or 10 years. However, each stay cannot exceed 180 days per visit, even on long-term visas.

Can I work in the UK on a tourist visa?

No, working in the UK on a tourist visa is strictly prohibited. Engaging in employment or paid work while on a visitor visa is a violation of visa terms.

Is travel insurance mandatory for a UK visa?

While not mandatory, travel insurance is highly recommended for UK travel. It should cover medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and personal liability. Having insurance demonstrates responsible travel planning and may support your visa case.