United Kingdom Visa Requirements 2026

Indian passport holders need a Standard Visitor visa for the UK. It costs £135, allows stays of up to 6 months, and a decision usually takes 3 weeks. You apply online and give biometrics at a visa application centre.

Passport; Proof you can support yourself during the trip, such as bank statements and payslips; Details of where you will stay and your travel plans; Evidence that you will leave the UK at the end of the visit.

Standard Visitor visa: £135. Long-term visitor visa, 2 years: £506. Long-term visitor visa, 5 years: £903. Long-term visitor visa, 10 years: £1,128. Fees are those listed on GOV.UK. Faster-decision services and visa application centre extras cost more.

Usually within 3 weeks; you can apply up to 3 months before you travel.

A visa cover letter is a formal document submitted with your visa application that explains the purpose of your visit, travel itinerary, financial means, accommodation details, and your intent to return home. While not always mandatory, a well-written cover letter helps visa officers understand your case quickly and can strengthen your application.

You can track your visa application status online through the official embassy or consulate website using your application reference number. Most visa application centres (such as VFS Global, TLScontact, or BLS International) also provide online tracking portals where you can check your application status in real time.

A single-entry visa allows you to enter the destination country only once during its validity period. A multiple-entry visa permits you to enter and exit the country multiple times. Multiple-entry visas are ideal for frequent travellers and are often valid for longer durations such as 1, 3, or 5 years.

If your visa application is rejected, you will receive a refusal letter explaining the specific reason for the decision. You may be able to reapply by addressing the concerns mentioned, file an appeal if the country's regulations allow it, or request a reconsideration. It is advisable to seek professional advice before reapplying.

Yes, children typically require their own visa even if they are travelling with parents. In some cases, minors can be included on a parent's application. Additional documents such as birth certificates, parental consent letters from both parents, and school enrolment letters are usually required for minor applicants.

The 6-month passport validity rule requires your passport to be valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay in the destination country. This is a common requirement for many countries worldwide. If your passport does not meet this requirement, your visa application may be denied even if all other documents are in order.