General Visitor
Overview: Step into the UK with confidence. The General Visitor route lets you explore, connect, and enjoy—without crossing legal lines. Simple rules, big opportunities.
This visa is for visiting the UK for general purposes, including for a holiday or to visit friends or relatives.
Successful applicants can stay in the UK for up to six months or 12 months for academic visitors.
Requirements
The applicant must mee the following criteria:
- be aged 18 or over;
- only want to visit the United Kingdom for up to six months, or up to 12 months if accompanying an academic visitor; intend to leave the United Kingdom at the end of the visit;
- have enough money to support and accommodate self and any dependents travelling on the same application without working or help from public funds, or be supported and accommodated by relatives or friends;
- be able to meet the cost of the return or onward journey; and
- not be in transit to a country outside the “Common Travel Area”.
The applicant must also show that during the visit, he/she does not intend to:
- take employment, produce goods or provide services, including the selling of goods or services directly to members of the public;
- undertake a course of study;
- marry or form a civil partnership, or give notice of marriage or civil partnership;
- carry out the activities of a business visit, a sports visitor or an entertainment visitor, or
- receive private medical treatment
Take Away Points
🇬🇧 Visit for fun – Explore the UK’s sights, culture, and history.
🛫 Short stays only – Usually up to 6 months.
📸 Tourist vibes – Perfect for holidays, events, or family visits.
🚫 No work allowed – This visa is for leisure, not jobs.
🗺️ Plan ahead – Book travel, show funds, and have a return ticket.