Who this page is for
- Visitors travelling for tourism or private visits.
- Sponsors supporting temporary stays.
- Applicants visiting a partner/friend/family member and needing relationship-evidence planning.
Services / Visitor Routes
Tourist Visa
For short UK visits where the applicant does not intend to work or study.
Detailed guidance
Core Rule, Validity and Stay
A UK tourist visa is for short stays where the applicant does not intend to work or study.
The source text states visit duration is up to six months in any twelve-month period.
Visa validity starts from date of issue, not date of UK arrival.
A visa can be post-dated by up to three months if requested at application stage to align with travel plans.
Qualification and Evidence
The Embassy must be satisfied the applicant will return home after the visit.
The case must show adequate arrangements for accommodation and financial support during stay.
Where the visit is to see a boyfriend/partner or family contact in the UK, relationship evidence is required.
The source also states that tourist applications should include relationship proof, finance/accommodation evidence, and a sponsorship letter where applicable.
Processing and Appeal Position
The source text states tourist visas are normally processed in around two weeks after submission.
It states there is no right of appeal against refusal for standard tourist visas.
For family-visit class applications submitted on or after 25 June 2013, no appeal right is available unless based on human-rights or racial-discrimination grounds.
The source page directs applicants to request help for preparation before submission.
Next Step
If this matches your situation, request a consultation and this issue will be preselected in the contact form.