The United Kingdom offers various visa types to accommodate different purposes of travel, each with specific application procedures and associated fees. Here's an overview to assist you:
1. Standard Visitor Visa:
- Purpose: Suitable for tourism, visiting family and friends, business activities, or short-term studies (up to 6 months).
- Validity and Fees:
- 6-month visa: £115
- 2-year multiple-entry visa: £432
- 5-year multiple-entry visa: £771
- 10-year multiple-entry visa: £963
- Application Process:
- Complete the online application form.
- Pay the applicable fee.
- Schedule and attend an appointment at a visa application centre to provide biometric information (fingerprints and photograph).
2. Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA):
- Purpose: Starting January 8, 2025, travelers from visa-exempt countries (excluding Ireland) will need an ETA for short visits.
- Validity and Fees:
- Cost: £10
- Valid for multiple entries over two years or until the passport expires, whichever comes first.
- Application Process:
- Apply online or via the UK ETA app.
- Provide personal and travel information, including passport details and a photograph.
- Pay the £10 fee.
- Receive a decision, typically within three working days.
3. Work and Study Visas:
- Types:
- Skilled Worker Visa: For individuals with a job offer in the UK.
- Student Visa: For individuals accepted into a UK educational institution.
- Global Talent Visa: For recognized leaders or potential leaders in specific fields.
- Fees: Vary depending on the visa type and duration.
- Application Process:
- Submit an online application.
- Provide required documentation (e.g., Certificate of Sponsorship for work visas, Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies for student visas).
- Pay the visa fee and the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS), which grants access to the UK's National Health Service (NHS).
4. Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS):
- Purpose: Mandatory for most visa applicants staying in the UK for more than six months, providing access to the NHS.
- Fees:
- £1,035 per year for adults.
- Discounted rate of £776 per year for students, Youth Mobility Scheme applicants, and children under 18.
Important Considerations:
- Biometric Information: Most visa applicants must provide fingerprints and a digital photograph.
- Processing Times: Generally, visa applications are processed within three weeks.
- Tuberculosis Testing: Applicants from certain countries may need to undergo testing if applying to stay in the UK for more than six months.
For the tuberculosis most accurate and up-to-date information, it's advisable to consult the official UK government website or contact the nearest UK visa application centre.