💷 Financial Evidence for a UK Visit Visa – What You Need to Show

One of the most important parts of your UK visit visa application is proving that you have enough money to fund your trip — and that those funds are genuinely available to you.

UKVI (UK Visas and Immigration) will look closely at your financial situation, not just your sponsor’s. Even if someone else is paying for your visit, you still need to show your own financial background clearly.

✅ What Does “Financial Evidence” Mean?

You need to prove:

  • You can afford your travel, accommodation, and expenses during your stay

  • You have access to the funds you are showing (not just “in someone’s account”)

  • The source of your income is clear, regular, and believable

📄 What Documents Can You Use as Financial Evidence?

Here are examples of accepted documents:

  • Personal bank statements (last 6 months)

  • Salary slips from employment

  • Employment letter confirming your job and income

  • Business bank statements (if self-employed)

  • Tax returns or invoices (for freelancers/self-employed)

  • Proof of pension or other regular income

💡 If you're showing a business bank account, make sure it’s clearly linked to you and explain how you access the money personally.

🔍 Important Tips for Financial Documents

  • ✅ Show your own finances first. Even if a family member is funding the trip, you must still show your own financial situation.

  • ❌ Avoid large unexplained deposits, especially within 30 days before applying. These can look suspicious.

  • ✅ If you are employed, show consistent salary deposits.

  • ✅ If you’re self-employed, show business activity, invoices, and income records.

  • ❌ Don’t submit empty or inactive bank accounts — UKVI checks your transaction history.

  • ✅ Provide clear translations for any non-English financial documents (see translation rules below).

  • ✅ Explain anything unusual in a cover letter, such as recent gifts, property sales, or family support.

👥 What If Someone Else Is Sponsoring You?

If you’re being supported by a sponsor (friend or family), they must provide:

  • A signed sponsorship letter

  • Their bank statements or payslips

  • Proof of relationship (if possible)

🛑 But again — this doesn’t replace the need to show your own financial background. The stronger your own profile, the better your chances.

🌍 Translation Rules

Any financial documents not in English or Welsh must be:

  • Translated by a certified translator

  • Include the translator’s full name, signature, contact details, and date

🧾 Summary Checklist – Financial Evidence

  • Personal bank statements (6 months)

  • Salary slips or business income proof

  • Employment or self-employment documents

  • Sponsor documents (if applicable)

  • Certified translations (if needed)

  • Explanation of any unusual activity (optional cover letter)

🎯 Need help reviewing your financial documents before applying?
AskVisas can check your paperwork and make sure everything is clear, consistent, and visa-ready — especially for this sensitive part of your application.