The UK Visit Visa

✅ 1. Visit the UK for Tourism

You can travel to the UK for a holiday, sightseeing, or to visit famous attractions and landmarks.

✅ 2. Visit Family and Friends

This visa lets you spend time with relatives or friends living in the UK.

✅ 3. Attend Business Meetings and Conferences

You are allowed to:

  • Attend meetings or interviews

  • Give unpaid talks or speeches

  • Participate in business negotiations

  • Visit sites or facilities as part of your overseas job

✅ 4. Take a Short Course (Less Than 6 Months)

You can attend a short educational course such as:

  • English language training

  • Work-related training if it is not part of a job in the UK

✅ 5. Receive Private Medical Treatment

Applicants can travel to the UK for private healthcare or organ donation (to a relative or friend).

✅ 6. Participate in Certain Events

Some visitors may take part in specific sporting or creative events, research, or academic exchanges—depending on their profession and invitation.

What You Cannot Do on a UK Standard Visitor Visa

❌ Work or Take Employment in the UK

You are not allowed to do paid or unpaid work, or work for a UK company.

❌ Live in the UK for Long Periods

Using this visa for frequent or back-to-back visits to live in the UK is not allowed.

❌ Claim Public Funds

You cannot access benefits or financial support from the UK government.

❌ Get Married or Register a Civil Partnership

If you plan to marry in the UK, you must apply for a Marriage Visitor Visa instead.

❌ Study Long-Term

For courses longer than 6 months, you need a UK Student Visa (formerly Tier 4).

Summary: UK Standard Visitor Visa Uses and Restrictions

✅ Allowed Activities❌ Prohibited ActivitiesTourismPaid or unpaid workVisiting family or friendsLiving in the UK long-termAttending business eventsAccessing public fundsShort courses (under 6 months)Getting married or forming civil partnershipsPrivate medical treatmentStudying long-term

Final Notes

The UK Standard Visitor Visa is designed for genuine short-term visits only. Always provide honest and accurate information in your application and ensure your visit complies with the visa rules.