UK Standard Visitor (Tourist) Visa for Indian Citizens

1. Eligibility Criteria & Mandatory Conditions

Indian nationals must satisfy all of the following to qualify for a UK Standard Visitor visa:

• Hold a valid passport with at least six months’ validity and two blank pages.

• Demonstrate genuine intention to visit the UK temporarily (maximum stay 6 months) for tourism, visiting family/friends, or permitted business activities.

• Show strong ties to India (employment, property, family) to confirm intention to return.

• Possess sufficient, readily accessible funds to cover all travel, accommodation, and living costs without recourse to public funds.

• Not intend to live in the UK through frequent or successive visits.

2. Required Documents & Evidence

Applicants must submit originals (with copies) of the following:

• Passport- Minimum six months validity beyond travel dates; two blank visa pages.

• Application Form-Completed online “Standard Visitor” application; signed electronically.

• Photographs- Two recent passport-style photos (35 × 45 mm), white background, neutral expression.

• Financial Evidence- 6-month bank statements showing regular salary credits or savings; proof of fixed deposits, investments, or other liquid assets.

• Employment Proof Employer’s no-objection letter stating role, salary, leave approval, and tenure; salary slips for last 3–6 months.

• Travel Itinerary Confirmed flight bookings (round-trip) and accommodation reservations (hotel or host details).

• Ties to India Property deeds, lease agreements, or family dependency letters; marriage certificate if spouse remains in India.

• Supporting Letters (if any)- Invitation letter from UK host with their immigration status proof; conference or event participation letters for business visitors.

• Travel Insurance- Policy covering the entire UK stay, including medical evacuation and repatriation.

3. Permissible Purposes & Prohibited Uses

Permissible Activities: tourism, visiting family/friends, short-term business meetings, conferences, academic workshops, medical consultations.
Prohibited Activities: paid or long-term work; study courses longer than 30 days; marriage or Civil Partnership ceremonies; settlement in the UK.

4. Recent Updates (As of April 2025)

• Introduction of updated document-check guidelines requiring clearer bank statement formats with daily balance columns.

• Enhanced digital upload requirements: applicants must submit certified translations for any non-English documents at time of online application.

5. Role & Benefits of Professional Visa Service Providers (JKVTravel.com)

Engaging a visa service agent can:

• Streamline Document Preparation: ensure completeness, proper formatting, and accurate translations.

• Enhance Application Quality: expert review reduces omissions, inconsistencies, and common errors.

• Optimize Submission Process: manage online form completion, appointment booking, and biometric scheduling.

• Provide Status Tracking & Support: timely updates and guidance on responding to any additional requests.

• Reduce Applicant Stress & Time: handle logistical coordination, allowing applicants to focus on travel planning.