Apply for a standard visitor visa
Updated on: 29 May 2024
Understand who needs to apply for a standard visitor visa, where to get official information on how to apply and what documents you’ll need.
You may need to apply for a standard visitor visa before you travel if you are:
- coming to study in the UK for six months or less
- a current student and your visa expires before your graduation ceremony
- attending a graduation ceremony in the UK as a guest.
Only some nationalities have to apply for a standard visitor visa before they travel to the UK.
How to apply
Visit the UK government’s website to apply for a standard visitor visa and get official information on:
- when to apply
- visa application fees
- documents you’ll need and how to provide them
- how long it may take to get a decision.
You’ll need to provide additional documents if you are under 18.
There can be delays in visa decisions. Do not book non-refundable flights or travel until you have received your visa.
Attending graduation
If your student visa expires before your graduation, you’ll have to apply for a standard visitor visa. To attend your graduation ceremony, each guest must also apply for a standard visitor visa and provide their supporting documents.
For more information, see Attending your graduation and the visa you and your guests may need.
Links to external sites and information
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