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. 

Find out if you need to apply for a visa.

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


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