What you need
For a UK Standard Visitor visa, you must show you are a genuine visitor and will leave at the end of your stay.
Must-have documents
- Passport – valid for the whole of your stay
- Application form – completed online (UKVI)
- Passport-size photo – UK visa photo rules
- Bank statements – usually last 6 months; must show your name and be recent
- Proof of accommodation – hotel booking or invitation from host with their proof of address
- Travel itinerary – what you plan to do and when
If you are employed
- Employment letter (job title, salary, length of employment, leave dates)
- Leave approval letter from your employer
- Recent payslips (e.g. last 3–6 months)
If someone is sponsoring you
- Invitation letter from your host in the UK
- Host’s passport copy and proof of address (e.g. utility bill, council tax)
- Host’s bank statements or proof of funds
Strongly recommended
- Previous passports with visas (travel history)
- Property or family ties in your home country
- Tax returns or business documents if self-employed
Common mistakes
- Bank statements older than 31 days when you apply
- Missing explanation for large or sudden deposits
- Invitation letter without host’s ID and address proof
This is general guidance only. Always check the official GOV.UK visitor visa page for your situation.