How Indian passport holders get a visa for United Kingdom: visa type, government fee, processing time, maximum stay, the documents required and where to apply. Government-sourced — always verify on the official site before you travel.
Quick facts
- Visa type: Standard Visitor visa — apply online + VFS biometrics
- Government fee: £135 for a Standard Visitor visa (up to 6 months). Long-term options: 2-year £506, 5-year £903, 10-year £1,128. Optional VFS services (priority, courier, etc.) cost extra.
- Processing time: Usually a decision within 3 weeks of your biometrics appointment. Priority services available for an extra fee
- Maximum stay: Up to 6 months per visit
- Interview: Not required
- Ease for Indian travellers: 40/100
Documents you'll need
- Passport valid for the whole of your stay, with a blank page
- Evidence you can support yourself during the trip (bank statements / payslips)
- Evidence you can pay for the return or onward journey
- Travel plans, accommodation details and how long you intend to stay
- Evidence you will leave the UK at the end of the visit
- If someone else is funding/hosting you: their details, funds and relationship evidence
How & where to apply
Apply online for the Standard Visitor visa, then book a biometrics appointment (fingerprints + photo) at a VFS Global UK visa application centre in India. You can apply up to 3 months before travel. There is no formal interview in standard cases. GOV.UK — Standard Visitor visa (official)
Transit & connections
Indian nationals normally need a Direct Airside Transit Visa (DATV, £41.50) to change flights airside in the UK, or a Visitor in Transit visa if passing through border control within 48 hours. Always check GOV.UK for your routing.
Good to know
Apply only via GOV.UK and the official VFS Global UK centres. Strong evidence of funds and ties to India makes a big difference. Visa rules change often — confirm on the official government source: https://www.gov.uk/standard-visitor
Frequently asked questions
Do Indians need a visa for United Kingdom?
Standard Visitor visa — apply online + VFS biometrics. Apply only via GOV.UK and the official VFS Global UK centres. Strong evidence of funds and ties to India makes a big difference.
What documents do Indians need for a United Kingdom visa?
Passport valid for the whole of your stay, with a blank page; Evidence you can support yourself during the trip (bank statements / payslips); Evidence you can pay for the return or onward journey; Travel plans, accommodation details and how long you intend to stay; Evidence you will leave the UK at the end of the visit; If someone else is funding/hosting you: their details, funds and relationship evidence
How long does a United Kingdom visa take and what does it cost?
Processing: Usually a decision within 3 weeks of your biometrics appointment. Priority services available for an extra fee. Government fee: £135 for a Standard Visitor visa (up to 6 months). Long-term options: 2-year £506, 5-year £903, 10-year £1,128. Optional VFS services (priority, courier, etc.) cost extra.. Maximum stay: Up to 6 months per visit.
How do Indians apply for a United Kingdom visa?
Apply online for the Standard Visitor visa, then book a biometrics appointment (fingerprints + photo) at a VFS Global UK visa application centre in India. You can apply up to 3 months before travel. There is no formal interview in standard cases. Official source: https://www.gov.uk/standard-visitor