UK Visitor Visa

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A quick guide to the UK Visitor Visa, covering the essential information families need before travelling: who needs a visa, who needs an ETA instead, and where to find official guidance.

UK Visitor Visa General Information

The Standard Visitor Visa allows you to visit the UK for tourism, to see family and friends, or for certain business and short study activities, usually for up to 6 months and that includes visiting your child during exeats, half-terms or holidays. It is the visa most parents will use when visiting their child at a UK boarding school or university, or when attending open days, graduation ceremonies and school events. Whether you need one depends on your nationality, so the first step is always to check the official requirements for your country before booking travel.

Who is it for?

The Standard Visitor Visa is for nationals of countries who require a visa to enter the UK. However, not every traveller needs one:

• citizens of the European Union and other visa-exempt countries do not need a Visitor Visa, but they do need an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) before travelling to the UK
• nationals of countries on the UK visa list must apply for a Standard Visitor Visa before travelling
• the UK visa system is now digital, successful applicants receive an eVisa linked to their passport rather than a physical document or sticker

The ETA is a quick online application, usually approved within a few days, and is valid for multiple visits over two years. The Standard Visitor Visa involves a fuller application with supporting documents.

How can British Guardianship help?

Our team can support and guide families to some extent with the UK Child Student Visa and Student Visa, as these are the routes where preparation and evidence matter most. The Visitor Visa, and the ETA in particular, are straightforward processes that most families complete without difficulty. Our main advice is simple: always leave enough time to deal with your visa or ETA before travelling, especially ahead of term start dates, half-terms and school events, so that nothing disrupts your plans. If you are unsure which route applies to you, contact us and we will point you in the right direction.

Where to find the official information?

Official guidance on the Standard Visitor Visa and the Electronic Travel Authorisation, including current fees, processing times and eligible countries, is always published on the official UK Government website. We recommend checking it before booking any travel, as requirements can change.