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UK Visitor Visas.

Applying for a visitor visa? Let our expert support make your visit to the UK as smooth as possible.

An introduction to our UK Visitor Visa services

If you need to come to the UK for tourism, to visit family or to attend short-term study or business events, you might need to apply for a UK visitor visa.

At Britton and Time, we aim to simplify the visitor visa application process. Our specialist immigration solicitors offer clear, practical support to help you prepare and submit a strong application to give you the best possible chance of success.

We have particular experience supporting visitors from countries where applications may face additional scrutiny, such as Iran. Every case is different, so we tailor our advice to your circumstances.

Mitchell Potter
Solicitor

FAQs

Commonly asked questions on UK Visitor Visas

1. What is a visitor visa?

A UK visitor visa, officially known as the Standard Visitor Visa, allows people to enter the UK for a short stay.  

It covers tourism, visiting friends or family, short-term study and certain business activities. You cannot use a visitor visa to work in the UK or to live here long term. 

This visa is typically for individuals who are not from a country that qualifies for visa-free travel to the UK. You must show that you: 

  • Intend to leave the UK at the end of your visit 
  • Can support yourself during your stay 
  • Have a genuine reason for coming. 

2. How long does a visitor visa last for?

Most visitor visas are valid for up to six months.  

In some cases, you may apply for a long-term visitor visa lasting two, five or ten years. These allow multiple entries, although each visit must still be no longer than six months. 

Long-term visas are usually granted to people who travel to the UK frequently and have a record of following visa rules. If you’ve previously overstayed a visa or had one refused, your chances of qualifying may be lower. If that is the case, we may be able to help you. 

3. What documents do I need for a visitor visa?

The documents you need depend on your reasons for visiting and personal circumstances. Most applicants will need to provide: 

  • A valid passport or travel document 
  • Proof of your reason for visiting, such as a letter of invitation or travel bookings 
  • Financial evidence, such as recent bank statements or payslips 
  • Evidence that you plan to leave the UK, such as proof of employment or family commitments at home 

Other documents may be needed for more complex or high-risk applications.

4. How much does a UK visitor visa cost? 

Visitor visa fees depend on the length and type of visa. The longer your visa, the higher the cost. 

Each visit on a long-term visa is limited to six months. Higher fees apply for medical or academic visits lasting longer than six months. For full details of the visitor visa, visit the UK government visa guidance

5. What can I do if my visitor visa is refused?

Having your application refused can feel disheartening, but there are still options.  

In some cases, you may be able to appeal or request a review, especially if you believe there has been a clear error in the decision. Often the most effective response is to make a new application with stronger supporting evidence. 

We can help you make sense of the refusal letter, identify any weaknesses in your original submission and support you through the next steps. If appropriate, we will also explain the process of judicial review and whether it may apply in your case. 

We assist with reapplication after refusal, and if needed, can advise on next steps. 

6. Do Iranian citizens need a visitor visa to enter the UK?

Iranian nationals often face extra checks and delays when applying for a UK visitor visa. Even well-prepared, genuine applications can be rejected without a clear explanation. We understand these issues and can help address them. 

We support Iranian applicants by: 

  • Preparing applications that anticipate common concerns 
  • Gathering evidence that shows strong ties to Iran and an intention to return 
  • Reducing the risk of refusal due to unclear travel plans or incomplete financial records 

Careful preparation from the start can improve your chances significantly. 

7. How do I know what type of UK visa I need?

It depends on what you’re planning to do in the UK. The Standard Visitor Visa is suitable for short stays, tourism, visiting family or friends, attending events, or short-term study. But if you’re planning to work, study long-term, join family or settle in the UK, you’ll likely need a different type of visa. 

The UK government has an online visa check tool to help you find the right visa based on your circumstances. Simply answer a few questions about your nationality and your reasons for travelling. 

We can assist with a wide range of applications, including: 

If you’re unsure or have a complex case, Britton and Time will help you find the right route. 

8. How can a solicitor help with a visitor visa?

Visitor visa rules might appear simple, but many applications are rejected because of small errors or missing information. A solicitor can ensure your application meets the necessary legal and practical requirements.

At Britton and Time, we provide:

  • Advice tailored to your situation
  • A full review of your documents
  • Help with writing cover letters and personal statements
  • Support with refused or complex applications

Working with a solicitor can help reduce delays and give your application the strongest possible foundation.

9. How much do visitor visa legal services cost?

We offer fixed-fee pricing for all visitor visa services. You will know in advance what the service includes and how much it will cost. 

For full details, please see our immigration pricing page

Meet our expert UK Visitor Visa team.

Need legal advice now from a solicitor in London or Brighton?

Call, email or provide us with a few details of your matter, and we’ll help you arrange an initial consultation. You’ll get:

  • Unlimited time to discuss your matter with a solicitor.
  • An outline of your legal position and available options.
  • A clear time and fee estimate for your case.

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