Planning a short-term trip to the UK for tourism, visiting family, or business meetings? Whether you need a Standard Visitor Visa or an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA), this guide covers every detail for May 2025 from eligibility and fees to processing times and application steps—so you can travel with confidence.
Visa Types: Standard Visitor vs. ETA
- Standard Visitor Visa
Required if you’re from a country not on the visa-waiver list, staying up to 6 months (or longer-term visas up to 2, 5 or 10 years) for tourism, family visits, short-term study (up to 30 days), or permitted business activities GOV.UKVisa Application Fees. - UK Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA)
Launched April 2025, citizens of visa-waiver countries (e.g., USA, Canada, Australia) must obtain an ETA for stays up to 6 months. Valid for 2 years or until passport expiry, allowing multiple visits Latest news & breaking headlinesBusiness Insider.
Eligibility Criteria
You must demonstrate:
- Genuine Visitor Intent
Evidence you’ll leave the UK at end of your stay (return ticket, employment ties, property ownership). - Financial Means
At least £1,270 in savings for a 6-month visit (approx. £211/month) plus travel costs. - Accommodation Details
Hotel bookings, rental agreement, or invitation letter. - Health & Character
Good health—medical check only if requested—and no serious criminal record. - Passport Validity
Valid for the entire duration of your trip.
For ETAs, ensure you hold a passport from an ETA-eligible country and complete the online form.
Also Check: New Zealand Summer Visitor Visa 2025: Step-by-Step Application Guide
Fees Overview
| Visa Type | Validity | Fee (GBP) |
|---|---|---|
| Standard Visitor (≤ 6 months) | Single or multiple entries | 127 GOV.UK |
| Long-term Visitor (2 years) | Multiple entries | 674 Visa Application Fees |
| Long-term Visitor (5 years) | Multiple entries | 1,235 Visa Application Fees |
| Long-term Visitor (10 years) | Multiple entries | 1,540 Visa Application Fees |
| Electronic Travel Authorisation | Up to 6 months per visit | £10 rising to £16 (Apr 2025) Latest news & breaking headlines |
Processing Times
- Standard Visitor Visa: Most decisions made within 8 weeks of application GOV.UK.
- ETA: Typically 3 working days after submission.
- Priority Service (where available): Decisions in 5–10 working days (additional fee applies).
Apply at least 3–4 weeks before your planned travel to account for any delays or requests for further information.
Required Documents
| Document | Notes |
|---|---|
| Passport bio-page | Valid for full stay; clear scan |
| Invitation or Itinerary | Hotel booking, tour bookings, or invitation |
| Financial Evidence | Bank statements (last 3 months), payslips |
| Accommodation Proof | Booking confirmation or host invitation letter |
| Employment/Study Ties | Letter from employer/university enrollment |
| Travel Insurance | Strongly recommended |
| ETA Eligibility Proof (for ETA) | Passport country eligibility confirmation |
Step-by-Step Application Process
A. Standard Visitor Visa
- Register & Apply Online
- Create or log into your account on the GOV.UK Standard Visitor visa page GOV.UK.
- Select your visa length and purpose.
- Complete the Application Form
- Provide personal details, travel history, and trip itinerary.
- Upload supporting documents (see next section).
- Pay the Fee
- Use a credit/debit card to pay the applicable fee online.
- Book an Appointment
- Schedule a visit at a local Visa Application Centre for biometrics (fingerprints and photo).
- Submit Documents & Biometrics
- Attend your appointment with originals and copies of required documents.
- Await Decision
- Track your application online. You’ll receive an email or SMS once your visa is granted.
B. Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA)
- Access the ETA Portal
- Go to the official UK ETA page or use the UK ETA mobile app.
- Fill in Your Details
- Enter passport information, personal data, and answer security questions.
- Pay the Fee
- Complete payment (£10, increasing to £16 on April 9, 2025).
- Receive ETA
- Approval is usually within 3 working days. No biometrics required.
Conclusion
Securing your UK Visitor Visa or ETA for May 2025 is straightforward when you understand the requirements, fees, and process. Plan ahead, prepare complete documentation, and apply in good time to enjoy a seamless journey.
FAQs
Q: Can I extend my Standard Visitor visa in the UK?
Extensions are rarely granted. You must apply before expiry and demonstrate exceptional reasons.
Q: Can I work or study on this visa?
No. Work is prohibited; study is limited to short courses (≤ 30 days).
Q: What if my ETA is refused?
You can apply for a Standard Visitor visa instead, following the process above.
Q: Do children need ETAs?
Yes—every traveler, including children, requires their own ETA or visa.