UK Visa in 2025 — types, documents, processing times, fees
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How to get a UK visa: tourist, student, work, business. Current requirements, processing times, documents, and fees in 2025. Full guide by Visa Dan.
The United Kingdom remains one of the most attractive countries for travel, study, work, and business. Regardless of your purpose of visit, applying for a UK visa requires careful preparation and knowledge of current requirements. In 2025, the visa application and approval process remains highly regulated and detail-oriented. This guide provides a full overview of the main visa types, required documents, processing times, and fees, along with tips for a successful application.
Main types of UK visas
1.Standard Visitor Visa
Designed for short stays in the UK, this visa covers tourism, visiting friends and relatives, short business trips, and medical treatment. The standard duration is up to 6 months, but under certain conditions, visas valid for 2, 5, or 10 years may be issued. Note: even with a long-term visa, you cannot stay in the UK for more than 180 days per year.
2.Student Visa
If you plan to study in the UK, you’ll need a student visa. To apply, you must have a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) from an accredited institution, demonstrate English proficiency (e.g., IELTS UKVI), and provide proof of financial support. This visa allows you to study and work a limited number of hours per week during your studies.
3.Work Visa (Skilled Worker and others)
This visa is issued to qualified professionals who have received a job offer from an employer licensed by UKVI. Your occupation must be on the UK’s list of eligible professions, and English proficiency is required. This visa category opens the path to long-term residency and, eventually, permanent settlement.
4.Business and Investment Visas
Entrepreneurs and investors can apply for visas such as the Start-up visa or the Innovator Founder visa. These require a business idea approved by an authorized endorsing body and proof of funding. They are designed for individuals aiming to establish or grow an innovative business in the UK.
5.Family Visas
Family visas allow reunification with close relatives — spouses, children, parents, or partners legally residing in the UK. These visas are often used for long-term migration and require proof of family ties and financial support.
Designed for short stays in the UK, this visa covers tourism, visiting friends and relatives, short business trips, and medical treatment. The standard duration is up to 6 months, but under certain conditions, visas valid for 2, 5, or 10 years may be issued. Note: even with a long-term visa, you cannot stay in the UK for more than 180 days per year.
2.Student Visa
If you plan to study in the UK, you’ll need a student visa. To apply, you must have a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) from an accredited institution, demonstrate English proficiency (e.g., IELTS UKVI), and provide proof of financial support. This visa allows you to study and work a limited number of hours per week during your studies.
3.Work Visa (Skilled Worker and others)
This visa is issued to qualified professionals who have received a job offer from an employer licensed by UKVI. Your occupation must be on the UK’s list of eligible professions, and English proficiency is required. This visa category opens the path to long-term residency and, eventually, permanent settlement.
4.Business and Investment Visas
Entrepreneurs and investors can apply for visas such as the Start-up visa or the Innovator Founder visa. These require a business idea approved by an authorized endorsing body and proof of funding. They are designed for individuals aiming to establish or grow an innovative business in the UK.
5.Family Visas
Family visas allow reunification with close relatives — spouses, children, parents, or partners legally residing in the UK. These visas are often used for long-term migration and require proof of family ties and financial support.
Required documents
For most visa categories, the standard documentation includes:
Additional requirements:
- A valid passport (at least 6 months at the time of application)
- Proof of travel purpose (e.g., invitation, hotel booking, CAS, or job offer)
- Financial documents showing sufficient funds (bank statements, income certificates)
- A UKVI-compliant photograph
- Proof of visa fee payment
- Medical insurance (if required)
- Tuberculosis test results (depending on your country of residence)
Additional requirements:
- For students: CAS, English test results, proof of tuition payment
- For workers: employer’s letter and Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS)
- For business visas: detailed business plan, investment documentation, and endorsement approval
Processing times and fees in 2025
Processing times:
Approximate visa fees (2025):
Additional costs:
- Standard applications: around 15 working days
- Priority service: 5 working days (extra fee)
- Super Priority service: 24 hours (extra fee)
Approximate visa fees (2025):
- Standard Visitor Visa — from £115
- Student Visa — from £490
- Skilled Worker Visa — from £719
- Business Visas (Start-up/Innovator) — from £378
Additional costs:
- Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS): from £776 per year (for long-term visas)
- Biometric registration: usually included in the fee
Benefits of a UK visa
Obtaining a UK visa offers many advantages:
- Reliable and well-respected visa system
- Multiple entry options for long-term visas
- Wide variety of categories for different goals
- Access to one of the best education and healthcare systems in the world
- Path to extensions, settlement, and eventually citizenship
Conclusion
Applying for a UK visa requires a professional approach, attention to detail, and a complete documentation package. The right visa type depends on your goals: tourism, study, work, or family reunification. The Visa Dan team supports clients at every stage, helping to avoid mistakes and secure approval on the first attempt.
Contact us for a free consultation — we’ll find the best visa option tailored to your plans, timing, and budget.
Contact us for a free consultation — we’ll find the best visa option tailored to your plans, timing, and budget.
Why do customers choose Visa Dan?
Visa Dan is an international company with a strong legal team and experience in assisting more than 1,000 clients. We offer:
- Individual selection of solutions and strategies for obtaining a residence permit.
- Complete transparency and support at every stage.
- A strong team in Europe: lawyers, translators, operators, notaries.
- Support until you receive your ID card, as well as assistance with renewal and integration in the country.
The Visa Dan team will help you navigate this journey from start to finish. Get personalized advice and start your new life in 2025!