Do you qualify?
- The visitor intends to leave the UK at the end of the visit
- They can support themselves, or be supported by their host, during the trip
- The purpose of the visit is allowed under visitor rules
Documents you'll need
| Document | Details | Needed |
|---|---|---|
| Passport | Passport and travel history | Required |
| Application form | Completed and checked by us before submission | We prepare |
| Financial evidence | Bank statements and evidence of employment or study at home | Required |
| Accommodation or invitation | Invitation letter from the UK host | Required |
| Financial evidence | Host's ID, address proof and financial evidence, if they are supporting the trip | Required |
We give you a full checklist for your circumstances at your consultation.
Do your visitors need a visa or an ETA?
It depends on their nationality. Visitors from many countries, including India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Nigeria and Ghana, need a Standard Visitor visa before they travel. Visitors who don't need a visa, such as US, Canadian, Australian and EU citizens, must now have an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) before travelling to the UK.
What the Home Office looks for
Visitor visas are refused more often than people expect, usually because the evidence doesn't convince the officer the visit is genuine. The application should show:
- A clear reason for the visit and a realistic plan
- Enough money to pay for the trip, or a sponsor who can
- Strong reasons to return home, such as work, study, family or property
- A good travel and immigration history
A well-prepared invitation letter from the family member in the UK, with their own documents, makes a real difference.
Inviting family to the UK
If you are inviting parents or relatives, we prepare a sponsor letter and help you gather supporting evidence, such as your immigration status, payslips, bank statements and proof of accommodation. We also prepare a clear cover letter explaining the visit.
Refused before?
A previous refusal must be declared, and the new application should deal with the reasons for refusal directly. We review the refusal letter and help make a stronger application.
UK visit visa help in Manchester
We're based at 61 Mosley Street in Manchester city centre and help clients across Greater Manchester, including Bury, Bolton, Oldham, Rochdale, Salford and Stockport. We also work with clients anywhere in the UK and overseas by phone, video call and email.
How we help
- Check your eligibility and confirm the right route at your consultation
- Give you a personalised document checklist
- Prepare and complete your application forms
- Review all evidence against the current rules before submission
- Keep you updated until you have a decision
Fees and timescales
Our fee is agreed before we start. See our fees. Government fees are paid separately, and are listed on GOV.UK.
Common questions
Do I need a visa or an ETA?
It depends on nationality. Many nationalities need a visa; others need an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA). We check this first.
How long can a visitor stay in the UK?
Usually up to 6 months per visit. Long-term visit visas of 2, 5 or 10 years are available for frequent visitors, but each stay is still limited to 6 months.
How long does a UK visit visa take?
From outside the UK, most visit visa applications are decided within about 3 weeks. Priority services are available in many countries.