Explore United Kingdom
The United Kingdom (UK), located in Northwestern Europe, is a constitutional monarchy composed of four constituent countries: England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland. The capital and largest city is London. The UK has a rich history that has shaped its cultural heritage and global influence. English is the official language, and the country has a diverse population with influences from various ethnic backgrounds, reflecting its history as a former colonial power. The UK's cultural contributions include literature, music, theater, and art. Renowned authors like William Shakespeare and influential music acts like The Beatles have left an indelible mark on global culture. The country's cultural scene is vibrant, with world-class museums, theaters, and festivals. The British Pound Sterling (GBP) is the official currency, and the UK has a diverse and highly developed economy. Key sectors include finance, manufacturing, services, and technology. London is a global financial center and a hub for international business. The landscapes of the UK range from rolling countryside and historic cities to rugged coastlines and mountainous regions. The country is known for its architectural heritage, including landmarks such as Buckingham Palace, the Tower of London, and Edinburgh Castle. The UK has a constitutional monarchy with a parliamentary democracy. The monarch is the head of state, and the Prime Minister is the head of government. The UK played a significant role in the development of democratic principles. The country faces various challenges, including debates around its relationship with the European Union, regional disparities, and social issues. Despite these challenges, the UK remains a major global player with a cultural legacy that continues to influence the world. In summary, the United Kingdom's combination of historical significance, cultural richness, and economic influence positions it as a prominent and influential nation on the global stage.
Overview
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Country
United Kingdom
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Best Time to Visit
March, April, May, June, September, October, November
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Ideal Duration
10-14 Days Day(s)
Visa Rules
Last updated: 2025-04-21 05:39:06
Tourist Visa
The British Irish Visa Scheme (BIVS) allows Indian nationals to travel to both the UK and Ireland on a single visit visa. This scheme requires applicants to enter the country that issued their visa first before traveling to the other country. Visitors transiting through the UK to Ireland do not need a separate transit visa.
Indian citizens planning to visit the United Kingdom for tourism purposes are required to obtain a Standard Visitor Visa prior to their travel. This visa allows stays of up to 6 months and can also be used for business, study (courses up to 6 months), and other permitted activities.
Travel order
If you have a UK visa, you must arrive in the UK first before going to Ireland. If you have an Irish visa, Ireland must be your first destination.
Here are the required documents and particulars for applying under this scheme:
Important Notes:
To get a UK tourist visa from India, you can apply online and then visit a Visa Application Centre for a biometric appointment.
Required Documents and Particulars:
1. Passports
• Original passport with at least 6 months validity and at least 2 blank pages.
• Any original old passport booklets, if applicable.
2. Photographs
• Two photographs with the following specifications:
o White background
o Glossy finish
o 80% face coverage with a little shoulder visible
o Eyes and face clearly visible
o Dimensions: 45mm x 35mm
3. Covering Letter
• A covering letter per individual, family, or company addressed to The Visa Officer, British Deputy High Commission.
o Should include the applicant’s profile, purpose of travel, and travel dates.
o Can be on plain paper for individuals and on company letterhead for officials or sponsored applicants.
4. Bank Statements
• Original personal and company bank statements for the last 6 months with the bank's seal and signature.
o Should be from relevant and active accounts showing proof of funds and income.
o Closing date should be close to the date of visa application (A4 size preferred).
5. IT Returns
• Latest 3 years of Income Tax Acknowledgement / ITR-V (Saral) for individuals and the company.
6. Itinerary / Air Tickets
• Return air tickets, including all internal flight/train tickets if any.
• A day-wise itinerary of the tour.
7. Purpose of Travel / Accommodation
• Proof of accommodation and purpose at the destination, such as:
o Booking certificate and payment receipts from the tour operator.
o Hotel vouchers.
8. Supporting Credentials
Businessmen:
• Proprietorship certificate / Certificate of Registration / Memorandum of Association / Articles of Association / Partnership Deed / PAN Card.
• NOC from other partners or directors in case of a partnership.
Employees:
• Leave sanction letter from the company (from the government body in case of government employees/public servants).
• Last 3 months' salary statements (only for private firms).
• Company ID card (optional).
• Retirement certificate or letter / Copy of Pension Book (for retired employees).
• Pension statements for the last three months.
Students:
• Leave sanction letter from the educational institution (for travel during working days).
• Bonafide certificate from the educational institution (for travel during vacations).
• School/College ID card (optional).
Newlywed/Honeymooners (if the spouse's name is not endorsed in their passports):
• Original marriage certificate.
• Wedding invitation card / Photographs (in case the marriage certificate is not ready).
Children Traveling Unaccompanied by Both Parents/Either Parent:
• A notary attested NOC on a stamp paper from both/either of the parents if both/either of them are unaccompanied.
• Passport copies of both/either of the parents.
• If parents don't have passports, the birth certificate of the applicant and copies of the ID cards of the parents.
Travelers Unaccompanied by Spouses/Partners:
• A notary attested NOC on a stamp paper from the unaccompanied spouse.
• Passport copy of the unaccompanied spouse. If not a passport holder, any government ID proof mentioning the spouse's name can be submitted.
9. Additional Supporting Documents (if available)
• FD receipts from banks.
• Public shares/debentures certificate.
• Asset evaluation report from a CA.
Ensuring that you have all the necessary documentation will help streamline the visa application process under the British Irish Visa Scheme.
Business Visa
The British Irish Visa Scheme (BIVS) allows Indian nationals to travel to both the UK and Ireland on a single visit visa. Applicants must first enter the country that issued their visa before traveling to the other country. Visitors transiting through the UK to Ireland do not need a separate transit visa. Here are the required documents and particulars for applying under this scheme for a business visa:
Important Notes:
• Applicants must submit their biometrics at the Visa Application Center with a prior appointment.
Required Documents and Particulars:
1. Passports
• Original passport with at least 6 months validity and at least 2 blank pages.
• Any original old passport booklets, if applicable.
2. Photographs
• Two photographs with the following specifications:
o White background
o Glossy finish
o 80% face coverage with a little shoulder visible
o Eyes and face clearly visible
o Dimensions: 45mm x 35mm
3. Covering Letter
• A covering letter per individual, family, or company addressed to The Visa Officer, British Deputy High Commission.
o Should include the applicant’s profile, purpose of travel, and travel dates.
o Must be on company letterhead for officials or sponsored applicants.
4. Bank Statements
• Original personal and company bank statements for the last 3 months with the bank's seal and signature.
o Should be from relevant and active accounts showing proof of funds and income.
o Closing date should be close to the date of visa application (A4 size preferred).
5. IT Returns
• Latest 3 years of Income Tax Acknowledgement / ITR-V (Saral) for individuals and the company.
6. Itinerary / Air Tickets
• Return air tickets, including all internal flight/train tickets if any.
7. Purpose of Travel / Accommodation
• Original introduction letter from the employer on business letterhead, signed and stamped by HR or directorate, mentioning:
o Position
o Duration of service
o Dates and purpose of the trip
o Confirmation of expenses coverage by the employer/company.
• Letter of invitation from the business on their official headed paper confirming:
o Who you will be visiting
o Where you will be staying
o Support details during your visit.
• Evidence of any previous dealings with the UK company being visited (e.g., business meetings, email conversations, company activities, invoices).
• For performances and entertainment visitors, provide details of whether you work in this area as a professional or amateur, and what and where you will be performing.
8. Supporting Credentials
Businessmen:
• Proprietorship certificate / Certificate of Registration / Memorandum of Association / Articles of Association / Partnership Deed / PAN Card.
• NOC from other partners or directors in case of a partnership.
Employees:
• Leave sanction letter from the company (from the government body in case of government employees/public servants).
• Last 3 months' salary statements (only for private firms).
• Company ID card (optional).
• Retirement certificate or letter / Copy of Pension Book (for retired employees).
• Pension statements for the last three months.
Students:
• Leave sanction letter from the educational institution (for travel during working days).
• Bonafide certificate from the educational institution (for travel during vacations).
• School/College ID card (optional).
Newlywed/Honeymooners (if the spouse's name is not endorsed in their passports):
• Original marriage certificate.
• Wedding invitation card / Photographs (in case the marriage certificate is not ready).
Children Traveling Unaccompanied by Both Parents/Either Parent:
• A notary attested NOC on a stamp paper from both/either of the parents if both/either of them are unaccompanied.
• Passport copies of both/either of the parents.
• If parents don't have passports, the birth certificate of the applicant and copies of the ID cards of the parents.
Travelers Unaccompanied by Spouses/Partners:
• A notary attested NOC on a stamp paper from the unaccompanied spouse.
• Passport copy of the unaccompanied spouse. If not a passport holder, any government ID proof mentioning the spouse's name can be submitted.
9. Additional Supporting Documents (if available)
• FD receipts from banks.
• Public shares/debentures certificate.
• Asset evaluation report from a CA.
Ensuring that you have all the necessary documentation will help streamline the business visa application process under the British Irish Visa Scheme.
Disclaimers
The above list of documents is the standard requirement for the visa application. The Embassy/Consulate/High Commission/Application Centres reserve the right to request additional documents for verification.
Travelspoc does not guarantee the outcome of any visa application. Decisions on visa applications are at the sole discretion of the respective Embassy/Consulate/High Commission.
Visa Application Centres and Embassy Information
Visa Application Centres: Delhi, Chandigarh, Mumbai South, Mumbai North, Pune Ahmedabad, Chennai, Bangalore, Hyderabad, Cochin, Kolkatta, Gurgaon, Whitefield Bangalore
British High Commission, New Delhi
Address: Shantipath, Chanakyapuri, New Delhi 110021
Tel : +91 (11) 2419 2100
Email : web.newdelhi@fco.gov.uk
British Deputy High Commission, Mumbai
Address: Naman Chambers, C/32 G Block Bandra Kurla Complex, Bandra (East), Mumbai 400 051
Tel : +91 (22) 66502222
Email : web.newdelhi@fco.gov.uk
British Deputy High Commission, Ahmedabad
Address: Courtyard by Marriott, Ramdev Nagar Satellite Gujarat, Ahmedabad 380015
Tel : +91 (11) 2419 2100
Email : DHC.Ahmedabad@fco.gov.uk
The official website for UK visa information and applications is the UK government’s portal:
For short visits (up to 6 months), certain nationalities may require an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) instead of a visa.