Complete visa information for Indian passport holders
Indian passport holders require a UK Standard Visitor visa for tourism, family visits and eligible short business activities.
Indian citizens need a UK Standard Visitor visa for tourism, visiting family and friends, and short business trips. You apply online, then give your fingerprints and photo at a VFS Global visa application centre (there is one in Hyderabad). From 8 April 2026, the fees are £135 for a 6-month visa, £506 for 2 years, £903 for 5 years and £1,128 for 10 years. Each visit can last up to 6 months, whatever the visa's length.
A standard decision usually takes about 15 working days after your biometrics appointment, and longer from May to August and from October to December. If you need it faster, the optional Priority service (£500) targets a decision within five working days, and Super Priority (£1,000) the next working day. Neither guarantees approval.
UK decisions focus on two questions: is the purpose of the trip genuine, and will you return to India? Steady income, consistent documents and a clear plan matter more than a large balance deposited just before applying. For family visits, include your host's invitation letter, address proof and UK immigration status. A Schengen visa does not allow entry to the UK.
Information last checked: 28 October 2026
Standard decisions usually take about 15 working days after your VFS biometrics appointment, and longer in peak months. Priority (5 working days) and Super Priority (next working day) are available at extra cost.
From 8 April 2026: £135 for 6 months, £506 for 2 years, £903 for 5 years and £1,128 for 10 years. Each visit is still limited to 6 months.
No. The UK is not in the Schengen area, so you need a separate UK visa.
Not showing clearly why you are travelling and that you will return to India. Inconsistent documents and unexplained large deposits are frequent problems.
You can apply for a 2, 5 or 10-year visa, but it is usually granted to applicants with a good travel history. Many first-time travellers start with a 6-month visa.