The type of visa you need depends on the purpose of your visit. Common types of visas for visiting the UK include tourist visas, business visas, family visitor visas, and transit visas. The specific visa category you need will determine the requirements and application process.

To apply for a UK visa, you typically need to complete an online visa application form, schedule an appointment at a visa application center, pay the application fee, and provide supporting documents such as a valid passport, passport-sized photos, and evidence of your intended activities in the UK.

Processing times for UK visa applications can vary depending on the type of visa and the workload at the visa processing center. Generally, it can take anywhere from a few days to several weeks to process a visa application. It’s advisable to apply well in advance of your planned travel date.

In most cases, visitor visas for the UK do not permit the holder to work or study in the country. If you plan to work or study in the UK, you will likely need to apply for a different type of visa, such as a work visa or a student visa, depending on your circumstances.

It may be possible to extend your stay in the UK under certain circumstances, such as for tourism, business, medical treatment, or to continue studying or working. However, you must apply for an extension before your current visa expires and meet the eligibility criteria for the extension.