Tourist Visa (Standard Visitor Visa): Allows stays of up to 6 months, with some exceptions for medical treatment or academic research.
Temporary Residence Visa (Skilled Worker Visa, Student Visa, etc.): Typically valid for 1 to 5 years, depending on the visa type and employment or study duration.
Permanent Residence (Indefinite Leave to Remain - ILR): Grants indefinite stay, but residents should not be outside the UK for more than 2 years to maintain status.
Visa cost
Tourist Visa: Costs approximately $135 for a 6-month visa. Long-term visas (2, 5, or 10 years) range from $515 to $1,290.
Temporary Residence Visa: Costs vary; Skilled Worker Visas range from $770 to $1,500, while Student Visas cost around $560.
Permanent Residence (ILR): The application fee is approximately $3,200.
Visa extension
Tourist Visa: Extensions are generally not allowed unless under exceptional circumstances.
Temporary Residence Visa: Renewable based on continued employment, study, or sponsorship.
Permanent Residence (ILR): Not applicable, but holders can apply for British citizenship after a qualifying period.
Visa processing time
Tourist Visa: Processing takes around 3 weeks.
Temporary Residence Visa: Processing usually takes between 3 to 8 weeks, depending on the visa type.
Permanent Residence (ILR): Processing may take 6 months or longer.
Who can apply?
Tourist Visa: Required for travelers from non-visa-exempt countries visiting for leisure, business, or medical reasons.
Temporary Residence Visa: Available to skilled workers, students, entrepreneurs, and family members of UK residents.
Permanent Residence (ILR): Eligible after 5 years on a qualifying visa (e.g., Skilled Worker, Spouse, or Innovator Visa).
Where to apply?
Applications must be submitted online via the UK Home Office website or at a visa application center in the applicant’s country.
