Service
Visitor visas
Support for standard visitor applications, including visits to family, short business trips and applications following a previous refusal.
Visitor applications look simple and are refused more often than people expect. The decision rests on whether the caseworker accepts that you are a genuine visitor who will leave at the end of your stay.
That judgement is made on the papers, without an interview, so the application has to answer the obvious questions before they are asked.
What caseworkers look for
The application should show where you live and work, what you are returning to, who is funding the visit, and what you intend to do while you are here.
Vague applications invite refusal. Specific ones, with dates, addresses and named sponsors, give the caseworker something to accept.
Applying after a refusal
A previous refusal is not fatal, but repeating the same application rarely helps. We read the refusal notice with you, identify what the caseworker was not satisfied about, and address that point directly in the fresh application.
Common questions
Questions we are asked most often
General information only. Advice on your circumstances needs a proper look at your case.
Can I extend a visit once I am in the UK?
Visitor leave can sometimes be extended, but only in limited circumstances and within the permitted total period. We will advise on whether an extension is available to you before your current leave expires.
Does a refusal affect future applications?
A refusal is recorded and will be visible on later applications, so it needs to be addressed rather than ignored. How much weight it carries depends on the reason it was given.
Other services
You may also need advice on
Spouse and partner
Advice for couples applying to live together in the UK, including first applications, extensions and switching from another visa.
Learn more
Skilled Worker
Advice for workers holding a certificate of sponsorship, covering first applications, extensions, changing employer and dependants.
Learn more
Health and Care Worker
Advice for eligible health and care professionals sponsored by an approved employer, including dependants and settlement.
Learn more
Talk it through with an adviser
A first consultation gives you a clear view of the routes open to you and what each one would involve. You are under no obligation to go further.