UK Visa Guide
14 visa types, fees, processing times, and how to switch.
Planning to study in the UK?
You'll need a Student Visa. Check our Education page for university requirements, IELTS scores and fees.
14 visas found
Work in the UK for an approved employer. You need a job offer paying £38,700+ (or £30,960 for new entrants and certain shortage occupations).
Fee
£719 – £1,500
NHS surcharge
£1,035/year
Processing
3–8 weeks
For doctors, nurses, and health professionals working in the NHS or adult social care. Healthcare surcharge is exempt.
Fee
£247
NHS surcharge
Exempt
Processing
2–4 weeks
Stay and work (or look for work) in the UK for up to 2 years after completing a UK degree (3 years for PhD). No minimum salary required.
Fee
£822
NHS surcharge
£776/year
Processing
8 weeks
Study at a UK university or college at degree level or above. You can work up to 20 hours per week during term time.
Fee
£490
NHS surcharge
£776/year
Processing
3–6 weeks
Join your spouse, civil partner or unmarried partner who is settled or has permission to stay in the UK.
Fee
£1,846
NHS surcharge
£1,035/year
Processing
8–24 weeks
Live and work in the UK for up to 2 years. Available to 18–30 year olds from eligible countries.
Fee
£298
NHS surcharge
£776/year
Processing
3 weeks
For leaders and potential leaders in academia, research, arts, culture, or digital technology. No job offer required.
Fee
£716
NHS surcharge
£1,035/year
Processing
3–8 weeks
Set up and run an innovative business in the UK. You need an endorsement from an approved endorsing body.
Fee
£1,191
NHS surcharge
£1,035/year
Processing
3–8 weeks
For graduates of top global universities. Allows 2 years to work or look for work in the UK (3 years for PhD graduates). No job offer needed.
Fee
£822
NHS surcharge
£776/year
Processing
8 weeks
For children aged 4–17 to study at an independent school in the UK.
Fee
£490
NHS surcharge
N/A
Processing
3 weeks
If your child is a British citizen or settled in the UK and you have sole or shared parental responsibility.
Fee
£1,846
NHS surcharge
£1,035/year
Processing
8–24 weeks
For British National (Overseas) passport holders from Hong Kong and their family members. Path to settlement in 5 years.
Fee
£180/year
NHS surcharge
N/A
Processing
3–8 weeks
Visit the UK for up to 6 months for tourism, business meetings, or visiting family. You cannot work or study.
Fee
£115 (6 months) / £400 (2 years) / £711 (5 years)
NHS surcharge
N/A
Processing
3 weeks
Work in UK horticulture or poultry sectors for up to 6 months. Must be sponsored by a licensed operator.
Fee
£298
NHS surcharge
N/A
Processing
3 weeks
Enter your annual salary to instantly see which UK visa routes you are eligible for.
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Enter your annual salary above to check eligibility
Can you switch visas without leaving the UK? It depends on your current visa.
Student Visa → Skilled Worker Visa
Allowed in-country if you have a valid job offer
Graduate Visa → Skilled Worker Visa
Common path — no minimum salary for Graduate Route itself
Skilled Worker Visa → ILR (Settlement)
After 5 years continuous residence
Family Visa → ILR (Settlement)
After 5 years (2.5 years for BNO holders)
Visitor Visa → Any other visa
NOT allowed in-country — you must leave the UK and apply from abroad
Skilled Worker Visa → Global Talent Visa
Switch in-country once endorsed by a designated body
Typical timeline on a Skilled Worker Visa
Arrive
Year 1
Year 2
Year 3
Year 4
Year 5
Year 6
ILR Requirements
Citizenship Requirements