My UK Visitor Visa Experience: From Application to Approval
A first-hand account of applying for a UK Standard Visitor Visa, including what documents I submitted and tips that helped me.
Guest ContributorJanuary 5, 2026
Background
I applied for a UK Standard Visitor Visa to visit my cousin in London for 2 weeks. Here's my complete experience.
Documents I Submitted
Essential Documents
- Passport
- Bank statements (6 months)
- Employment letter
- Invitation letter from my cousin
- Flight itinerary
- Accommodation details
Supporting Documents
- Property documents
- Family photos
- Previous travel stamps
The Application Process
Step 1: Online Application
Took about 45 minutes. Be thorough and accurate!
Step 2: VFS Appointment
- Arrived 15 minutes early
- Documents were checked
- Biometrics taken (fingerprints + photo)
- Total time: 30 minutes
Step 3: Waiting
Got my visa in exactly 15 working days.
What Helped My Application
- **Strong invitation letter** - My cousin provided detailed information
- **Clear travel history** - I had previous stamps from Dubai and Thailand
- **Stable employment** - 3 years at same company
- **Complete documentation** - Nothing was missing
Tips From My Experience
- Apply at least 3 weeks before travel
- Organize documents clearly
- Make sure bank statements show consistent balance
- Include a cover letter (even though it's "optional")
The UK visa process was straightforward. The key is preparation!
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