2. Eligibility
You must always show that:
you’ll leave the UK at the end of your visit
you’re able to support yourself and any dependents for the duration of your trip
you’re able to pay for your return or onward journey and any other costs relating to your visit
any business or other activities you want to do in the UK, as allowed by the Visitor Rules
If you’re applying for a long-term visit visa
You must prove that:
you have a frequent and ongoing need to come to the UK
the reason why you need to come to the UK is unlikely to change while your visitor visa is valid
you plan to leave the UK at the end of each visit
You may be given a visa for a shorter period than requested if you don’t do this. You won’t get a refund of the application fee if you get a shorter visa or your application is refused.
Your visa may be cancelled and you may get a long-term ban on visiting if your travel history shows you’re repeatedly living in the UK for extended periods.
If you’re applying as an academic
You can stay in the UK for 12 months if you’re applying as an academic. You must prove you’re highly qualified within your field of expertise, on sabbatical leave from your home institution and visiting to either:
take part in a formal exchange with a UK counterpart
carry out your own research
take part in someone else’s research, teaching or clinical practice - as long as this doesn’t involve filling a permanent teaching post
If you’re applying to visit for private medical treatment
You must prove that you:
have a medical condition that needs private consultation or treatment in the UK
have made or paid for arrangements for consultations or treatment
have enough money to pay for your treatment, support yourself without using public funds and pay for your return or onward journey
will leave the UK once your treatment is completed, or when your visa expires
are not a danger to public health if you’re suffering from an infectious disease, eg leprosy
If you’re applying as an organ donor
You can only visit the UK to donate organs to:
a family member who you’re genetically related to (eg your sibling or parent)
someone you have a close personal relationship with (eg your spouse or friend)
You must prove that the person you’re donating an organ to is legally allowed to be in the UK.