UK Immigration News

Travellers to the UK for Olympics Should Apply Now for UK Visitor Visa

On July 13, 2012 the British High Commission in New Delhi reminded those who wish to travel to the UK for the coming Olympic and Paralympic Games to apply for a visa soon.

The High Commission advised people to hold a valid UK General Visitor visa if they want to travel to the UK to watch the Olympic and Paralympic Games open in London on July 27 or for other tourism purposes.

According to a press release from the British High Commission Director, Press and Communications Marcus Winsley, the UK border Agency endeavours to process visa applications as quickly as possible. Applicants who are planning to watch the Games but have not already applied for a visa should make their applications now.

The visa application and appointment at a visa application centre need to be made online, according to the release. Applicants are advised to make sure that their visa applications are completed in full and submitted along with all necessary documentation.

Applicants have to submit visa applications in person, pay the visa fee, and provide their biometric data (including finger scans and a photograph) at the nearest visa application centre.

For applicants who have previously travelled to the UK or other specified countries, they are eligible for the Fast Track service which allows them to have their visa application processed ahead of others. Applicants may also opt to use premium lounges and out of hours submission services which are available in some of the UK's visa application centres.

A standard visitor visa is usually granted for a maximum of 6 months and multiple entries. Applicants who travel regularly to the UK may wish to consider applying for a visitor visa of a longer duration: 2, 5 or 10 years.