Afghanistan passport → United Kingdom

United Kingdom visa for citizens of Afghanistan

Embassy / VFSStandard Visitor Visa (Tourist/Business/Family)

Citizens of Afghanistan need a visa for the United Kingdom and must apply in person at an embassy or visa centre.

Verified · Last checked 2026-09-05. Policies change. Confirm with the embassy or official visa portal before you travel.

Key facts

Entry route	Embassy / VFS · Standard Visitor Visa (Tourist/Business/Family)
How to apply	In-person at an embassy or visa center
Maximum stay	Up to 180 days
Visa validity	180 days
Entries	Multiple entry
Processing time	15–30 days
Government fee	£115
Passport validity	At least 6 months
Biometrics	Required
Appointment	Required
Interview	Not required
Onward or return ticket	Not required
Proof of funds	Bank statements last 6 months showing sufficient funds

How to apply

1
Complete online application
Fill out the UK Standard Visitor Visa application on gov.uk
2
Pay visa fee
Pay the visa fee online using a debit/credit card
3
Book biometric appointment
Schedule an appointment at a VFS Global visa application centre
4
Attend appointment
Provide biometrics (fingerprints and photo) and submit documents
5
Wait for decision
Processing usually takes 15-30 days
6
Receive passport
Passport returned by courier or collection with visa vignette

Documents checklist

Identity

Valid passport (at least 6 months validity)
With at least one blank visa page
Passport-size photograph
Meeting UK visa photo guidelines

Travel

Travel itinerary
Flight bookings and accommodation details
Proof of accommodation
Hotel reservations or invitation letter from host

Financial

Bank statements (last 6 months)
Show sufficient funds for trip
Visa fee receipt
Paid online or at visa centre

Employment

Employment letter
Stating position, salary, and leave approval

Supporting

Completed online application form
Print confirmation after submission
Proof of ties to home country
Optional
E.g., property deeds, family certificates

Proof of funds

Minimum balance: Sufficient to cover trip costs (no fixed amount)

Bank statements
Pay slips
Sponsorship letter

Funds must be from legitimate sources

Good to know

Apply at least 2 months before travel due to possible delays
Incomplete applications may lead to refusal

Common refusal reasons

Insufficient funds

Provide clear evidence of financial means

Weak ties to home country

Show strong employment, family, or property ties

Previous immigration violations

Disclose honestly and provide explanation

FAQ

Do citizens of Afghanistan need a visa for the United Kingdom?

Citizens of Afghanistan need a visa for the United Kingdom and must apply in person at an embassy or visa centre. Visa type: Standard Visitor Visa (Tourist/Business/Family).

How long can citizens of Afghanistan stay in the United Kingdom?

Up to 180 days.

How much does the United Kingdom visa cost for citizens of Afghanistan?

Government fee: £115.

How long does United Kingdom visa processing take?

Typically 15–30 days.

What documents do citizens of Afghanistan need for the United Kingdom?

Valid passport (at least 6 months validity); Completed online application form; Passport-size photograph; Travel itinerary; Proof of accommodation; Bank statements (last 6 months); and 3 more.

How long must my passport be valid for the United Kingdom?

At least 6 months.

Where do I apply?

On the official site: https://www.gov.uk/standard-visitor-visa

Sources

gov.uk

Plan your trip to the United Kingdom

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