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Burkina Faso passport → United Kingdom

United Kingdom visa for citizens of Burkina Faso

Embassy / VFSUK Standard Visitor Visa (6 months / multiple entry)

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

Official application site

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

Key facts

Entry routeEmbassy / VFS · UK Standard Visitor Visa (6 months / multiple entry)
How to applyIn-person at an embassy or visa center
Maximum stayUp to 180 days
Visa validity180 days
EntriesMultiple entry
Processing time15–30 days
Government fee£115
Passport validityAt least 6 months
BiometricsRequired
AppointmentRequired
InterviewNot required
Onward or return ticketNot required

How to apply

  1. 1

    Prepare documents

    Gather all required documents in original and photocopy.

  2. 2

    Complete online application

    Fill the UK Standard Visitor Visa form on gov.uk and pay the fee.

  3. 3

    Book biometric appointment

    Schedule an appointment at the nearest VAC via VFS Global.

  4. 4

    Attend appointment

    Submit biometrics (fingerprints, photo) and hand over documents.

  5. 5

    Wait for processing

    Processing typically takes 15 to 30 working days.

  6. 6

    Receive decision

    You will be notified by email; passport returned via courier.

  7. 7

    Travel to UK

    Present biometric residence permit (BRP) on arrival (if issued).

  8. 8

    Collection of BRP (if applicable)

    Collect BRP from specified Post Office within 10 days of arrival.

Documents checklist

Identity

  • Valid passport

    Must have at least one blank page and be valid for the entire stay.

  • Completed visa application form

    Online form on UKVI website.

  • Passport‑sized photograph

    Must meet UKVI photo guidelines.

  • Biometric residence permit (if applicable)

    Optional

    Only if previously issued a UK BRP.

Travel

  • Travel itinerary

    Round‑trip flight bookings and accommodation details.

  • Proof of accommodation

    Hotel bookings or invitation letter from host.

Financial

  • Bank statements (last 6 months)

    Sufficient funds to cover trip costs.

  • Income tax returns (last 2 years)

    Proof of regular income.

Employment

  • Employment letter

    Letter from employer confirming role, salary, and approved leave.

Supporting

  • Invitation letter (if visiting family/friends)

    Optional

    Letter from UK host with their visa/immigration status.

  • Proof of ties to home country

    e.g., property deeds, family certificates, or enrollment letter.

  • Travel insurance

    Minimum coverage of £1,000,000 for medical emergencies.

  • Visa fee payment receipt

    Pay online during application submission.

  • Customs declaration (if applicable)

    Optional

    For commercial goods or large amounts of cash.

Proof of funds

  • Bank statements
  • Pay slips
  • Tax returns

Must convincingly show ability to pay for entire stay without working.

Good to know

  • VOA or eVisas are not available for Burkina Faso passports for UK; only in_person route applies.
  • Biometrics must be enrolled in person – no waiver.
  • Overstaying or working without permission is a serious breach and can lead to bans.

Common refusal reasons

Insufficient funds or unclear source of income

Provide clear, up‑to‑date bank statements and income proofs.

Weak ties to home country

Submit property deeds, family certificates, or job evidence to show intent to return.

Inconsistent travel history

Provide accurate itinerary, previous visa stamps, and explanation of gaps if needed.

Unaddressed criminal record (if any)

Declare any criminal history and include rehabilitation evidence.

FAQ

Do citizens of Burkina Faso need a visa for the United Kingdom?

Citizens of Burkina Faso need a visa for the United Kingdom and must apply in person at an embassy or visa centre. Visa type: UK Standard Visitor Visa (6 months / multiple entry).

How long can citizens of Burkina Faso stay in the United Kingdom?

Up to 180 days.

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

Government fee: £115.

How long does United Kingdom visa processing take?

Typically 15–30 days.

What documents do citizens of Burkina Faso need for the United Kingdom?

Valid passport; Completed visa application form; Passport‑sized photograph; Travel itinerary; Proof of accommodation; Bank statements (last 6 months); and 8 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

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