Iran passport → United Kingdom

United Kingdom visa for citizens of Iran

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

Citizens of Iran 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 183 days
Visa validity	183 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 for last 6 months

How to apply

1
Complete online application
Fill in the Standard Visitor Visa form on gov.uk and pay the application fee online.
2
Book biometric appointment
After submitting the form, schedule an appointment at a VFS Global visa application centre.
3
Attend biometric appointment
Visit the centre in person to provide fingerprints, photograph, and submit original documents.
4
Wait for processing
Standard processing time is 15 working days; some applications may take longer.
5
Collect passport/decision
Passport returned with visa vignette (or refusal letter) via courier or pickup.
6
Travel to the UK
Present the vignette at the border; maximum stay per visit is 183 days.

Documents checklist

Travel

Valid passport (with at least one blank page)
Passport must be valid for entire stay and have at least 6 months validity from intended travel date
Passport-sized photograph (45mm x 35mm)
Recent, taken against a white background
Travel itinerary (flight bookings and accommodation)
Provide details of purpose and duration of visit
Proof of accommodation (hotel booking or invitation letter)
For the entire stay in the UK
Round trip flight reservation
Not a purchased ticket, but a dated itinerary

Financial

Bank statements (last 6 months)
Show sufficient funds to cover travel and stay
Payment proof for visa fee
Pay online before appointment

Employment

Employment letter or proof of leave
Must confirm duration of employment and approved leave

Supporting

Completed visa application form (online)
Must be submitted online at gov.uk
Biometric enrolment appointment confirmation
Booked via VFS Global after online application
Invitation letter (if visiting friends/family)
Optional
Include host's name, address, and passport copy if UK resident
Proof of civil status (marriage certificate, if applicable)
Optional
If travelling with spouse or dependent
Travel insurance (optional but recommended)
Optional
Cover medical emergencies and repatriation
Previous passports (if available)
Optional
To show travel history

Proof of funds

Minimum balance: Approximately £1,000–£2,000, depending on length of stay

Bank statements (last 6 months)
Pay slips (last 3 months)
Sponsor's bank statements and letter of sponsorship

Must show you can support yourself without working or accessing public funds.

Good to know

Do not travel before the visa vignette start date.
Overstaying or working without permission may lead to future visa refusal.
All documents not in English must be accompanied by a certified translation.

Common refusal reasons

Insufficient funds or unclear source of income

Provide clear bank statements and sponsor letters if necessary.

Lack of strong ties to home country (Iran)

Include employment letter, property ownership, and family ties.

Inconsistent or missing documents

Check the document checklist thoroughly before applying.

Previous visa overstays or immigration violations

Disclose honestly and provide explanation if applicable.

FAQ

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

Citizens of Iran 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 Iran stay in the United Kingdom?

Up to 183 days.

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

Government fee: £115.

How long does United Kingdom visa processing take?

Typically 15–30 days.

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

Valid passport (with at least one blank page); Completed visa application form (online); Biometric enrolment appointment confirmation; Passport-sized photograph (45mm x 35mm); Bank statements (last 6 months); Employment letter or proof of leave; 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

gov.uk

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