Skip to content

Syria passport → United Kingdom

United Kingdom visa for citizens of Syria

Embassy / VFSStandard Visitor Visa

Citizens of Syria 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 · Standard Visitor Visa
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 ticketRequired
Proof of fundsBank statements for last 6 months showing sufficient funds

How to apply

  1. 1

    Complete online application

    Fill out the Standard Visitor Visa application on gov.uk

  2. 2

    Pay visa fee

    Pay the £115 fee online via the application portal

  3. 3

    Book biometrics appointment

    Schedule an appointment at a VFS Global visa application centre

  4. 4

    Attend biometrics appointment

    Provide fingerprints, photograph, and submit original documents in person

  5. 5

    Wait for processing

    Processing typically takes 15-30 working days

  6. 6

    Collect passport

    Collect your passport with visa vignette from the visa centre or via courier

  7. 7

    Travel to UK

    Present passport with visa at UK border upon arrival

Documents checklist

Identity

  • Valid passport

    Must have at least one blank page and be valid for the duration of stay

  • Completed visa application form

    Online form submitted via gov.uk

  • Recent passport-sized photograph

    45mm x 35mm, white background

  • Biometric residence permit (if applicable)

    Optional

    Only if previously issued

  • Previous passports

    Optional

    To show travel history

Travel

  • Travel itinerary

    Flight bookings and accommodation details

  • Proof of accommodation

    Hotel reservations or invitation letter from host

  • Travel insurance

    Optional

    Recommended but not mandatory

Financial

  • Bank statements

    Last 6 months showing sufficient funds for trip

  • Proof of funds for sponsor (if applicable)

    Optional

    If someone else is funding the trip

Employment

  • Employment letter

    Stating position, salary, and approved leave

Supporting

  • Proof of ties to home country

    e.g., property deeds, family certificates, or business registration

  • Invitation letter (if visiting friends/family)

    Optional

    From UK host with proof of their status

  • Marriage certificate (if applicable)

    Optional

    If traveling with spouse

Proof of funds

Minimum balance: Equivalent of £1,000 for short stays

  • Bank statements
  • Pay slips
  • Sponsor letter

Funds must be readily available and not borrowed

Good to know

  • Syrian nationals may face additional scrutiny due to security concerns
  • Visa refusal may affect future applications
  • Overstaying can lead to deportation and re-entry bans

Common refusal reasons

Insufficient funds

Provide clear bank statements showing adequate balance for the trip duration

Weak ties to home country

Submit evidence of employment, property, or family commitments in Syria

Incomplete documentation

Double-check all required documents before submission

Previous immigration violations

Disclose any past overstays or refusals honestly and provide explanation

FAQ

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

Citizens of Syria need a visa for the United Kingdom and must apply in person at an embassy or visa centre. Visa type: Standard Visitor Visa.

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

Up to 180 days.

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

Government fee: £115.

How long does United Kingdom visa processing take?

Typically 15–30 days.

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

Valid passport; Completed visa application form; Recent passport-sized photograph; Travel itinerary; Proof of accommodation; Bank statements; 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

Plan your trip to the United Kingdom

Nowah is an AI travel agent that books flights, hotels and eSIMs in one conversation and keeps track of your visa paperwork along the way. Need data on arrival? See the Nowah eSIM guide for United Kingdom.

United Kingdom visa for other passports

More destinations for Syria passport holders