Children, like adults, need a visa to enter England if they are not citizens of a visa-exempt country. Requirements may vary depending on the child’s nationality and the length of the planned stay.
For short-term stays in the UK: you don’t need a child’s visa if you are a national of a UK ETA-eligible country, just complete the online eTA form on your child’s behalf.
What are the types of British visa for children?
Tourist visa for children
The UK tourist visa is the most common type of visa for children traveling to England for vacations or to visit friends and family. This visa allows a six-month stay.
Student visa for a child
If your child plans to study in England, he or she will need a British student visa. There are different types of student visa, depending on the child’s age and the duration of his or her program of study.
Family visa to allow a child to travel to the UK
For children joining their parents or guardians living in England, an English family visa may be required. This type of visa is generally used for long-term stays.
Visa application procedure for a minor child
Documents required to apply for a child visa
Here is the list of documents required to apply for a visa for a minor child:
- A valid passport for the child.
- A recent passport photo.
- Completed visa application form.
- Proof of sufficient financial resources.
- A letter of invitation (if applicable).
- Proof of school enrolment (for student visas).
Steps to apply for a visa for a child
- Fill in the online visa application form on the British government website.
- Book a visa application appointment at a visa center to submit the required documents and provide the child’s biometric data.
- Pay visa fees according to the type of visa and length of stay.
- Wait a few weeks for visa applications to be processed before obtaining a final decision.
