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General visitors

This section describes the immigration category of general visitor, and explains who can come to the UK as a general visitor.

The information here is based on Part 2, paragraphs 41-46 of the Immigration Rules.

If you are an adult and you want to come to the UK as a tourist or to visit friends, you should apply to come here as a general visitor. If you want to visit members of your family in the UK, you can apply as a family visitor.

Can you come to the UK as a general visitor?

Find out whether you meet the requirements to be a general visitor.

What documents do you need?

Information about documents that will support your application to enter the UK as a general visitor.

Do you need a visa?

Find out whether you need to apply for a visa as a general visitor.

How to apply

Find out how to apply for a visa as a general visitor.

Can you extend your stay?

Find out whether you can extend your stay in the UK when your permission to stay expires.

What happens if you are refused permission?

This page explains whether you can appeal if you are refused permission to enter the UK as a general visitor.