Invitation Visa: How to Get to England with an Invitation

Heading 1: Introduction

Travelling to the United Kingdom for tourism, education, work, or to visit family and friends requires proper documentation such as a visa. However, there are some instances where you can get an invitation to travel to the UK that can help you get a visa much easier. An invitation visa is a type of UK visa that is issued to those who have received an invitation from someone based in the UK. In this article, we will discuss how to get to England with an invitation visa.

Heading 2: What is an Invitation Visa?

An invitation visa is classified under the standard visitor visa category. This type of visa allows you to travel to the UK for a duration of up to six months for a variety of reasons, which include tourism, business, education, sports, and entertainment. To obtain an invitation visa, one must receive an invitation from a UK-based sponsor, which could be a friend, family member, or a business associate.

Heading 3: Types of Invitation Visas

There are two types of invitation visas under the standard visitor visa category: a parent of a Tier 4 child visa and a private medical treatment visa.

The parent of a Tier 4 child visa is for parents who are travelling to the UK to visit their child who is studying under a Tier 4 visa. The visa is valid for up to 12 months and includes multiple-entries.

The private medical treatment visa is for those who require private medical treatment in the UK. The visa is valid for up to 11 months and includes multiple entries.

Heading 4: How to Apply for an Invitation Visa

To apply for an invitation visa, you must first receive an invitation from a UK-based sponsor. The sponsor must write a letter of invitation that includes their full name, address, and contact details. The letter must also include the purpose of the visit, the dates of travel, and the relationship between the sponsor and the applicant.

Once you have the letter of invitation, you can proceed to apply for an invitation visa. The application process involves filling out an online application form, paying the visa fees, and attending a biometric appointment.

Heading 5: Requirements for an Invitation Visa

To be eligible for an invitation visa, you must meet the following requirements:

1) The purpose of the visit must be genuine and permitted under the visitor rules.

2) You plan to leave the UK at the end of your visit.

3) You have enough money to support yourself during your stay in the UK.

4) You must not intend to work in the UK, produce goods or services, or study for more than 30 days.

5) You must not have a criminal record.

6) You must be able to provide proof of your ties to your home country.

Heading 6: FAQs

Q: Can an invitation visa be extended?

A: An invitation visa can be extended for up to six months. To extend the visa, you must apply before the visa expires.

Q: How long does it take to get an invitation visa?

A: The processing time for an invitation visa varies from country to country. On average, it takes 15 working days to process a standard visitor visa.

Q: Can I work in the UK with an invitation visa?

A: No, you cannot work or produce goods or services in the UK with an invitation visa.

Q: Can I study in the UK with an invitation visa?

A: You can study in the UK for up to 30 days with an invitation visa.

Heading 7: Conclusion

An invitation visa is an excellent option for those who have received an invitation from a UK-based sponsor. One must meet the eligibility requirements and apply for the visa online. The visa allows you to travel to the UK for up to six months for various reasons, including tourism, business, education, sports, and entertainment. If you plan to travel to the UK and have received an invitation from a UK-based sponsor, an invitation visa can help make the visa application process easier.