Visa guides

UK Standard Visitor visa financial requirements explained

There is no fixed minimum balance for a UK Standard Visitor visa. You must show you can reasonably cover your travel, accommodation and living costs for the whole trip without working or accessing public funds — usually with recent bank statements and evidence of income.

Reviewed 9 April 2025By the Visarly editorial team
Important: This guide is educational, not legal or immigration advice. Rules can change. Always confirm current requirements on GOV.UK before applying.

Is there a set amount you must have?

The Immigration Rules do not set a specific figure. Instead, a caseworker decides whether your available funds are credible and sufficient for your stated plans.

A short city break costs far less than a month-long family visit, so "enough" is judged against your own itinerary, dates and who is paying.

How caseworkers assess your funds

They look at whether the money is genuinely available to you, how long it has been in your account, and whether the balance is consistent with your declared income.

Large, unexplained deposits shortly before applying are a common concern. If someone is funding your trip, their evidence and relationship to you should be clear.

Evidence that strengthens your application

Three to six months of bank statements showing a settled balance, payslips or proof of income, and — where relevant — a sponsor letter with the sponsor’s own financial evidence.

Make sure statements clearly show your name and are recent, and that the figures line up with your travel and accommodation plans.

Rules referenced

  • Appendix V: Visitor, V 4.2(c)–(e)

    Adequate maintenance and funds without working or recourse to public funds.

Frequently asked questions

Do I need a minimum bank balance for a UK visitor visa?

No. There is no fixed minimum. You need to show funds that are credible and sufficient for your specific trip and dates.

Can someone else pay for my trip?

Yes. A sponsor can fund your visit, but you should provide their financial evidence and explain your relationship to them.