Planning a trip to the UK? Whether it’s your first time or you’re finally ticking London off your bucket list, getting a UK tourist visa is the first and most crucial step. It might seem intimidating at first, but once you understand the process, it’s actually very straightforward. 

Here’s my complete guide on how to apply for a UK Standard Visitor Visa as a Filipino - from where to apply, what documents to prepare, how long it takes, and how my own application went.


Who Needs a Tourist Visa for the UK

If you’re a Philippine passport holder, you’ll need to apply for a UK Standard Visitor Visa before your trip. This visa covers tourism, visiting friends or relatives, short business trips, and attending events or courses lasting less than six months.

It’s valid for 6 months from the date of issue, and you can use it for a single trip or multiple entries, depending on what’s granted. You can request a longer validity, but the application fee is higher.

UK Tourist Visa for Filipinos

Where to Apply for a UK Visa in the Philippines

All applications are done online via the official UK government website. After completing the form and paying the fee, you’ll need to book a biometrics appointment at VFS Global, which handles visa processing for the UK in the Philippines.

There are two VFS locations: Manila and Cebu. When you reach that part of the process, you’ll be redirected to VFS’s website to select your appointment date and time.

You can upload your documents yourself or pay extra to have VFS staff scan them for you - but personally, I chose to upload them myself.

Requirements for a UK Tourist Visa for Filipinos

One thing that makes the UK visa application process different from other countries is that it doesn’t have a strict or specific checklist of required documents. The website gives general guidelines, but it’s up to you to submit everything that helps prove your reason for visiting and that you’ll return to the Philippines.

For example, it doesn’t specifically state that you need a bank certificate or a 6-month bank statement, but it’s always best to submit them if you can. The more proof you provide, the stronger your application.

I also added a cover letter, which is optional but highly recommended. In mine, I explained that I was flying to London to attend a concert and also to fulfill a personal travel goal – the UK would be my 30th country. A short, clear explanation like that helps the reviewing officer understand your intent.

Here’s a general guide to what to prepare:

Core Documents

  • Valid passport (with at least one blank page)
  • Printed appointment confirmation
  • Visa fee payment receipt
  • Your completed online application form

Trip Details and Proof of Funds

  • Travel dates and itinerary
  • Proof of accommodation (hotel bookings or host details)
  • Proof of sufficient funds, like a bank certificate and bank statements
  • Employment certificate and approved leave, or business documents if self-employed
  • Payslips or income proof
  • Proof of strong ties to the Philippines, such as employment, business registration, school records, or property documents

Additional Documents if Sponsored

  • Sponsor’s letter
  • Copy of their passport or residence card
  • Proof of relationship, such as a birth certificate or photos.
  • Sponsor’s bank statements and payslips

Optional but Helpful

  • Travel insurance
  • Flight itinerary (not required to pay yet)
  • Previous visas and stamps
  • Cover letter (again, not required but helps a lot)

How to Apply for a UK Tourist Visa in the Philippines

Here is a step-by-step guide for applying for a UK Standard Visitor Visa.

1. Create your GOV.UK account and start the form.

Go to the official UK Government website and select Standard Visitor Visa. Make an account so you can save as you go. Fill out your details carefully and keep your dates consistent with your itinerary.

2. Pay the visa fee online.

At the end of the form, pay the fee using a debit or credit card. Once paid, you’ll be redirected to book your biometrics. Keep the payment confirmation for your records.

3. Book your VFS biometrics appointment.

Choose between VFS Manila or VFS Cebu and select a date that allows you sufficient time to gather your documents. You’ll receive an appointment confirmation that you’ll need to bring on the day.

4. Upload your documents on the portal or select VFS upload.

If you self-upload, you can add, remove, or replace files at any time up until your biometrics are collected. After they take your fingerprints and photo, the portal locks. If you don’t want to self-upload, VFS can scan your documents for a fee – simply bring all the required documents on the day of your appointment.

5. Attend your biometrics.

Arrive about 30 minutes early. Wear smart casual attire, bring a small bag only, and refrain from bringing power banks or laptops. Inside, they’ll check your papers, take your photo and fingerprints, and keep your passport.

6. Wait for the decision and get your passport back.

You’ll receive an email when a decision is made. You can pick up your passport or choose courier delivery for a fee. 


My Experience

Once I decided to go to London for Jin’s concert, I applied right away. I booked my VFS appointment about two weeks out, which gave me enough time to prepare all my documents. I opted for self-upload to save money and because the process was simple.

On the day of my appointment, I arrived 30 minutes early and was called right on time. I waited a bit inside, but the entire process, from security check to biometrics, took less than 45 minutes.

After five business days, I received an email stating that my passport was ready for pickup. Normally, I would’ve chosen delivery, but since I had an upcoming trip close to the estimated visa decision date, I decided to collect it in person to avoid courier delays. Thankfully, my visa was approved.


Overall, the UK visa process was smoother than I expected. Everything’s done online, the instructions are clear, and the VFS staff were organized and helpful.

If you’re planning to apply, my best advice is to prepare early, submit as many supporting documents as possible, and include a brief cover letter to tie everything together. Don’t be scared of the process - just be thorough and honest.

Once you’ve got your visa in hand, that’s one big step closer to your UK adventure - whether it’s sightseeing, catching a show, or, like me, finally seeing your favourite artist live.