United Kingdom Tourist Visa
Standard Visitor Visa · For Philippines citizens
Planning a trip to the United Kingdom as a Filipino citizen? You will need a Standard Visitor visa, which costs GBP 127 (approximately PHP 9,200) and takes about 3 weeks to process. Apply online and visit a VFS Global center for biometrics. This guide covers all requirements for a successful UK visa application from the Philippines.
UK Tourist Visa for Filipino Citizens (2025) - Document Checklist
For Philippines citizens · VisaBeat.com
Document Checklist
Your Philippine passport must be valid for the duration of your stay
Complete the online application on GOV.UK
Fingerprints and photograph at VFS Global
Proof of sufficient funds for your trip
Where you will stay in the UK
Evidence you will return to the Philippines
Application Process
Filipino citizens must apply online for a UK Standard Visitor visa.1
1. Complete Online Application
Visit GOV.UK and complete the online visa application.1 Answer all questions accurately about:
- Personal details
- Travel history
- Employment and finances
- Purpose of visit
- UK contacts
2. Pay the Visa Fee
Pay GBP 127 online using a credit or debit card.1
3. Book Biometrics Appointment
Schedule an appointment at a VFS Global center.2
4. Attend VFS Appointment
Visit the VFS Global center with:2
- Printed application form
- Passport
- Supporting documents
- Appointment confirmation
Provide fingerprints and photograph.
5. Submit Documents
Submit your passport and all supporting documents at VFS.2
6. Wait for Decision
Processing typically takes 3 weeks.1 Track your application online.
7. Collect Passport
Collect your passport from VFS or opt for courier delivery.
Fees
| Visa Type | Fee (GBP) | Fee (PHP approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| Standard Visitor (6 months) | 127 | 9,200 |
| Long-term (2 years) | 475 | 34,400 |
| Long-term (5 years) | 848 | 61,400 |
| Long-term (10 years) | 1,059 | 76,700 |
Additional fees apply for priority services.1
What You Need to Prove
UK immigration assesses applications based on:1
- Genuine visitor: Legitimate reason for visiting the UK
- Financial capability: Funds to support yourself without working
- Accommodation: Where you will stay
- Ties to Philippines: Strong reasons to return home
- Intent to leave: Will depart UK before visa expires
- Immigration history: Compliance with previous visas
Processing Times
| Service Type | Processing Time | Additional Fee |
|---|---|---|
| Standard | 3 weeks | Included |
| Priority | 5 working days | ~GBP 250 |
| Super Priority | 24 hours | ~GBP 900 |
Check VFS Global for current priority service availability.2
VFS Global Centers in Philippines
| Location | Address |
|---|---|
| Manila | 8th Floor, Ecoplaza Building, Chino Roces Avenue |
| Cebu | 10th Floor, Apple One Equicom Tower |
Book appointments online through VFS Global Philippines.2
After Your Visa is Approved
Once approved:
- Collect passport with visa vignette
- Check validity dates and entries allowed
- Print accommodation and return flight details
- At UK border, present passport and answer questions
- Immigration officer makes final entry decision
If Your Visa is Refused
If your application is rejected:
- Review the refusal letter: Understand specific reasons
- Consider Administrative Review: If eligible
- Address issues: Gather stronger documentation
- Reapply: Submit new application with improvements
Most refusals are due to financial or ties-to-Philippines issues.1
Common Rejection Reasons
Based on official refusal data for this corridor
Insufficient Financial Evidence
Unable to demonstrate adequate funds for the trip.
How to avoid: Provide 6 months of bank statements showing regular income. Include ITR and employment certificate with salary.
Weak Ties to Philippines
Unable to demonstrate compelling reasons to return to the Philippines.
How to avoid: Show employment certificate, property documents, family ties, business registration.
Inadequate Travel History
Limited previous international travel experience.
How to avoid: Build travel history with nearby countries first. Include all previous visa stamps.
Incomplete Application
Missing documents or inconsistent information.
How to avoid: Double-check all required documents. Ensure consistency across all submissions.
Unclear Travel Purpose
Vague travel plans or unconvincing reason for visit.
How to avoid: Provide detailed itinerary. If visiting someone, include their invitation letter and UK status proof.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Filipino citizens need a visa for the UK?
Yes, Filipino citizens need a Standard Visitor visa to enter the UK. There is no visa-free or e-visa option for Philippine passport holders.
How much does a UK visa cost for Filipino citizens?
The Standard Visitor visa costs GBP 127 (approximately PHP 9,200). Long-term visas cost GBP 475 (2-year) or GBP 848 (5-year).
How long does UK visa processing take for Filipinos?
Standard processing takes approximately 3 weeks. Priority service (5 working days) is available for an additional fee.
How long can Filipinos stay in the UK on a tourist visa?
The Standard Visitor visa allows stays of up to 6 months per visit. You cannot live in the UK on this visa.
Where do I apply for UK visa from Philippines?
Apply online at GOV.UK, then visit a VFS Global center in Manila, Cebu, or other cities for biometrics.
What is the UK visa approval rate for Filipino citizens?
The approval rate is approximately 76% for Filipino applicants with complete documentation.
Can I work on a UK tourist visa?
No, the Standard Visitor visa does not permit employment. You can attend business meetings but not work.
What financial documents do I need for UK visa?
Provide bank statements (6 months), employment certificate with salary, ITR, and any evidence of assets or property.