UK Visa for citizens of Gambia: Don't let paperwork ruin your trip

Planning to visit the United Kingdom from The Gambia? Whether you're heading to London for a holiday, attending a family event, or joining a conference, you must apply for a UK Standard Visitor Visa before traveling.

With iVisa, you can apply online in minutes and get expert help to avoid common pitfalls.

Apply now

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What is the UK Standard Visitor Visa?

The UK Standard Visitor Visa is required for Gambian passport holders traveling to the UK for short stays (up to 6 months). It’s ideal for:

Tourism and leisure
Visiting family or friends
Attending business meetings or events
Short courses or private medical care

You can apply for 6-month, 2-year, 5-year, or 10-year visas, depending on how often you plan to visit.

💡 "Catherine Thurtle, iVisa travel expert, adds:

Want to visit the UK more than once in the next few years? A longer-validity visa might save you time and money.”

UK visa requirements for Gambian citizens

Here’s what you’ll need for a successful application:

📄 Document	📌 Requirement
Valid passport	Must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your UK visit
Financial proof	Bank statements or proof of sponsorship (last 6 months)
Travel itinerary	Include planned dates, cities, and activities in the UK
Accommodation details	Hotel reservations or host invitation letter
Ties to The Gambia	Employment letter, school enrollment, property or family documents
TB test	Required for stays over 6 months from an approved clinic

💡 iVisa expert insight:

The UK government must have proof that you’ll return to The Gambia. We help you show strong evidence of your home ties.”

How to apply for a UK visa from The Gambia

Here’s how the process works with iVisa:

Fill out your online form on our website or mobile app
Upload documents and pay the government and iVisa service fees
Book your biometric appointment at the nearest UK Visa Application Centre (VAC)
Attend the appointment, provide fingerprints and photo
Wait for your visa result

We’ll guide you at every step, including interview preparation and document checks.

“iVisa gave me confidence. I knew exactly what the embassy wanted to see in my documents.” — Musa J., Banjul

Common problems Gambian travelers face – and how iVisa helps

❌ Problem	✅ Our Solution
Rejected due to lack of home ties	We help you build a strong case with the right evidence
Confusing paperwork	Easy-to-follow document checklists tailored for Gambians
Trouble booking biometric slots	We assist in scheduling appointments at VACs in the region
Unclear on visa types	Personalized visa recommendation included

UK visa fees for Gambian applicants

Visa fees vary based on duration and urgency.

All fees must be paid online during the application.

❓ UK visa FAQ for Gambian citizens

Can I apply from The Gambia?
Yes, you can start the application online. However, you must attend a biometric appointment at a UK Visa Application Centre. Since there’s no VAC in The Gambia, most applicants go to Dakar, Senegal.

How long does the process take?
Standard processing usually takes 3–6 weeks, but faster options may be available. We’ll let you know what’s possible based on your travel dates.

Can I visit the UK multiple times with one visa?
Yes, if you apply for a multiple-entry visa (2, 5, or 10 years). Each visit is still limited to 6 months.

Do I need a TB test?
Only if you’ll stay longer than 6 months. You must use a UK-approved clinic, typically in a neighboring country.

What if my visa is denied?
iVisa will help you understand the reasons and guide you through a stronger reapplication.