The Honest Answer
The UK government does not specify a minimum bank balance for a Standard Visitor visa. Instead, the requirement is that you can maintain and accommodate yourself without recourse to public funds, and that your finances are consistent with your stated purpose.
How Officers Assess Your Finances
It is not about the balance. It is about the pattern:
- Income consistency — regular salary credits over 6 months
- Spending pattern — does money stay in the account or is it spent?
- Relationship to trip cost — is the balance proportionate to your itinerary?
- Source of funds — can you explain any large deposits?
Practical Target
As a rough guide, aim for a balance that covers:
- Your trip cost (flights + accommodation + daily expenses)
- A buffer of at least 3 months of your regular income
- No unexplained lump sums in the last 6 months
For a 2-week UK trip, a balance of £3,000–£5,000 with consistent income history is generally sufficient. More is not always better — a suspiciously high balance with no income pattern can raise questions.
The Most Common Mistake
Borrowing money or receiving a transfer from a relative shortly before applying. This is visible to officers and undermines your credibility. If you need a sponsor, declare it and provide their documents properly.