A UK Transit Visa allows certain foreign nationals to pass through the United Kingdom en route to another country without intending to stay for tourism or business. It applies when you are connecting through a UK airport and do not plan to enter the UK beyond the transit area (airside) or for a short landside passage to continue your journey.

Visa Duration and Extension

• Direct Airside Transit Visa (DATV): for travellers remaining within the airport’s international transit area and not passing through UK border control. Valid only for the duration of your connection (typically up to 24 hours).

• Visitor in Transit Visa: for travellers who must pass through border control before their onward journey but will depart within 48 hours.

• Extensions are not permitted. You cannot switch into another visa category from within the UK.

• If you need to stay longer than 48 hours or travel through the UK multiple times, you should apply for a Standard Visitor Visa instead.

Eligibility Requirements

You may need a UK Transit Visa if you:

• Are a citizen of a visa-national country.

• Are changing airports in the UK or passing through border control to reach your next flight.

• Are travelling via the UK to a country outside the Common Travel Area (Ireland, Channel Islands, Isle of Man).

• Do not hold a valid visa or residence permit for certain exempt countries (e.g., the USA, Canada, Australia, or New Zealand).

You do not need a transit visa if you:

• Hold a valid UK visa or residence permit.

• Hold a valid visa or residence permit for an exempt country (e.g., USA, Canada, Australia, New Zealand).

• Are a citizen of a non-visa-national country (such as the USA, Canada, Japan).

Documents Required

You’ll need to provide:

• A valid passport or travel document.

• Proof of onward travel – confirmed flight booking or ticket showing you’ll leave the UK within the permitted period.

• Visa or entry clearance for your final destination (if required).

• Evidence of residence or travel history (if you live in or recently travelled to an exempt country).

What You Can and Cannot Do

You can:

• Transit through the UK on your way to another country.

• Remain airside in the international zone (DATV) or enter the UK briefly for up to 48 hours (Visitor in Transit).

You cannot:

• Stay longer than the allowed period (24 or 48 hours, depending on the visa type).

• Work, study, or conduct business while in the UK.

• Extend your visa or switch to another category.

Processing Times and Priority Services

• Most applications are processed within 3 weeks.

• Priority services (faster processing) may be available in some countries for an additional fee.

• Applicants must submit biometrics and should apply well in advance of travel.

Home Office Fees

• Direct Airside Transit Visa (DATV) £40

• Visitor in Transit Visa £64
  

Fees can vary by country. Always confirm the current rate by contacting us.

UK Transit Visa – Passing Through the UK