UK Transit Visa
A UK transit visa allows individuals to pass through the UK on their way to another destination. This visa is typically required for travellers who are nationals of certain countries and do not qualify for visa-free transit through the UK.
The transit visa is issued for a short period, usually up to 48 hours, and permits travellers to remain in the UK for the sole purpose of transit, meaning they cannot leave the airport or port of entry during their layover. The application process for a UK transit visa involves providing details of travel arrangements, such as flight itineraries or tickets, and demonstrating a genuine need for transit through the UK.
Once approved, travellers can proceed with their journey, passing through the UK en route to their final destination. It's essential to check the specific visa requirements for transit travelers based on nationality and travel plans, as regulations may vary.
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You do not need a transit visa if you:
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have a Home Office travel document, for example you’re a refugee or stateless person
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have a Standard Visitor visa
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have a Marriage Visitor visa
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The visa you need depends on whether you’re going through UK border control when you arrive in the UK. Your airline can tell you if you’ll go through border control.
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If you’re not going through UK border control, apply for a Direct Airside Transit visa if you’ll be changing flights in the UK and will not be going through UK border control.
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If you’re going through UK border control, apply for a Visitor in Transit visa if you’ll be going through UK border control but leaving the UK within 48 hours.
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If you’re staying in the UK for more than 48 hours then, you’ll need to apply for a Standard Visitor visa instead of a Visitor in Transit visa if either:
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you need to stay more than 48 hours in the UK
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you need to frequently pass through the UK over a period of over six months