Visiting or Entering the UK
Whether you need a visa, an ETA, or just your passport depends on your nationality. These guides cover every entry permission for short-stay visitors, transit travellers, and anyone planning a trip to the UK in 2026.
Which permission do you need to enter the UK?
All three guides explained
The three permissions every visitor and transit traveller needs to understand before booking a UK trip — fees, eligibility, and step-by-step application guidance.
UK Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA): Complete Guide 2026
The ETA is required for US, EU, Canadian, and Australian nationals before visiting the UK. It costs £20, lasts two years, and can be approved within minutes — but only if you apply correctly.
UK Standard Visitor Visa: Complete Guide 2026
For nationals of visa-required countries visiting for tourism, business, study, or medical reasons. Covers all permitted activities, the full fee schedule, and how to apply — including long-term multi-entry options.
UK Transit Visa Guide 2026: DATV and Visitor in Transit
Passing through Heathrow, Gatwick, or Manchester? Whether you stay airside or cross the border determines which permission you need — and whether you need one at all.
Three facts every visitor needs to know
Border Force officers retain full discretion to refuse entry at the UK border, regardless of the visa or ETA you hold. Come prepared with evidence of your accommodation, financial means, and onward travel. A refusal is recorded and can affect future applications.
Eligibility requirements →The UK ETA cost rose from £16 to £20 on 8 April 2026. Third-party websites often charge significantly more for no additional service. Always apply through the official UKVI app or gov.uk — the only authorised channels. The fee is non-refundable.
About ETA fees →Visitor permissions explicitly prohibit using repeated short stays to establish de facto residence in the UK. Border Force actively questions travellers with patterns of frequent back-to-back entries. Long-term multi-entry visas do not change this rule — each stay must be a genuine visit.
Long-term visa options →Moving to the UK for work?
From the Skilled Worker visa to the Global Talent route — find the right work visa for your profession, salary, and situation. Includes the latest April 2026 compliance updates.
Other visa routes
Find vetted immigration advisers & services in the UK
Regulated solicitors, visa advisers, and relocation specialists — reviewed and listed in our free directory for expats.
- Immigration lawyers & solicitors — OISC regulated
- Relocation services — end-to-end support
- No obligation — free to browse the directory
Latest visa & entry updates
UK entry requirements, ETA fees, and visa rules change regularly. Here are the most recent updates relevant to visitors and travellers.
Visiting the UK: Questions Every Expat Asks
The most common questions from people visiting or entering the UK — answered plainly, without the jargon. Select any question to expand the answer.