UK Visa Guide: Types, Requirements, Exemptions And All You Need to Know in 2024

UK is a popular tourist destination, with stunning scenery, beautiful beaches, and a diverse culture. If you are planning a trip to UK, you will need to apply for an UK visa. An UK visa is a permit that allows you to enter and stay in UK for a specific purpose. You can apply for an UK visa online or by mail.

UK offers a variety of visas to cater to different travel purposes. Whether you're planning a vacation, a business trip, or looking to work remotely in UK, there's a visa designed to meet your needs. There are many different types of UK visas, each with its own set of requirements. The type of visa you need will depend on your purpose of travel. To apply for an UK visa, you will need to fill out an application form and provide supporting documentation. The supporting documentation you need will vary depending on the type of visa you are applying for. You can apply for an UK visa online or by mail. The application process can be complex, so it is important to carefully read the instructions and gather all of the required documentation. Once you have submitted your application, the UK government will process it and make a decision. The visa processing time can vary depending on the type of visa you are applying for. If your application is approved, you will be issued a visa. The visa will contain information about the purpose of your travel, the length of your stay, and any conditions that you must adhere to. It is important to note that you must have a valid visa in order to enter UK. If you do not have a valid visa, you will be denied entry.

UK offers a variety of visas to cater to different travel purposes. Whether you're planning a vacation, a business trip, or looking to work remotely in UK, there's a visa designed to meet your needs.

1
Visitor visa
UK Visitor visa usually has short stay with a period of 180 days and visa expires in 180 days. Applicant is required to be present when applying for visa.The visa application process involves fill in the application form, print out your form and book an appointment from the consulate depending on the availability. On the day of the appointment, the applicant has to carry all the original documents for submission and for the biometrics. Post the appointment, it usually takes 14 working days for the consulate to process the visa. The visa copy will be attached to your passport.
2
Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA)
UK Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) usually has short stay with a period of 180 days and visa expires in 180 days. Applicant is not required to be present when applying for visa.You can get an electronic visa waiver (EVW) instead of a visa if you are a national of Kuwait, Oman, Qatar or the United Arab Emirates. You must pay £15 for an EVW. You must apply between 3 months and 48 hours before you travel.
3
Visa Free
UK Visa free usually has short stay with a period of 180 days and visa expires in 180 days. Applicant is required to be present.UK authorities can refuse visa-free entry to anyone who they believe is trying to enter for a purpose other than tourism. If you're planning to do paid or unpaid work, volunteer or get married, you need to get a visa before you travel.
4
Electronic visa waiver (EVW)
UK Electronic visa waiver (EVW) usually has short stay with a period of 180 days and visa expires in 180 days. Applicant is not required to be present when applying for visa.An Electronic Visa Waiver permits you to travel to the UK for a period of up to six months, allowing you to engage in tourism, business activities, educational studies, or to seek medical treatment.

UK doesnt have a transit visa.

UK doesnt have a digital nomad visa yet.

Visa exemption does not apply, but a 24-hour entry request is possible at London's Heathrow airport. Travel must be to or from Canada exclusively. Arrival and departure must be by air. The boarding pass for the onward flight is required. The onward flight must be within 24 hours (same day or before midnight the next day). Granting the 24-hour entry is at the immigration officer's discretion.UK offers travel exemption to people who hold powerful visas. UK visa exemptions allows a stay of 24 hours. People can use this to travel to UK for tourism purpose. You can also find useful tips from fellow travellers.