Visa to Pass Through the UK in Transit

You might need a visa to pass through the UK in transit (on your way to another country). 

Check if you need one before you apply. 

To get a transit visa you must prove that: 

  • you will be in transit to another country, with enough funds and the intention to travel on 
  • you can enter that country 
  • the only purpose of your visit to the UK is transit 

You do not need a transit visa if you: 

Types of Transit Visa 

The visa you need depends on if you are going through UK border control when you arrive in the UK. 

Your airline can tell you if you’ll go through border control. 

You are not going through UK border control 

Apply for a Direct Airside Transit visa (DATV) if you will be changing flights in the UK and will not be going through UK border control. 

You are going through UK border control 

Apply for a Visitor in Transit visa if you will be going through UK border control but leaving the UK within 48 hours. 

You will need to apply for a Standard Visitor visa if: 

  • you need to stay longer in the UK 
  • you can prove you need to frequently pass through the UK over a longer period 

Fees 

  • Direct Airside Transit visa (DATV) - £35 
  • Visitor in Transit visa - £64 

The cost may vary slightly depending on which country you are in. 

See Also: