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London Visa

Electronic Travel Authorisation scheme for Visa Exempt Nationals

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The UK is Introducing an Electronic Travel Authorisation scheme for Visa Exempt Nationals. The changes will come into effect from November 2023 onwards. The rollout of the Electronic Travel Authorisation scheme will happen in phases and will impact people who were not required to get a visa before travelling to the UK currently.

Which Country Nationals will need to apply for Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA)?

From 15 November 2023, you’ll need an ETA if you’re travelling to the UK and you’re a national of Qatar.

From 22 February 2024, you’ll need an ETA if you’re travelling to the UK and you’re a national of the following mentioned countries:

  • Bahrain
  • Jordan
  • Kuwait
  • Oman
  • Saudi Arabia
  • United Arab Emirates

More countries will be added to the scheme later.

Apply for UK Visa

Which country Nationals can travel to the UK without ETA?

You will not need an ETA if you have either:

  • a British or Irish passport
  • permission to live, work or study in the UK
  • a visa to enter the UK

If you’re legally resident in Ireland, and you do not need a visa to visit the UK, you will not need an ETA if you’re entering the UK from either of the following countries:

  • Ireland
  • Guernsey
  • Jersey
  • Isle of Man

How to apply for an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA)?

You’ll need to apply on the UK ETA app, or online on GOV.UK.

You’ll usually get a decision within 3 working days, but you may get a quicker decision.

It may take longer than 3 working days if we need to make further checks.

How much does the Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) Cost?

As of now the Gov.uk website has not disclosed the cost of the ETA, However, it will be published soon, And we will keep you posted.

Please note, that each traveller must apply for their own ETA, including children.

Basis the recent updates as on 6th June 2023, There is a $ 12.50 USD fee introduced for ETA applications.

Apply for UK Visa

How you will get your ETA?

You’ll get an email confirmation if your application is approved.

We’ll link your ETA electronically to the passport you applied with. You must use the same passport to travel.

Note: Make sure to check your spam/junk folders, in case the mail goes there.

How long is ETA valid?

Your ETA will last for 2 years.

Can I use the ETA for multiple UK visits?

Yes, You can use it to make multiple visits to the UK. You still need to either use an ePassport gate if you are eligible to use one or see a Border Force officer to enter the UK.

If you get a new passport in less than 2 years, you’ll need to get a new ETA.

An ETA does not guarantee entry to the UK.

Please see the below video published by Gov.UK explaining the new Electronic Travel Authorisation scheme and who will get impacted by this new visa process.

Please keep checking our Visa section to see the latest news and updates happening on the UK visa processes. Gone are the days when people from certain countries/nationalities were travelling to the UK without the hassle of applying for a visa. Going forward the UK is getting stricter with its visa and border policies.

Check by searching below the documents you will need to travel to the UK:

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Bahrain to London Tour Packages

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Planning your next trip from Bahrain to London? Look no further, we have got you covered here by sharing all the possible information you will need to plan your Bahrain to London Tour package. Travellers from Bahrain love exploring new places and really enjoy holidays with friends and family. London is one of the top 5 most visited cities by Bahrain travellers with Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Istanbul, and Kuwait City among the list. Bahrain to London travel was at an all-time high back in 2019. However, due to COVID Pandemic the travel between the cities dropped by almost 60% in 2020 and by 30% in 2021. To make your travel from Bahrain to London a memorable experience we have covered all the necessary details from Visa, Hotel, and flights to Experiences in London.

Visa Requirements for Bahrain Travellers

Visa requirements can be divided into two sections one where the Nationals of Bahrain are travelling and the other is the ex-pats are travelling. It is worth mentioning that more than 60% of the travellers to the UK from Baharain are Baharain nationals as per Visit Britain.

Visa Requirments for Bahrain Nationals

Baharain nationals may not be required to apply for a UK visa if they are travelling to the UK for:

  • Tourism
  • Studies
  • Medical Treatment
  • Business

From 1 June 2022, nationals of Bahrain can apply to travel to the UK (for tourism, business, study or medical treatment) for up to 6 months with an Electronic Visa Waiver (EVW). Therefore they need not apply for the standard visa, rather can apply for the Electronic Visa waiver and pay a minimal fee of 30 GBP. You must apply between 3 months and 48 hours before you travel. Once the application is done, the visa confirmation comes within 24 hours. To apply you need:

  • your current passport
  • an address in the UK where you will stay
  • details of your journey, including departure and arrival dates and times

Latest News: Going forward from 22 February 2024 onwards, Bahrain Nationals will need an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) if they are travelling to the UK. Click here to know more. 

Visa Requirements for Bahrain Residents

As has been noted, Bahrain residents who are non-nationals will need to apply for a UK visa before travelling to the UK. There are various types of UK visas available to apply for. To know more about how to apply for a London tourist visa check out our detailed post on applying for London Visa here. You can also book an appointment for a visa by going to the link here: Contact GOV.UK and you will have to go in person once you have booked an appointment at the Bahrain Joint Visa application centre. Following is the address: Joint Visa Application Centre (JVAC) 18th Floor, Diplomatic Commercial Office Towers, Building 1565, Road 1722, Block 317, Manama 973, Bahrain

 

Joint Visa Application Centre Opening Hours:

Business hours Sunday to Thursday 08:00 – 15:00 [Ramadan Timing: 08:00 – 14:00]
Passport collection Sunday to Thursday 15:00 – 16:00 [Ramadan Timing: 13:00 – 14:00]

Please carry the following on the Visa Appointment day:

  1. Print out the email confirming the details of your appointment. Received after booking your appointment
  2. Valid passport or travel documents. With at least 2 pages that are blank on both sides.
  3. Printout of your completed visa application form. Only small manual amendments to this form will be accepted at the visa application centre
  4. All supporting documents Refer to the Embassy of the UK government guidelines for your visa type for the documents you must provide If you have purchased additional services online Printout of your receipt

You can also apply for the UK Visa from our partner iVisa by clicking below: 

Apply for UK Visa

Flight Tickets from Bahrain to London

Once you have sorted your UK Visa. The next step is to book your flight tickets to London, UK. The distance between Bahrain and London by road will be 6,363 KM. It makes perfect sense for all travellers to travel by plane instead which is also evident by the statistics released by VisitBritain. According to VisitBritain, 99% of Bahrain travellers travel by plane to the UK and 1% by tunnel. There are 7-8 daily flights between Bahrain International Airport BAH and London Heathrow Airport LHR. Direct flight from Bahrain to London usually takes 7 hours and 30 minutes. Some of the best airlines which operate on the Bahrain to London route are:

The best airline service mentioned above is from Gulf Air, Qatar, Etihad and Emirates Airlines. Direct flights are provided by British Airways and Gulf Air. They are one of the best airlines in the world and have recently been awarded in 2022 to be the best airline to travel with. We suggest you book your Bahrain to London flight well in advance as the good seats and tickets usually get sold out during the months of July till September of the year. July to September is the best time to travel to get rid of the Bahrain summers and enjoy some time away in pleasant weather. You can search and book your flights by searching below:

 

Bahrain to London Flights Offers

To book your flights we have partnered with Etihad and Qatar Airways and we also have Skyscanner to help you search for the right deal on your Bahrain to London Flight. Click on the advertisements below to book your flights at discount prices and offers.

Qatar Airways
Qatar Airways

 

Etihad Airways
Etihad Airways

Best London Hotels for Bahrain Tourists

When you are going on a holiday you want to book a nice relaxing hotel to enjoy your stay. London has amazing and luxurious properties at a reasonable price. However, we always suggest booking your hotels and resorts in advance as the prices go up during the summer seasons. Check out our top picks for our Bahrain tourists to enjoy a fantastic stay in London.

The Dorchester – Dorchester Collection

With a spa, Michelin-Starred restaurant and boutique bedrooms, The Dorchester features a landscaped terrace and famous tearooms. The exclusive hotel overlooks Hyde Park and is in the prestigious Mayfair.

BOOK NOW

belgravia suite the dorchester collection
Belgravia Suite at The Dorchester collection

Four Seasons Hotel London Park Lane

Located in the centre of London, between Hyde Park and Buckingham Palace Gardens, this Park Lane hotel features stunning city views. There is free WiFi throughout. London Victoria Train Station is a 15-minute walk from the hotel and Westminster Abbey is 1.9 km away.

BOOK NOW

grand suite with king bed four seasons hotel london at park lane
Grand Suite with King bed Four Seasons Hotel London at Park Lane

45 Park Lane – Dorchester Collection

Overlooking Hyde Park, 45 Park Lane features an on-site fitness studio and a modern American steak restaurant. A striking central staircase leads to a mezzanine featuring a bar, library and a private media room.

BOOK NOW

45 park lane dorchester collection hyde park suite
45 Park Lane Dorchester collection Hyde Park Suite

In addition to the above-mentioned hotels, if you are looking for other specific London hotels which are available during your stay in London you can search and book from below:

Best London tour packages for Bahrain tourists

Finally, when you are done with your London hotel bookings, we can help you book some London tours depending on your interest, individuals, groups, food tours etc. We have showcased some of the most booked London tours for you to check out and book.

1. Royal High Tea at Kensington Palace Tour

Experience the original Royal High Tea at Kensington Palace tour. Enjoy traditional sandwiches, cakes & scones on the grounds of the Palace by the Diana Statue.

 
royal high tea at kensington palace tour
Royal High Tea at Kensington Palace Tour

BOOK NOW

2. London Eye Ticket with Fast-Track Option

Fast track option for a perfect Lastminute London Eye experience! With fast-track entry for your standard flight in a shared pod, you get to skip the majority of the queue.  

London Eye Pod from outside
London Eye Pod from outside

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3. Big Bus Hop On Hop Off London Tour

See the sights of London aboard an open-top, double-decker Big Bus as you admire 360-degree views of top attractions and listen to the captivating commentary.

big bus London hop on hop off tour of London
Big Bus London hop on hop off tour of London

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4. Warner Bros. Studio: The Making of Harry Potter with Luxury Round-Trip Transport from London

Step into the mystical world of Harry Potter™ with a behind-the-scenes visit to Warner Bros. Studio London. With luxury round-trip transport from London Victoria to the north London studios included, this 7-hour experience enables you to discover the magic of the Harry Potter films without any hassle.

warner bros studio the making of harry potter with luxury round trip in London
warner bros studio the making of harry potter with a Luxury round trip to London

BOOK NOW

In case you are unable to find the right tour package for yourself you can browse our tours section to see more existing London tour packages.

SEE ALL LONDON TOURS

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5 days 4 nights london tour package

5 Days 4 Nights London Tour

Seeking a memorable short trip to London? Look no further! Explore renowned London tourist attractions with a 5-days 4 night

Riyadh to London Tour Packages

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Are you in the midst of planning your vacation from Riyadh to London? Your search ends here, as this post exclusively focuses on comprehensive Riyadh to London tour packages, providing you with all the essential details you need for your trip.

Riyadh is the capital of Saudi Arabia and the largest city on the Arabian Peninsula. The population of Riyadh is 7.6 million in 2019, making it the most populous city in Saudi Arabia. The GDP per capita income of Riyadh is $ 32,372, which is the second-highest after Dhahran’s $55,940. This makes the city have high disposable income to travel around the world and a high inbound travel destination to the UK.

Riyadh to London Travel

The distance between Riyadh and London is a whopping 6,118 km by road and 4,946 km by air. You need to be super adventurous to do road travel to reach London from Riyadh. By Road, it can take a minimum of 62 hours to reach London. Of course, you will be taking breaks throughout your journey. So it can take up to 7 -9 days of being on the road to reach London. However, the best alternative we would recommend to travel to London from Riyadh will be Air travel.

Riyadh to London flights

The best airline service and most efficient on-time arrival will be the national airline of Saudi Arabia which is Saudia. Reviewers on Tripadvisor have given 3.5 stars to the Saudia airline. Following are the topmost recommended airlines for travel to London from Riyadh:

  1. Saudia (3.5 stars on Tripadvisor)
  2. Emirates (4 stars on Tripadvisor)
  3. British Airways ( 3.5 stars on Tripadvisor)
  4. Qatar (4 stars on Tripadvisor)
  5. KLM (4 stars on Tripadvisor)

The fastest among the above-mentioned flights will be Saudia and British Airways which will take roughly 7 hours to reach London. Both these flights offer non-stop flight from Riyadh to London. We recommend Saudia and Qatar Airways as a flight to book your trip from Riyadh to London.

Top London hotels to stay for Riyadh Tourists

Once you are done with the visa formalities and flight booking, you will need to sort out the hotel booking. London has the most beautiful and highest number of 5-star hotels in the world with 75 hotels in total. Surpassing Dubai which has 61 5-star hotels. The top 10 London hotels as per travel and leisure in 2022 are as follows:

S.No Hotel Name Score  
1 Shangri-La the Shard, London 97.86 Check Availability
2 The Goring, Belgravia 96.55 Check Availability
3 The Connaught, Westminster 95.79 Check Availability
4 The Lanesborough, Oetker Collection 95.50 Check Availability
5 Kimpton Fitzroy London 95.24 Check Availability
6 Claridge’s, Mayfair 94.60 Check Availability
7 The Savoy, Strand 93.63 Check Availability
8 Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park 92.95 Check Availability
9 Four Seasons Hotel London, Park Lane 92.50 Check Availability
10 Rosewood London 92.39 Check Availability

In case you are looking for other specific London hotels you can search and book below basis availability:

Visa requirements for Travelling to London from Riyadh

For Riyadh to London travel, it is mandatory for Citizens as well as ex-pats to apply for a visa to travel to the UK. Following is the process for booking your UK tourist visa:

1. Choose the UK Visa Type

You will have to choose the right visa to travel to the UK. Generally, tourists who are travelling to the UK for a short term can apply for a short-term visa which is valid for up to 6 months. You can see all visa types here Link

2. UK Visa Fees

Following are the visa fees to travel to the UK:

    • Standard Visitor visa – for the UK, Isle of Man, Jersey and Guernsey
Visa types – Standard Visitors Visa application fee in Saudi Arabian Riyal (﷼) Visa application fee (USD)
Short-term (up to 6 months, single or multiple entry) SAR 499 $ 133
Longer-term (valid for up to 2 years) SAR 1,890 $ 504
Longer-term (valid for up to 5 years) SAR 3,431 $ 915
Longer-term (valid for up to 10 years) SAR 4,305 $ 1,148
Visiting academic – more than 6 months up to 12 months SAR 994 $ 265
Marriage visitor visa SAR 499 $ 133
Permitted paid engagement visa SAR 499 $ 133
Private medical treatment – more than six months up to 11 months SAR 994 $ 265
Visit the UK in a Chinese tour group (the UK only) SAR 499 $ 133
    • Child Visitors
Visa types – Child Visitors Visa application fee in Saudi Arabian Riyal (﷼) Visa application fee (USD)
Short-term (up to 6 months, single or multiple entry) SAR 499  $ 133
Longer-term (valid for up to 2 years) SAR 1,890 $ 504
Longer-term (valid for up to 5 years) SAR 3,431 $ 915
Longer-term (valid for up to 10 years) SAR 4,305 $ 1,148

Please Note: The visa fees may change from time to time. We will keep it updated, in case the changes are frequent, you may also visit the “Gov.UK” website to check the latest UK visa fees from Riyadh.

3. Apply for a UK visa Online and Pay

Once you have decided the type of visa you want to apply you, you will then have to fill out the application form on the Gov.UK website in English and pay online for the visa type selected. At the bottom of the page, you will see a “Start Now” button to start a new application. Apply Here

4. Appointment at VFS Global Riyadh

Once you have completed the application and paid the fees online, you will be redirected to the VFS Global website to book a face-to-face appointment to submit the visa application documents and biometric capture. Following is the Riyadh UK Visa application centre:

VFS Global Riyadh Address Opening Hours
UK Visa Application Centre 2591 Makkah road, al Hada, Riyadh 12913, Saudi Arabia, (Beside Marriott Courtyard, Opposite of Diplomatic Quarters Gate 2) Business hours are Sunday to Thursday 09:00 – 16:00

To know more about the Riyadh UK visa application centre click here. To edit or reschedule your booked appointment you can Log in to VFS global here.

5. Documents to carry on the appointment day

Once your appointment is fixed, you will have to carry the following documents with you to the visa application centre:

  • Printout of the Appointment Confirmation letter confirming the details of your appointment (Received from VFS Global)
  • Valid passport or travel document (With at least 1 page that is blank on both sides)
  • Printout of your checklist (From your completed application on GOV.UK)
  • Supporting documents you have not uploaded your documents online, you will need to bring them with you to the Visa Application Centre. Please refer to UKVI guidelines for your visa type for the documents you must provide. Documents should be sized, sorted and separated according to the supporting documents guidelines, to ensure swift processing at the Riyadh Visa Application Centre.

Once you have sorted your visa, you will have to Book your flights which we have recommended above. And once you have booked your flight you land in the dreamland of London. Below you can see our top-selling London tour packages you must check out and book.

Latest News: Going forward from 22 February 2024 onwards, Saudi Arabian Nationals will need an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) if they are travelling to the UK. Click here to know more. 

You can also apply for the UK Visa from our partner iVisa by clicking below: 

Apply for UK Visa

Best London Tour Packages for tourists travelling from Riyadh

We have listed below top London tours curated for Riyadh tourists, ensuring a memorable and enriching experience in the vibrant city, encompassing its iconic attractions and cultural highlights. 

1. Royal High Tea at Kensington Palace Tour

Experience the original Royal High Tea at Kensington Palace tour. Enjoy traditional sandwiches, cakes & scones on the grounds of the Palace by the Diana Statue.

royal high tea at kensington palace tour
Royal High Tea at Kensington Palace Tour

BOOK AFTERNOON TEA

2. Warner Bros. Studio: The Making of Harry Potter with Luxury Round-Trip Transport from London

Step into the mystical world of Harry Potter™ with a behind-the-scenes visit to Warner Bros. Studio London. With luxury round-trip transport from London Victoria to the north London studios included, this 7-hour experience enables you to discover the magic of the Harry Potter films without any hassle.
 
warner bros studio the making of harry potter with luxury round trip in London
warner bros studio the Making of harry potter with a Luxury round trip to London

BOOK TOUR

3. The Royal Botanic Gardens Kew Admission Ticket

When in London, you don’t want to miss the fresh and fragrant air of “The Royal Botanic Gardens Kew”. Stroll along a walkway high up in the treetops, and explore acres of gardens under glass. Step inside a royal palace, discover galleries of botanical art, and experience 250 years of royal history at Kew Gardens, London’s largest World Heritage Site.

Kew Gardens
Kew Gardens

SEE ALL LONDON TOURS

4. Tower of London Early Access Tour including Private Audience with Beefeater

The Tower of London is steeped in rich history dating back more than 850 years. Explore the castle with a beefeater (also known as a Yoeman Warder) who knows the castle and its history better than normal tour guides do. 

Tower of London Early Access Tour including Private Audience with Beefeater
Tower of London Early Access Tour including Private Audience with Beefeater

BOOK TOUR

In case you are unable to find the right tour package from Riyadh for yourself, you can browse our tours section to see more existing London tour packages.

SEE ALL LONDON TOURS

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5 days 4 nights london tour package

5 Days 4 Nights London Tour

Seeking a memorable short trip to London? Look no further! Explore renowned London tourist attractions with a 5-days 4 night

International organisations whose employees qualify for exempt entry clearances to the UK

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Following is the list of Organisation’s who’s whose employees qualify for exempt entry clearances to the UK

African Development Bank
African Development Fund
Asian Development Bank
Caribbean Development Bank
Common Fund for Commodities
Commonwealth Agricultural Bureaux International Commonwealth Foundation
Commonwealth Secretariat
Commonwealth Telecommunications Organisation
Council of Europe
Customs Cooperation Council
European Atomic Energy Community
European Banking Authority (EBA)
European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD)
European Bioinformatics Institute (also known as European Molecular Biology Laboratory) European Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasting
European Commission
European Community
European Coal and Steel Community
European Commission of Human Rights
European Committee for Prevention of Torture
European Court of Human Rights
European Court of Justice
European Investment Bank
European Medicines Evaluation Agency (EMEA)
European Organisation for the Exploitation of Meteorological Satellites (EUMETSAT) European Organisation for the Safety of Air Navigation (Euro control) – Director General only European Parliament
European Patent Organisation
European Police College
European School
European Space Agency
European Telecommunications Satellite Organisation European Union
Food and Agricultural Organisation (FAO)*
Hong Kong Export Trade Office
Inter-American Development Bank
International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA)
International Bank for Reconstruction and Development (IBRD) International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO)*
International Cocoa Organisation
International Coffee Organisation
International Court of Justice (UN)
International Criminal Court
International Development Association
International Education Scientific Cultural Organisation (UNESCO)* International Finance Corporation
International Fund for Agricultural Development
International Grains Organisation (formerly International Wheat Council) International Labour Organisation (ILO)*
International Lead and Zinc Study Group
International Monetary Fund
International Maritime Organisation (IMO)
International Mobile Satellite Organisation (INMARSAT)
International Oil Pollution Compensation Fund (IOPCF)
International Oil Pollution Compensation Fund 1992
International Rubber Study Group
International Seabed Authority
International Sugar Organisation
International Telecommunications Satellite Organisation (INTELSAT) International Telecommunications Union (ITU)*
International Tribunal Law of the Sea
International Tin Council
International Whaling Commission
Joint European Torus (JET)
North Atlantic Fisheries Commission
North Atlantic Salmon Conservation Organisation (NASCO)
North Atlantic Treaty Organisation (NATO)
Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) Organisation Joint Armament Cooperation
Organisation Prohibition of Chemical Weapons
Oslo and Paris Commissions (OSPAR)
Preparatory Commission for Comprehensive Nuclear Test Ban Treaty Organisation United Nations (UN)
Universal Postal Union (UPU)*
Western European Union (WEU)
World Health Organisation (WHO)*
World Intellectual Property Organisation (WIPO)*
World Meteorological Organisation (WMO)*
World Trade Organisation (WTO)

* UN Specialised agencies – certain senior officials only are Exempt
For further guidance or queries about this list please consult DMIOU Team 4 Protocol Directorate FCO.

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Visa for London

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London is the capital city of the United Kingdom. So, to travel to London you will need to apply for a visa unless you are from countries that are exempt from applying for any visa and are allowed to enter the UK. Visa for London will come under the Visa for the United Kingdom, as it is the capital city. The United Kingdom enforces one of the most stringent immigration laws in the world. So you need to make sure that whichever country you are coming from to visit London (UK) you have all the documents with you and are for you to get the visa.

There are countries whose citizen doesn’t require to apply for a Visa to enter the UK. Citizens from EU and EEA countries are exempt to apply for entry to the UK for travel, studies, business and immigration purposes. They only need to make sure that they have valid passports for the whole duration of the UK visit.

Apply for UK Visa

Exempt European Union (EU) Countries

Following are the European Union countries that don’t require any visa to enter the UK:

Austria France Malta
Belgium Germany Netherlands
Bulgaria Greece Poland
Croatia Hungary Portugal
Republic of Cyprus Ireland Romania
Czech Republic Italy Slovakia
Denmark Latvia Slovenia
Estonia Lithuania Spain
Finland Luxembourg Sweden

Apply for UK Visa

The European Economic Area (EEA) Countries

The European Economic Area (EEA) includes EU countries and:

  1. Iceland,
  2. Liechtenstein and
  3. Norway.

The EEA allows them to be part of the EU’s single market.

Switzerland is neither an EU nor EEA member but is part of the single market – this means Swiss nationals have the same rights to live and work in the UK as other EEA nationals.

There will be no change to the rights and status of EU citizens living in the UK until 2021. You and your family can apply for https://www.gov.uk/settled-status-eu-citizens-families to continue living in the UK after June 2021. The scheme will open fully by March 2019.

If you are not from an EEA Country you should have a valid passport to enter the UK. It must be valid for the whole time of your stay in the UK. You may also need a visa, depending on which country you are a citizen of and which country you are coming from.

Visa Changes Post Brexit

Post-Brexit the only changes that are brought to the UK travellers are that they must carry a valid passport during their time in the UK. Brexit has ushered changes for EU citizens visiting the UK. Previously, under the freedom of movement, EU citizens enjoyed seamless travel. Now, they face altered entry requirements, including a visa waiver system for short stays. The 90-day visa-free rule within 180 days applies, affecting travel duration and flexibility. Additionally, travellers must ensure compliance with health insurance and border checks. These changes influence travel planning, expenses, and experiences. While measures have been taken to facilitate smooth travel, the post-Brexit landscape calls for a more structured and cautious approach to visiting the UK for EU citizens.

Apply for UK Visa

How to apply for a Tourist Visa to London (UK)

You can apply for a Standard Visitor visa if you want to visit the UK:

  • For leisure, for example on holiday or to see your family and friends
  • For business, or to take part in sports or creative events
  • For another reason, for example, to receive private medical treatment

Check if you need this visa (https://www.gov.uk/check-uk-visa) if you’re from outside the European Economic Area (EEA) (https://www.gov.uk/eu-eea) or Switzerland.

Your application will not be accepted and you will not get a refund if you have the right of abode in the UK (https://www.gov.uk/right-of-abode) (for example you’re a British citizen). You need to apply for a certificate of entitlement (https://www.gov.uk/right-of-abode) instead, which will prove you have the right to abode in the UK.

The Standard Visitor visa has replaced the:

  • Family Visitor visa
  • General Visitor visa
  • Child Visitor visa
  • Business Visitor visas, including visas for academics, doctors and dentists
  • Sports Visitor visa
  • Entertainer Visitor visa
  • Prospective Entrepreneur visa
  • Private Medical Treatment Visitor visa
  • Approved Destination Status (ADS) visa

If you visit the UK on business

If you wish to visit the UK on business, you can apply for a Standard Visitor visa if you want to visit the UK for business-related activities, for example:

  • You’re coming to the UK for a conference, meeting or training
  • You want to take part in a specific sports-related event
  • You’re an artist, entertainer or musician coming to the UK to perform
  • Are an academic and are doing research or accompanying students on a study abroad programme
  • You’re a doctor or dentist and are coming to the UK to take a clinical attachment or observer post
  • Do you want to take the Professional and Linguistic Assessment Board (PLAB) test or sit the Objective Structured Clinical Examination (OSCE)
  • You want to get funding to start, take over, join or run a business in the UK

Check the Visitor Rules (https://www.gov.uk/guidance/immigration-rules/immigration-rules-appendix-v-visitor-rules) to find the full list of business-related activities you can do with a Standard Visitor visa.

What you can and cannot do on UK Business Visa

You can:

You cannot:

Read the guidance (https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/visit-guidance) for more information about what you can and cannot do with a Standard Visitor visa.

How long it will take to get the UK visa?

The earliest you can apply is 3 months before you travel. For example, you can apply from 16 March if you plan to travel on 15 June. You should get a decision on your visa within 3 weeks. Check the guide processing times (https://www.gov.uk/visa-processing-times) to find out how long getting a visa might take in the country you’re applying from.

How long you can stay in the UK?

You can usually stay in the UK for up to 6 months.

You might be able to stay for longer if:

  • You’re coming to the UK for private medical treatment – up to 11 months (£ 186 fee)
  • You’re an academic on sabbatical and coming to the UK for research – you, your spouse or your civil partner may be able to stay for up to 12 months (£ 186 fees)

If you’re staying in the UK as an academic or to receive private medical treatment for longer than 6 months, you must apply for a biometric residence permit (https://www.gov.uk/biometric-residence-permits). You might be able to get a visit visa for up to 30 days if you’re a visitor under the Approved Destination Status (ADS) Agreement (https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/visit-guidance).

If you need to visit the UK regularly

If you need to visit the UK regularly over a longer period, you can apply for a long-term Standard Visitor visa that lasts 2, 5 or 10 years. You can stay for a maximum of 6 months on each visit.

If you’re under 18 years old when you apply (https://www.gov.uk/standard-visitor-visa/if-youre-under-18), your long-term Standard Visitor visa will only be valid for up to 6 months after you turn 18.

Following are the Visa Fees

A Standard Visitor visa costs £ 93.

The fee for a long-term Standard Visitor visa depends on its length:

  • 2 years – £ 350
  • 5 years – £ 636
  • 10 years – £ 798

List of International organisations whose employees qualify for exempt entry clearances to the UK. CLICK HERE

You can also apply for the UK Visa from our partner iVisa by clicking below:

Apply for UK Visa

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