iVisa > United Kingdom

Get your United Kingdom visa

Find the right United Kingdom visa for your trip. Apply online with iVisa and skip the hassle.

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Our United Kingdom visa application process

How to apply for your United Kingdom ETA or visa with iVisa

Complete your online application

Answer a few simple questions, upload your documents, see when you’ll get your ETA or visa, and pay using secure methods. You can save your progress and come back anytime. Most people finish in under 10 minutes.

We’ll guide you through any unclear questions during the application process.

We review your application

The UK visa system is known for being strict – your photo must be the right size, and your passport scan must be clear.

Don’t worry – we review your whole application to catch anything that might cause delays. One of our experts checks everything for errors or missing information to make sure it’s ready to go. This review is quick but thorough.

We submit it for government processing

We’re not the UK government, but we submit your application to them and are here for you along the way if any problems occur.

Get your United Kingdom ETA or visa

Once your application is approved, we’ll notify you right away. For UK ETAs, your approved travel authorization is sent directly to your email.

If you’re applying for a Standard Visitor Visa, your passport will need to be collected from the visa center with the visa affixed inside.

Woman at an airport holding a passport and boarding pass

Visa types needed for United Kingdom

UK Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA)
UK Standard Visitor Visa
Partner and Family Visas (e.g. spouse, fiancé)*
UK Student Visa*
UK Work Visa*
UK Transit Visa*

UK Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA)

The UK ETA is designed for travelers visiting the United Kingdom for short stays. With this travel authorization, you can enter the UK for several purposes, including tourism and business.

The ETA is valid for two years or until your passport expires, whichever comes first. You can enter and leave the UK multiple times during this period, as long as each visit stays within the six-month limit.

Required documents

🛂 A valid biometric passport from an eligible country
📸 A digital passport-style photo that meets UK standards
📝 Basic personal and travel information
💳 Payment for the ETA fee and iVisa service fee
✅ A clean immigration and criminal record: Disclosed through application questions

UK Standard Visitor Visa

💳 Proof of financial means: Such as bank statements or sponsor documentation
✈️ Travel plans: Including accommodation details and return flight bookings
📄 Supporting documents: That demonstrate the purpose of your visit
🏢 Employment or education records: Showing ties to your home country
✋ Biometrics appointment: Scheduled as part of the application process

Partner and Family Visas (e.g. spouse, fiancé)*

For partners, fiancés, or dependents of UK citizens or settled individuals coming to live permanently or temporarily.

We currently don't offer this visa.

UK Student Visa*

For studying at accredited UK educational institutions (courses longer than 6 months).

We currently don't offer this visa.

UK Work Visa*

For employment in the UK under categories like Skilled Worker, Global Talent, Innovator, Youth Mobility, and UK Ancestry.

Validity: Varies by category. Typically 1 to 5 years and is renewable.

Entries: Multiple entries allowed.

Extension: Extendable and can lead to Indefinite Leave to Remain (typically after five years for Skilled Worker).

Additional info: Requires employer sponsorship, salary thresholds (for Skilled Worker), or recognized personal credentials (for Global Talent).

We currently don't offer UK Work Visas.

UK Transit Visa*

For travelers transiting through a UK airport en route to another country, without passing through UK border control.

Validity: Typically valid for 24–48 hours depending on the type of transit visa issued.

Entries: Single entry only.

Extension: Not extendable.

Additional info: Required for travelers from visa-required countries even for short airport transfers. Some travelers may be eligible for Transit Without Visa (TWOV) depending on their nationality and connecting flights.

We currently don't offer this visa.

United Kingdom visa policy

Many travelers from visa-exempt countries, including the United States, Canada, Australia, Japan, South Korea, and most European nations, are eligible to apply for the UK Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA). This digital permit allows multiple entries over two years, with each visit lasting up to six months for purposes such as tourism, business meetings, short-term study, or visiting family and friends.

Travelers from countries not eligible for the ETA must apply for aStandard Visitor Visa in advance. This visa is required for nationals from countries such as India, China, Nigeria, Pakistan, and South Africa. The Standard Visitor Visa typically permits stays of up to six months and covers a range of activities similar to the ETA, but the application process involves submitting more documents and attending an in-person biometrics appointment.

Visitors intending to work, stay long-term, or engage in activities not permitted under the ETA or Standard Visitor Visa must apply for specific visa categories such as work visas, student visas, or family visas through the UK Home Office.

United Kingdom visa prices

UK Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA)

Prices starting from $100.99

Valid for 2 years after issued

Multiple entry

Stay up to 186 days per entry

UK Standard Visitor Visa

Prices starting from $399.99

Valid for 6 months after issued

Multiple entry

Stay up to 180 days per entry

Fast facts

Most common applicant nationality

India

iVisa approval rate

99.% for the UK Visitor Visa

Main reason for denials

Insufficient funds

Why choose iVisa?

Applying for a visa on your own can be confusing and time-consuming. iVisa simplifies the process, reduces errors, and gives you peace of mind.

Applying by yourself

Simple, easy forms

24x7 support from visa experts

Error detection to prevent rejections

World's easiest passport scan

Multiple payment methods

1.4M happy customers

24/7support

67,000+ reviews

10 years of experience

98% visa approval rate

Certified customer reviews

Travelers to United Kingdom rated this product a 4.8 out of 5 based on 610 reviews.

4.8 out of 5

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Bozana

November 13, 2025

"Very simple and short proces."

krists krumpans

November 6, 2025

"It was fast."

Nitsan

October 19, 2025

"Easy use and simple"

October 11, 2025

"Super easy and super quick."

Marie-Therese

October 9, 2025

"Very helpful and friendly"

Anonymous

October 2, 2025

"Excellent service. Fast & efficient with easy to follow instructions."

Susan

September 22, 2025

"The application process is a seamless transaction! Received my application results within a few hours!"

Bert

September 19, 2025

"Service was clear"

Joel

September 17, 2025

"Very efficient."

Raylene

December 11, 2025

"Excellent service ."

FAQs

What is a UK ETA, and how is it different from a visa?

The UK ETA (Electronic Travel Authorization) is a digital travel permit for short stays. Unlike a visa, it’s fully electronic, faster to obtain, and available only to travelers from eligible countries. If you’re not eligible for the ETA, you’ll need to apply for a Standard Visitor Visa instead.

Who needs a UK ETA versus a Standard Visitor Visa?

Travelers from countries like the US, Canada, Australia, Japan, and most EU nations need an ETA for short visits. Citizens from countries such as India, China, Nigeria, and Pakistan must apply for a Standard Visitor Visa before traveling.

How long is the UK ETA it valid?

The ETA is valid for two years or until your passport expires. You can use it for multiple trips, but each stay must be under six months.

How long does it take to get approved for a UK ETA or Visitor Visa?

Most ETA applications are processed within three working days, though many are approved in 24 hours. Standard Visitor Visas typically take 15 to 30 working days. We offer Rush and Super Rush services for the ETA for an additional fee.

What documents are required for a UK ETA application?

You’ll need a valid biometric passport, a digital passport photo, personal and travel information, and payment. Make sure your documents are clear, high quality, and meet UK standards to avoid delays.

Can I work in the UK with an ETA or Standard Visitor Visa?

No. Both the ETA and Standard Visitor Visa allow you to visit, study short-term, or attend business meetings, but you cannot work, take paid employment, or settle in the UK under these permits.

Do children need their own UK ETA?

Yes. Each traveler, including children and infants, needs to apply for their own ETA if they’re eligible. The application process is the same for all applicants.

What happens if my UK ETA or visa is refused?

If your application is refused, you’ll receive details explaining why. Depending on the reason, you may be able to reapply or explore alternative visa options that better fit your circumstances.

Do I need a UK ETA if I’m just transiting?

Yes, most travelers will need an ETA even for airport transits starting in 2025. Some nationalities may need a transit visa instead, depending on their route and immigration status.

Will I be asked questions at the UK border?

Yes. Border officers may ask about the purpose of your visit, your planned activities, proof of funds, your accommodation, and your return plans. It’s important to answer clearly and truthfully.