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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, find out whether you need a United Kingdom ETA, a United Kingdom Standard Visitors Visa, or another United Kingdom document. Then, upload your documents, and pay securely. You can save your progress and come back anytime. Most people finish in less than 10 minutes.

We’ll guide you through any unclear steps 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)

Purpose: The UK Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) is a mandatory digital travel authorization for visa-exempt nationals traveling to the United Kingdom for tourism, business meetings, short-term study, or transit.

When to apply: It’s recommended to apply at least a few days before your travel date. Most travelers receive a decision quickly, but applying in advance is advised.

Duration and extensions: The UK ETA is not extendable. If the validity period lapses or if you change passports, you will need to apply for a new UK ETA

Entries: Multiple entries, as long as the ETA and the passport it’s linked to remain valid.

Ports of entry: Any official United Kingdom port of entry.

Delivery format: An approved ETA is electronically linked to your passport and exists only as a digital record, without any physical document, sticker, stamp, or visa vignette.

UK Standard Visitor Visa

Purpose: The UK Standard Visitor Visa allows eligible travelers to visit the United Kingdom for tourism, business meetings, short courses, or family visits. A valid multiple-entry UK visa that has already been used to enter the UK may also allow entry to the British Virgin Islands for short stays.

When to apply: It’s recommended to apply at least 4 to 6 weeks before your planned travel date.

Duration and extensions: The visa is typically valid for 6 months, 2 years, 5 years, or 10 years, depending on what is granted. Each visit is generally limited to up to 6 months.

Entries: Issued as a multiple-entry visa.

Ports of entry: Any official United Kingdom port of entry.

Delivery format: This is a physical visa vignette placed in your passport. Applicants must attend a biometric appointment as part of the 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

Most foreign nationals, including India, China, Nigeria, Pakistan, and South Africa, must obtain a visa before traveling to the United Kingdom for tourism, business, medical treatment, study, work, or other purposes. Countries that enjoy visa-free access to the United Kingdom, including the USA, most EU countries, Australia, and Canada, can apply for a UK Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA).

General United Kingdom visa requirements are:

Passport valid for at least six months from the date of arrival and at least two blank pages
Recent photo
Valid email address
Travel details (such as flight information and accommodation address)
Proof of sufficient financial means for the duration of stay

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.

Benefit	Applying by yourself
Simple, easy forms	Not included	Included
24x7 support from visa experts	Not included	Included
Error detection to prevent rejections	Not included	Included
World's easiest passport scan	Not included	Included
Multiple payment methods	Not included	Included

1.4M happy customers

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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 613 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.