Last updated August 27, 2026 · Editorial policy
Table of Contents
Planning your the UK trip?
United Kingdom Visa Requirements 2026: Complete Guide by Nationality
UK left the EU in 2020. Most Western passports get 6 months visa-free. ETA (£20) launched 2025 for visa-exempt travelers.
Quick Summary
UK left the EU in 2020. Most Western passports get 6 months visa-free. ETA (£20) launched 2025 for visa-exempt travelers.
Visa Requirements by Nationality
| Passport | Type | Duration | Fee | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| USA | ETA required | 6 months | £20 | UK ETA (online) |
| Canada | ETA required | 6 months | £20 | UK ETA (online) |
| Australia | ETA required | 6 months | £20 | UK ETA (online) |
| New Zealand | ETA required | 6 months | £20 | UK ETA (online) |
| EU/Schengen passports | ETA required | 6 months | £20 | UK ETA (online) |
| Japan | ETA required | 6 months | £20 | UK ETA (online) |
| India | Standard visitor visa required | 6 months | £135 | Online application |
| China | Standard visitor visa required | 6 months | £135 | Online application |
What You Need to Enter United Kingdom
- Passport valid entire stay
- ETA approved (typically 1-3 days)
- Proof of accommodation
- Return/onward ticket
- Funds for stay (no fixed amount)
Planning your trip? See our complete United Kingdom travel guide, the destinations index, or the Ultimate Bucket List for inspiration.
United Kingdom Visa FAQ
Do you need a visa for the UK?
Visa-exempt nationalities now need ETA (£20, online). Others need Standard Visitor Visa (£135).
How long does a UK ETA take?
Typically 1-3 days. Apply 2+ weeks before travel.
Is UK ETA same as EU ETIAS?
No — separate systems. UK ETA covers England, Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland. ETIAS covers Schengen Area.
Can you visit UK and Schengen on same trip?
Yes — but UK ETA + Schengen visa/ETIAS are separate. Plan both in advance.
Does Northern Ireland use UK ETA?
Yes — Northern Ireland is part of UK. Land border with Ireland (EU) is open but requires UK ETA for visa-exempt travelers.
Sources: GOV.UK – Standard Visitor visa · GOV.UK – Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA). Fees change; confirm on GOV.UK before applying. Last checked 25 August 2026.
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Written by
John Morrison is the founder and lead travel writer at Packzup. Over the past decade he has explored destinations across Africa, the Americas, Asia, Europe, the Middle East, and Oceania — always self-funded, never on a press trip.
