What will I need to make my application?

This will depend on which category you are applying for entry under. In all cases you will need to make your application online or fill in an application form.

You will also need the following.

• Your passport or travel document.
• A recent passport-sized (45mm x 35mm), colour photograph of yourself.
  This should be:
  • taken against a light coloured background
  • clear and of good quality, and not framed or backed
  • printed on normal photographic paper, and
  • full face and without sunglasses, hat or other head covering unless you wear this for cultural or religious reasons (but the face must not be covered).
• The visa fee. This cannot be refunded, and you must normally pay it in the local currency of the country where you are applying.
• Supporting documents relevant to your application.

Do I need a visa?

You will need a visa if you:

• are a national of one of the countries listed in the Visa and Direct Airside Transit Visa (DATV) nationals page on this website
• are stateless (you do not have a nationality)
• hold a non-national travel document (a travel document which does not give you the nationality or citizenship of the country that issued it), or
• hold a passport issued by an authority that is not recognised in the UK.

Certain other categories of travellers to the UK may need entry clearance. If you are not sure whether you need a visa, or if you need more information, please read the appropriate guidance and the Do I need a UK visa? questionnaire on this website or contact your nearest British mission overseas.

What is a visa?

A visa is a certificate that is put into your passport or travel document by and Entry Clearance Officer at a British mission overseas. The visa gives you permission to enter the UK.

If you have a valid UK visa, we will not normally refuse you entry to the UK unless your circumstances have changed, or you gave false information or did not tell us important facts when you applied for your visa.

When you arrive in the UK, an Immigration Officer may ask you questions, so take all relevant documents in your hand luggage.