Eligibility

You need a transit visa if:

• Your nationality is on the UK “visa national” list and
• You will connect through a UK airport on a ticket that continues within 24-48 hours.

You may be exempt if you hold a valid US/Canada/Schengen visa or permanent-resident card and meet the “Transit Without Visa” (TWOV) rules. 

Required Documents

1. Passport (valid ≥ 6 months, 1 blank page)
2. Confirmed onward ticket within 24–48 hours of arrival
3. Visa or residence permit for your final destination (if required) 
4. Two photos (45 × 35 mm, white background, no glasses)
5. Proof of funds for the transit period (bank statement or credit card)
6. Completed online visa application and payment confirmation

 Application Steps

1. Online application on gov.uk – generate application number.
2. Pay fee and book a biometrics appointment at your nearest VAC.
3. Biometrics & document upload (fingerprints, photo, scans).
4. Wait for a decision – passport is returned with visa vignette if approved.
5. Transit the UK within the visa validity period (usually 6 months).

Processing Time

• Standard service: 3 weeks from biometrics to decision (Home-Office SLA).

Priority service (optional): 5 business days at select VACs (extra £250).
Apply at least one month before travel to secure an appointment and allow for passport return.