About this transit visa
The Visitor in Transit visa (also called the landside transit visa) allows you to enter the UK by passing through border control for up to 48 hours while travelling to another country outside the Common Travel Area. This is for transit only—for example, to change airports, travel by rail, or continue an overland journey. It is distinct from the DATV, which does not allow you to pass through UK border control.
Eligibility & key rules
To qualify as a Transit Visitor, you must satisfy the decision maker that you:
- Are genuinely in transit to another country outside the Common Travel Area, and transit is the main purpose of your visit
- Are taking a reasonable transit route
- Will not access public funds, medical treatment, work, or study in the UK
- Genuinely intend and are able to leave the UK within 48 hours after arrival
- Are assured entry to your destination country and any other transit countries
Visa requirement: A visa national must hold entry clearance as a Transit Visitor, unless they qualify under the Transit Without Visa Scheme.
What you can / cannot do
Permitted
- Enter the UK through border control
- Travel between airports, stations, or ports
- Continue your journey within 48 hours
Not permitted
- Stay beyond 48 hours
- Work, study, or access public funds
- Access medical treatment
- Remain in the UK beyond your transit period
Fees, documents & process
Costs
- Visitor in Transit visa: £70
- No healthcare surcharge
Key documents
- Valid passport or travel document
- Confirmed onward travel booking (flights, rail, etc.)
- Valid visa or entry permission for your destination country (if required)
- Evidence of route and transit plan
Application process
- Apply online via GOV.UK
- Attend a biometric appointment at a visa application centre
- Provide flight/travel details and proof of onward journey
- Decision typically within 3 weeks
