Do Indian citizens need a transit visa for the UK?

Yes, most Indian citizens need a UK transit visa, unless they qualify for specific exemptions such as having a valid UK Visitor Visa or EU Settlement Scheme family permit. It's essential to check your eligibility based on your travel circumstances.

What is the difference between a Direct Airside Transit Visa (DATV) and a Visitor in Transit Visa?

Direct Airside Transit Visa (DATV): Required if you stay within the airport and don't go through UK border control while changing flights.

What documents are required for a UK transit visa application?

You will need a valid passport, evidence of onward travel (flight booking, ticket, or travel agent confirmation), and proof that you meet the requirements for entering your final destination (e.g., visa or residence permit). You will also be required to submit biometric details.

How long does it take to process a UK transit visa for Indian citizens?

The processing time for a UK transit visa is typically 3 weeks, but it’s advised to apply well in advance to avoid delays.

UK Transit Visa: Fees & Requirements for Indians in 2025

Dreaming of that European getaway, a business trip to the Americas, or a reunion with loved ones across the globe? If your journey involves a layover in the United Kingdom, understanding the UK transit visa rules is absolutely essential for a smooth and stress-free travel experience. For Indian citizens, navigating visa requirements can sometimes feel like a maze. That's where this comprehensive guide comes in!

Think of this guide as your personal roadmap to understanding everything you need to know about UK transit visas in 2025. We'll break down the often confusing world of visa types, eligibility criteria, application procedures, and potential exemptions, specifically tailored to the needs of Indian travelers.

What is a UK Transit Visa?

A UK transit visa allows travelers to pass through the UK on their way to another country. This is crucial if you need to change airports, have a longer layover, or your nationality requires a visa even for transit. It grants you temporary permission to enter the UK while en-route to your final destination.

Types of UK Transit Visa

There are two types of transit visas for the UK, reflecting the two types of layovers: airside and landside.

Direct Airside Transit visa (DATV): For airside transiting, you may need this if you're changing flights from within the UK and won't be passing through UK border control.
Visitor in Transit visa: For landside transiting, you may need this if you're going through border control but leaving the UK within 48 hours of arrival. It may also be required if you frequently pass through the UK over more than 6 months. To stay in the UK for over 48 hours, you may need a Standard Visitor visa.

Note

Always check with your airline if you are unsure whether you will need to pass through border control. This will help you determine which visa is most appropriate for you.

Eligibility for a UK Transit Visa

Whether you need a transit visa for the UK depends on your specific circumstances. Generally, Indian citizens will require a UK transit visa, unless they qualify for an exemption. Do you need a UK visa if in transit? Here's when you'll likely need a transit visa:

You are in transit to another country and have sufficient funds and the intention to travel onwards
You have evidence to prove you can enter that country
You can show that the only reason for your visit to the UK is for transit purposes

Transit Visa Exemptions for Indians

Good news! Some Indian citizens may be exempt from needing a UK transit visa. You do not need a transit visa if you have a valid:

EU Settlement Scheme family permit
Home Office travel document
UK Visitor Visa
Marriage Visitor Visa

Note

All visas and residence permits must be valid. E-visas or e-residence permits are not acceptable unless your airline is able to verify them with the issuing country. Contact your airline for more information.

Uk Transit Visa Requirements

Valid Passport/Travel Document: Must be current and valid.
Proof of Entry: If not a national, provide evidence like a residence permit, green card, or valid visa for the destination country.
Purpose of Visit: You may need to explain why you're traveling and where you’ll be staying.
Onward Journey Proof: Provide evidence of a booked or confirmed onward journey, such as flight booking, ticket or boarding pass (printed or digital) and travel agent confirmation.

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How to Get a UK Transit Visa

If you determine that you need a UK transit visa, here's how to get a UK transit visa from India and the UK transit visa application process. Teleport recommends following these steps on the official GOV.UK website

Online Application: Start by applying online through the official UK Visas and Immigration website (GOV.UK). The application is fully digital and must be completed accurately.
Application Form: Fill out the online application form with the correct details, including travel dates and your personal information.
Biometrics: As part of the application process, you’ll need to visit a visa application centre to have your biometric information (fingerprints and photograph) taken.
Visa Fee: After completing the application, you’ll need to pay the visa fee online through the GOV.UK website.
Submit Application: Once your application is complete and the fee is paid, submit your application through the online portal.
Decision: After submission, you will be notified via email when the Home Office has made a decision on your application. The email will outline the next steps, including whether your visa has been approved or rejected.

Note

The UK government website is the ONLY official source for visa applications. Be wary of unofficial websites or agencies that may charge excessive fees or provide inaccurate information.

UK Transit Visa Fees for Indian

The UK transit visa cost are as follows:

Direct Airside Transit Visa (DATV): INR 3908
Visitor in Transit Visa: INR 7146

UK Transit Visa Processing Time

You will usually receive a decision on your UK transit visa application within 3 weeks of submission. Processing times can vary depending on factors like application volume and time of year. It's advisable to apply well in advance to ensure sufficient time for processing. You'll be notified via email once a decision has been made, with instructions on next steps.

To wrap up

A well-prepared trip is a stress-free trip! By understanding the UK transit visa requirements for Indian citizens, you can ensure a smooth and hassle-free layover in the UK.Use this guide from Teleport as a starting point, and remember to double-check all details on the official UK Visas and Immigration website (GOV.UK) before you travel.

We're here to help you understand the complexities of global travel. Check back often for updated visa information and travel tips!