uk travel document visa free countries 2022

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Home Office travel documents and visa free countries

Tell Us What You Think?  

Under the 1951 UN Convention Refugee Travel Document (blue) is issued by the United Kingdom to a refugee who has been granted asylum in the UK. If someone has been recognised as a refugee then they can apply for a travel document under the 1951 refugee Convention, which is a blue passport-sized document. Information about applying for this travel document is available  on the UK government website .

The Refugee Travel Document Normally is normally issued for up to 10 years for adults and for up to 5 years for children, or in line with limited leave. It also may be issued with a shorter validity if considered appropriate.

Travel documents are normally valid for all countries other than the country asylum is claimed from and/or the country of origin.

Countries that allow visa-free travel on Refugee Travel document

Countries that do not allow entry with refugee travel document.

UAE – Dubai

Qatar – Doha

Stateless person’s travel document

A stateless person may apply for a travel document under 1954 United Nations Convention relating to Stateless Persons. Information about applying for this travel document is available  on the UK government website . For more information on statelessness, see our  fact sheet on statelessness .

The travel document is normally valid for up to 5 years (children) or 10 years (adults) or in line with the leave granted. The stateless travel document is normally valid for all countries.

Certificate of Travel

Certificates of Travel may be issued to individuals who:

• are permanently resident in the United Kingdom, or
• have been granted Humanitarian Protection (HP) or Discretionary Leave (DL) to enter or remain in the UK for a limited period, following an unsuccessful asylum application  and  can provide documentary evidence that they have been formally and unreasonably refused a passport by their country of origin.

The certificate of travel is normally valid for up to 5 years or for the length of leave the individual has. The Home Office guidance states that the certificate of travel is normally valid for all countries but there were previously issues with the acceptance of the document in a number of countries, including many European ones. It is recommended that a particular country’s rules should be checked before applying for such a document and travelling to that country.

However, if an individual stay outside of the UK for a period of more than 2 years, that leave to remain (whether indefinite or limited) will lapse. The leave to remain will not lapse if someone comes back and left again during the two-year period – it must be continuous for the leave to lapse.

Disclaimer:

The information in this blog is for general information purposes only and does not purport to be comprehensive or to provide legal advice. Whilst every effort is made to ensure the information and law is current as of the date of publication it should be stressed that, due to the passage of time, this does not necessarily reflect the present legal position. Connaught Law and authors accept no responsibility for loss which may arise from accessing or reliance on information contained in this blog. For formal advice on the current law please don’t hesitate to contact Connaught Law. Legal advice is only provided pursuant to a written agreement, identified as such, and signed by the client and by or on behalf of Connaught Law.

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You may also be interested in, ilr for children with 7 years residence in the uk, new changes impacting skilled workers and employers, sponsoring a spouse is getting more expensive., new changes to the immigration rules for students and their dependants., what is a judicial review and who can apply for it, what are the financial equirements for a uk fiance visa, requirements for 10 years long residence and the case of afzal v sshd, access to child – 5 years route to settlement, indefinite leave to remain for children, contact information.

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Legal Notice

British Passport

The citizens of United Kingdom can visit 149 countries without a visa.

British passport holders also have access to get 36 e-visas or 18 visas on arrival .

United Kingdom has a population of 67.2M people and the capital is London 🇬🇧.

Visa-free map

Nearby countries.

The nearest visa free countries to visit for British passport holders are Isle of Man, Guernsey, Jersey, Ireland, Belgium and Netherlands .

Visa free countries

So, where can Britishs travel without a visa? We have listed all the countries where United Kingdom citizens can travel visa-free, eliminating the hassle of visa paperwork.

• 🇦🇱 Albania (90 days)
• 🇦🇩 Andorra (N/A)
• 🇦🇹 Austria (90 days)
• 🇧🇾 Belarus (30 days)
• 🇧🇪 Belgium (90 days)
• 🇧🇦 Bosnia and Herzegovina (90 days)
• 🇧🇬 Bulgaria (90 days)
• 🇭🇷 Croatia (90 days)
• 🇨🇾 Cyprus (90 days)
• 🇩🇰 Denmark (90 days)
• 🇪🇪 Estonia (90 days)
• 🇫🇮 Finland (90 days)
• 🇫🇷 France (90 days)
• 🇩🇪 Germany (90 days)
• 🇬🇷 Greece (90 days)
• 🇭🇺 Hungary (90 days)
• 🇮🇸 Iceland (90 days)
• 🇮🇪 Ireland (Freedom of movement (Common Travel Area).)
• 🇮🇹 Italy (90 days)
• 🇽🇰 Kosovo (90 days)
• 🇱🇻 Latvia (90 days)
• 🇱🇮 Liechtenstein (90 days)
• 🇱🇹 Lithuania (90 days)
• 🇱🇺 Luxembourg (90 days)
• 🇲🇹 Malta (90 days)
• 🇲🇩 Moldova (90 days)
• 🇲🇨 Monaco (N/A)
• 🇲🇪 Montenegro (90 days)
• 🇳🇱 Netherlands (90 days)
• 🇲🇰 North Macedonia (90 days)
• 🇳🇴 Norway (90 days)
• 🇵🇱 Poland (90 days)
• 🇵🇹 Portugal (90 days)
• 🇷🇴 Romania (90 days)
• 🇸🇲 San Marino (N/A)
• 🇷🇸 Serbia (90 days)
• 🇸🇰 Slovakia (90 days)
• 🇸🇮 Slovenia (90 days)
• 🇪🇸 Spain (90 days)
• 🇸🇪 Sweden (90 days)
• 🇨🇭 Switzerland (N/A)
• 🇺🇦 Ukraine (90 days)
• 🇻🇦 Vatican City (N/A)
• 🇬🇬 Guernsey (90 days)
• 🇮🇲 Isle of Man (N/A)
• 🇯🇪 Jersey (N/A)
• 🇬🇮 Gibraltar (N/A)
• 🇫🇴 Faroe Islands (N/A)
• 🇦🇴 Angola (30 days)
• 🇧🇼 Botswana (90 days)
• 🇨🇻 Cape Verde (30 days)
• 🇸🇿 Eswatini (30 days)
• 🇬🇲 Gambia (90 days)
• 🇱🇸 Lesotho (14 days)
• 🇲🇼 Malawi (30 days)
• 🇲🇺 Mauritius (90 days)
• 🇲🇦 Morocco (90 days)
• 🇲🇿 Mozambique (30 days)
• 🇳🇦 Namibia (3 months)
• 🇷🇼 Rwanda (30 days)
• 🇸🇹 São Tomé and Príncipe (15 days)
• 🇸🇳 Senegal (90 days)
• 🇿🇦 South Africa (90 days)
• 🇹🇳 Tunisia (3 months)
• 🇿🇲 Zambia (30 days)
• 🇾🇹 Mayotte (90 days within 180-day period Valid ID or Passport Required.)
• 🇷🇪 Réunion (90 days within 180-day period Valid ID or Passport Required.)
• 🇦🇬 Antigua and Barbuda (6 months)
• 🇦🇷 Argentina (90 days)
• 🇧🇸 Bahamas (8 months)
• 🇧🇧 Barbados (6 months)
• 🇧🇿 Belize (N/A)
• 🇧🇴 Bolivia (90 days)
• 🇧🇷 Brazil (90 days)
• 🇨🇱 Chile (90 days)
• 🇨🇴 Colombia (90 days)
• 🇨🇷 Costa Rica (3 months)
• 🇩🇲 Dominica (6 months)
• 🇩🇴 Dominican Republic (30 days)
• 🇪🇨 Ecuador (90 days)
• 🇸🇻 El Salvador (6 months)
• 🇬🇩 Grenada (6 months)
• 🇬🇹 Guatemala (90 days)
• 🇬🇾 Guyana (3 months)
• 🇭🇹 Haiti (90 days)
• 🇭🇳 Honduras (3 months)
• 🇯🇲 Jamaica (180 days)
• 🇲🇽 Mexico (180 days)
• 🇳🇮 Nicaragua (90 days)
• 🇵🇦 Panama (90 days)
• 🇵🇾 Paraguay (90 days)
• 🇵🇪 Peru (183 days)
• 🇰🇳 Saint Kitts and Nevis (3 months)
• 🇱🇨 Saint Lucia (6 weeks)
• 🇻🇨 Saint Vincent and the Grenadines (6 months)
• 🇸🇷 Suriname (90 days)
• 🇹🇹 Trinidad and Tobago (N/A)
• 🇺🇸 United States (90 days)
• 🇺🇾 Uruguay (90 days)
• 🇻🇪 Venezuela (90 days)
• 🇦🇮 Anguilla (3 months)
• 🇧🇲 Bermuda (6 months)
• 🇻🇬 British Virgin Islands (1 month)
• 🇰🇾 Cayman Islands (6 months)
• 🇫🇰 Falkland Islands (1 month)
• 🇲🇸 Montserrat (6 months)
• 🇹🇨 Turks and Caicos Islands (90 days)
• 🇦🇼 Aruba (Visa not required for 30 days, extendable to 180 days.)
• Caribbean Netherlands (Visa not required up to 3 months)
• 🇨🇼 Curaçao (Visa not required for 3 months.)
• 🇬🇱 Greenland (N/A)
• 🇵🇷 Puerto Rico (Visa not required under the Visa Waiver Program, for 90 days on arrival from overseas for 2 years. ESTA required.)
• 🇵🇲 Saint Pierre and Miquelon (Visa not required for 90 days.)
• 🇸🇽 Sint Maarten (Visa not required for 3 months.)
• 🇬🇫 French Guiana (N/A)
• 🇦🇲 Armenia (180 days)
• 🇧🇳 Brunei (90 days)
• 🇬🇪 Georgia (1 year)
• 🇮🇱 Israel (3 months)
• 🇯🇵 Japan (90 days)
• 🇰🇿 Kazakhstan (30 days)
• 🇰🇬 Kyrgyzstan (60 days)
• 🇲🇾 Malaysia (3 months)
• 🇲🇳 Mongolia (30 days)
• 🇴🇲 Oman (14 days / 30 days)
• 🇵🇭 Philippines (30 days)
• 🇶🇦 Qatar (30 days)
• 🇸🇬 Singapore (90 days)
• 🇹🇼 Taiwan (90 days)
• 🇹🇭 Thailand (30 days / 60 days)
• 🇹🇷 Turkey (3 months)
• 🇦🇪 United Arab Emirates (30 days)
• 🇺🇿 Uzbekistan (30 days)
• 🇻🇳 Vietnam (45 days)
• 🇭🇰 Hong Kong (180 days)
• 🇲🇴 Macau (180 days)
• 🇵🇸 Palestine (Arrival by sea to Gaza Strip not allowed.)
• 🇫🇯 Fiji (4 months)
• 🇰🇮 Kiribati (30 days)
• 🇲🇭 Marshall Islands (90 days)
• 🇼🇸 Samoa (60 days)
• 🇻🇺 Vanuatu (30 days)
• 🇵🇳 Pitcairn Islands (14 days)
• 🇨🇰 Cook Islands (Visa not required for 31 days.)
• 🇵🇫 French Polynesia (Visa not required.)
• 🇬🇺 Guam (45 days)
• 🇳🇨 New Caledonia (Visa not required for 3 months.)
• 🇲🇵 Northern Mariana Islands (45 days)
• 🇼🇫 Wallis and Futuna (Visa not required.)

This data has been sourced from Wikipedia and was last updated on 5/1/2024.

• Ireland visa free countries
• Belgium visa free countries
• Netherlands visa free countries

United Kingdom passport visa free countries 2024

What are the visa-free countries for united kingdom passport holders, what countries provide visa on arrival for united kingdom passport holders.

Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) Countries for United Kingdom Citizens

Which countries do united kingdom citizens need to apply for an e-visa, list of countries requiring visas for united kingdom citizens, explore more, check if you need a visa for your next destination, latest news and articles.

Greece unveils visa-on-arrival program for Turkish tourists to 10 islands

Ireland imposes visa requirements on citizens of Dominica, Vanuatu, and Honduras

The essential traveler's guide to understanding various types of visas

Visa Traveler

Exploring the world one country at a time

43 countries you can travel VISA-FREE with UK visa [2024 edition]

Updated: March 21, 2024 533 Comments

One of the frequent questions I get is which countries can I visit with a UK visa. The short answer is the UK. The long answer is you can travel to 40 countries and territories VISA-FREE with UK visa.

I encourage you all to get a US visa or at least a Canada visa first. Both these visas are long-term visas. These visas offer VISA-FREE travel to quite a few countries. But if you happen to have a UK visa or applying for one, then it is still better than not having any visas at all. There are about 40 countries and territories you can visit with a UK visa.

UK tourist visas are mostly short-term (C-Type) visas valid for 6 months. The UK does issue long-term visas for 5/10 years but it would cost an arm and a leg.

The UK visa application is not the most difficult, but it can be stressful due to its lengthy processing times and lack of customer service.

Table of Contents

IMPORTANT DISCLAIMER Visa requirements change constantly but we make every effort to keep the information accurate and up to date. We provide links to official sources wherever necessary, so you can conduct your own due diligence to verify the visa requirements before planning your trip. We shall not be held liable for any damages incurred as a result of using the information in this article. Refer to our full disclaimer for more information.

Which UK Visas are eligible?

Depending on the country, any of the below UK visas can be used.

• UK Visitor Visa (Standard visitor and Short-term study)
• UK Student Visa (Tier 4)
• UK Work Visa (Tier 1, Tier 2 and Tier 5)
• UK Transit Visa (DATV and Visitor in Transit)
• UK Family Visa (Spouse)
• UK Residence Permit (ILR and BRP)

Refer to each country below for permitted UK visa types. Some countries require the UK visa to be multiple-entry and have been used at least once to travel to the UK.

So, without further ado, let’s get started.

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North America

• Eligible nationalities: All nationalities
• Permitted visas: All used/unused multiple-entry UK visas
• Permitted resident permits: All valid ILRs (permanent resident cards)
• Entry granted: Up to 180 days
• UK visa or residence permit must be valid during the entire stay in Mexico
• Passport must be valid during the entire stay in Mexico
• Official source: National Institute of Migration, Mexico

WARNING UK BRP cards are NOT ACCEPTED to enter Mexico. Only valid/unexpired UK visas (visa sticker in the passport) or UK ILR cards (permanent residency) are accepted. Also, if you are from the African continent (ex: Nigeria, Ghana, etc.), please check with Mexican authorities before planning your travel. I’m hearing a lot of stories of entry refusals and deportations at Mexican airports.

RELATED: 53 countries you can travel VISA-FREE with a US visa in 2024

Central America

02. Costa Rica

• Permitted visas: All valid used/unused multiple-entry Tier 1, 2, 4 or 5 visas (student and work only)
• Permitted residence permits: All valid ILR and BRPs
• Entry granted: 30 days
• IMPORTANT: UK standard visitor visas are NOT accepted
• UK Tier 1, 2, 4, 5 visas or BRPs must be valid for at least 3 months from the day of arrival
• Official source: Embassy of Costa Rica in Washington DC, USA
• Permitted visas: All valid used multiple-entry UK visas
• UK visa or residence permit must have been used at least once to enter the UK before
• UK visa or residence permit must be valid for at least 6 months from the day of arrival
• Must show proof of economic solvency for a minimum of 500 USD
• Original sources: Embassy of Panama in the USA

RELATED: 38 countries you can travel VISA-FREE with Canada visa in 2024

04. Anguilla (British Territory)

• Permitted visas: All valid used/unused multiple-entry UK visas
• Entry granted: 90 days
• Official source: The Government of Anguilla

05. Antigua and Barbuda

• Permitted residence permits: A valid ILR (permanent resident permit)
• Visa is NOT EXEMPT, but are eligible to obtain Visa ON ARRIVAL (VOA)
• VOA fee is 100 USD, valid for 30 days, single-entry only
• UK Visa must be valid for at least 6 months from the day of arrival
• Official source: Department of Immigration, Antigua and Barbuda
• Permitted residence permits: All valid ILR and BRPs (applies to all nationalities)
• Official source: Netherlands Worldwide

07. Bahamas

• Permitted residence permits: A valid ILR (permanent resident card)
• Official source: Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Bahamas

08. Bermuda (British Territory)

• UK visa or residence permit must be valid for a minimum of 45 days beyond the date of departure from Bermuda
• Passport must be valid for a minimum of 45 days beyond the date of departure from Bermuda
• Official source: Government of Bermuda

09. Bonaire (Dutch Territory)

10. british virgin islands (british territory).

• Permitted residence permits: None
• Entry granted: 180 days
• Entry rule: UK visa must be valid for at least 6 months from the day of arrival
• Official source: Government of the Virgin Islands (British)

11. Cayman Islands (British Territory)

• Entry rule: Must arrive in the Cayman Islands directly from the UK. Arriving from a third country is not permitted.
• Official source: Cayman Islands Customs and Border Controls

12. Curaçao

13. dominican republic.

• Permitted visas: All valid used/unused multiple-entry UK visas, except transit
• Entry rule: If arriving by land or sea, must pay a departure tax of 20 USD before departing. If arriving by air, the departure tax is included in the airfare.
• Official source: Embassy of the Dominican Republic in the UK

14. Jamaica

• Bosnia and Herzegovina
• Dominican Republic
• Entry rules: UK visa must be valid for at least 30 days from the day of arrival
• Official source: Immigration Department of Jamaica

15. Sint Maarten

16. turks and caicos (british territory).

• Official source: Ministry of Border Control of Turks and Caicos

RELATED: 53 countries you can travel VISA-FREE with Schengen visa in 2024

South America

• Official source: Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Peru

RELATED: 18 countries you can visit VISA-FREE with an Australian visa or PR in 2024

18. Albania

• Permitted visas: All valid USED multiple-entry UK visas
• Entry rule: UK visa must have been used at least once to enter the UK
• Official source: Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Albania

19. Armenia

• Marshall Islands
• Papua New Guinea
• Philippines
• Saint Kitts and Nevis
• Saint Lucia
• Saudi Arabia
• Solomon Islands
• Timor-Leste
• Trinidad and Tobago
• Turkmenistan
• Entry granted: 21 or 120 days
• Visa is NOT EXEMPT, but are eligible to obtain Visa ON ARRIVAL
• VOA fee is 3,000 AMD, valid for 21 days, single-entry (OR) 15,000 AMD, valid for 120 days, single-entry
• Visa must be a STICKER in the passport, E-Visa prints are not accepted
• Official source: Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Armenia

20. Georgia

• UK visa must be valid on the day of arrival in Georgia
• Total duration of consecutive stays must not exceed 90 days in any 180-day period
• Official source: Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Georgia

21. Gibraltar (British Territory)

• UK visa must have been issued for at least 6 months or more
• UK residence permit must have been issued for at least 12 months or more
• Official source: Gibraltar Borders & Coastguards Agency

22. Ireland

• North Macedonia
• Permitted visas: A valid used multiple-entry UK short-stay standard visitor visa
• Entry granted: 90 days or until the exit date on your UK entry stamp, whichever is shorter
• Must enter the UK first before entering Ireland
• Must enter and exit Ireland within the exit date on your UK entry stamp (this is different from the visa expiry date)
• Can enter Ireland directly from the UK or elsewhere, but must enter Ireland within the exit date on the UK entry stamp
• Official source: Department of Justice of Ireland

23. Moldova

• Central African Republic
• Equatorial Guinea
• Guinea-Bissau
• São Tomé and Príncipe
• South Africa
• Entry rule: The UK visa or BRP must be valid for the intended period of stay
• Official source: Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Moldova

24. Montenegro

• Entry rule: UK visa must be valid for the intended period of the stay
• Official source: Government of Montenegro

25. North Macedonia

• Entry granted: 15 days
• UK visa must be valid for at least 5 days beyond the intended period of stay
• Total duration of consecutive stays must not exceed 3 months in any 6 months period
• Official source: Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Macedonia
• UK visa must be valid for the entire duration of the stay
• Official source: Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Serbia
• Afghanistan
• Algeria (those aged 15-18 and 35-65)
• North Korea
• Visa is NOT EXEMPT, but are eligible to apply for Turkey e-Visa online
• eVisa fee is 43 USD, valid for 180 days, single-entry only
• Official source: Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkey

If you hold a UK visa or BRP, you can follow this  step-by-step guide to apply for Turkey e-Visa . This guide has step-by-step instructions and screenshots to help you fill out the application, pay the visa fee and download your approved e-Visa.

28. United Kingdom (Of course!)

• Includes all parts of the United Kingdom: England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland
• Includes British Crown Dependencies: Isle of Man and the Channel Islands (Bailiwick of Jersey and Bailiwick of Guernsey)

RELATED: 5 ways to get proof of onward travel for your next trip

Middle East

29. Bahrain

• Entry granted: 14 days or 30 days
• Visa is NOT EXEMPT, but are eligible to obtain Visa ON ARRIVAL or Bahrain eVisa
• Single-entry VOA fee is 5 BD, valid for 14 days, entry up to 14 days
• Multiple-entry VOA fee is 12 BD, valid for 3 months, entry up to 30 days
• Single-entry eVisa fee is 9 BD, valid for 14 days, entry up to 14 days
• Multiple-entry eVisa fee is 16 BD, valid for 1 month, entry up to 14 days
• For VOA, the UK visa must be valid for the entire stay in Bahrain
• For eVisa, the UK visa must be valid for at least 6 months from the day of arrival
• Official source: Bahrain eVisa Portal
• Burkina Faso
• Congo, Dem. Rep. Of
• Congo, Rep. of
• Cote d’Ivoire
• Guinea Bissau
• Sierra Leone
• South Sudan
• Permitted visas: None
• Visa is NOT EXEMPT, but are eligible to apply for Jordan E-Visa
• The ILR or BRP must be valid for at least 6 months from the day of arrival
• Official source: Jordan E-Visa Portal
• El Salvador
• Entry granted: 10 or 30 days
• Visa is NOT EXEMPT, but are eligible to obtain Oman 26M or 26N Tourist Visa online
• 26M eVIsa fee is 20 OMR, valid for 30 days, single-entry only
• 26N eVIsa fee is 5 OMR, valid for 10 days, single-entry only
• Official source: Sultanate of Oman, Royal Oman Police
• Visa is NOT EXEMPT, but are eligible to apply for A3 Visa online on the Hayya portal
• A3 Visa fee is QAR 100, valid for 30 days, single-entry only
• Must provide hotel booking for the entire stay reserved through the Discover Qatar website
• UK visa or BRP/ILR must be valid on the day of the A3 Visa application
• Official source: Qatar Tourism Board

33. Saudi Arabia

• Permitted visas: Valid USED multiple-entry UK standard visitor visa (other visas not accepted)
• Visa is NOT EXEMPT, but are eligible to obtain Visa ON ARRIVAL or Saudi Arabia eVisa
• VOA or eVisa fee is 300 SAR, valid for 1 year, multiple-entry (plus service fee and insurance fee)
• UK visa must have been used at least once to enter the UK
• Official source: Saudi Arabia Tourism Authority

34. United Arab Emirates

• Permitted residence permits: All valid ILR, BRP and spouse visas
• Entry granted: 14 days
• Visa is NOT EXEMPT, but are eligible to obtain Visa ON ARRIVAL at all UAE airports
• VOA fee is 100 AED, valid for 14 days, single-entry only
• UK residence permit must be valid for at least 6 months from the day of arrival
• Official source: Embassy of UAE in London, UK

RELATED: How to turn your weak passport into a strong passport (with examples)

• Visa is NOT EXEMPT, but are eligible to obtain Visa ON ARRIVAL at all international airports
• VOA fee is $25 USD, valid for 30 days, single-entry only
• UK visa must have been used to enter the UK at least once
• Official source: Egypt Tourism Department

36. Morocco

• Visa is NOT EXEMPT, but are eligible to apply for Morocco e-Visa
• E-Visa fee is 770 MAD, valid for 180 days, single-entry only
• UK visa or BPR/ILR must be valid for at least 90 days from the day of arrival
• Official source: Morocco E-Visa Portal

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• Permitted visas: Valid multiple-entry UK RESIDENT visas such as student, work, etc.
• Visa is NOT EXEMPT but are eligible to apply for  Japan eVisa
• eVisa fee is JPY 3,000, valid for 90 days, single-entry only
• Must submit  proof of residence  to prove that you reside in the UK
• Must show the visa issuance confirmation via the eVisa website on your phone at the immigration (Prints and PDFs are not accepted)
• Must enter Japan by flight only
• Official source: Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan

38. Kyrgyzstan

• Permitted visas: All valid used/unused LONG-TERM multiple-entry UK visas, issued for at least for 3+ years
• Entry granted: 7 days
• UK visa must be a long-term visa issued for 3 or more years, visas issued for less than 3 years are not accepted
• After entering Kyrgyzstan this way, you can only reenter Kyrgyzstan again after 21 days
• Official source: Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Kyrgyzstan

39. Philippines

• Passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond the date of departure
• Official source: Embassy of the Philippines in India

40. Singapore

• Entry granted: 96 hours (4 days)
• Visa is NOT EXEMPT but are eligible to obtain Visa Free Transit Facility (VFTF) upon arrival
• Must be traveling to or from the country of passport. Example: Must be traveling to a third country from India via Singapore or traveling to India from a third country via Singapore. An example itinerary would be India-Singapore-Bali or Bali-Singapore-India.
• Both arriving and departing flights in Singapore must be on the same itinerary
• UK visa or BPR/ILR must be valid for at least 1 month at the time of arrival
• Official source: Singapore Immigration & Checkpoints Authority

41. South Korea

• Eligible nationalities: All nationalities (except these 23 countries – Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Cameron, Cuba, Egypt, Gambia, Ghana, Iran, Iraq, Kosovo, Kyrgyzstan, Myanmar, Nepal, Nigeria, Pakistan, Palestine, Senegal, Somalia, Sri Lanka, Sudan, Syria, Uzbekistan and Yemen)
• Entry rule: Must be traveling to/from the UK through South Korea
• Official source: South Korea Embassy in Washington DC, USA
• Permitted visas: All valid/expired used/unused single/multiple-entry UK visas, except transit
• Permitted residence permits: All valid/expired ILR and BRPs
• Visa is NOT EXEMPT but are eligible to apply for ROC Travel Authorization Certificate online
• ROC Travel Authorization Certificate is free of charge, valid for 90 days, multiple-entry
• If using an EXPIRED UK visa or residence permit, the visa or residence permit must have expired in the last 10 years
• Official source: Bureau of Consular Affairs, Republic of China (Taiwan)

43. Thailand

• Permitted residence permits: A valid ILR or BRP
• Entry granted: 60 days
• Visa is NOT EXEMPT, but are eligible to apply for Thailand e-Visa online
• E-Visa fee is 40 USD, valid for 90 days or 180 days, single or multiple-entry
• Must submit  proof of residence in the UK such as driver’s license, utility bill, etc
• Thai E-Visa Portal

So, there you have it! 43 countries and territories you can travel VISA-FREE with UK visa.

Do you know any other country (I haven’t listed here) where you can travel VISA-FREE with UK visa? Let me know in the comments below.

Change history:  For those who are interested, here are the changes to this list.

WRITTEN BY THIRUMAL MOTATI

Thirumal Motati is an expert in tourist visa matters. He has been traveling the world on tourist visas for more than a decade. With his expertise, he has obtained several tourist visas, including the most strenuous ones such as the US, UK, Canada, and Schengen, some of which were granted multiple times. He has also set foot inside US consulates on numerous occasions. Mr. Motati has uncovered the secrets to successful visa applications. His guidance has enabled countless individuals to obtain their visas and fulfill their travel dreams. His statements have been mentioned in publications like Yahoo, BBC, The Hindu, and Travel Zoo.

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LEGAL DISCLAIMER We are not affiliated with immigration, embassies or governments of any country. The content in this article is for educational and general informational purposes only, and shall not be understood or construed as, visa, immigration or legal advice. Your use of information provided in this article is solely at your own risk and you expressly agree not to rely upon any information contained in this article as a substitute for professional visa or immigration advice. Under no circumstance shall be held liable or responsible for any errors or omissions in this article or for any damage you may suffer in respect to any actions taken or not taken based on any or all of the information in this article. Please refer to our full disclaimer for further information.

AFFILIATE DISCLOSURE This post may contain affiliate links, which means we may receive a commission, at no extra cost to you, if you make a purchase through a link. Please refer to our full disclosure for further information.

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533 Comments

avtarsingh says

March 4, 2023 at 10:16 am

Can I travel to Japan with an Australian visa?

Thirumal Motati says

March 6, 2023 at 6:46 am

Hi Avtarsingh! No. Japan does not allow Australian visas. You REQUIRE a Japan visa to travel to Japan.

Kadidjath Abeo Christelle RADJI says

February 25, 2023 at 7:20 am

Hi, can I Travel to Spain with a UK BRP?

February 28, 2023 at 10:24 am

Hi Kadidjath! You will need a Schengen visa to travel to Spain. Spain does not accept UK BRP.

Muhammed Ramzi says

February 24, 2023 at 12:42 pm

Hello team! Thank you for taking the time to create this brilliant website and answer all the comments. You have helped a lot of people in clearing their doubts about getting a tourist Visa. I’m an Indian national holding an Indian Passport living in the UK under a skilled worker Visa (Tier 2) holding a UK BRP which is valid for three years. I’m planning to visit Saudi Arabia and I have got a 6 hours layover in Romania. Do I require an Airport Transit visa If I’m leaving the visa-free zone to self-transfer for the next flight to Saudi Arabia?

Also, it is mentioned that UK Visa holders can get a Visa on Arrival for Saudi Arabia. Is it valid If I’m holding a BRP of three years validity? And is it possible If I’m boarding a Wizz Air flight from Bucharest Airport Romania or VoA is only applicable when boarding Saudi Airlines?

Thank you for your time :)

March 6, 2023 at 2:02 pm

Hi Muhammed! For Romania, you would need an airport transit visa if you are leaving the international transit area. Romania offers VISA-FREE access to those with a Schengen visa or a visa from any EU country, but unfortunately not for UK BRP holders.

Saudi Arabia offers VOA for those with permanent residency in the UK, meaning you must hold a UK ILR (Indefinite Leave to Remain). Your BRP is temporary and unfortunately, you won’t be able to get VOA in Saudi Arabia based on your UK BRP.

Kevin Watson says

February 20, 2023 at 9:52 am

Hi, I’m from the UK but my wife is Thai with an ILR visa but she also has a USA ESTA visa does this mean we can go to Spain, Portugal and Italy without Schengen?

February 23, 2023 at 6:54 am

Hi Kevin! Spain, Portugal and Italy are all Schengen countries and they DO NOT allow UK ILR or US visas. She would REQUIRE a Schengen visa to travel to any of those countries.

Sheetal Mathew says

February 13, 2023 at 1:02 pm

Hi Thirumal, I am an Indian passport holder with a UK student visa. Am I eligible to visit Morocco or Georgia with this current Visa?

February 28, 2023 at 12:18 pm

Hi Sheetal! Yes. You can visit Morocco and Georgia with your UK student visa. But for Morocco, you must apply for its e-Visa before traveling. You are eligible to apply for Morocco based on your UK visa.

Rasaq Bankole says

January 26, 2023 at 7:27 pm

Hi all, I have a UK BRP visa. Do I need a Schengen visa to visit European countries for holiday?

January 27, 2023 at 6:16 am

Hi Rasaq! You would need a Schengen visa to visit Schengen countries. But countries in Europe that do not fall under the Schengen zone can be visited using your UK BRP. Some examples are Georgia, Montenegro, Turkey, etc.

S M U A Baloch says

February 19, 2023 at 7:13 am

Hello, my wife and children hold valid UK BRP (Leave to Remain), can they travel to Greece and what other European countries that give Visas on Arrival? Could you please guide us accordingly with a comprehensive list of VOA countries as dates for Schengen are too busy? Regards

March 6, 2023 at 2:22 pm

Hi Baloch! All 27 Schengen countries including Greece do not allow UK BRPs. You would need a Schengen visa to travel to any of those 27 Schengen countries including Greece. But there are some countries in Europe that allow UK BRPs such as Albania, Montenegro, Armenia, Georgia, etc. You can find the list in this article under the section “Europe”.

Jibrann khan says

January 26, 2023 at 3:04 am

Hi Thirumal sir! Greetings! I have a UK visitor visa. I am from Pakistan. Which countries I can visit in Europe on a UK visitor visa?

January 26, 2023 at 1:30 pm

Hi Jibrann! There are quite a few countries in Europe that you can visit using your UK visitor visa, such as Albania, Georgia, Montenegro, Turkey, etc. Please refer to this article for more information.

md amir faisal says

January 25, 2023 at 10:01 am

I am from Bangladesh. I have 10 years multiple-entry type C visa. can I travel to Ireland? How many countries to visit with this UK visa?

January 26, 2023 at 1:34 pm

Hi Md Amir! Bangladesh passport holders are not eligible to enter Ireland using a UK visitor visa unless their UK visa has “BIVS” endorsed on it. If you have “BIVS” on your UK visa, then you can travel to Ireland. For other countries, please refer to this article.

January 18, 2023 at 12:17 am

Hi there. Firstly thank you for this article it has been so so helpful. In regards to Aruba, there are certain countries listed. However, with the BRP/ILR it says all nationalities. As a Nigerian national with a British ILR, does that qualify me to travel there? Thank you.

January 24, 2023 at 8:03 am

Hi MJ! Yes, those with British ILR/BRP can travel to Aruba irrespective of what nationality they hold. So with your Nigerian passport and UK ILR, you can travel to Aruba.

January 9, 2023 at 9:12 am

I have 2 years standard UK visitor visa. Can I travel to Japan visa-free?

January 24, 2023 at 9:23 am

Hi Preet! No. You would need a Japan visa.

Aditya says

January 9, 2023 at 12:09 am

Hi, I’m an Indian passport holder with a UK student visa tier 4. What countries can I visit visa-less in 2023? Can you please reply? Thank you in advance.

January 9, 2023 at 7:26 am

Hi Aditya! It depends on whether you have a valid UK student visa in your passport or a BRP card. You can go through this article and find eligible countries for your visa or BRP.

Patience says

January 10, 2023 at 11:49 pm

Hi, please I have a UK student visa and I want to travel to France for a holiday. I am from Nigeria, please advise if this is possible or if I need a France tourist visa and if I can apply from the UK or from my home country.

January 24, 2023 at 9:11 am

Hi Patience! You would need a Schengen visa to travel to France. You can apply for your Schengen visa from the French embassy in the UK.

MUSTAFA MEAH says

December 19, 2022 at 1:06 pm

Hi, I have a Bangladeshi passport with BRP. Can I get visa on Arrival for Egypt? Please help as I’m getting mixed information also the embassy won’t answer the phone.

December 23, 2022 at 7:13 am

Hi Mustafa! Unfortunately, all official sources say “UK visa”, so I’m not sure if you can use your UK BRP. I haven’t gotten any response from the embassy either, so I can’t confirm.

Abubakar Tahiru says

December 18, 2022 at 8:00 pm

I’m on a student visa and I have my UK BRP. Can I travel to Mexico or Costa Rica with BRP?

December 23, 2022 at 8:23 am

Hi Abubakar! You CANNOT travel to Mexico using a UK BRP. You would need a UK visa in the passport or UK ILR to travel to Mexico. But for Costa Rica, yes. You can use your UK BRP to travel to Costa Rica.

Aveek Mukhopadhyay says

December 10, 2022 at 7:56 pm

Hello Thirumal, very helpful article. I see that Egypt has been mentioned as a destination allowed with a Uk visa. I have an Indian passport and UK Visa so based on this article and the source posts, I should be eligible. However, when I am trying to check the e-visa (which was mentioned as an alternative to the VOA) and mention my nationality as India, it says that I cannot get an entry. I do not see any provision to mention that I have Uk visa. I was planning to travel with my wife and an infant, so I am a bit concerned about whether this is being allowed in practice. Do you know anyone who has traveled to Egypt just using a UK visa (if they belong to a country that is otherwise not allowed?)

December 23, 2022 at 8:58 am

Hi Aveek! Unfortunately, Indian nationals need to book a tour or a meet-and-greet service in order to apply for the E-Visa. You can book this service after your visa is approved too. In practice, many Indian nationals travel without using any agent. But the airline or the immigration in Cairo can make things difficult if you do not have a tour operator. To be on the safe side, you can book a 2-day tour with an agent just so they can come to the airport for you. Ibis Egypt Tours is well-reputed. Many Indian nationals seem to use them for their E-Visas. You can contact them to see if they can help.

Regarding VOA, I don’t know anyone that actually used it successfully to enter Egypt. This VOA with UK visa information is already in TIMATIC, so the airlines are aware of it and will not stop or prevent you from boarding. But whether or not immigration in Cairo is aware of it still remains uncertain.

Rhea Pillai says

November 15, 2022 at 4:58 pm

Hi, your post is very helpful. However, I am finding it a bit conflicting with so many answers to read. Pardon me if this is a repeat question.

I am an Indian passport holder residing in the UK with Tier 1 General Entrepreneur BRP. Can I travel to Dublin without a visa? I was once refused to board the plane from Edinburgh to Dublin to Bombay. But, I do not recollect showing my BRP to the ground staff. She just said you have an Indian passport with no Schengen and hence I cannot allow you to board the plane.

Can I travel to Schengen countries with my BRP?

November 23, 2022 at 5:08 am

Hi Rhea! No. You cannot use UK BRP to travel to Ireland. You would need to apply for an Ireland visa. Also, Schengen countries do not accept UK BRP, therefore you would need a Schengen visa to travel to Schengen countries.

Fahim MUSHTAQ says

November 29, 2022 at 1:08 pm

Hi, I am from Pakistan. I have a UK standard visitor visa. My question is can I travel to Mexico or do I need a visa for Mexico?

December 7, 2022 at 10:03 am

Hi Fahim! If your UK visitor visa is a sticker in your passport and is still valid, then yes, you can use your UK visa to enter Mexico. You don’t need a separate Mexico visa.

Prashant says

November 11, 2022 at 5:27 pm

2-year long-term Standard Visitor UK visa on an Indian Passport will have BIVS and allow me to enter Ireland? OR BIVS is applicable only on a Standard Visitor visa of 6 months?

November 23, 2022 at 5:20 am

Hi Prashant! That’s a good question. In my experience, I have seen BIVS only on 6-month visas so far. But I assume you can request BIVS on 2 or 5-year visitor visas as well. Even though they have 2 or 5-year validity, the allowed stay is still 6 months which makes it a short-stay visitor visa.

Gloria says

November 10, 2022 at 4:04 pm

Hello! Good evening. Thank you for this post. Very insightful. I am Nigerian and I would love to visit Morocco in a few but I want to confirm if it’s still an e-visa I need. I live in the UK and I have my BRP.

November 21, 2022 at 4:22 am

Hi Gloria! Yes, Nigerian passport holders are eligible to apply for Morocco e-Visa using their UK BRP. That being said, there is always some sort of scrutiny against Nigerian passport holders, so please confirm with Moroccan authorities before planning your travel.

Emmanuel says

November 10, 2022 at 8:04 am

Thirumal! Thank you for your wonderful experience update. I am a Nigerian passport holder I want to know which visa is the best the Schengen visa and UK visa. Please advise me. Thank you.

November 21, 2022 at 4:30 am

Hi Emmanuel! Schengen is the best as it gives you more visa-free countries than a UK visa. But your first Schengen visa will be given just for the days you have asked for. Your subsequent Schengen visas will have longer validity and that’s when you can start taking advantage of visa-free countries.

November 9, 2022 at 5:16 pm

Personal experience with Pakistani Passport: North Macedonia – they do not accept BRP/Residence permits or entry permits stamped on the passport. Must have any kind of UK visa which is not yet expired and also have travel insurance. Albania – they do not stamp your passport, only electronic data collection. No problem with entry. Serbia – No problem in entry – no questions asked Montenegro – No problem with entry – no stamp on the passport if you enter by train from Serbia.

November 23, 2022 at 5:25 am

Hi Umair! Thanks for the update! Very useful to the other readers. Regarding Serbia, were you able to use your UK BRP? Did you enter Serbia by air or via land?

November 4, 2022 at 4:59 pm

Hi dear, I need help with confirmation so I don’t make mistake for something like this. Thank you in advance. 1. Indonesia passport holder. 2. ILR visa.

How do I find which country I can visit from your list? “Indonesia/All nationalities” in eligible nationalities, and Permitted residence permits if shown ILR? Also, if you could recommend me 3 countries that are worth visiting?

November 7, 2022 at 6:49 am

Hi FK! That’s correct! “Indonesia/All nationalities” in eligible nationalities and “ILR” in permitted residence permits. It’s worth visiting all countries on this list, but if I have to recommend only 3, I would say Mexico, Georgia and Turkey. If Indonesia is not eligible for Turkey, then Serbia.

ME Reynoso says

November 3, 2022 at 6:45 am

Hi! How about Bosnia and Herzegovina? The flag image is there but could not see it in the text.

November 7, 2022 at 7:13 am

Hi! Previously Bosnia and Herzegovina allowed visas from all EU member states. Since Brexit, the UK is not been part of the EU anymore and therefore UK visas are not allowed. The image was created pre-Brexit so the flag is still there.

Nana Olanrewaju says

November 1, 2022 at 2:13 am

Hi Thirumal, I’m on a student visa and I have my UK BRP. Can I travel to Malta with my UK visa and BRP?

November 7, 2022 at 7:18 am

Ni Nana! Malta is a Schengen state so you would need a Schengen visa to travel to Malta. You cannot use your UK visa or BRP.

November 1, 2022 at 1:30 am

Though 99% of what is written is correct, I would like to add an incident that happened to me while I was traveling to the Philippines. Based on the Philippines Embassy details, an Indian with a valid visa could enter the Philippines and would receive a visa on arrival. Hence based on this fact, I booked my travel and reached Heathrow airport. I am living in the UK with a General Tier 2 work visa, and I was stopped by Qatar Airways check-in staff, and they refused to allow me to board even though I tried to explain regarding it. So, I guess, this is also a matter of flight requirements as well. I guess, a valid visa would mean Permanent residency status and not just any visa.

November 7, 2022 at 7:37 am

Hi NevR! Sorry to hear that Qatar airways staff denied your boarding. Philipines immigration, embassies and TIMATIC (airline database) all mention that a “UK resident visa” can be used. A resident visa can be a student visa, work visa, spouse visa, etc. that gives the holder the legal right to reside in the UK for a temporary period. If you have a BRP, that’s considered a “resident visa” as well. It is not true that only permanent residents can enter.

Qatar is notorious for its untrained staff that deny boarding on every silly thing that they spot. I have been denied boarding by Qatar staff a few times and I usually demand to speak to their manager. Once I speak with their manager, I would immediately be allowed to board. So please do the same. Demand to speak to their manager, explain and pull up the embassy page and show it to them.

November 16, 2022 at 11:25 am

You are absolutely right. Some airline staff do not really understand immigration rules. Therefore you have to speak to the manager who understands. It also happened to us even though for different routes. Once we spoke to the manager, everything was fine and we could fly.

October 30, 2022 at 4:16 pm

Hello, I’m from the Philippines and I have a 2-year standard tourist UK visa that is valid until 2024. Please confirm if I can just hop on a plane and fly to Mexico or do I need to prepare anything else. Thank you.

October 31, 2022 at 8:23 am

Hi Bea! You just need your passport and UK visa. Nothing else. But keep in mind that your UK visa must be multiple-entry and must be valid for the entire stay in Mexico.

Vanessa says

October 8, 2022 at 2:12 pm

Thanks for all the info, it’s frustrating finding nice places to go as a Nigerian:). Can you please advise where I can travel without the visa hassles/visa-free? I have a Nigerian passport and my student visa (sticker) expires on the 15th of October. However, I am now on a graduate visa with BRP validity until 2024. Kindly help, thank you!

October 10, 2022 at 2:35 am

Hi Vanessa! A few countries only allow UK visas and a few only ILR. But there are plenty that allows UK BRPs. So go over the list and check for countries if “Nigeria or All nationalities” is mentioned in “Eligible nationalities” and UK BRP in “Permitted residence permits”. You can travel to all of those countries.

October 3, 2022 at 11:04 am

Hi, does a UK BRP which is on a pre-settled basis (temporary leave to remain) for 5 years expiring in 2025 allow a Pakistani passport holder to enter Egypt, Morocco, Montenegro and Serbia for a short 7-10 day trip without a visa so its VOA?

October 7, 2022 at 4:19 am

Hi Ahmad! For Egypt and Serbia, you would need a UK visa. I’m sure they accept UK BRPs. For Morocco and Montenegro, yes, you can use your UK BRP.

Sandra says

October 3, 2022 at 7:16 am

Hello thirumal. I have been following you here for a while well done. I am a NIGERIAN but studying in the UK. Please can you list 5 nice countries I can travel to with my UK BRP? I want to go on vacation with my boyfriend so I need a country I can visit with my UK BRP. Awaiting your quick response. Thank you!

October 7, 2022 at 4:23 am

Hi Sandra! You can try Montenegro, Georgia, Albania or Morocco (e-visa). They are all nice countries and allow UK BRPs. But you can also check the entire list to see if you like any other country.

September 27, 2022 at 2:51 pm

Hi, I have a UK visa. Can I travel to Singapore and stay there for sightseeing?

September 28, 2022 at 2:55 am

Hi Swati! To use your UK visa to travel to Singapore, you must be in transit to a third country preferably India or UK. A India-Singapore-India itinerary will not work. It must be something like India-Singapore-UK or UK-Singapore-India or India-Singapore-Thailand-UK or UK-Duabi-Singapore-India, etc.

October 7, 2022 at 2:18 am

Thirumal, I just discovered your blog and I’m amazed by the useful tips you have shared. I’m on a work visa in the UK for almost 5 years and I wish I knew about all this useful info much earlier. How long can I be in Singapore if I’m in transit to India? UK – Singapore – India. Also, any extra benefits if I have an ILR?

October 7, 2022 at 3:40 am

Hi Dhruv! You can stay up to 96 hours in Singapore on your way to India. Yes, ILR gives you access to countries that you can’t enter with a temporary BRP or UK visa such as Mexico, Bahamas and Peru.

Chinwe says

September 27, 2022 at 3:25 am

Hello, thanks for all the info you share. I am Nigerian, living in the UK with a student visa + BRP. I was just making plans for Turkey and decided to check your page again. I am sure the requirement for Nigerians with UK visas was the same (visa-free) but you seem to have taken Nigeria off the list. What happened? What do I require to enter Turkey? I am seeing contradictory info on some sites that maintain that Nigerians in the UK do not need the visa. Please help.

September 27, 2022 at 6:45 am

Hi Chinwe! Turkey’s ministry updated its requirements so I had to update the article to reflect the new requirements. Unfortunately, Nigerian passport holders with UK visas/BRP are not eligible for Turkey e-Visa anymore.

October 8, 2022 at 1:45 pm

Thank you, Thirumal. What a bummer! Can you please confirm what are the requirements now for Mexico? Can I use my BRP to enter Mexico as a tourist or do I need a tourist visa? I am a Nigerian passport holder living in the UK on a graduate visa, with BRP valid until 2024

October 10, 2022 at 2:38 am

Hi Chinwe! Mexico allows only valid UK visas or UK “permanent residence permits” such as ILR. Unfortunately, you can’t use your student BRP to travel to Mexico. If you like to apply for a Mexico visa, you can apply from your nearest Mexican consulate or embassy. Here are the details on how to apply for a Mexico visa .

Beauty says

November 18, 2022 at 10:20 pm

I would have preferred to be stopped by British airways en route to Mexico with my sister last summer, it was a terrible event as I was traveling with a BRP card and she’s a Uk passport holder. She gained entry while I was detained and treated like a criminal in their smelling detention for 48hrs (till there was an available flight seat for me)

It was horrible as I was denied water for almost 24hrs and had no access to phone calls, a stinking infected toilet, and super cold with nothing but kitchen foil as a blanket. I do not wish this experience on my worst enemy. It was the worst experience of my life, I now have a phobia for a BRP travel-free countries, in fact I think I have a phobia for all travels. Flight wasted hotel bookings, site seeing tickets, all wasted plus inhumane treatment because of a simple mistake on my part.

P.S.: I also think the boss had a thing against Nigerians, it’s so sad that a few eggs have ruined the whole crate.

November 23, 2022 at 5:02 am

Hi Beauty! Sorry to hear that! What a horrible experience. Mexico has been changing its requirements constantly so it’s causing a lot of issues for us with weak passports. Their embassies are also not in sync, which is leading to more confusion. I’m sorry again for what you went though. Please take care of yourself.

September 26, 2022 at 5:45 pm

Hello, thanks for the tremendous work. I am an Ivorian living in the UK with (ILR and BRP) issued after Brexit. Do I need a visa to travel to Schengen Countries? there is conflicting info on Gov.Uk. I don’t quite know who they refer to by” ILR holders can travel up to 90 days free of Visa”. Thanks again.

September 27, 2022 at 3:00 am

Hi Bady! As far as I know, only UK citizens can travel to the Schengen area without a visa. Those with UK ILR or BRP would still need a visa to travel to the Schengen area.

October 30, 2022 at 10:09 am

Hi, thanks for the advice. My wife is Iranian and has a UK BRP. It’s a nightmare trying to find a destination other than Turkey to travel to. Which do you recommend as the most straightforward?

October 31, 2022 at 8:35 am

Hi Matt! You guys can check out Montenegro and Georgia. Both are nearby and accept Iranians with UK BRP. Albania is also nice and easy to get to.

Tanvir says

September 19, 2022 at 4:38 am

Hi, Thirumal. I am a Bangladeshi citizen and now I’m living in the UK with a UK student Visa and BRP. I would like to travel to USA or Canada in December during the Christmas Vacation. But in my visa sticker, the UK entry clearance is valid until November 2022 but my BRP is valid until August 2023. So how can I visit any of the two countries or what do I have to do for the visit?

September 26, 2022 at 3:57 am

HI Tanvir! You would need a US or Canada visa to travel to those countries. US and Canada do not accept UK visas or BRP.

Mohammad Abdali says

November 6, 2022 at 8:53 pm

Hi, I have a UK ILR (Indefinite Leave to remain) it will expire in December 2024. Does ILR allow me to travel with an Afghan passport to South Korea? Or do I need a visa for South Korea?

November 7, 2022 at 5:44 am

Hi Mohammad! Unfortunately, you cannot use your UK ILR to travel to South Korea. Afghanistan is one of the 24 excluded countries from this scheme.

Hafiz Ahmad Hussain says

September 15, 2022 at 11:02 pm

Hi, Just wanna say thanks to you. What a tremendous work you have done. I live in the UK as a temporary resident but want to travel to the world with so so many questions in my mind. All the information under one single ROOF is just fabulous mate. Keep up the good work. All the best for your future.

September 17, 2022 at 9:39 am

Hi Hafiz! Thanks! I appreciate the kind words. Please feel free to ask any questions you have. You can also use the contact form to email me directly.

September 14, 2022 at 6:02 pm

Hi Thirumal, thanks for this website. I downloaded the ebook and see Romania listed as visa-free if one holds a residence permit from the UK for 5 or more years. I don’t see it listed here though. Can you please confirm?

September 17, 2022 at 9:42 am

Hi Vinu! Sorry, the ebook is a bit outdated. I’m currently in the process of updating it, but till then please use this article. This article and other VISA-FREE articles are up to date.

Ikechukwu says

September 12, 2022 at 10:07 pm

Hi, I’m on a dependent visa with a BRP. My wife and I are planning on going to Dubai. Would we need a visa to enter Dubai or we can enter with our BRPs.

September 13, 2022 at 8:12 am

Hi Ikechukwu! If you hold an Indian passport, then you both can get VOA in Dubai using your UK BRP. If you hold any other passport, then you would need a visa. You would need to apply for your UAE visa online prior to your trip.

Harshjeet says

August 31, 2022 at 2:27 pm

Morocco also started visa on arrival facility with Schengen visa, UK visa, Australian visa and US Visa. Tourist visa or BRP is acceptable.

September 1, 2022 at 5:52 am

Hi Harshjeet! Thanks for the info! Yes, I have updated the article with Morocco now.

August 29, 2022 at 7:51 pm

Hi, My wife is a British citizen and I am on a spouse visa with BRP. Can I travel to Switzerland with my wife?

August 30, 2022 at 12:32 pm

Hi Moon! No. You would need a Schengen visa to travel to Switzerland. Prior to Brexit, it was possible to travel to Schengen if accompanied by a UK citizen spouse but not anymore. You would need to get a Schengen visa.

August 28, 2022 at 11:53 pm

Hi, I have a UK student Visa and BRP and I would like to travel to Mexico. Do I just need to buy a ticket and hop on the flight or there are some other steps to take?

August 30, 2022 at 12:34 pm

Hi Jay! Mexico accepts only UK visas but not BRP. So if your UK student visa in your passport is still valid, then yes, you can travel to Mexico. All you need is your passport and the UK visa in it.

Angela says

September 22, 2022 at 3:05 pm

With Moldova Passport and a UK visa 10 years, I can travel to Dubai for 1 week? Thanks!

September 23, 2022 at 7:46 am

Hi Angela! For Dubai, Moldovan passport holders need a UAE tourist visa. You cannot use your UK visa. Only Indian nationals are allowed to get a Visa on Arrival in UAE with a long-term UK visa such as ILR, BRP or spouse visa. I have a detailed guide on how to apply for UAE/Dubai visa . You can check that one out.

August 28, 2022 at 11:16 am

Hello, checked the Jordanian website and they allow on arrival visa for Permanent residents of UK and US. From the website below,

Passport holders of the following countries: Angola, Albania, Belize, Benin, Botswana, Burkina Faso, Burundi, Cambodia, Central Africa, Chad , Congo, Colombia, Cameroon, Côte d’Ivoire, Cuba, Djibouti, Eritrea, Ethiopia, Equatorial Guinea, Gabon, Gambia, Ghana, Guinea, Guinea-Bissau, Iraq, Laos, Liberia, Libya, Madagascar, Mali, Mauritania, Moldova, Mongolia, Mozambique, Myanmar, Namibia, Nepal, Niger, Pakistan, Papua New Guinea, Philippines, Senegal, Sierra Leone, Somalia, South Sudan, Srilanka, Tanzania, Togo, Uganda, Union of the Comoros, Vietnam, Zaire, Zambia.  If you hold a passport from one of the above countries, and you have a residence in the United Kingdom, United States of America, European Union countries, Gulf States (not tourism or visit visa) valid for more than six months, then you can: 1. You can get your visa upon arrival to Jordan! except who intends to enter Jordan via the King Hussein Bridge crossing border, in this case, you should get visa in advance from any Jordanian consulate around the world (see required documents below). 2. If you wish to apply at the consulate, bring (or someone on your behalf) the above required documents. Fees can be paid either onsite (via card only) or online. 3. If you wish to send your application via post, send the above documents, payment receipt, and a self-addressed prepaid envelope (special delivery) to the following address: Jordanian Consulate 6 Upper Phillimore Gardens London , W8 7HA  If you hold passport from one of the above countries, and you do not have residence in the United Kingdom, United States of America, European Union countries, Gulf States (not tourism or visit visa) than six months then , you have to apply here.

August 30, 2022 at 12:42 pm

Hi Hish! Fantastic! Thanks for the info. I did some research today and added Jordan to the list. Thanks again for this info.

Michael Gerard Sayson says

August 31, 2022 at 8:55 pm

South Korea— immigration staff advised that we still need to apply for a visa to visit the country (and pay) despite having a valid UK visit visa or BRP.

September 1, 2022 at 5:44 am

Hi Michael! Thanks for the update. Looks like they haven’t started their “tourists in transit to third countries” category yet.

August 19, 2022 at 11:57 am

Hi, my name is Dara and I hold a Nigerian Passport. I have a UK student visa and BRP. What are the requirements to travel to Colombia? Thank you.

August 22, 2022 at 10:18 am

Hi Dara! Nigerian passport holders require a visa for Colombia. You can apply for an E-Visa. Here is a guide on how to apply for Colombia E-Visa .

August 23, 2022 at 3:30 am

Hi, I hold a Nigerian Passport and I have a UK student visa and BRP. I’m currently planning a trip to Montenegro but the entry rules say UK visa must be valid for the intended period of the stay. My UK visa expired last year December but I’ve got my BRP, can I still travel?

August 26, 2022 at 9:24 am

Hi John! Yes. A BRP is a temporary residence permit. Montenegro accepts both UK permanent (ILR) and temporary (BRP) residence permits.

August 26, 2022 at 12:05 am

Hi Thirumal, hope you are doing well. I am a Bangladeshi citizen and currently, I have a valid 2 years multiple entry UK visit visa. According to your article, I can see that I am eligible to travel to Armenia and I would be granted a visa on arrival. I have followed the link, which is the website of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Armenia, that you posted, but I cannot find any such information on the website. Could you help me? Am I missing something on the website?

August 26, 2022 at 7:02 am

Hi Hasin! Sorry, it was my mistake. Armenia visa on arrival is only available to 51 eligible nationalities. Unfortunately, Bangladesh is not on that 51 eligible nationalities list.

Gabriel Okpuno Okei says

October 6, 2022 at 11:52 pm

Hi Thirumal, I am a Nigerian with a graduate BRP in the UK and I’m wondering what places I can travel to without an additional visa and places I can get an e-visa for.

October 7, 2022 at 3:43 am

Hi Gabriel! Look at “Eligible nationalities” for each country in the list. If it says “All nationalities” or “Nigeria”, then you can travel to that country using your UK BRP.

August 8, 2022 at 11:17 pm

Hi Thirumal, I have an Indian passport with the UK Spouse visa (BRP Card – valid until 2024). I wanted to ask if I can travel to North Macedonia without needing to apply for a visa? Many thanks!

August 16, 2022 at 10:02 am

Hi Yash! North Macedonia only allows UK visas (visa sticker in the passport) and not UK residence permits. A BRP is considered a residence permit. That being said, temporary or permanent residence permits from any EU country are also allowed. So there is a slight chance that they may have forgotten to update their visa requirements post-Brexit. You can contact them for clarification.

Fateh jan says

August 2, 2022 at 1:18 pm

I am from Pakistan and have a British UK valid visa. Can I enter Gibraltar?

August 4, 2022 at 7:26 am

Hi Fateh Jan! Yes, you can enter Gibraltar with your UK visa. Keep in mind that your UK visa must be multiple-entry and it was issued for 6 months or more.

Burhanuddin Morbiwalla says

August 18, 2022 at 8:24 pm

Does that mean we have to go from uk first? Or travel directly?

August 22, 2022 at 10:20 am

You can travel to Gibraltar directly. There is no need to travel to the UK first.

Ali aqdas says

August 20, 2022 at 10:54 am

Hi, I have a UK student visa tier-4. Its validity is 3 months and multiple entery. Can I enter Mexico without a visa with a Pakistani passport? How long I can stay in Mexico with a UK student sticker visa with 3-month validity? Also, I have BRP whose validity is 24 months.

August 22, 2022 at 10:49 am

Hi Ali! Mexico does not accept US BRP. With your UK student visa sticker, you can enter Mexico. You will be given 3 months (90-day) entry in Mexico since your UK visa will expire in 3 months.

ali aqdas says

August 27, 2022 at 4:28 am

Bro, my UK student clearness sticker visa is going to expire after 40 days so if I go to Mexico without visa so how long I can stay in Mexico because my visa validity is 40 days. I also emailed the Mexican embassy and they told me I should bring a visit visa. So I’m puzzled. You are saying in your article we can easily enter Mexico on our UK student multiple entry clearance but the embassy says if I hold ILR then you can enter Mexico without visa.

August 27, 2022 at 4:54 am

Hi Ali! To enter Mexico, you will have to have either (1) a UK visa sticker on your passport or (2) a UK ILR. Since you have a UK student visa sticker on your passport, you can enter Mexico. Keep in mind that your UK student visa expires in 40 days, so you will get a maximum of 40 days of entry.

July 29, 2022 at 9:30 pm

Hi there! With the changes Turkey has made with Nigerians obtaining an e-visa (not sure if you’re aware), where does that leave a Nigerian national in the UK with an ILR biometric? Can I still travel to Turkey and obtain an e-visa? Thank you!

August 4, 2022 at 4:21 am

Hi Maté! I wasn’t aware of these changes. Thank you for updating us on this. Unfortunately, due to this change, Nigerians are not eligible for e-visa anymore and must obtain a pre-approved visa from the Turkey embassy or consulate.

August 7, 2022 at 4:02 pm

Hi Thirumal! My name is Paul. I have a Nigeria Passport and a BRP for the UK. What visa do I need to go to Morocco for a few days visit?

August 16, 2022 at 10:04 am

Hi Paul! Morocco introduced an e-visa recently. If you hold a UK BRP, you are eligible to apply for Morocco e-Visa. Here is the link to apply for Morocco e-Visa .

Khadija says

August 21, 2022 at 2:40 pm

I have a Bangladeshi passport with a valid unused UK visa. Can I get visa on arrival in Egypt?

August 22, 2022 at 10:10 am

Hi Khadija! To get VOA in Egypt, you must have USED your UK visa to enter the UK at least once. If it’s unused, you cannot get VOA in Egypt.

Zhanna says

August 22, 2022 at 10:38 am

Hi Thirumal, I am Kazakhstan holder, but have ILR. Earlier Kazakhstan citizens could enter Turkey without the visa. Can I do it now from the UK having ILR? Many thanks in advance.

August 26, 2022 at 8:16 am

Hi Zhanna! Kazakhstan passport holders can enter Turkey without a visa for 30 days. No need for UK IRL. All you need is your Kazakhstan passport.

Hoang tran says

July 28, 2022 at 9:47 pm

I have a UK spouse visa valid till 9/10/2023. I want to enter Ireland this September for a few days. Do I need to apply for a visa to enter Ireland? Thank you.

August 4, 2022 at 4:01 am

Hi Tran! Unfortunately, you cannot use your UK spouse visa to enter Ireland. Only those with a UK short-stay visitor visa and holding a passport from one of the 24 nationalities listed above can enter Ireland. Also, if you have a UK visa with BIVS on it, you can enter Ireland. But you cannot enter Ireland with a UK spouse visa. You would need an Ireland visa.

Ninaad says

July 28, 2022 at 12:59 am

Hi, I have an Indian passport, UK BRP and student Visa. Can I visit Albania without any special visa?

July 28, 2022 at 4:24 am

Hi Ninaad! Yes, you can visit Albania with your India passport and UK BRP. You don’t need any special visa.

July 26, 2022 at 8:23 am

Thank you for sharing. I have UK standard visit visa only. And those countries listed as “Permitted residence permits: All valid ILR and BRPs”, this means I have to have both ILR and BRPs? Or I can enter those listed countries with any type of visa even though listed as “Permitted residence permits: All valid ILR and BRPs”.

July 28, 2022 at 4:32 am

Hi Jaiya! The line “Permitted residence permits:” only applies to those with UK residence permits. Since you have a “UK standard visitor visa”, the line “Permitted residence permits” DOES NOT apply to you. Just pay attention to the line “Permitted visas:”. If “Permitted visas” says “UK visas”, then you can use your UK visitor visa to enter that particular country.

Christina says

June 26, 2022 at 12:03 pm

Hi! Is this info really updated? I am Indonesian having UK Visa. So I can travel to Ireland without applying for Ireland Visa separately? I am planning to cross the border from Belfast to Dublin. And also for Saudi Arabia? Can use UK Visa as a waiver?

June 27, 2022 at 9:16 am

Hi Christina! The information was updated in Feb this year. I have provided links to the official sources for each of the countries. You can click on those links for up to date information.

July 16, 2022 at 4:27 am

Hello Jay, first of all I want to say thank you so much for making this information available to us! I want to ask please as I have ILR from the UK so I can go to Ireland? My friends in Ireland told me it’s an open border between Ireland to any Schengen countries, is that true? Also, I heard that to go to Switzerland we don’t need a visa. Is this true? Please kindly help. Thank you so much in advance!

July 18, 2022 at 9:18 am

Hi Reny! You can’t enter Ireland with a UK ILR. You would need to have a UK passport or UK short-stay visa and belong to any of the 24 countries on the list. Ireland is not a Schengen country, so it doesn’t share borders with other Schengen countries. In order to enter any Schengen country including Switzerland, you must hold a Schengen visa.

Nathan says

June 23, 2022 at 11:23 pm

Hi Thirumal, my wife has a BRP card (spouse visa UK). She is from Indonesia. Does this mean we can travel to Albania visa free? Thanks!

June 27, 2022 at 9:46 am

Hi Nathan! Yes, your wife can use her Indonesia passport and UK BRP to enter Albania without a visa.

Narendra Raj Sunwar says

June 14, 2022 at 5:35 pm

Hello! I have a British citizenship pasport and my wife has ILR from the UK. We are planning to visit Italy. So, does my wife need to apply for Italy visa to travel or not? I am a bit confused. Can you help? Please. Thank you.

June 15, 2022 at 11:06 am

Hi Narendra! Prior to Brexit, it was possible for a non-EU spouse with an ILR to travel to a Schengen country with a UK national. But post-Brexit, this is not possible. Therefore, your wife would need a Schengen visa from Italy.

Elizabeth G says

June 6, 2022 at 3:47 pm

Hi, I first want to travel to Germany for 2 months (August and September) with family and from there I want to go to UK for 6 month. Do I take the short visit visa for the UK from India or can I apply for the UK short-stay visa from Germany? How to get it done? Applying from India then I may lose my 2 months period of UK stay as first I would like to travel to Germany and want to stay in uk for 6 months. Please assist me.

June 7, 2022 at 11:15 am

Hi Elizabeth! You can apply for a UK visa from Germany. It’s not necessary to apply for a UK visa from your home country. But if you ask for a 6-month stay, your UK visa may be refused unless you prove that you have sufficient funds to support your 6-month stay. Also, if you stay the entire 6 months on your UK visitor visa, you may not be allowed back or your future UK visas may be refused.

June 4, 2022 at 11:45 am

Good afternoon, I have a UK travel document which I have used before to travel in and out of Spain. Due to Brexit will I now require a visa to enter Spain or no changes at present? Kind regards.

June 7, 2022 at 10:04 am

Hi Jay! I’m not sure if you are referring to a UK passport or UK visa/BRP. If you hold a UK passport, then you can travel to Spain without a visa for 90 days in 180 days. But if you hold a UK visa/BRP, you would need a Schengen visa for Spain.

June 8, 2022 at 10:45 pm

That’s great! Thank you for your swift response. Much appreciated.

Exquisite Bee says

May 26, 2022 at 4:54 am

Hello! Can I transit via Serbia with a UK BRP card (Tier 4) using Air Serbia? The UK visa on my passport is expired. I won’t be leaving the airport, layover less than 2 hours on the return leg to the UK.

May 26, 2022 at 8:24 am

Hi Exquisite Bee! Generally, if your flights in and out of Serbia are on a single itinerary, then you will be within the transit area and you do not need a transit visa. But if you need to claim bags or go through immigration, you would need a transit visa. To enter Serbia, you cannot use a UK BRP. Serbia accepts UK visas but unfortunately, it doesn’t accept UK residence permits.

May 31, 2022 at 8:08 am

Hi Thirumal, I have a UK visit visa expiring July 2022. May I travel to Mexico without a visa? What are the other requirements

June 7, 2022 at 10:45 am

Hi Selva! Yes. You can use your UK visit visa to travel to Mexico. Your UK visa must be valid at the time of entering Mexico. You may be asked to show your return ticket or hotel booking, so make sure to carry those then traveling.

May 15, 2022 at 1:37 am

Hi Thirumal, I have a Philippine passport and BRP CARD. Which is a NO TIME LIMIT / ILR, just need a little light on which country I could actually travel without needing a Schengen visa.

May 19, 2022 at 7:56 am

HI Jhan! Unfortunately, you cannot use your UK ILR to enter any Schengen country. But there are quite a few countries in Europe that you can enter with your UK ILR, such as Albania, Montengro, Serbia, Georgia, etc.

Abiola Olawoyin says

August 22, 2022 at 9:37 pm

How about Croatia?

August 26, 2022 at 9:13 am

Hi Abiola! Croatia does not accept UK visas. Croatia accepts only Schengen visas or visas from Cyprus, Bulgaria and Romania. If you have any official sources that say otherwise, please let me know.

May 3, 2022 at 10:31 pm

Hello, would a BRP that’s expiring in 2024 work to enter Peru or does it have to be a sticker with 6 months validity in the passport? Thank you!

May 7, 2022 at 11:30 am

Hi Raj! It must be a sticker in the passport with 6 months validity. If it’s a card, it must be a “permanent residence” card such as a BRP with “Indefinite Leave to Remain”.

Ashwini says

May 18, 2022 at 4:06 pm

Hi Thirumal, my bro is visiting us in the UK with a standard visitor visa. So is it possible to visit turkey with UK visitor visa?

May 20, 2022 at 3:52 pm

Hi Ashwini! Yes. But your brother must apply for Turkey e-Visa prior to his trip to Turkey. Turkey e-Visa is quite simple and is approved immediately. The cost is $43 USD.

Dee Nexus says

May 24, 2022 at 4:01 pm

Hi, can the Turkey e-visa be applied online or needs to go in to one of the offices and apply in person?

May 25, 2022 at 6:34 am

Hi Dee Nexus! Turkey e-Visa is completely online. It’s just a simple form that you need to fill out. No documents need to be uploaded. And, the approval is also immediate.

Yetunde Dasaolu says

May 14, 2022 at 11:22 am

Hi, my name is Yetunde and I have a BRP card with my Nigeria passport. Can I travel to Turkey, please?

May 19, 2022 at 7:53 am

Hi Yetunde! Yes. Since you hold a UK BRP, you are eligible to apply for Turkey e-Visa. It’s a simple form and approval is immediate.

Bakare Olamide Grace says

August 1, 2022 at 5:39 pm

Hi, my name is Olamide and I have a BRP card with my Nigeria passport. Can I travel to Paris, please?

August 4, 2022 at 7:01 am

Hi Grace! Unfortunately, you cannot. France is part of the Schengen area and you would need a Schengen visa to travel to Paris.

May 3, 2022 at 8:05 pm

Hi! My partner is a Nigerian citizen on a post-study visa in the UK. Can he travel to Mexico as a tourist for 9 days without getting a Mexican visa?

May 7, 2022 at 11:32 am

Hi Sarah! Yes, he can as long as his UK visa is in his passport as a visa sticker and is still valid. If his visa is expired and has a BRP, then he is not eligible.

May 22, 2022 at 11:51 am

Hi, can you help me I have BRP card which expires in 2024 I don’t have a sticker in my passport can I ask why this is a problem? And if there is anything I can do to fix it.

May 23, 2022 at 6:34 am

Hi Zaim! Mexican authorities are considering only a visa (affixed in the passport) or a “permanent” residence permit. They accept BRPs but they must be ILRs (Indefinite Leave to Remain). A BRP for work or study in the UK is not considered a “permanent” residence permit as per Mexican authorities. People have tried already but they were sent back. I understand that a BRP is technically a visa and I hope Mexican authorities will update their policies.

May 3, 2022 at 2:24 pm

Hi Thirumal, I am at crossed roads trying to book a honeymoon destination. My Partner holds dual citizenship (British and Nigerian passport) while I have a Nigerian Passport and a BRP (Tier 2 visa, not ILR). I don’t know if we can go to Mexico, the Maldives. Just confused at this point.

Please help, where can we go together with our passports and my BRP card. Thanks and look forward to your response

May 7, 2022 at 11:35 am

Hi Lizzy! Your BRP must be ILR that provides “permanent residence” in the UK. If you have a UK visa in your passport that’s still valid, then you can use it to travel to Mexico. You can also use visas such as the US, Canada, Schengen or Japan to travel to Mexico.

May 18, 2022 at 10:55 am

I guess the Maldives allows every passport a visa on arrival.

May 19, 2022 at 8:35 am

Hi Sham! Yes, Maldives offers Visa on Arrival for all nationalities.

Elizabeth says

May 3, 2022 at 1:56 pm

Hi, I wanted to ask if I can go to the Gran Canaria with my indefinite leave to remain. Thanks!

May 7, 2022 at 11:48 am

Hi Elizabeth! NO. Gran Canaria is part of Spain, for which you would need a Schengen visa. You cannot use your UK ILR to enter Spain.

Blessing says

May 1, 2022 at 3:55 pm

Hi, can I get into Turks and Caicos with my UK tourist visa if I’m flying there from the USA? I also have a USA student visa.

May 7, 2022 at 2:16 pm

Hi Blessing! Yes. You can use either your UK tourist visa or US student visa to travel to Turks and Caicos. Both visas are accepted.

Alexandra N says

April 30, 2022 at 5:47 pm

Hello, thanks for all the updates. I have a Nigerian passport and am in the UK on a student visa which is valid until October. I hold a BRP. Just for clarity, can I enter Mexico? The article said only ILR but I am seeing conflicting responses in the comments. Also, to confirm that I can still enter all the above-listed countries (except Jamaica, Aruba, Bahamas, Oman, UAE) on the afore-mentioned documents i.e UK student visa and BPR? Lastly, do you have an update on Costa Rica requirements now? Can we go there on a UK visa? Thank you so much.

May 8, 2022 at 1:33 pm

Hi Alexandra! No. You would need a valid UK visa (a visa sticker on your passport) or a UK ILR (permanent residence). Unfortunately, a UK BRP with temporary residence is not accepted. Previously, BRPs with temporary residence were also allowed but as per current visa regulations, only an ILR is allowed.

And yes, you can enter all of those countries visa-free with your UK BRP that says “All nationalities” or “Nigeria” in the list for “Eligible Nationalities”. Check “Permitted residence permits” to make sure UK BRP is allowed.

I think Costa Rica now accepts UK ILR and UK student/work visas. Email them to confirm. The link to official source

William says

April 18, 2022 at 8:19 pm

Hi Sir, I’m a British national, how can my Thai wife with a BRP card (it’s a Spouse Visa we have) travel to the US for a holiday with me? I’m aware that I need to apply for an ESTA for myself but I’m unsure how my wife can travel there. Thank you in advance.

April 21, 2022 at 7:14 am

Hi William! Your wife, even though she holds a UK BRP, needs a US B1/B2 visa to travel to the US for holidays. Only UK citizens with UK passports can use an ESTA to enter the US. UK BRP holders still need to apply for US visa.

April 30, 2022 at 8:43 am

According to the list, Korea is mentioned. I checked with the visa office. They don’t provide visas for UK residents. Moreover, they are not issuing tourism visas for any non K-eta countries.

May 21, 2022 at 8:32 am

Hi Tito! This information is still applicable but Korean borders are not open for tourism yet. When Korea opens for tourism, this information will become applicable.

D Johnson says

April 17, 2022 at 10:59 pm

Hi Thirumal, I have a Kenyan passport but have a valid U.K. ILR valid till 2024. So I need a visa to travel to Turkey?

April 21, 2022 at 7:32 am

Hi Johnson! Yes, you need a visa to travel to Turkey. But since you hold a UK ILR, you are eligible to apply for a Turkey e-visa. Turkey e-visa is super simple and is approved immediately.

April 12, 2022 at 5:48 pm

Hi Thirumal, thank you for providing us with this information. I read on here that you can travel to Montenegro visa-free if you have UK Residence Permit with ILR. I have Sri Lankan passport, and BRP card with indefinite leave to remain. Now I am panicking because I checked on your source link, and Sri Lanka isn’t listed on Article 1 on the Decree of Visa regime. I don’t know if I am not looking properly but I can’t see if BRP with ILR is accepted for entry to Montenegro. My reason for panicking is because I have booked flight tickets already! Please help. Thank you!

April 22, 2022 at 12:25 pm

Hi Sindy! Article 1 is for those who are visa-exempt, meaning those nationalities that do not need a visa. You Should look at Article 7, that’s relevant to residence permit from the UK. You can enter Montenegro for 30 days with your Sri Lanka passport and UK BRP card.

April 5, 2022 at 11:46 pm

Hi Thirumal, thank you for this information, it’s really useful. I’m planning to travel to Mexico and currently hold a valid UK ILR in my old passport, can I still travel with my old passport to show proof of permanent residence as well as my new one.

April 10, 2022 at 7:55 am

Hi MK! Visas in your old passport are still valid. You can use your UK ILR to enter Mexico. Just carry your old and new passports when you travel.

Samar van der Merwe says

March 30, 2022 at 9:47 am

Hi, I have an Iranian passport and my son has a South African passport. We have multiple 6-month standard visit visas. Can we travel to the UK then to my country in Iran, back to the UK then to SA with the same visa (we are living in South Africa)? Warm Regards.

March 31, 2022 at 4:40 am

Hi Samar! You can do as many short trips to the UK as you want with your multiple entry UK visa. It won’t be an issue. So yes, you can travel to the UK, back to Iran, then to the UK and back to SA with your UK visa.

Francis says

April 13, 2022 at 6:49 pm

Can a Nigerian passport holder with UK visa travel to Mexico visa free?

April 21, 2022 at 7:48 am

Hi Francis! Yes. You can travel to Mexico visa-free with your UK visa. Keep in mind that your UK visa must be in your passport and must be valid at the time of entering Mexico.

March 8, 2022 at 1:42 am

Hello, I would like to confirm if it is possible to travel to Mexico with a valid UK Visa (Valid till 14/04/2022) and BRP card to Mexico without having a Mexico Visa? I want to travel 4th of April, 2022 and come back on 10th April, 2022. Thank you

March 13, 2022 at 5:21 pm

Hi James! You would need a valid UK visa or a valid UK ILR to enter Mexico without a visa. A BRP is not allowed. Your visa must be valid for 6 months (or at least for the entire stay) at the time of entry into Mexico. Since your visa expires on 14/04 and your date of entry is 4/4, you may be given 10 days entry or you may be denied entry all together.

Marthiane Kembilu says

March 25, 2022 at 5:50 pm

Hi, I saw it says you can travel to Mexico with your brp and passport as long as is 6 months valid but when I read the comments it showing something else I’m really confused I’m trying to go Mexico sometimes in June but I have a brp card and Congolese passport.

March 26, 2022 at 11:26 am

Hi Marthiane! Mexico entry requirements have changed. You would need a valid UK visa or a permanent residency (ILR). You cannot use a BRP.

April 5, 2022 at 2:27 pm

BRP is a visa. The UK stopped “physical visa on the passport”. So, if you have a BRP which shows the type of “visa permit” you have for the UK.

May 21, 2022 at 8:39 am

Yes, but unfortunately Mexico is considering only a “visa sticker in the passport” as a visa. There were many incidents where they didn’t accept BRP and sent the visitors back.

abdulfatah says

March 29, 2022 at 9:39 am

Hi, yes you can travel to Mexico without worry because I did it and I just showed them the UK visa and they let me in. That was in 2019.

March 31, 2022 at 4:48 am

Hi Abdulfatah! Thanks for the info!

Christinah Kompi says

March 5, 2022 at 11:55 pm

Thanks for this enlightening information, I just want to ask and get a clear understanding, I hold a Lesotho passport but currently reside in the UK with a tier2 visa/ BRP, can I travel to Ireland and France?

March 14, 2022 at 6:19 am

Hi Christinah! Unfortunately, no. For Ireland, you would need a UK short-stay visa and moreover, Lesotho passport holders are not eligible. For France, you would need a Schengen visa.

February 26, 2022 at 9:38 am

Hi Thirumal, I have a UK ILR with an Indian passport and I am planning on visiting Ireland. I thought that I would be able to visit Ireland with my ILR without applying for a Visa. However, I came across your post and noticed that ILRs are not accepted and it has to be a UK visa. Is this information correct? Sorry, just double-checking over here.

February 28, 2022 at 11:18 am

Hi Ryan! As far as I know, only UK citizens can travel to Ireland without a visa. UK ILR holds still needs a visa, or permission to enter Ireland. I have provided the links to the “original sources” where I have sourced the information from. Please take a look at those links.

Anuraag says

February 21, 2022 at 11:13 pm

Hi Thirumal, firstly thanks a lot for all the information. It’s really helpful to a lot of people. Cheers to that!!

My query is, I am an Indian passport holder and currently living in UK on a tier 2 dependent visa with my wife being the primary tier 2. We both have BRPs expiring in 2024. Can we both go to Dubai, Mexico, the Caribbean, Cyprus and Morocco without applying for the respective visas? Would be really grateful if you could answer this. Thanks again!

February 22, 2022 at 11:48 am

Hi Anuraag! You can visit Dubai and a few countries in the Caribbean with your UK BRP. But you cannot use your UK BRP for Mexico, Cyprus and Morocco. For Mexico, you need an ILR. For Cyprus and Morocco, you need visas from those countries.

Nomanuddin Khaja says

February 18, 2022 at 5:10 am

Hi, may I know if I can travel to all the above countries without a Schengen visa? I have an Indian passport with a tier 2 visa which is expired but have a 3yrs BRP.

February 20, 2022 at 12:17 pm

Hi Nomanuddin! Yes, but only to those non-Schengen countries in Europe such as Albania, Serbia or Montenegro.

February 8, 2022 at 2:11 am

Hello, I was refused entry into Mexico yesterday (Feb 6 2022 ) I have a student visa on my passport which expired 3 months after I got into uK ( which that’s how it’s supposed to be since I’ll be getting a study residence permit) I have student residence permit while my husband and daughter had a dependent residence permit. The immigration at Cancun said They won’t be letting us in since our Uk visa has expired and the permit we have is not a permanent residence permit but temporary. We were sent back on the same flight 11hrs back to the Uk which was a pretty annoying situation for me. So I want to know what happened since the article here says I can fly in with my BRP! And yes we all had a Nigerian passport

February 8, 2022 at 6:30 am

Hi Toyin! I’m sorry that happened to you. Mexico is constantly changing its rules these days. Yes, I have heard reports of tourists being sent back due to insufficient documentation or given only a few days to stay. I sympathize with your situation and I’m extremely sorry if the information here caused you trouble. But please read the disclaimer at the bottom of the article. I’m not affiliated with any governments or their immigration departments. So it’s impossible for me to have up-to-date info. Hence I provide links to the official sources so you can refer to them for up-to-date info and contact the relevant departments to confirm.

January 31, 2022 at 9:01 pm

Hi, I’m a British citizen and my wife is Thai with indefinite leave to remain visa now for many years and I’m only finding out from your page that there are countries we can travel together without another visa so, many thanks. Can she travel with me to some countries in Europe ie: ( Spain, Portugal, Italy ) other than the ones stated if traveling with me, a British passport holder? Again thanks!

February 2, 2022 at 6:28 am

Hi Kev! This was previously possible, where a non-EU spouse of UK national could travel to Schengen area with their UK spouse without needing a Schengen visa. But I assume that has changed since Brexit. I can’t find any official sources so I cannot confirm or deny this information. If I find any new info, I will update this article accordingly.

February 14, 2022 at 9:20 am

Hi, that is correct as just been in touch with the Portuguese embassy and they said my non-EU wife will need a Schengen visa to travel. Thanks for your help!

February 16, 2022 at 5:00 am

Thanks for the update, Kevin!

March 4, 2022 at 4:47 am

Hi, I’m an Ecuadorean citizen living in the UK. I have an ILR. Do I need a visa to enter Mexico? Thank you for your advice.

March 5, 2022 at 3:23 pm

Hi Galo! Since an ILR is a permanent residency, so yes, you can use your UK ILR to enter Mexico without a visa.

January 28, 2022 at 7:23 am

I am a dependent, my husband has his BRP as a student in UK, can I travel to Germany for a visit without applying for a visa?

February 2, 2022 at 8:05 am

Hi Dora! Unfortunately, no. You cannot use your UK dependent visa to enter Germanay. You need a Schengen visa.

Rinky Kukreja says

June 14, 2022 at 5:04 pm

I am a dependent and my husband is in Bahamas. I want to travel to the Bahamas for a vacation. Can I apply for a UK visa?

June 15, 2022 at 11:03 am

Hi Rinky! If you hold an Indian passport, then yes, you can visit the Bahamas with a UK visa. But applying for a UK visa with “visiting the Bahamas” as a purpose/reason may not work. You would need a reason to visit the UK in order to apply for a UK visa.

January 19, 2022 at 2:44 pm

Hi, thank you so much for taking your time to explain all this. It’s very helpful. Does this also apply to someone holding a UK refugee Travel document? Can they travel to the countries that accept BPR/ILR as well? Thank you!

January 21, 2022 at 5:34 am

Hi Sonia! Unfortunately, I don’t know if any of these countries accept a UK refugee travel document. The only way to be certain is to ask them directly. I have provided the original sources for each country. See if you can contact them directly and ask. Sorry again, I can’t be much help in your case.

December 22, 2021 at 11:48 am

Hi, I have seen conflicting advice, both on this board and elsewhere online, as to whether a BRP holder can travel to Costa Rica?

Earlier comments suggest this changed once the UK left the EU, yet if you look on the consular website, it states residents of the UK can enter. I believe I also phoned the UK consulate six months ago with the question and they said that BRP holders can enter, provided the BRP is valid for more than 6 months at entry.

I will likely call them again as looking to travel there, but if you have any updated info on this, then would be super helpful. Thank you!

December 27, 2021 at 5:29 am

Hi James! I believe you can still use your UK BRP to enter Costa Rica provided your BRP is valid for at least 6 months on the day of entry. But like you mentioned, due to the conflicting information and to avoid any confusion, I had to take Costa Rica off this list. But the IATA travel center says the following –

“Passengers with a machine-readable residence permit issued by the United Kingdom and valid for a minimum of 6 months from the arrival date. They are visa-exempt for a maximum stay of 30 days”

NOTE: I will see if I can get hold of someone at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Costa Rica for confirmation.

DILIP PRAJAPAT says

December 14, 2021 at 4:43 pm

I have a tier 4 UK student visa. I am holding an indian passport. Can I travel to these countries without a visa?

December 18, 2021 at 10:38 am

Hi Dilip! Except for Sint Maarten, Ireland, Saudi Arabia and UAE, you can use your tier 4 UK student visa for all countries. Those 4 countries do not accept tier 4 UK visas.

TINI TREESA JIJI says

December 20, 2021 at 12:44 pm

Hi Thirumal, I’m Tini and I have a tier 4 UK Visa and I hold an Indian passport. How can I visit Vancouver, Canada(BC) for a few days with my tier 4 UK visa? Thanks.

December 21, 2021 at 6:56 am

Hi Tini! Unfortunately, you CANNOT. Canada does not allow UK visitor visas. You need a Canada visitor/tourist visa to travel to Canada.

February 12, 2022 at 5:29 pm

Hi, I have a tier 4 visa student and my BRP is valid. I am holding a Lebanese passport. Can I travel to Canada without a visa?

February 16, 2022 at 5:09 am

Hi Ghada! Unfortunately, no. Canada does not accept UK visas. You must have a Canada visitor visa to travel to Canada.

Merazhdin says

February 20, 2022 at 9:45 am

Hi, thank you for all your help! I have a tier 5 visa seasonal worker visa. I have worked since October on the farm. My visa is not expired yet. Can I go to the Bahamas for a few days or for a weekend?

February 20, 2022 at 12:20 pm

Hi Merazhdin! Visa-free entry to the Bahamas with UK visa is only for Indian passport holders. If you hold an Indian passport, then yes, you can use your Indian passport and UK visa to travel to the Bahamas.

December 8, 2021 at 12:27 pm

Hi, I am a South African passport holder but reside in the UK and I have a BRP. I would like to know what countries I can travel to using my UK BRP without having to purchase a visa via my South African passport (please).

Ali Adnan says

December 7, 2021 at 1:34 pm

Hi, I am Pakistan national with UK ILR. I am traveling to Portugal for 3 days and then 2 weeks later I plan to travel to Germany for another 3 days to see my relatives there. I will be traveling with my 4-year-old daughter who is a British passport holder. Do I need a VISA to enter Portugal and/or Germany?

December 11, 2021 at 12:47 pm

Hi Ali! Yes, you will need a Schengen visa to enter Portugal or Germany. A non-EU citizen with ILR can travel to the Schengen area with a UK citizen spouse but that does not apply to children. Therefore, you would still need a Schengen visa even though your daughter is a UK citizen.

Sri Raja says

January 24, 2022 at 1:02 pm

Hi Thirumal, I am a UK citizen and my wife has a BRP and Indian Passport. My Kids have British Passports. We intend to travel to Spain. Would my wife need a Schengen visa to visit Spain even if she is accompanying a British spouse post Brexit? Before Brexit, she could definitely travel with me not sure if there is a change now!

January 26, 2022 at 5:52 am

Hi Sri Raja! Unfortunately, I don’t know either. Brexit made things complicated. I suggest contacting the Spanish embassy directly. If you find any information, let us know as well. The information can be useful to others.

December 5, 2021 at 11:39 am

I am Somalian. I have got UK Visa. Can I travel To South Africa to visit some of my relatives?

December 6, 2021 at 9:38 am

Hi Yusuf! No. You cannot use a UK visa to travel to South Africa. You need a South Africa visa.

Jaspinder Kaur says

December 8, 2021 at 11:09 am

Hi, I have a UK visa for 3 years. Can I go to Portugal? But I don’t understand I have to buy only a ticket for portugal? Or visa as well.

December 11, 2021 at 12:04 pm

Hi Jaspinder! You cannot use your UK visa to enter Portugal. Portugal is a Schengen country, so you would need a Schengen visa.

December 4, 2021 at 8:05 pm

Hello, does BRP you mentioned in this article have the same travel opportunities as the BRC? I recently got married and was issued the BRC under the EU exit settlement scheme. Can I visit these countries visa-free?

December 6, 2021 at 9:44 am

Hi Alex! Yes. BRP and BRC are considered the same for traveling to the countries in this article. To enter these countries, you need to prove that you have a right to stay in the UK. Therefore, a BRC works fine.

Elaine Fernandez says

November 20, 2021 at 1:58 am

Hi, I have a Philippines passport. I was to visit Albania with my visa from the UK Biometric Resident permit. Do I need a visa to go to Albania?

November 20, 2021 at 12:22 pm

Hi Elaine! You do not need a visa for Albania. You can use your Philippines passport and UK BRP to enter Albania without a visa.

Hammes says

September 26, 2021 at 10:17 am

I’m a Nigerian passport holder with my UK BRP card. Can I visit Jamaica?

September 29, 2021 at 8:04 am

Hi Hammes! Unfortunately, no. You would need to apply for a Jamaican visa prior to your trip.

Tyrone says

September 15, 2021 at 6:18 am

Hello, thanks for this article, it’s very helpful. I’m a Nigerian with a Nigerian passport and a UK tourist visa, can I enter Bosnia and Herzegovina?

September 15, 2021 at 7:21 am

Hi Tyrone! Unfortunately no. Bosnia and Herzegovina do not accept UK visas anymore. You would need to apply for a tourist visa for B&H.

September 13, 2021 at 12:09 am

My partner is in the UK on a family visa (valid until Nov 2022) he has an Egyptian passport.

We would like to visit Mexico next year, however, I have found a lot of conflicting information online about whether he needs to obtain a visa. Some places state he can only travel there visa-free if he has permanent UK residency, and others say any UK visa will allow him entry. Could you advise?

September 17, 2021 at 8:41 am

Hi Mila! I agree with the conflicting information. But as far as my knowledge goes, your partner can use his UK visa to enter Mexico. I have many readers who entered Mexico recently using their UK visas without any issues. If you like, I can get you in touch with them so you can ask any questions you have.

Nathalie says

February 13, 2022 at 12:32 pm

Hi There! Having the same issue for my cousins. They have UK BRPs “leave to remains” both valid for extended times. Mexico embassy via email says they need a visa, other parts of the website say they don’t. Any other experience stories you can share? Thanks!

February 16, 2022 at 5:06 am

Hi Nathalie! That’s correct! Only UK permanent resident cards are accepted. Mexico has been drastically changing its visa policies, so as of now, they are only accepting UK permanent resident cards (indefinite leave to remain). I don’t have experiences from others here but you can post on the FB group to see if anyone has similar experiences.

Sabnam says

September 5, 2021 at 10:18 pm

Hi, I have a Bangladeshi passport with a UK ILR. Do I need a visa or can I obtain a visa on arrival traveling from London to:-

1. Portugal 2. Dubai

My husband is a British Citizen intending to travel together.

September 12, 2021 at 7:43 am

Hi Sabnam! For Portugal, you can enter without a visa if traveling with your UK citizen husband. I don’t have an official link, so you would need to contact Portugal authorities to confirm. For Dubai, you would need to apply for a visa. If you are flying to and from Dubai with Emirates or FlyDubai, you can apply for UAE visa from the airline website. Hotel and travel agents in Dubai can also apply for visas for you.

Phani vatsa Varadaraja swamy says

April 16, 2022 at 11:35 am

Hi, I got Indian passport with 2 years UK visiting visa. Can I travel to Dominican Republic?

April 21, 2022 at 7:43 am

Hi Phani! Yes. You can travel to Dominican Republic visa-free with your India passport and UK vistor visa.

Hiba Shugaa says

August 29, 2021 at 6:01 pm

Hello, I am a British citizen and my husband joined me in the UK on a spouse visa (previously resident in Lebanon). He has a UK resident permit and has had it for almost 2 years. We plan on visiting Dubai, will he require a visa or can he be granted one upon arrival? Also is there a link you can share with me confirming that it’s okay to do so?

August 30, 2021 at 10:16 am

Hi Hiba! Lebanese citizens REQUIRE a visa for UAE. UAE visa is quite easy to get. Airlines, hotels and tour companies that operate from Dubai can apply a visa for your husband. Here is the official visa information and also a Dubai visa agent that I’m familiar with.

Choh Du says

September 5, 2021 at 8:37 am

Hi! Thanks for your help, a bit different question, do you know the list of visa-free countries for UK refugee travel document (blue)? Thank you!

September 12, 2021 at 8:34 am

Unfortunately, I don’t. I will do some research and will let you know.

Mustafa says

August 24, 2021 at 8:41 pm

Hi, I am a Pakistani passport holder, planning to visit Montenegro for 3 days in September. I am holding (2 years) UK valid visa. Can I enter Montenegro with it?

August 26, 2021 at 1:28 pm

Hi Mustafa! Yes, you can enter Montenegro with a valid UK visa for up to 30 days. For more info, refer to Article 7 in the Degree on visa regime published in May 2021.

yvi kay says

August 17, 2021 at 10:57 pm

Hi, I’m holding a UK ILR visa but a Philippine passport holder(Philippine Citizen). Do I need to apply for the visa if I want to travel to Japan? Thanks.

August 20, 2021 at 8:30 am

Hi Yvi Kay! Unfortunately, Japan does not allow UK visas or ILR. You have to apply for a Japan visa.

August 17, 2021 at 10:26 pm

Hi! Thanks for all the information. I’m holding a Libyan passport and I have a residence permit in the UK. Can I travel to Ecuador without a visa?

August 20, 2021 at 8:41 am

Hi Hatem! Unfortunately, Ecuador does not allow UK visas or residence permits. You must apply for an Ecuador tourist visa. Here is the link to the Ecuador visa application process .

Shanga Ali says

August 6, 2021 at 7:00 pm

Hi, I am an Iraqi national currently living in the UK on a BRP card that was issued to me on a spouse visa. My and my husband, who is a UK citizen, planning to travel to Croatia and Greece. Do I need to apply for a tourist Visa if we travel together? Many thanks.

August 16, 2021 at 4:24 am

Hi Shanga Ali! I apologize for the late response! Unfortunately, Croatia does not offer visa-free entry to UK BRP holders. But Greece, which is a Schengen country may offer visa-free entry to you if you travel with your husband who is a UK citizen. I suggest contacting both Croatia and Greece embassies to confirm as requirements are changing every day due to covid. Good luck!

August 2, 2021 at 8:39 am

Hi Dear, I have a valid UK spouse visa and I wanted to know if I can use it to travel Mexico visa-free as a Nigerian passport holder

August 3, 2021 at 7:28 am

Hi Lizzi! Yes, you can use your UK spouse visa to enter Mexico visa-free. Any type of UK visa can be used to enter Mexico without needing a separate Mexico visa. Here is the official information from the Embassy of Mexico in Nigeria website.

December 4, 2021 at 7:25 pm

Hello boss, thanks for the info. Kindly add my email to your blog mailing list. I’m visiting Mexico in February with a UK visa. Can I reapply for a UK visa from the Mexico UK office, since I’m not a resident or do I’ve to go back to Nigeria to reapply? Thx

December 6, 2021 at 9:54 am

Hi Uche! You can apply for a UK visa from a third country. So yes, you can apply for your UK visa while you are in Mexico. Keep in mind that UK visa will take up to 30 days or even longer in some cases. Make sure you have enough time in Mexico.

January 8, 2022 at 3:28 pm

Hi, thanks for this article. I have an ILR but hold a Nigerian passport.

Are you saying I can literally book a flight ticket and head to the airport for any of the countries you have listed above except of course (Jamaica, Dubai and the rest that require a visa)? Just wanted to confirm as this is exciting. Thanks and I anticipate a response.

January 12, 2022 at 7:24 am

Hi Kenny! That’s correct! All these countries accept UK visas/ILR and you do not need to apply for separate visas. That’s about visas but for COVID-related entry requirements (vaccine cert, PCR test, health declarations, quarantine, etc.), you will have to do your own research.

July 30, 2021 at 10:22 am

First I’d like to say a very big thank you for this informative and insightful information. I’ve noticed some countries like the Philippines and Singapore for example have following nationalities only, but also all valid ILRs. I’m a bit confused. As a Nigerian national with a British ILR, would I still need a visa to enter the Philippines and Singapore, as my country isn’t listed under them? Many thanks

August 2, 2021 at 6:57 am

Hi Mate! That’s correct. The visa-free entry provision is only for the nationalities listed that hold a British ILR. Since your nationality is not on that list, you would need to get a visa for those countries even though you hold British ILR.

July 19, 2021 at 11:14 pm

Hey. So I want to eventually visit England and then from there, Norway in December. I have a Pakistani passport and I’m a student in the US with an F1 visa. I plan on traveling from here and then back home in Pakistan for winter break before I eventually come back to the US in January. Please help me with ideas about visas and what should my process be!

July 21, 2021 at 6:13 am

Hi KM! Yes, that’s doable. In fact, that’s what I did when I traveled to the UK. I was in the US back then. So I traveled to the UK for a few days and then to India to see my family. Later flew back to the US. That’s an acceptable itinerary for the UK visa, so you will be fine. Also, since you are planning to travel to Norway, you would need to get your Schengen visa too before heading to England.

Bella T says

June 25, 2021 at 12:16 pm

Hello Sir, My mother is currently in the UK on Type C Visitor 10 year multiple entry Visa and her visa does not expire till 2023. Can she visit Gibraltar with us for 3-5 days and come back to the UK again. I, my husband and my daughter have British passports but my mother has an Indian passport. My mother is fully vaccinated. Also with regards to 180 days limit on each visit to the UK how does that work? So does that mean she can only visit Gibraltar within 180 days of her stay in the UK? Can she travel to Gibraltar 2 days before her 180 days expires and stays in Gibraltar for 5 days and come back in UK as new entry. How do 180 days work on a 10-year visa because so far she has never stayed for more than 3-4 months on every visit but due to the pandemic and passing away of my father she is unable to travel to India until all travel restrictions are lifted and also there is no one to look after her in India. I would greatly appreciate your advice.

Thirumal says

June 25, 2021 at 3:22 pm

Hi Bella! Your mother can visit Gibraltar with her UK visa. But I’m not aware if there are any changes to visas due to COVID travel restrictions. To confirm, I suggest emailing Gibraltar Borders and Coast Guards at [email protected] .

Regarding the 180 day entry back in the UK, I believe visiting Gibraltar is considered as exiting the UK. So, on re-entry, she will get another 180 days.

Note: I have also responded to the same question from your husband on the FB group.

Mambu Kossa says

June 24, 2021 at 3:57 pm

Hello, I have hold passport with residence permit inside and I have new passport same names. Can I travel with two passport together to Romania.

June 25, 2021 at 5:04 am

Hi Mambu Kosa! Unfortunately, Romania has repealed visa-free access to UK residence permit holders. You have to apply for a Romania visa. I will update the article accordingly soon.

On the other note, your residence permit in old passport is still valid. You just have to carry both passports when you travel.

Muneeb Ahmad says

May 15, 2021 at 7:05 am

Hello! Very informative article. I just wanted to confirm if I could go to Serbia with my Type C UK visa. I have a Pakistani passport. Eager to hear from you.

May 17, 2021 at 8:45 am

Hi Muneeb! As per their 2014 regulation, passport holders with visas from the US, UK and Schengen are allowed entry. The requirement page on the Serbian Ministry of Foreign Affairs website is currently down. But embassy websites are still mentioning that you can use your UK visa. I suggest contacting the Honorary Consulate in Karachi or the Serbian embassy in Beijing to confirm. A few useful links below.

June 14, 2021 at 5:50 pm

Hello! Sorry to jump on the post – thank you for such a comprehensive list. I can see that the Serbian embassy page related to this is still down. Do you know with a South African passport if it is possible to travel to Serbia on a UK Ancestry visa?

June 15, 2021 at 9:40 am

Hi Chris! Unfortunately, the page is still down. But, the Embassy of Serbia in Pretoria website still says that you can still use your UK visa to travel to Serbia. Email or give them a quick call to confirm. Here is their contact information .

Salem H says

June 24, 2021 at 12:40 pm

Hello, I hold a UK (ILR), and my brother holds a BRP with more than 2 years validity. I would like to confirm wether I could enter Romania for a short stay without visa, as I still couldn’t get any official confirmation from Romanian embassy website or any other trusted source. Hope to hear back from you ASAP.

June 25, 2021 at 5:02 am

Hi Salem! Unfortunately, Romania has repealed visa-free access to UK ILR/BRP holders. I apologize for not updating the article accordingly. As of now, your only option is to apply for a Romania visa.

NOTE: Romania still allows visa-free entry for those with double/multiple entry Schengen visas or residence permit in any Schengen country.

December 9, 2020 at 6:27 pm

Hi, will Chinese citizens who hold a BRP still be able to enter Montenegro without needing to obtain a visa in 2021? There is no clear answer to this issue on their embassy website.

December 10, 2020 at 5:28 am

Hi Fei! Yes, Chinese citizens with UK BRP can enter Montenegro for up to 30 days without needing a separate visa. The info on the official websites is not clear but TIMATIC clearly says “ Passengers with a residence or a re-entry permit, valid for the period of stay, issued by United Kingdom for a maximum stay of 30 days. “. TIMATIC is maintained by IATA and all airlines use this database for making sure the passengers have the correct documents when flying into a country.

Nkwaya Chris Ikuzo says

September 14, 2020 at 12:57 am

Hey, I have a Rwandan passport and a UK tier 4 visa with BRP. Can I go to northern Cyprus without applying for a visa.

September 26, 2020 at 8:35 am

Hi Nkwaya! Pretty much all nationalities including Rwandans can get visa on arrival at the ports in Northern Cyprus. The only way to go to Northern Cyprus is by taking a taxi from Southern Cyprus for which you need a Schengen visa. Or, by taking a flight/ferry from Turkey for which you need a Turkish visa.

With your Rwandan passport and UK BRP, you are eligible to apply for Turkey eVisa. Turkey eVisa is single-entry only so you may have to apply for the eVisa twice.

Abdullah says

June 2, 2020 at 9:42 pm

Hi, I am Yemeni National currently living in the UK on a BRP card which was issued to me on a spouse visa, me and my wife (UK citizen )planning to travel by car to France together.

Do I need to apply for a tourist visa if I am traveling with her, and what are the required documents?

June 8, 2020 at 11:00 am

Hi Abdullah! If you hold a UK BRP and will be traveling to France with your UK citizen wife, you do not need a Schengen visa. But keep in mind, you both have to travel together, your wife must carry her UK passport, you have to carry your UK BRP and evidence that you are her husband. For more information, go to SchengenVisaInfo.com and scroll down to “Does the spouse of British national with UK permanent residence need a Schengen visa?” section.

Lisa Kilvington says

January 12, 2021 at 2:26 pm

Hi, this was not the case. I am UK permanent resident with ILR. I still needed to apply for a Schengen visa (even though it was free to me) before entering any Schengen countries with my late English husband.

Tariq Ahmed says

May 4, 2020 at 2:29 am

Hi, I have a Pakistani passport, currently living in the UK on a BRP card which was issued to me on a spouse visa, I just want to know that all the countries which you have mentioned here is still visa free to travel without taking confirmation from their consulates including Mexico.

May 9, 2020 at 5:35 am

Hi Tariq! I believe these countries are still visa-free as I have updated this article in April (last month) with the latest requirements. I don’t think anything would have changed in just one month. That being said, COVID-19 is affecting travel. Check if the flights have started running and these countries have started accepting tourists.

Sourav Dutta says

February 24, 2020 at 4:41 pm

I am an India Passport holder having UK BRP, trier 2 ICT visa. My wife and daughter are having dependent visa with BRP. Without applying any visa, which all countries I can travel along with my Spouse and Daughter with UK BRP and Indian passport only?

February 27, 2020 at 5:08 am

Hi Sourav! You all can use your UK BRPs to travel to quite a few countries. I have researched and updated the article to indicate if BRPs and/or ILRs can be used for these countries. Go through the list of countries and look for “Permitted residence permits” to see if a BRP is accepted to enter.

Saurabh Sal says

September 2, 2020 at 8:24 pm

Hi, you have mentioned that UK BRP card holders can travel to Romania. Unfortunately, I submitted my documents i.e Indian passport and ILR card and the consulate told me to apply for a tourist visa.

September 9, 2020 at 7:33 am

Hi Saurabh! The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Romania website says holders of “permanent residence permits issued by the UK or Ireland (the validity of which is of 5 years or more)” do to require a visa for Romania. All Romanian consulates must be aware of this requirement unless there is a change due to COVID travel restrictions. I suggest sending this link to the consulate and asking if it still holds true. Also, you can contact Romania MFA directly to confirm.

Mahmoud says

February 11, 2020 at 11:14 am

I have an Egyptian passport and a UK student visa. Can I visit turkey visa free?

February 17, 2020 at 5:21 am

Hi Mahmoud! It’s not visa-free, but with your Egyptian passport and UK student visa, you are eligible to apply Turkey eVisa. With your Turkey eVisa you can visit Turkey for up to 30 days.

Warda fatima says

February 3, 2020 at 4:28 pm

Hi, I live in Dubai. I have a UK Visa. I will be traveling in March to visit my sister in the UK. We plan to travel to Paris and Switzerland. Do I need to apply for a Schengen visa from here? Do I have to provide travel tickets too with hotel bookings? As my plan is not yet final. Thank you.

February 5, 2020 at 8:32 am

Hi Warda fatima! You NEED a Schengen visa to travel to France and Switzerland. You cannot use your UK visa, you must hold a Schengen visa to travel to France/Switzerland.

Yes, you must apply for your Schengen visa from Dubai. Yes, only a flight itinerary and refundable hotel bookings. You can use a visa ticket booking agency such as DummyTicket to get a flight itinerary and booking.com/Expedia for refundable hotel bookings.

C. M. Antony says

January 31, 2020 at 7:49 pm

Hi, I am an Indian national holding Indian passport working in Qatar. I have applied for UK short visit visa from Qatar VSF and got it for 180 days multiple-entry. Please confirm whether I can visit Ireland from the UK within the visa period and back to Qatar from Dublin.

February 2, 2020 at 7:33 am

Hi Antony! Yes, you can visit Ireland with your India passport and existing UK visa. But keep in mind that you can only enter and stay in Ireland within the “leave to remain” period on your UK entry stamp (not your UK visa validity period). And yes, you can return to Qatar directly from Dublin.

How long can you stay in Ireland? Explained below. Assume that you enter the UK on 01 March 2020. UK immigration officer at the airport grants you a 30-day entry (leave to remain period). That means you can stay in the UK until 30 March 2020. You stay in the UK for 10 days and you enter Ireland on 10 March 2020. You will be given a 20-day entry only in Ireland since only 20 days are remaining on “your leave to remain in the UK”. You have to leave Ireland on or before 30 March 2020.

January 28, 2020 at 8:51 pm

Hello, I am an Indian, currently in the UK on tier 5 dependent visa. I have a BRP. Do I need a visa to attend an exam in Dublin? Thanks.

February 2, 2020 at 8:46 am

Hi Nimi! Yes, you REQUIRE a visa to sit in an exam in Dublin. You need an Irish Exam Visa for that.

The Irish visa waiver program for Indians is only for those with a short-stay UK visa such as a Standard Visitor visa or a Short-term Study visa. A UK BRP cannot be used to enter Ireland.

Khaldoon says

January 26, 2020 at 8:00 am

Hi, I am a student at a UK university, holding Jordanian passport, also I have BRP. Can I travel to the mentioned countries above with my family as my children don’t have BRP because they are less 18 (9,8,4)?

February 27, 2020 at 7:08 am

Hi Khaldoon! Your children must also have a BRP or UK visa. Everyone in the family has to have either a UK BRP or UK visa to enter these countries with their Jordanian passports.

January 24, 2020 at 12:06 am

I’m having UK visit visa and I want to travel to Mexico. But I read in Mexico government website only UK permanent residence holders can enter visa-free. How can you say that UK visit visa holders can go there on a visit visa? I’m Pakistan national.

January 25, 2020 at 9:31 am

Hi Hadi! Mexico visa information is not consistent across all government websites. If you check on any Mexico consulate/embassy websites, you will see that UK visa holders can also enter Mexico visa-free. On top of that, many readers have reported that they have successfully used their UK visas to travel to Mexico.

January 17, 2020 at 2:53 am

Saudi Arabia started to allow the holders of UK Visa to get visa on arrival. Please check this link for your reference:

I am a spouse of a UK citizen holding a UK residents visa. I’m planning to visit with my wife Croatia. Do I need a visa ? If yes may I know how and where to apply for it?

January 17, 2020 at 5:06 am

Hi Abdullah! Thanks for the information. I will update the article soon.

Croatia does not honor UK visas, therefore you will have to apply for a Croatia visa. That being said, Schengen countries allow entry to spouses of UK citizens holding UK resident visas when traveling with their spouses. Croatia is not a Schengen country but honors Schengen visas. Therefore, they may allow entry to you without a visa if traveling with your spouse. So, check with the Croatian authorities first before applying for the visa.

If you have to apply for a Croatian visa, you must first apply online and then present the printed application along with documents at your nearest Croatian embassy. More information at the Croatian Ministry of Foreign Affairs website.

January 20, 2020 at 3:10 pm

Thank you for your kind response. May I know if Romania allows entry to spouses of UK citizens holding UK resident visas when traveling with their spouses.

January 21, 2020 at 9:39 am

I don’t have confirmed information on that. Romania is in the process to join the Schengen agreement, so they might allow. Please check with the Romanian consulate for confirmation.

January 21, 2020 at 9:43 am

Yes, you can go to Romania with spouse but not alone.

Mehmood says

January 17, 2020 at 4:57 pm

I am a Pakistani passport holder and I have US and UK visas. Can I travel to SAUDIA or can I get a visa on arrival? If anyone has confirmed information please let me know. Thanks.

January 20, 2020 at 6:19 am

Hi Mehmood! You can get Visa on Arrival at the international airports in KSA. I have spoken to authorities and they said the information is confirmed. The information was posted on the Saudi Commission for Tourism and National Heritage website. Only Saudi national airlines (Saudia, Flynas, and Saudi Gulf) have been instructed to let travelers with US/UK/Schengen visas board their flights to KSA. Therefore, you must take one of the Saudi national airlines in order to get VOA.

January 16, 2020 at 6:21 am

Hello, can I go to Romania with my UK tourist visa? Or it only applies to people that have a permanent residence permit?

January 17, 2020 at 5:40 am

Hi Adion! No. You cannot enter Romania with your UK tourist visa. It applies to those with UK residence permits valid for 5 years or more.

Preksha says

January 15, 2020 at 12:22 pm

Hi, I hold an Indian passport and UK short term study visa till 7th July 2020. Can I travel to Turkey with this visa?

January 17, 2020 at 2:41 pm

Hi Preksha! Yes, you can use your UK short-term study visa to apply for Turkey eVisa. Turkey eVisa is valid for 6 months, grants 30-day entry and costs $43.

January 7, 2020 at 4:17 pm

Hi there. I’ve used your guide and it’s been really helpful! So I thought I’d pay it forward by letting others know that you can also travel to Jordan with a UK visa valid for longer than 6 months. The information is available on the Jordanian embassy website.

January 13, 2020 at 9:44 am

Hi D! Thank you very much for the information. When I check the Jordan embassy website , it says that residence in the UK is required and tourist/visit visas are not allowed. Can you please send me the link?

Saikou Bojang says

January 7, 2020 at 12:14 am

Hi, I’m having a UK visa of 6 months with multiple entry. My question is can I travel to Sweden with it?

January 13, 2020 at 10:03 am

Hi Saikou! No. You cannot enter Sweden with a UK visa. You require a Schengen visa for Sweden.

January 7, 2020 at 12:08 am

Hi, I’m a Gambian with a UK six months visa with multiple entry. My question is, if I want to go back to UK for 3 months holidays do I need to apply for a visa or just need to buy a ticket?

January 13, 2020 at 10:07 am

Hi Saikou! If your UK visa is still valid, you can enter the UK again. You don’t need to apply for a new visa. But keep in mind that staying 3 months in the UK on a visit visa will get you into trouble while leaving the UK or re-entering.

January 2, 2020 at 3:52 pm

Hi, I am a British citizen and planned to travel to Mexico in February with my family. I appreciate if you answer my following questions:

1. My wife has a spouse visa (BRP) which expires on 05/01/2021. Can she enter Mexico with her BRP? 2. My father and mother-in-law are Iranian and having a UK visit visa which will expire on 19/06/2020. Can they travel with us to Mexico?

Thanks for your time and effort in advance.

January 4, 2020 at 8:28 am

Hi Kevin! 1. Yes. Your wife can enter Mexico with her valid BRP. She does not need a separate Mexico visa. 2. Yes. Your father and mother-in-law can also enter Mexico with their valid UK visit visas. They also do not need separate Mexico visas.

Sundram singh says

November 27, 2019 at 10:25 pm

Thanks Thirumal for replying. I have one more question. I would like to know for applying for a multi-entry tourist Schengen visa for 6 months, which European country shall I opt for the visa interview. Additionally, if I don’t have to book and show a travel ticket in advance then it would be great.

November 30, 2019 at 5:10 am

Hi Sundram! It depends on your itinerary. As per the Schengen rules, you must apply for your Schengen visa from the embassy of the country that you will enter first or stay the longest in your itinerary.

Example 1: If you plan to travel to Spain (3 days), France (3 days) and the Netherlands (3 days), then you must apply for your visa at the Spain consulate as Spain will be your first country to enter on your itinerary.

Example 2: If you plan to travel to Spain (3 days), France (5 days) and the Netherlands (3 days), then you must apply for your visa at the France consulate as you will be staying the longest in France during your travel.

Schengen country consulates recommend NOT purchasing flight tickets before your visa is approved. So, you just have to show a flight itinerary for your visa. Once your visa is approved, you can purchase your flight tickets. To get a flight itinerary for your Schengen visa, refer to my article on travel itinerary for visa application .

January 5, 2020 at 11:00 am

I’m a Nigerian, using a Nigerian passport. I have a UK 5yrs visa. Do I need a visa to visit Mexico and Romania?

January 13, 2020 at 10:18 am

Hi C! You can visit Mexico with your Nigerian passport and UK visa. But for Romania, you would require a UK residence permit. UK visa is not eligible.

Winnie says

January 3, 2022 at 10:44 am

Hi, I’m a Nigerian with a student visa in Ireland. Can I travel to the UK without a UK Visa?

January 3, 2022 at 2:47 pm

Hi Winnie! Unfortunately, no. You cannot use your Irish student visa to enter the UK. You need a UK visitor visa.

Winifred Mando says

January 5, 2022 at 4:34 pm

Thank you so much for your prompt response. In a case where I have a UK Visitor Visa, can I visit Ireland for a few days without an Ireland visa?

January 6, 2022 at 6:19 am

Yes, but you must be from those 17 eligible nationalities (listed under Ireland in this article). Another option is to ask for BIVS (British Irish Visa Scheme) endorsement on your UK visa. If you have a BIVS endorsement on your UK visa, you can travel to UK and Ireland with a single UK visa.

Sundram says

November 15, 2019 at 1:46 pm

I am Sundram (Indian passport holder), currently working in the UK (under tier-2 ICT visa). I have a BRP (residence permit) which is valid for 1 year. I would like to know, do I need a Schengen visa to travel to Europe. I am a little bit confused now since the immigration officer told me just keep Indian passport along with this BRP and then you free to travel anywhere in Europe.

November 16, 2019 at 6:12 am

Hi Sundram! UK BRP holders REQUIRE a Schengen visa to travel to any of the 26 Schengen countries. There are many non-Schengen countries within the European continent that you can visit using your UK BRP. A few examples are – Albania, Bosnia & Herzegovina, Georgia, etc. Please refer to the list of countries in this article for more information.

Anna Theresa Balatero says

July 25, 2021 at 4:14 am

Hi! Can I visit Georgia with my unused UK visa? I’m a Philippine passport holder. I wanted to use/maximize the use of my UK visa before it expires. I’m fully vaccinated of covid. I wanted to visit the UK but Unfortunately, until this moment, the UK government is not allowing visitors from the Philippines. Can you also advised what else/country I can visit right now with my unused UK visa? I’m feeling frustrated about not being able to use my UK visa.

July 29, 2021 at 5:37 am

Hi Anna! Yes, you can use your unused UK visa to enter Georgia. Georgia is only allowing vaccinated tourists, and since you are fully vaccinated, you can enter Georgia with your unused UK visa. Here are a few countries that you can enter with an unused UK visa and currently open for tourism – Turkey, Albania, Serbia, Montenegro, Macedonia and Mexico.

nachikethas says

November 11, 2019 at 4:55 pm

Hi Thirumal! I appreciate your efforts. I have a couple of doubts though. I have a BRP card valid from 2 October 2019 till 7th April 2020 (just more than 6 months). Is this enough to go to Peru? I’m planning for the Christmas holidays. Or do I need 6 months of validity from the day I land in Peru? Also, the flights from the UK are going through Madrid. Since the carrier is the same do I need a transit Schengen visa to switch flights in Madrid?

November 15, 2019 at 1:21 pm

Hi Nachikethas! If you have a BRP with indefinite leave to remain (ILR), you can use it to enter Peru. But your BRP has an expiry and it will not be considered as “permanent residence”. You cannot use your BRP as a “visa” either since it’s not a visa “sticker” in your passport.

If you have a UK visa sticker in your passport that would be valid for at least 6 months on the day you land in Peru, you can use it to enter Peru. Otherwise, unfortunately, you cannot.

October 18, 2019 at 5:42 pm

Hi, Thank you so much for this. I am holding a Chinese passport and have UK student visa. Just wanna make sure I don’t need a visa to enter Moldova for multiple times. The link is unfortunately broken. Can you send it to me again! Many thanks!

October 19, 2019 at 4:54 am

Hi Mindy! Chinese passport holders with a valid visa from “any country in the EU” can enter Moldova. The UK is still part of the EU since the Brexit is not finalized yet.

Sorry about the broken link. Here is the link to the requirements . Scroll all the way down. Expand the section that says “The list of countries whose nationals must be in possession of visas when traveling to the Republic of Moldova”. Look for “China” in the list and read additional information.

Narjis says

September 18, 2019 at 5:41 pm

I’m Moroccan, I have a UK tourist visa of 2 years (but will expire on 10 March 2020). Which countries can I visit with that visa, please? Thank you!

September 20, 2019 at 4:35 am

Hi Narjis! You can travel to all the countries listed in this article that says “applies to all nationalities”. I will be updating the list soon, so you will have updated information for these countries.

Jeanette says

August 21, 2019 at 8:48 am

I’m a Filipino and a UK residency permit holder. Can I travel to Prague without a Schengen visa? Thanks.

August 25, 2019 at 9:50 am

Hi Jeanette! You would need a Schengen visa to travel to the Czech Republic. The Czech Republic does not honor UK visas or residence permits.

August 20, 2019 at 1:40 pm

Hi Thirumal, I have two questions that I was hoping you could answer.

I am an Indian national living in Australia as a permanent resident. I may be moving to the UK soon to start a job there. Can I travel across Europe on a UK work visa or would I need to apply for a Schengen visa from the UK?

Secondly, I am expecting to become an Australian citizen in a few months’ time. If I’m living and working in the UK while this happens, can I continue to use my Indian passport with the UK visa? I understand that I’m expected to give up my Indian passport after acquiring foreign citizenship but wouldn’t I lose all the visas issued to me If I did that?

August 25, 2019 at 4:33 am

Hi J! No. A UK visa cannot be used to travel across the Schengen zone. But there are some countries in Europe that you can enter using your UK visa or residence permit. Please refer to my article on VISA-FREE travel with UK visa for the list of countries.

You can keep using your India passport up to “3 months” from the date of acquiring your Australia citizenship. Using it beyond 3 months is an offense. Therefore, you will have 3 months to transfer over your UK work visa on to your Australia passport. I am not aware of the transfer procedure, so please contact UKVI.

For other unexpired visas on your India passport, you must first check if you can enter those countries without a visa with your Australia passport. If you can, then you are fine. If you can’t, please contact the embassies of those countries for the procedure to transfer those visas on to your Australia passport.

Also, you must surrender your India passport at the embassy of India in Australia within 3 years of acquiring your Australia citizenship. You will then be eligible to apply for OCI card which allows indefinite leave to remain in India.

Rafael Pagaling says

August 15, 2019 at 9:22 am

I am a Filipino with UK visa. Can I use it to visit Spain?

August 16, 2019 at 2:59 pm

Hi Rafael! You cannot use your UK visa to enter Spain. Spain is in the Schengen zone and you would need a Schengen visa.

Abdirizak says

August 9, 2019 at 8:49 pm

Hi Thirumal,

I have a 6 months visit visa to the UK. In your article, you mentioned that I can be eligible for a 30 days stay in Turkey. The question is, can I extend it to 60 or even 90?

August 12, 2019 at 9:36 am

Hi Abdirizak! Visa extension is not possible for eVisa. You can only stay for 30 days using an eVisa. If you stay longer than that on an eVisa, it can be considered as visa overstay. If you need to stay longer than 30 days in Turkey, you should apply for a pre-approved visa from the Turkish embassy or consulate.

mandal says

August 6, 2019 at 12:30 pm

Hi dear, I want to travel to Europe. I have a 11-months multiple short term student visa of UK. Can I travel to Europe on the UK visa? I’m a Mongolian passport holder.

August 7, 2019 at 1:15 pm

Hi Mandal! If your UK visa is a C-Type short stay/study visa, then yes, you can travel to the countries listed within “Europe” section such as Albania, Georgia, etc. Please note that you cannot travel to any Schengen countries as those countries require a Schengen visa.

MARY ANN SALAS says

August 6, 2019 at 9:43 am

Hi, could you please confirm if a Pakistani passport holder does not require Bahamas visa if he has a valid UK, US & Canada visa?

August 6, 2019 at 1:42 pm

Hi Mary! Unfortunately, Pakistan passport holders REQUIRE a visa for the Bahamas. Currently, the visa exemption with the US, UK or Canada visa is only for India passport holders.

July 31, 2019 at 2:57 pm

Hello Thirumal, well done with the good work you are doing here. I have two questions:

First question: I have a valid 2 years UK visa. Can I apply for a Cyprus Visa in London when I travel? I hold a Nigerian passport.

Second question: Can I stay in the UK for 6 months (the maximum time allowed) and travel out for a week and return again? Would I encounter problems coming back again?

August 3, 2019 at 8:40 am

1. I have never applied for a Cyprus visa, so I am not sure about the visa procedure. Please check with your nearest Cyprus embassy if you can apply for the visa while in the UK. 2. If you have requested your UK visa for a 6-month stay, then yes. But if you have requested your UK visa for a 2-week stay and you end up staying for 6 months in the UK, then you will face issues. You may face issues while leaving the country, entering back into the UK and even when applying for any future UK visas.

Daniel says

July 31, 2019 at 1:09 pm

Hello mate, thank you for helping everyone. I have a lot of questions there sorry haha. I am Cameroonian and I have indefinite leave to remain UK permit. 1- You said below that I don’t need a visa for Gibraltar but I don’t know how it works. Do I go with the passport and the IRL card? Are they going to put a stamp in the passport? Are they going to ask for more information about my stay? 2- Do I need a visa for Belize? 3- Do I need a visa for Mexico? 4- Do I need a visa for Romania 5- If not, is it the same process in the airport as Gibraltar? Thank you!

August 1, 2019 at 12:08 pm

1- You don’t need a visa for Gibraltar but you must meet the below requirement.

“Persons who hold indefinite leave to remain in the UK and persons who hold UK certificates of entitlement to the right of abode and have not been absent from the UK for more than 2 years.”

“Visa nationals who have a UK “certificate of entitlement to the right of abode” or “indefinite leave to remain in the UK”. The label must be in their current valid passport and not in an expired or cancelled passport;”

2- Unfortunately, Belize stopped honoring UK Residence Permits. Therefore, you cannot use your ILR card to enter Belize. (I will update the article soon) 3- Yes, you can use your ILR card to enter Mexico. 4- Yes. But you must meet the below requirement.

“The holders of permanent residence permits issued by the UK or Ireland (the validity of which is of 5 years or more). The right of stay on the territory of Romania shall not exceed the right of stay granted as per such residence permits.”

5- Yes. It’s the same process. You just have to show your current passport and ILR card.

August 3, 2019 at 3:48 pm

Thank you very much!

July 22, 2019 at 11:18 am

Hi, I have an Indian passport, married to British citizen so hold a UK spouse visa. Can I go to Barbados for a holiday? Thank you.

July 23, 2019 at 3:24 am

Hi Ruby! As far as my knowledge goes, India passport holders DO NOT REQUIRE a visa for Barbados. But there is conflicting information on the internet. I suggest contacting your nearest embassy or consulate of Barbados to confirm the requirements.

August 22, 2019 at 1:58 pm

Thanks. I have been going around in circles! The embassy website says Indians do need a visa. I called them and they said that I do not need a visa. Wikipedia says I do not. I contacted the airlines and they say I do need a visa. This is crazy!

August 26, 2019 at 5:01 am

Though the airline said that you need a visa, I’m sure they will let you board the flight. At the time of check-in, the airline staff refers to TIMATIC database to verify the visa requirements. TIMATIC says that India passport holders DO NOT REQUIRE a visa. Therefore, you will be allowed to board your flight to Barbados. Here is the link to TIMATIC on United Airlines if you like to verify and carry a print with you.

NOTE: TIMATIC is a paid service accessible only to airlines’ staff. Only a few airlines make it available to their passengers. One of them is United Airlines. It’s fine to take a print from United Airlines’ website even if your boarding airline is different.

July 19, 2019 at 2:09 pm

Hi, I just want to be clear. I am a Jamaican passport holder and my children have British passports. I have a UK limited leave to remain (biometric residence permit BPR) visa for 2.5 years which I renew every 2.5 years I am now on my third one as I am on a 10-year route to settlement as a parent and I am a UK resident. Can I use my BPR to travel to Turks and Caicos and the Cayman Island without the need to apply for a visa for those countries?

July 22, 2019 at 10:55 am

Hi Keema! Yes, you can use your UK BRP to travel to both Turks and Caicos and the Cayman Islands. For the Cayman Islands, you must fly directly from the UK to the Cayman Islands. Turks and Caicos don’t have such requirement, therefore you can fly into Turks and Caicos from anywhere.

Andrew says

July 19, 2019 at 12:26 pm

Hello sir! I am a Filipino with a UK permanent residence card issued at march 2011 and will expire in march 2021. I plan to travel to Romania but their website says that the permit must be valid for 5 years. I am not sure whether they mean valid for the next five years or with a total validity of 5 years since issue. Is it still possible to travel with my residence permit? Thank you!

July 22, 2019 at 10:48 am

Hi Andrew! It is the total validity of your permit. Residence permits that are issued with a validity of 5 or more years are eligible. Therefore, you can use your UK residence permit to enter Romania.

YOUSUF IQBAL says

July 16, 2019 at 1:50 pm

Hello Sir, I am traveling to the UK on visit visa type C. I intend to visit turkey for a week during my stay in the UK and want to return back to the UK before I go back to Pakistan. Is it possible on my visit visa? Would greatly appreciate your reply. Thank you.

July 19, 2019 at 10:57 am

Hi Yousuf! Since you have a valid UK visa, you are eligible to apply for Turkey eVisa. If your Turkey eVisa is approved, then you can enter Turkey with the eVisa.

July 19, 2019 at 11:09 am

Thank you so much sir for your reply. Will I then be able to come back to the UK from Turkey if my visa is valid. I have multiple entry UK visa. Regards

July 19, 2019 at 11:58 am

Yes. You can enter the UK again with your visa since your visa is multiple-entry.

swathi says

July 15, 2019 at 6:16 am

Hi Thirumal, can I know if a person holding an Indian passport? He is travelling from London to USA (ticket issued from India). Can we issue travel insurance from India? If not Why. Kindly help with this information.

July 16, 2019 at 1:05 am

Hi Swathi! Yes, you can purchase travel insurance from India though you are traveling to the US from the UK.

July 11, 2019 at 11:49 pm

I was recently refused a UK visa even though I had a 5 yrs US visa but never travelled with it. After the UK refusal, I got a 5 yr Canada visa too. I have since travelled to the US and Canada. What are my chances of getting the UK visa if I reapply?

July 12, 2019 at 12:57 pm

Hi Jaime! You have very good chances. But, your previous UK visa refusal could be a red flag. I suggest improving your travel history a bit more to compensate for that. Also, make sure you are “not making” any of the mistakes outlined in the article – UK visa refusal reasons .

Abiola says

June 26, 2019 at 7:26 am

Good day sir! You are really doing a great job. Please am a Nigerian and want to travel to Dublin with my UK 6 month visa. What will I need? And what is B I V S?

June 26, 2019 at 9:49 pm

Hi Abiola! Nigeria passport holders REQUIRE a visa for Ireland. You CANNOT use their UK visa to travel to Ireland unless the UK visa has BIVS. If you have a UK visa with BIVS, then you can travel to Ireland.

BIVS means, British Irish Visa Scheme. It’s a single visa for both UK and Ireland. You have to ask for BIVS at the time of applying for UK or Irish visa. Then you will be issued a visa with BIVS.

June 23, 2019 at 5:21 am

Firstly thanks a very nice and informative article. My parents have a 3-year Australian visitor/family visa, could they visit the UK on any visa exemption?

Really appreciate your response.

Regards, Kiran

June 23, 2019 at 6:39 pm

Hi Kiran! Unfortunately, they would need a UK tourist visa to visit the UK. They cannot use their Australia visa.

NOTE: There is a 24-hour entry provision for Australia visa holders but that is only when transiting through the UK while heading to Australia.

June 15, 2019 at 6:39 am

Hi there, I am from the Philippines holding a c-visit visa. Are all your list of countries above updated for the visa-free travel? I would like to visit Bosnia next week but I’m not sure whether I can go travel without having to apply for a separate visa. Many thanks!

June 16, 2019 at 11:55 pm

Hi April! I have updated this article in March but I haven’t found any changes since then. I suggest making a list of countries that you would be visiting in this trip and then using the links (official sources) I have provided to verify the requirements.

Prathik says

June 14, 2019 at 10:04 am

Hi, I have an Indian passport and a UK Tier 4 student visa with a BRP valid till October 2020. I have a university trip to France for 2 weeks. Is my BRP sufficient or will I need to apply for a Schengen Visa? Thank you.

June 14, 2019 at 9:00 pm

Hi Prathik! You need to apply for a Schengen visa. You cannot use your UK BRP to enter France (Schengen zone).

June 12, 2019 at 12:12 pm

Hi there. I have a Nigerian passport. Can I travel to the UK with a Canada visitor visa and or travel to Canada with a UK visitor visa. Thanks for your time.

June 12, 2019 at 4:44 pm

Hi King! Unfortunately, no. You CANNOT travel to the UK with Canada visa or Canada with a UK visa. There is a 24-hour entry provision at London’s Heathrow airport. If you are traveling to Canada via London’s Heathrow airport, you can request for a 24-hour entry at the Heathrow airport.

June 10, 2019 at 5:53 am

I want to travel to Ireland, Europe. Can I travel with a UK tourist visa to Ireland? And if yes, then there is one past rule that after or within 6 months you have to enter UK for at least once. And a Schengen visa is required or not.

June 10, 2019 at 10:10 pm

Hi Piyu! You can travel to Ireland with a UK visa. But there are two types of UK visas and the rules are different.

UK short stay visa: If you have this visa, you must first enter the UK. From there, you can enter Ireland by land or air. Your stay in Ireland must be within the “leave to enter” time specified in the UK entry stamp. UK short stay visa with BIVS: If you have this visa, you can enter Ireland any time. You don’t have to enter the UK at all.

A Schengen visa cannot be used for Ireland as Ireland is not part of the Schengen zone. You would need an Irish tourist visa.

Anandakumar says

June 1, 2019 at 7:27 pm

Dear Thirumal, Thanks for sharing this blog. It was really useful it worked well for me.

I travelled – Serbia – Bosnia – Montenegro – Albania – Macedonia – And Turkey (evisa) With my UK multiple entry Visa Thanks again!

June 4, 2019 at 2:25 am

Hi Ananda Kumar! That’s fantastic! I’m glad the article was useful in your travel through those countries. Thanks for sharing your experience!

Mshoaib says

May 24, 2019 at 10:59 am

Dear, I have a UK visitor visa. After attending my business meeting, can I go around for the six months to allowed countries from the UK?

Another question is whether Malaysia is on the list? If not, what is the legal process to visit Malaysia after being entered to the UK in visit visa?

May 27, 2019 at 11:41 pm

Hi Mshoaib! Yes, you can travel to the countries listed in this article with your UK visa after your business meeting in the UK.

You cannot use your UK visa to enter Malaysia. You would need a Malaysia visa. You can refer to my Malaysia visa guide for more details.

Muhammad Zargham Haider says

May 22, 2019 at 9:36 am

Hi, I am Zargham from Pakistan. I got a UK visit visa (6-Month). I want to visit Turkey on my way back from the UK to Pakistan. As per your suggestion, I will have to obtain E-Visa for Turkey or I can have a transit visa while traveling back through Turk Air.

Please also guide if I get Russian visit visa, are there other countries I can visit too?

May 22, 2019 at 3:40 pm

Hi Zargham! Yes, you can obtain eVisa for Turkey using your UK visa. I’m not aware of the transit visa facility by Turk Air. So, I cannot comment on that.

Unfortunately, Russian visa does not give access to any other countries.

May 20, 2019 at 6:07 pm

Hello, I have a UK six month visa and I am planning to travel to Dublin from London for 2 days. I am an Indian citizen but applied for the UK visitor visa from the UAE (I live in Dubai). Will I be able to travel to Dublin? visa type is UKVI05 multiple entries valid for 180 days, C visit.

May 22, 2019 at 4:05 am

Hi Cruz! Yes, you can enter Ireland from the UK using your UK short stay visa. No separate visa for Ireland is necessary. Make sure you follow the below two rules –

– Must have entered the UK and went through the UK immigration before entering Ireland – Must enter Ireland within the exit date on your UK entry stamp (this is different than visa expiry date)

Sameera Buddhika says

May 9, 2019 at 1:27 pm

Hi Mr. Thirumal I have a previous UK student visa, and now it has expired. I am a Sri Lankan passport holder. So, is there any European countries that I can travel with that previous visa? Thank you in advance!

May 10, 2019 at 10:09 pm

Hi Sameera! Unfortunately, no. All countries in Europe require the UK visa to be valid.

There are one or two countries in this list (non-European) that accept expired visas. One of them being Taiwan, but their visa exemption with a UK visa is not applicable to Sri Lankan passport holders.

Dr Jayanti mehta says

May 8, 2019 at 10:41 am

Dear sir/Madam, I have UK/USA & CANADA multiple tourist visas. How many countries I can travel visa-free? I have returned confirmed air tickets. Please guide me I want to travel in June/July & August 2019. Thanks.

May 8, 2019 at 2:41 pm

Hi Dr. Mehta! With your UK, US and Canada visas, you can travel up to 37 countries. I suggest referring to the below articles along with this article.

– VISA-FREE countries for US visa – How to make your weak passport strong

May 3, 2019 at 3:46 pm

Thanks bro! You are doing an amazing job. Today I got an email confirmation from Costa Rica embassy in London. I share with you. so it might help you to advise. Again thanks!

Email received on:- 03 May 2019 Dear Mr. Patel,

Holders of a UK residence permit can go without a consular visa, provided the residence card is valid for 6 months from the day of entry into Costa Rica, and could be allowed to stay up to 30 days.

You need to show a return ticket or ongoing travel, hotel reservation and proof of financial means (credit cards), if requested.

Jorge Aguilar Minister Counsellor and Consul General Embassy of Costa Rica 23 Woodstock Street, Mayfair London W1C 2AS, United Kingdom phone 020 7629 3111

May 3, 2019 at 6:44 pm

Hi Sunny! Thanks for the information and the email! Very useful! I will advise our readers/community accordingly. Thanks again!

May 2, 2019 at 7:23 pm

But Brexit is not done yet the UK still part of the EU. I called Costa Rica embassy in London today. The lady was on phone, she said you are good to go with out visa but it’s so confusing man. Please find some information for me. Thanks!

May 2, 2019 at 10:31 pm

Hi Sunny! If it’s confusing for just one country, imagine how confusing it would be to update this entire article. Brexit, it’s delays and extensions are causing confusion to many countries and travelers. I’m waiting for official information from these countries whether they allow UK visa, but I guess they are waiting for the final word on Brexit as well.

Anyways, you are told that you are good to use your UK visa. Enjoy your trip to Costa Rica!

May 2, 2019 at 3:43 pm

Hello, I have UK student visa valid till October 2020. We planned to visit Costa Rica on 27 May. So with Indian passport can we travel without a visa?

May 2, 2019 at 6:16 pm

Hi Sunny! Unfortunately, NO. Costa Rica allowed residence permits from any country in the EU. But the UK ceased to be in the EU and therefore UK residence permits are not eligible for Costa Rica anymore.

NOTE: I’m yet to update this article after Brexit. I’m making my best efforts to update it as soon as I can.

Amir Iqbal says

May 2, 2019 at 10:54 am

Hello, I hold a Schengen student visa and a UK tourist visa on my Indian passport. I need to travel to Dubai, as per the blog’s info I do not need UAE visa. Do I need to undergo any other formalities before my travel? Thanks for answering.

May 2, 2019 at 6:07 pm

Hi Amir! YOU NEED A VISA for UAE. You cannot use your UK tourist visa. You would need a UK residence permit.

April 28, 2019 at 5:39 am

Hi, I am an Indian passport holder and wanted to check if I can go to Bermuda with a UK visitor visa (C category for 6 months) from India. Further, do I need to file for a Bermuda eVisa online also?

April 29, 2019 at 8:37 pm

Hi Ish! If you hold a “multiple-entry” UK visitor visa, you can enter Bermuda without needing a separate visa. Refer to the official information on Government of Bermuda website.

Dr Purushottam Padala says

April 27, 2019 at 12:32 pm

Hi Thirumal. You are doing a great job helping out on this lovely blog.

I and all my family have a Permanent residence (PR) visa to the UK on my Indian passport. This visa was issued 12 yrs ago on my previous passport, which I always keep stapled to my new passport so that whenever I travel to the UK I do not have a problem.

Can I travel to the Schengen area on my UK PR without visa requirement especially so because it is on my old passport?

Although you have mentioned one can, there is information to the contrary on the web that you need a Schengen visa.

I also have a 10 yr B1/B2 to the US on my new passport, if it helps to visit Schengen without a visa.

Thanks in advance

April 30, 2019 at 9:01 pm

Hi Dr. Purushottam! Unfortunately, you CANNOT use your UK PR or US B1/B2 visa to enter any country in the Schengen zone. You would need a Schengen visa to travel to any Schengen country.

April 17, 2019 at 1:50 am

I am from Nigeria and I have a UK visitors visa. I’ve used it a lot and I’d like to know if I can go to Romania without having to apply for a Romanian visa for tourism.

April 17, 2019 at 6:58 pm

Hi Ayo! No, you CANNOT use your UK visitor visa to enter Romania. You would need a UK Residence Permit to enter Romania.

April 8, 2019 at 9:36 am

Hi Is this list valid for people holding a UK BRP (Bio metric residence permit) valid for 2 years. It’s normally issued if you are working in UK but not a permanent resident.

April 8, 2019 at 11:33 pm

Hi Adil! Yes, the list is applicable for UK BRP holders as well. First, go through the article and prepare a list of countries you want to visit. Then go through the official sources to make sure your BRP can be used. Visa requirements constantly change and it’s very difficult for me to keep the list up to date. You will have to do your due diligence as well before traveling to these countries.

Ibrahim Taiwo says

April 8, 2019 at 3:05 am

Please can i travel to any Schengen countries with my UK visit visa.

And which Schengen country is that.

April 8, 2019 at 8:47 pm

Hi Ibrahim! No, you CANNOT travel to Schengen countries with a UK visa. You would need a Schengen visa to enter any Schengen country.

April 7, 2019 at 6:25 pm

Good day sir!

Please, can I travel with the UK visit visa to all the countries mentioned? Please, I want to know the countries I can visit with UK VISIT VISA without a visa.

April 7, 2019 at 11:45 pm

Hi Ibrahim! Yes, you can visit all the countries in this article with your UK visit visa. There have been some changes since last month as the UK ceased to be part of the EU because of Brexit. I haven’t received updates from some countries and the updates are still pending. Therefore, make a list of countries that you like to travel with your UK visa and let me know. I can check and confirm that you can use your UK visa for those countries.

Prasanth says

April 2, 2019 at 10:29 am

Thanks Thirumal for the quick response

April 1, 2019 at 7:11 am

I am indian passport holder with a UK BRP card valid for another 2 years, from the above i see that i should apply for a evisa to the above countries you mentioned through their respective consulate websites if i need to travel.

Is there any country(Asian/European) for which i can travel without visa at all since i hold the residence to UK.

Thank you Prasanth

April 2, 2019 at 1:01 am

Hi Prasanth! You are VISA EXEMPT (without visa) for the above countries if holding a UK visa, except Turkey (eVisa), Oman (eVisa), Qatar (eTA) and Taiwan (eTA).

August 9, 2019 at 2:13 pm

I have a UK 5 years visa. Can I go to Ireland alone?

August 12, 2019 at 9:50 am

Hi Atif! You cannot go to Ireland directly with your UK visa. You have to enter the UK first and then go to Ireland by land or air. Also, you must hold a passport listed under “14. Ireland”

NOTE: If you have a UK visa with BIVS, then you can go to Ireland without going to the UK first. This applies to all nationalities.

August 12, 2019 at 4:37 pm

Dear, I have pre-settlement visa 5 years card. Where I can go on that without a visa? Thanks for your quick response.

August 14, 2019 at 7:43 am

Hi Atif! I don’t know much about the pre-settlement visa. If it’s a “residence permit”, then you may be able to visit the countries listed out in “VISA-FREE travel with UK Permanent Residency”.

Inayat says

March 30, 2019 at 7:27 pm

I am travelling to Mexico and as I hold a Standard Visa of UK. I don’t need a separate Mexico visa. As the embassy site clarifies that I would not need one. Do you agree? Just want to have a double confirmation. I hold a Pakistani passport. Appreciate your help.

March 30, 2019 at 9:38 pm

Hi Inayat! Different Mexico consulate sites are saying differently on the UK visa. I have had many readers use their UK visas without any issues so far.

MOHAMMED says

March 27, 2019 at 12:26 pm

You cannot go to Bosnia and Herzegovina with a UK VISA, you can visit Bosnia and Herzegovina only by schengen or USA visa or residence permit… Please try to be accurate next time and thanks for your effort…

March 28, 2019 at 3:18 am

Hi Mohammed! Thanks for the update! UK ceased to be a member of EU from this month due to Brexit. Therefore Bosnia and Herzegovina do not honor UK visas anymore. I will be updating the article this week and I’m waiting for official confirmations from some more countries.

Regarding being accurate next time, first of all, it’s highly impossible to be up to date with 200+ countries’ visa requirements for 200+ nationalities. That is close to 40,000 individual visa requirements. I continuously check with authorities, but not all 200+ countries respond in a timely fashion. There may be inaccuracies due to such delays.

March 23, 2019 at 5:15 am

Hi, are you saying you dont need a visa to Qatar if you have UK visa? My husband and kids (Nigeria passport holders) had UK visa and they wanted to go to Qatar from London but the airline staff asked them to present their Qatar visa before they can be checked in.

March 24, 2019 at 1:00 am

Hi Okin! Even if you hold a UK visa, you would need to first apply for Qatar eTA. With an approved eTA, you can get Visa on Arrival (VOA) at the arriving airport in Qatar. If you do not hold an approved eTA from Qatar, the airline will not allow you to board the plane.

If you read carefully, I have clearly mentioned that “Visa is NOT EXEMPT, but are eligible to apply for eTA and then avail Visa ON ARRIVAL at international airports in Qatar”

March 18, 2019 at 11:14 pm

I am a Nigerian passport holder on a UK tier 4 student visa currently studying in the UK. My question is, can I apply for a US visa from the American embassy here in UK or as a UK visa holder will I be allowed to just travel to the US for a short visit without a valid US visa .

March 19, 2019 at 5:58 am

Hi Sonia! Yes, you can apply for a US visa from the UK. And no, you cannot use your UK visa to enter the US. You would need a US visa.

March 14, 2019 at 4:49 am

Hi, what are the countries near to United Kingdom you can visit if you have a UK- visit visa from Dubai? Holding a Philippine passport.

March 15, 2019 at 8:39 pm

Hi Mitch! You can visit Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Georgia, Macedonia, Montenegro, Serbia, Turkey and Qatar with Philippines passport and UK visa. These countries are all near to the UK and UAE.

March 13, 2019 at 9:00 am

Hi I am a Kosovo citizen I have 6 mounth Touristic Uk visa can I travel in country such as Bermuda, Turks and Caicos and Mexico?

March 14, 2019 at 3:20 am

Hi Arba! Yes, if you hold a Kosovo passport and valid UK visa, you can travel to Bermuda, Turks and Caicos and Mexico.

Oyewale says

March 1, 2019 at 7:03 pm

I am a Nigerian currently in uk with a Nigeria passport can I apply for Ireland visa from England?

March 1, 2019 at 9:22 pm

Hi Oyewale! Yes, you can apply for Ireland visa from England.

March 1, 2019 at 12:30 am

Hi thirumal Great article Im British and my wife has Indian passport with dependent visa (brp) She will be a permanent resident next year Does she qualify for the visa free countries on her current visa? Many thanks

March 1, 2019 at 6:11 pm

Hi Biju! Yes, your wife qualifies for VISA-FREE travel to all of the countries in the list, except Ireland. Ireland requires a UK short stay C-Type visa. But your wife can secure an Irish visa easily as there are special provisions for those with UK long stay visas.

February 24, 2019 at 10:01 pm

Hello Thirumal! I have a Thai passport and also UK tourist visa that is multiple entry and valid for 6 months. I am a US resident travelling from New York to England. My question is, can I visit Dublin after England? Or I can only visit north Ireland? Please help me. I am so confused now.

February 25, 2019 at 2:52 am

Hi Lali! With your Thai passport and UK visa, you can enter Dublin (Ireland). If you follow the below rules, you can enter Ireland using your UK visa.

Rules – Your UK visa must be a UK short stay visa – When you enter the UK, you will be given an entry stamp in your passport. Check the “date of exit” on that stamp. You can only enter and remain in Ireland (including Dublin) within that “date of exit” given by the UK. – The entry in Ireland will be up to 90 days or until the “date of exit” on the UK entry stamp, whichever is shorter

Note: “Northern Ireland” is part of the United Kingdom itself. Whereas, “Ireland” is a separate country and needs an Irish visa. But you can enter “Ireland” with your “UK” visa by following the above rules.

Aiisha says

February 21, 2019 at 9:30 pm

Hello! I have a Gambia passport. I have a UK resident. Please, can you tell Switzerland or any country is visa-free? Thanks!

February 22, 2019 at 6:10 pm

Hi Aiisha! Unfortunately, you would need a “Schengen visa” for Switzerland.

With your Gambia passport and UK residence permit, you can travel to all the countries listed out in this article that says “applies to all passport holders”.

February 18, 2019 at 4:08 pm

Hi, I have a UK residents permit that allows me to live and work in the UK. So this means I can travel to Bermuda without applying for a Bermuda visa?

February 18, 2019 at 5:53 pm

Hi Ugo! Yes, you can travel to Bermuda using your UK residence permit. You do not need a separate visa for Bermuda.

Pratibha Sharma says

February 12, 2019 at 1:57 pm

Hi, Could you provide official webpage link where it confirm that UK work permit holder do not need Costa Rica visa?

February 13, 2019 at 7:04 pm

Hi Pratibha! The three official links for Costa Rica in this article confirms that a “legal permanence” in any EU country (UK is part of EU until the end of March 2019). There are specific rules for work permits, so please read the fine print before planning your trip to Costa Rica.

Here is the official information according to the Embassy of Costa Rica in Washington DC –

“You have permanent residence (Greencard holder), a student visa (F1, J1), a work visa (H1B, G4, L1, EB-1, etc.) in the UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, CANADA, and countries members of the EUROPEAN UNION (those residence cards issued in a language other than Spanish or English must be translated into Spanish.”

Phuong says

February 12, 2019 at 10:56 am

Hello Thirumal

I am so happy to find this article of yours and to realize how many more countries I can visit with my UK tourist visa. As a Vietnamese I have to admit our passport is pretty much useless. As much as I appreciate this blog post so much, do you mind if I translate to Vietnamese and share this article on my blog (crediting you and your blog)? I am sure this will be very helpful to others as well (although the 1st step – obtaining a UK tourist visa is very challenging haha).

Thank you again

February 13, 2019 at 6:15 pm

Hi Phuong! Thanks! I can understand. I actually spent over 6 months in Vietnam. I have several friends there and we had many conversations on this topic. Vietnam’s economy and tourism is growing. I hope the Vietnamese passport becomes stronger in the coming years.

Yes, please go ahead. It would be great if my article helps fellow Vietnamese travelers.

Manisha Arora says

February 8, 2019 at 4:40 pm

Thanks for all the information. Although I think I understand from your post but I still want to clarify.

I am on H1B US visa, do I need UK visitor visa to visit UK?

Thanks in advance Manisha

February 8, 2019 at 6:50 pm

Hi Manisha! Yes, you would NEED a UK visitor visa to visit the UK. You CANNOT use your US H1B visa to enter the UK as a tourist.

But, if you are traveling to the US and transiting through London’s Heathrow, you can request for a 24-hour entry at the Heathrow airport. Many of my readers were able to get the 24-hour entry without any issues. You can try this if you have a long layover in London.

Carlo Paulo says

January 30, 2019 at 10:27 am

I recently have been approved of a UK visitor Visa, and i was planning on travelling the Balkans this June 2019 (Bosnia & Herzegovina, Macedonia, Montenegro, Serbia and Albania). All of the 4 countries except for Bosnia & Herzegovina had mentioned on their Ministry of foreign affairs website that “holders of a VALID UK Visa” can enter their country. BH mentioned “valid visa issued by the EU”, so i guessed that since Brexit is on end of MARCH 2019, i can no longer visit BH in June. am i correct on this one?

I am a PH passport holder and a resident in Qatar. i’m planning to travel during EID (June 5, and the cheapest flight (via Pegasus Airlines) on that day is to SARAJEVO, BH.

waiting for your response.

January 30, 2019 at 5:14 pm

Hi Carlo! I believe the countries that say “valid visa issued by any EU country” will soon update their terms to include “valid UK visa”. A UK visa is a strong visa and these countries would definitely honor UK visa. It’s just a matter of time. I’m actually waiting for the official statements from these countries so I can update this article.

But in your case, I suggest contacting BH consulate and asking about the UK visa in June. They probably know the changes coming up in March 2019. If they aren’t sure, then getting a BH visa would be a smart move.

January 29, 2019 at 3:44 pm

Hi Thirumal, thank you for such useful information. You mention permanent residency. I am studying in the UK, I have Biometric Resident Permit (BRP). Am I a UK resident? I am from Vietnam. In particular, with my BRP (valid until end of March 2020), can I travel to Costa Rica and Romania (tourism purpose) without these countries’ visa?

January 29, 2019 at 5:30 pm

Hi Linh! If your BRP is a residence card (not a sticker in your passport), then yes, you can use it to enter Costa Rica. Your BRP must be valid for at least 6 months on the date of arrival in Costa Rica. I suggest traveling to Costa Rica before March 2019 as the UK ceases to be in EU. The Costa Rica visa exemption is currently only for EU permanent residents.

For Romania, your BRP must have been issued for 5 or more years. I know it expires in 2020, but you didn’t mention when it was issued. Here is the official statement from the Romanian Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

“The holders of permanent residence permits issued by the UK or Ireland (the validity of which is of 5 years or more).”

January 21, 2019 at 10:20 am

Hi Thirumal!

Thanks for such a helpful post! Quick question: I have a valid 2 year multiple entry visa for the UK and according to many different sources (including yours), all I need is a tourist card to visit Cuba. However, after ringing up the Cuban consulate in London, they said that everyone needs a proper visa to visit Cuba even UK nationals. I am severely confused. If that were the case, surely it should have been updated on the internet? I hold a Pakistani passport.

Regards, AK

January 21, 2019 at 5:10 pm

Hi AK! Quite a few readers of mine were able to travel to Cuba with a US/Canada/UK visas. They were India, Bangladesh and Philippines passport holders.

There seems to be confusion around Tourist Card (also called Travel Card) and A1 visa. Both are being referred to as “visa” by consulates and travel agents.

My source of information from Cuba so far has been the TIMATIC database . Since it’s a paid service and Airlines depend on this service for visa requirements, I would say, go with TIMATIC.

Note: The UK soon ceases to be in the EU. You can still use your UK visa for some of these countries including Cuba till March 2019. I will update this article in March with the most up to date information.

Nandakumar Balasubrayalu says

January 7, 2019 at 4:30 pm

Hello, my parents are visiting the UK and have visited the UK many times before. They have a Type C Visitors visa. Are they eligible to apply for Turkish Evisa when they are in the UK? At the time they will be holding an Indian passport with Type C visitors visa from the UK.

January 7, 2019 at 9:10 pm

Hi Nandakumar! Yes, your parents are eligible to apply for Turkish eVisa as they hold a valid UK short stay visa. They just have to make sure that their UK visas are still valid at the time of entering Turkey.

Oluseyi says

January 4, 2019 at 10:03 am

Hi Thirumal you are going a very good job, i have valid UK 6months Visa and i’m planning to travel to Gibraltar January 20th do i still have to apply for Gibraltar visa? thanks you very much for your swift response

January 4, 2019 at 4:02 pm

Hi Oluseyi! You can use your UK visa to enter Gibraltar. You do not need a separate visa.

Keep in mind that you have to fly directly into Gibraltar. If you plan to fly to Spain first and enter Gibraltar by road, you would also need a Schengen visa to enter Spain.

Rizwan ullah says

January 7, 2019 at 11:24 pm

Hi, I m Rizwan from Pakistan having a C- visit visa on my passport, may I visit to Gibraltar as well without having schengen visa

January 8, 2019 at 3:24 am

Hi Rizwan! Yes, you can visit Gibraltar with your UK visa. You don’t need a Schengen visa if you fly into Gibraltar directly from the UK. But if you fly into Spain first and then enter Gibraltar by land, you would need a Schengen visa since you are entering Spain.

Talaat says

December 27, 2018 at 2:17 pm

Hi Thiruma,

Thanks for this useful post, I hold a national permanent residency card in EU which has been issued in Hungary and I have a valid UK visa.

I am planning to travel with my wife who is an EU citizen to ( Dublin ) Ireland for a vacation.

Am I exempted from applying for a visa or do I still need to apply?

I hold Egypt passport, Thank you

December 31, 2018 at 4:26 am

Hi Talaat! Ireland offers visa waiver for certain passport holders with UK visas. Unfortunately, Egypt is not on that list. Also, Ireland is not part of the Schengen zone, so you can’t use your residency permit from Hungary. Therefore, you would need to apply for an Ireland tourist visa to enter Ireland.

Asad Khan says

December 25, 2018 at 11:35 am

I had to apply for a South Korean tourist visa in Germany even though I still have a valid UK visa. However, proper listed documents were still checked required by the embassy. In any case, having a visa from OECD country eases the whole process for the South Korean Visa. I did not have to show any Income tax returns in Germany. On the other hand, it was a mandatory requirement from a native country Pakistan.

December 25, 2018 at 6:58 pm

Hi Asad! Thanks for the information! Yeah, unfortunately, you cannot use your UK visa to enter South Korea. There was a mention of 30 EU country visas on Hi Korea portal, but when I enquired with the consulates, they all said the visa waiver applied to only US, Canada, Australia and New Zealand visa holders.

But, it is good to know that having a visa from an OECD country eases the visa process. Building travel history and getting visas from countries such as US, UK, Canada, etc definitely makes a “weak” passport stronger.

Good luck and have a great time in South Korea!

TARUN BANERJEE says

December 14, 2018 at 4:13 pm

Hi Thirumal … how are you ? i have 2 question just couple of days back i have recieved my UK visa with BIVS endorsed on my passport … so the first question is can you please tell me if i travel to Ireland for 2-3 days from UK will they put a proper sticker visa or just stamp once i arrive dublin airport. Second question is some travel agents told me if i want to visit Romania as a tourist i must have US/UK/CANADA OR SCHENGEN visa valid in my passport is that true ?

December 15, 2018 at 12:59 am

Hi Tarun! I’m doing good. How are you? When you arrive in Dublin, you will receive an entry “stamp” in your passport. No visa sticker will be issued since you already have a UK visa with BIVS.

To visit Romania, you would need either a multiple-entry Schengen visa or a UK permanent residence permit. Romania DOES NOT honor US or Canada visas.

February 15, 2019 at 12:10 pm

Good day you mean one can travel to Ireland if you a UK Visa with bivs endorsement,I am a Nigerian passport holder I have 10 years valid visa

February 15, 2019 at 6:00 pm

Hi Oyewale! Yes, if you have a Nigeria passport and a UK visa with BIVS endorsement, you can visit Ireland. Actually, you can go back and forth between the UK and Ireland as BIVS is considered a unified visa for both UK and Ireland.

Ragu Prasad says

December 1, 2018 at 12:23 pm

Hi Thirumal, that’s an exhaustive list of useful information. I would like to know whether i can visit US from UK if i am having all the below 1. Indian Passport 2. UK Work Permit VISA 3. US Business VISA

December 1, 2018 at 5:52 pm

Hi Ragu! Yes, you can visit US from the UK since you already have a US visa. You can travel to the US from anywhere in the world (including the UK). It doesn’t have to be from your home country.

December 3, 2018 at 4:55 am

Thanks for the clarification Thirumal!

Ashwin says

November 27, 2018 at 5:25 pm

I am travelling to Mexico and as I hold a Standard Visa of UK. I don’t need a separate Mexico visa. As the embassy site clarifies that I would not need one. Do you agree? Just want to have a double confirmation. I hold a Indian passport. Appreciate your help.

November 28, 2018 at 2:49 am

Hi Ashwin! Agree. You DO NOT need a separate Mexico visa since you already hold a valid UK visa. You can enter Mexico with your UK visa.

November 28, 2018 at 9:55 am

In addition, Can you guide me on cost effective route to Mexico from India using the UK visa? I looked at few routes and a found a route from Canada, so for that I will require a transit visa. Can I use the UK visa to apply for Canada transit visa. Mexico as the destination country?

November 29, 2018 at 6:37 pm

Hi Ashwin! I suggest you look for flights that transit via France or England. – India passport holders do not need a transit visa to transit through France. – You already have a UK visa, so transiting or changing airports in the UK is not a problem for you. – Search from all big cities in India (New Delhi, Mumbai, etc) to both Mexico City and Cancun. Flights to Cancun are sometimes cheaper from Europe. Here is an example, one-way flight from Mumbai to Cancun via the UK for $700 USD.

randy j says

December 2, 2018 at 5:20 am

Hi Thirumal! Glad you are helping everyone. Can you help me with this? I have a valid UK visa. I am going to Mexico and the layover is in Canada. I intentionally want to go this route. I am applying for a Canada transit visa, but they are asking for a valid visa for the final destination (Mexico). What do I provide them? I am confused since Mexico visa is not required for UK visa holders.

December 2, 2018 at 6:06 pm

Hi Randy! I suggest providing a copy of your UK visa along with a print of visa requirements from the Mexico consulate page. Make sure to highlight the text in the requirements that says that you can use your UK visa to enter Mexico. This makes it easy for visa officers to understand the Mexico visa requirements easily.

Also, make sure to mention that you will be using your UK visa to enter Mexico in your cover letter.

December 2, 2018 at 7:44 am

Such a great help and information you have passed on Thanks alot Thirumal.

Regards, Ashwin

November 23, 2018 at 4:48 am

I am travelling to London in December, and plan to visit Ireland (Dublin) thereafter.

As per what I checked on the web, I don’t need separate Ireland visa. I have a multiple-entry visitor visa (C) to Uk.

But your site says we need BIVS stamp – I don’t have that,

November 25, 2018 at 1:08 am

Hi Nanda! As far as my knowledge goes, you would need BIVS endorsed on your UK visa in order to travel to Ireland. When you say that you checked on the web, what websites are you referring to?

November 29, 2018 at 5:58 am

This is the Visa Waiver Programme , as distinct from the BIVS

November 29, 2018 at 5:07 pm

I apologize! You are correct, Nanda. You can travel to Ireland from the UK using the Visa Waiver Programme.

Thanks for pointing it out! I see the distinction between VWP and BIVS clearly now. I will update the article accordingly. Please let me know how it goes in December. So, I can help others better. Thanks again!

Olufemi Akinyemi says

November 20, 2018 at 8:49 am

I think someone can travel to Israel with UK valid Visa

November 25, 2018 at 1:01 am

Hi Olufemi! I’m not aware of any such visa exemption with UK visa for Israel. Where did you get this information from? Do you have a link to the official information?

Olufemi Akinyemu says

November 19, 2018 at 7:17 pm

I have 2years UK C class valid visa, planning to visit Gibraltar by next 12days. I booked my hotel at Tarifa, 10 miles away from Gibraltar. Can my UK visa allow me to stay in Tarifa hotel? I later noticed that Tarifa is in Spain

November 24, 2018 at 11:28 pm

Hi Olufemi! If your hotel is in Spain, then it’s in the Schengen zone. Therefore, you would need a Schengen visa to enter Spain and stay in that hotel.

If you are flying into Gibralter using your UK visa and then taking a taxi to your hotel in Spain, then you will be entering the Schengen Zone en route your hotel.

I suggest you call the hotel and check with them to be clear.

November 15, 2018 at 12:26 pm

Can a philippino passport holder with a 3 year work visa in uk with nhs visit ireland without a visa?

November 28, 2018 at 2:57 am

Hi Sarah! The UK visa must be a short stay (C-type) visa with BIVS endorsed on it. Also, Philippines passport holders are not eligible for the BIVS scheme.

Lewis Ose says

November 12, 2018 at 10:20 pm

Hello, can one travel to Scotland with a UK C-visit visa….I am from Nigeria

November 13, 2018 at 11:17 pm

Yes, Scotland is part of the United Kingdom. Your UK C-type visa entitles travel to the entire United Kindom i.e. England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.

November 11, 2018 at 3:37 pm

Wow, amazing been searching for a comprehensive list for a long time. Many Thanks

November 11, 2018 at 10:04 pm

Hi Taiwo! You’re welcome! I’m very glad you found my list. Take care and enjoy your travels!

November 8, 2018 at 2:31 pm

However, Gibraltar in Spain which is British overseas territory is missing in this list.

Beautiful place and the airport is one of its kind in the world with runway running from middle of a road and with rock of Gibraltar featured in James bond movie, beautiful weather..

I am Indian passport holder with UK work visa. Visa free entry in this part of Spain :)

November 8, 2018 at 5:36 pm

Hi Priya! That’s fantastic! Thank you very much for the info. I will add it to the list. I do want to check out Gibralter at some point. By the way, do you remember the number of days of entry given at the immigration?

November 6, 2018 at 4:33 am

Thank you very much for this info..

November 6, 2018 at 4:44 pm

You’re welcome, Ogie!

November 6, 2018 at 2:20 am

Great article. Very helpful. Thank you.

November 6, 2018 at 3:17 am

You’re welcome!

November 3, 2018 at 10:09 am

Hey, yesterday I got a UK visitor visa for attending a conference. What if Due to my university commitments in Germany as a student I can not attend a conference which is going to be held on November 26 but can I visit the UK during my semester break in February 2019? What I understand is that Standard Visitor Visa has replaced visas like tourism, business, family visit and merge them into one category. However, on my visa application, my purpose of travel was to attend a conference/attend lectures, not as tourism. Would I be facing any issues at the UK airport later on If I travel because Immigration officers have the final authority to allow you in or not, having a visa itself is not a final guarantee of things. So I am kind of confused right now?

As a side question, Did you travel to Panama and Dominican Republic on the UK visitor visa?

November 5, 2018 at 4:02 pm

Hey Asad! It is absolutely fine to change/tweak your plans after you receive your visa. There is a reason why the UK grants visa valid for 6 months. Even if you were asked why you haven’t attended the conference, you can always tell the reason why couldn’t. Not attending the conference will not prevent or impact your entry in Feb 2019.

July 5, 2019 at 1:26 pm

Hello sir. I have Greece one year national visa. Can I go to the UK?

July 5, 2019 at 7:57 pm

Hi Preet! Unfortunately, no. You would REQUIRE a UK visitor visa.

October 27, 2018 at 5:46 pm

Thank you for such a prompt enlightening!!

Shyam Goenka says

October 27, 2018 at 4:19 pm

Hi Sir. Is Romania exempt for 30 days o a 2 year UK Visa? Also, is there an exemption for South Korea as well. Despite South Korea not being on your list, I asked this because Australian Visa allows a transit thru South Korea.

October 27, 2018 at 5:42 pm

Hi Shyam! What you have is still a visa. You would need a UK residence permit (something like permanent residence) to get a visa exemption for Romania.

No, South Korea doesn’t offer visa exemption with UK visa. South Korea exempts visa for those with a visa from Australia, Canada, New Zealand or the US. You must be in transit to reach the country of visa as your destination.

Dave Nguyen says

November 24, 2018 at 12:07 am

I think you’re wrong. Here is the official website for immigration information of South Korea, it clearly stated that the 4 countries: USA, Australia, Canada and New Zealand visa holders as well as visa holders from other 30 countries of Europe can I live to maximum 30days then depart to their home countries.

November 24, 2018 at 12:08 am

I forgot to attach the link. Here is the official link .

December 17, 2018 at 11:08 pm

Hi Dave! Thanks for pointing it out! I also apologize for the delay in responding to your comment. I was waiting to confirm the information with the consulates.

I contacted a few consulates and I heard back from the South Korean consulates in India and Malaysia. They both said that visa exemption does not apply to UK or any EU country visa holders. The consulate officials said that the visa exemption applies to only those with visas from the US, Canada, Australia and New Zealand.

That being said, if you have used your UK visa to enter South Korea, please let me know. If there are more cases like yours, I can consider adding it to this list/article.

PERSONAL EXPERIENCE: I myself entered South Korea in September using my US visa. At the time of immigration in the airport, I asked the immigration officer on the visas I can use. She said that the visa exemption applies to visas from only the US, Canada, Australia and New Zealand. I was not given a chance to ask further questions. So, I couldn’t ask anything on the 30 EU country visas.

February 12, 2019 at 11:08 am

My sister recently just entered South Korea in January without any visa, she’s holding a UK spouse visa and traveling with her husband. Upon landing, she was given 30 days single entry visa.

February 13, 2019 at 6:39 pm

Hi Dave! Thanks for the information! I’ve contacted several Korean authorities, but none of them confirmed if the visa exemption applies to the visa holders from “30 EU Countries (including the UK)”. “HiKorea” says that “30 EU Countries” are eligible but all the other authorities I’ve contacted denied it. I couldn’t find an easy way to contact HiKorea directly.

So, I’m still looking for an official source and confirmation in order to add South Korea to this list. If you know the official source, please let me know.

December 30, 2021 at 9:40 pm

Hi, if someone got a UK student visa on a Pakistani passport, can he travel to Turkey without a visa?

January 1, 2022 at 8:03 am

Hi Shah! You still need a visa, but with your UK student visa, you are eligible to apply for Turkey e-Visa. Turkey e-Visa is valid for 90 days and you can stay up to 30 days in Turkey. E-Visa fee is $60 USD.

August 20, 2019 at 9:16 pm

Hi Thirumal, unfortunately, the website of Romania visa does not say that an Indian passport holder with UK permanent residency does not require a visa for Romania. Can you please share the link?

August 25, 2019 at 9:12 am

Hi Dipti! I apologize. The links are broken. Below is the information from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs website.

Link: Ministry of Foreign Affairs Romania

Hassan says

October 18, 2019 at 8:38 pm

Hi dear, I have got UK Visa for 5 years. Can I travel to Saudi Arabia? If I got a problem at the airport am I allowed to contact the UK embassy Thanks.

October 19, 2019 at 4:20 am

Hi Hassan! Saudi Arabia just opened it’s eVisa/VOA to visa holders of US, UK and Schengen. Their e-Visa system is not updated yet, so your only option is to get Visa on Arrival. If you have any issues at the port of entry in Saudi Arabia, you are allowed to contact your passport country’s embassy but not UK since you are not a UK national.

Asad Iqbal says

November 19, 2019 at 5:51 am

Hi sir, how are you? I have six months multiple entry visa UK. My question is can I travel to Mexico without a visa? I am now in UK London.

November 21, 2019 at 3:30 pm

Hi Asad! Yes, you can travel to Mexico using your valid UK visa. You do not need a separate Mexico visa.

June 20, 2019 at 11:08 am

Hi dear, I want to travel to Panama. I have a 5-year multiple tourist visa of UK C category. Can I travel to Panama on Uk visa? I’m a Pakistani passport holder.

June 23, 2019 at 8:46 pm

Hi Irfan! Yes, you can use your UK visa to enter Panama.

February 7, 2020 at 6:37 pm

Hi. I have a UK residence card which is valid for 5 years. Can I travel to France with this card?

February 8, 2020 at 4:26 am

Hi Rabia! No. You CANNOT travel to France with your UK BRP/ILR. You would REQUIRE a Schengen visa to enter France.

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Countries that allow visa-free travel with Refugee Travel Documents

• Countries that require visas for visitors with the Refugee Travel Document (blue) issued under the 1951 UN Convention
• Countries that DO NOT require visas for the visitors with the Refugee Travel Document (blue) issued under the 1951 UN Convention
• European countries that you can travel visa free with a travel document
• European countries that require a visa to travel with a travel document
• List of countries that DO NOT ALLOW ENTRANCE for the visitors with the Refugee Travel Document (blue) issued under the 1951 UN Convention
• List of countries that issue travel documents

How to Apply for a Visa

Please note that the information below changes regularly. For example, the UK leaving the EU may change the ability to travel visa-free to European countries. Therefore, you should always check the visa requirements of your country of destination before you travel.

This question comes up when you are considering travelling to one of the European or Schengen Countries or another country. Once you have obtained refugee status, you may wonder where you can travel without the need for a visa.

If you are a holder of a Refugee Travel Document issued by the United Kingdom under the 1951 United Nations Convention Relating to the Status of Refugees , you can travel visa-free to a lot of countries. Different countries have their own travel restrictions and require you to have a visa even for short term visits like tourism, even if you have a Refugee Travel Document.

When you are travelling, you will need to make sure that you carry your valid UK residence permit confirming your refugee status together with the Refugee Travel Document.

N OTE: This list is subject to changes at any time . We recommend double-checking information on the current visa requirements with the embassy of your country of destination before making any travel arrangements or you can start an application with IaM and we can check for you. IaM is not liable for any immigration or other difficulties you may encounter based on the information on this page.

For countries with official sources, there will be a hyperlink, which will be highlighted in orange and underlined. You can click on it to view more information.

Countries that require visas for visitors with the Refugee Travel Document (blue) issued under the 1951 UN Convention:

• Afghanistan
• Bosnia and Herzegovina  
• Czech Republic
• Dominican Republic
• Jamaica * (depending on the country of origin of the traveller)
• Kazakhstan  
• Norway * (1951 Convention travel documents issued by Malta, Ireland, Liechtenstein, or Switzerland have visa-free access to Norway )
• Philippines
• Saudi Arabia 
• Thailand*  (depending on the country of origin of the traveller)
• Turkey   (unless for official visit)
• United Kingdom

Countries that do not require visas for visitors with the Refugee Travel Document (blue) issued under the 1951 UN Convention:

• Liechtenstein 
• Netherlands* (depending on the country of origin of the traveller)
• South Africa
• South Korea
• Switzerland
• Tunisia * (depending on the country of origin of the traveller)
• Vatican city

European countries that require a visa to travel with a travel document:

European countries that you can travel visa free with a travel document:.

• Liechtenstein
• Monaco* (To be confirmed after Brexit)
• Netherlands* (Depending on your nationality)

List of countries that DO NOT ALLOW ENTRANCE for the visitors with the Refugee Travel Document (blue) issued under the 1951 UN Convention:

• UAE – Dubai
• Qatar – Doha

List of countries that issue travel documents:

• Netherlands *
• Republic of Ireland
• United States of America

All the above countries issue refugee travel documents in one form or another. They allow you to leave the country that issued them and return with the same documents. Some countries allow you to travel to other countries without the need for a visa. Whereas, you may need to obtain a visa for other countries. These arrangements are usually due to agreements between countries.

Please note that in some instances, you may lose your refugee status if you travel to the country from which you sought refuge. You will need to check with the country that issued your travel documents.

Getting a Travel Visa

A travel visa is an official document, usually stamped or affixed into the bearer’s passport, that grants the right to legally enter, remain within, or leave a foreign country. A  Schengen visa , for example, allows you to travel to any of the  Schengen countries  as well as other  non-Schengen countries  that allow travellers to enter their countries with a Schengen visa.

Travellers without a valid travel visa will be refused entry into a country. And, if the individual enters the country through illegal means and is later discovered, may be punished and deported.

Each country has their own processes for applying for a visa. Generally, you will need to fill in an application form and submit any requirements that the consulate or embassy asks for, and some even require you to appear for an interview .

There are many factors that could add to your visa being approved or rejected by the consulate, and many find the process of applying for a visa stressful for this reason. You can choose to do this on your own, or get a service like IaM to help you either make the application or check the application that you filled out yourself.

If you want to make your own visa application to any of the Schengen countries , check out our blog posts for our detailed guides:

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For the latest visas & uk immigration updates..

Do you have a refugee travel document and plan on travelling? Comment below.

IaM  can help with your visa application to the United States, the UK & other countries

If you need help with a  US visa , a  UK Visa , or  visa to Europe , including help with appointment booking obligations,  IaM  can help. For more information and advice on US immigration, UK immigration law and US visa applications or if you need any help or assistance please, reach out to your Visa Coordinator at  IaM .

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51 Responses

Great article Very informative Just one suggestion in title if you can add UK

Hello, Can I still travel to these countries visa free with a refugee travel document after brexit? Thanks

We are in the process of updating this post. Check with the embassy first to know where you want to go.

The French embassy has been ignoring my email enquiries and their visa centre as well. I am stuck and do not know if I can still travel to France visa free with my refugee blue travel documents with Brexit. Has anyone travelled during this year 2021? did you need to apply for a Schengen visa or did you travel visa free? That would help a lot if someone could share their experience. Many thanks

i tried to go to france but they send me back

Yes, on our list it says France requires visa.

Greece need a visa as the embassy confirmed

Hi all, I am currently stck in Georgia that entered the UK red list and in need for a buffer place to spend the ten days before flying back to the UK. I would appreciate any suggestions for a visa free destination.

Hi. You can check the UK amber list ( https://immigrationandmigration.com/uk-travel-update-uks-amber-travel-list/ ) or green list ( https://immigrationandmigration.com/uk-travel-update-new-countries-on-the-green-list/ ).

What type of visa do I need to visit a Switzerland for about 2 weeks to visit a friend. And can I travel to Switzerland from Sudan . I live in the uk and I have a refugee travel document. I’m traveling to Sudan in few days then if possible will travel to Switzerland.

You will need a Schengen visa to visit Switzerland to visit a friend. You can check the list above if you are required to apply for this visa.

Hi , I have a Uganda travel document the Geneva Convention 1951 July 28 If I travel Europe I need visa or not

Read the blog post above.

Can I still travel to Malta with a refugee travel document from the UK without a visa? I have contacted the relevant embassies but have not had any replies yet.

Hi. We have updated our list. You can check which countries you can travel to visa-free.

Hi CHesca , thanks alot for this information so i have read that Malta does not require visa for Blue refuggee TravelDocument . just some one stuck in Istanbul and have to go to malta to do the 10 days there . thanks

You’re welcome. Glad to help.

Hi , I have a Japanese travel document the Geneva Convention 1951 July 28 If I travel Europe I need visa or not

Check the list above or contact the embassy for more info.

Hi , thank you for this helpful article but can you please confirm about Turkey and Tunisia as I can see them in countries DO NOT require visas for the visitors with the Refugee Travel Document (blue) issued under the 1951 UN Convention. do you have any link to show this new update I checked Turkish official website and I think they still ask Refugee travel document holders to apply for visa. please let me know!

many thanks

You can check with the embassy to be sure if you will need a visa or not.

I,m a refugee in Namibia. I have acceptance status and my traveling document. I would like to visit Canada or Austria. Please how will I get the Visa.

Hi. You can start your application with us here: For Austria: https://immigrationandmigration.com/schengen-visas/ For Canada: https://immigrationandmigration.com/canada-visas/

Hi, I been in Portugal in June 21, could I still travel to Portugal with my travel document from UK? Thank you very much.

Check the article above.

Hi I live in the UK having travel documents. Can I travel to paris without visa please let me know Thanks

You can check the list above for France.

Hi Juan, can I check if your comment means you travelled to Portugal in June 2021 visa free? I have a flight to Portugal tomorrow and I was under the impression that I could travel without a visa with the same travel document mentioned in the article. Thanks

I would also be interested in this question in regards Portugal.

Has anyone with refugee travel document indeed travelled to USA WITHOUT a visa or do we actually need a visa to get in?

According to our list, USA requires a visa.

My first inquiry: HI, my UK Refugee Travel Documents will expire in 14/11/2021 (that is bit less than 3 months from now). Can I still use it to travel to Europe (Greece or Lithuania)?

My second inquiry: about a week ago I contacted Lithuania (by email) asking if I could visit Lithuania using my Refugee Travel Document (above) visa-free. They confirmed that I COULD! However, in the list above Lithuania is under the “Countries that REQUIRE visas for visitors with the Refugee Travel Document (blue) issued under the 1951 UN Convention”. Can you explain how this works please?

You need to make sure that your travel document is valid if you plan to travel. As we have put up in the notice, these restrictions can change at any time so we recommend you check with the embassy.

I hold a UN Convention Refugee Travel Document issued in the UK, and I am preparing to visit a country that does not require visa from me. I wonder if I need to present my Biographic Residency Permit Card (BRP) at the custom alonsige the travel document?

Yes you will need that to enter the UK.

I have refugee uganda refugee i need to visit canda how will i go there please help me.

Hello, I have a blue passport (1951) issued by Belgium, I live with in Brussels, I would like to go to south Africa, I would like to know if I need or apply for a visa to go there some days of vacation?.. Thanks

You can check our list above and/or check with the embassy to be sure.

Just been to the Portugal Consulate, Refugees now need a Visa to travel to Portugal.

Hi Baba, is this with the 1951 travel document??

Is this with travel document and valid biometric card?

Hi I have Uk travel document (black) I want travel Eastern Europe do I need visa or just buy ticket and travel also if not which country accept it ?

Check the list above.

Do I Require visa with UK travel Document and biometric card for Portugal? I am Albanian citizen, but I reside in the UK.

Hi Eduart, Albanian citizens do not need a Schengen visa to travel to Portugal or any Schengen countries.

You forgot to mention Canada in your list of countries that issue travel documents. Here’s the details about how to get a Canadian travel document: https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/canadian-passports/travel-documents-non-canadians.html

Hi, Anyone been able to travel to Italy recently? I tried to go from Birmingham to Milan with Ryanair and they denied me boarding even though I printed embassy website and consulate email confirming that visa is not required. Ryanair’s handling agent at Birmingham Airport, Swissport use IATA TravelCentre to check for visas

Hi I am a Zimbabwean national who holds a UK refugee travel document and I just wanted to check if South Africa definitely does not require a visa as the last time a friend travelled there about ten years ago they did require one. At that time it did state that we needed one on their website but this is no longer stated so am guessing this has changed. Checked with the embassy but referred me to vfs global.

Regarding my earlier enquiry just got an email from VFS global South Africa desk and the agent stated that a visa would need to be applied for prior to travel if I hold a UK refugee travel document as a Zimbabwean national.

Hi , I have a uk travel document the Convention of 28 july 1951 and i wanted to check if i need a visa to travel to belguim. Thanks

Belgium is listed above in one of the countries that you need a visa. Check out how to apply for a Belgium visa .

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Travel after brexit/ information for uk nationals and their families.

We are pleased to confirm that British citizens do not require a visa for the Schengen Member States, if the duration of their stay does not exceed 90 days within any 180-day period.

Visa-free short term visits up to 90 days

Entry requirements for visa-free short stays, economic activities/ employment on short term visits.

• Non-EU family members of British citizens

Long stay national visas (D visas)/ residence permits for more than 90 days

Please note that you may not pursue any economic activity in Germany unless such activity has been explicitly authorised by a visa or a residence permit issued by the local immigration office (“Ausländerbehörde”) in Germany.

The following information applies to British citizens only.

Beneficiaries of Part Two (“citizens’ rights”) of the Withdrawal Agreement, particularly UK nationals resident in Germany prior to 1 January 2021, enjoy privileges in addition to those described here.

British citizens do not require a visa for the Schengen Member States, if the duration of their stay does not exceed 90 days within any 180-day period.

This exemption does not extend to non- EU family members of British citizens. Depending on their nationality, non- EU family members may be subject to visa requirements .

Please note that you may not take up any employment or pursue any economic activity in Germany unless such activity is explicitly authorised by a visa or a residence permit issued by the local immigration office ( Ausländerbehörde ) in Germany.

If you are unsure how many days you have left out of your visa-free 90 days, check the Short-stay Visa Calculator .

British citizens travelling to the Schengen Member States are subject to all entry requirements for third-country nationals. The entry requirements are contained in the Schengen Borders Code and comprise the following:

You need to be in possession of a valid travel document entitling you to cross the Schengen borders. UK regular, official and diplomatic passports identifying the holder as a British citizen are recognised for visa-free travel. On the date of entry into the Schengen member states the travel document must have been issued within the previous 10 years. The passport’s validity must extend at least three months after the intended date of your departure from the territory of the Member States.

Practical examples:

• A non- EU traveller arriving on 1 December 2021 for a 20 days stay in the EU with a passport issued on 2 December 2011 and valid until 2 April 2022 will be allowed entry.
• The same person arriving on 2 December 2021 will NOT be allowed entry.
• You need to be able to justify the purpose and conditions of your intended stay, and you need to have sufficient means of subsistence, both for the duration of the intended stay and for your return to your country of origin or transit to a third country into which you are certain to be admitted, or you must be in a position to acquire such means lawfully.
• You are not a person for whom an alert has been issued in the Schengen Information System for the purposes of refusing entry.
• You are not considered to be a threat to public policy, internal security, public health or the international relations of any of the Member States, in particular where no alert has been issued in Member States’ national databases for the purposes of refusing entry on the same grounds.

As a rule, visa-free short-term visitors may not pursue any economic activity in Germany. However, some professional activities may be carried out without a corresponding visa or residence permit as they are not classed as an economic activity. For details, please click here

Any other economic activity for a maximum of 90 days within any 180-day period requires a C visa authorising such activity.

Non- EU family members of British citizens

Holders of British Residence Cards for EU /EEA family members who previously did not require visas now require a visa for travel to Germany unless they are otherwise exempt.

Non- EU family members of British and German citizens holding a visa as a family member under Freedom of Movement rules (“ Familienangehörige/r eines EU -/EWR-Bürgers ”) issued before 31 December 2020 and valid after 1 January 2021 must provide evidence at the point of entry into the European Union that they fulfil all Schengen entry requirements. This includes the possession of a valid travel document (validity of no more than ten years and valid for three months after the intended departure from the Union), proof of accommodation, employment, sufficient means of subsistence, travel health insurance, invitation letter or return ticket, documents proving the family member’s economic situation in the country of residence or the genuine intention to leave the territory of the Member States before the expiry of the visa.

British citizens require a visa and/or residence permit for any stay beyond 90 days within any 180-day period.

British citizens may apply to the local immigration office (“ Ausländerbehörde ”) for their residence permits after arrival in Germany and do not need to have obtained a visa prior to travelling to Germany. Please note that you need to register your new residence (“ Anmeldung ”) with the authorities (“ Meldebehörde ”) within 2 weeks of arrival and apply to the local immigration office (“ Ausländerbehörde ”) for your residence permit within the first 90 days of your stay in Germany.

British citizens also have the option to apply to a German Mission abroad for a visa prior to travelling to Germany.

Please note that some visa categories require approval from other government bodies such as the immigration office (“ Ausländerbehörde ”) at your intended place of residence and/or the Federal Employment Agency. Processing can take up to three months, and in the case of the self-employed and freelancers up to six months.

Information regarding different visa categories is available from our information page on national visas .

Professional activities not classed as economic activities/ work

This page provides an overview as to what professional activities may be carried out without a visa or residence permit as they are not classed as economic activities/ work (“Erwerbstätigkeit”).

Travelling with UK Travel Documents

Third-country nationals holding UK travel documents may travel to Germany subject to the following conditions.

Short-stay Schengen visas (C visas)

A Schengen visa is a short-stay visa allowing its holder to circulate in the Schengen area for a maximum of 90 days within a 180-day period. Schengen visas (type C) can only be applied for through our external service provider TLScontact.

Long-stay national visas (D visas)/ residence permits for more than 90 days

A national visa (D visa) can be used to obtain a residence permit for stays exceeding 90 days.

FAQ and other important information

Please read the information on our website carefully. We do appreciate that it might be easier for you to ask questions. However, we do not have sufficient staff capacity to respond to every query.

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What Are the Visa-Free Countries for the UK?

A United Kingdom passport is revered throughout the world and is much sought after. It gives its bearer the ability to travel to 139 countries visa-free, such is its strength. The UK ranks at No. 6 in the list of the most powerful passports worldwide, sharing this place with the USA and Norway.

Moreover, the list of countries that welcome British citizens visa-free continues to increase. Holding a valid UK passport with free entry to roam around so much of the world is a major benefit for UK citizens. Find the full list of visa-free countries for Brits below, plus how long you can visit for!

In the meantime, for countries that do still require eVisas (Electronic Visas) for Brits, we at Byevisa are happy to assist, advise and process your application on your behalf.

• 1 What Are the Visa-Free Countries for UK Citizens?
• 2 What Should I Know About the ‘Visa-Free Countries for UK’ Rules?
• 3 How Long Can UK Passport Holders Stay in the Visa-Free Countries?
• 4 I Have Heard of the EU’s ETIAS Waiver – Do These Count as ‘Visa-Free’ Countries?
• 5 What Countries are Visa-Free for UK Citizens Vs Passport Holders?
• 6 What Countries Can I Travel to If I Have a UK ILR?
• 7 How Many Countries Are Still Restrictive on Visa Applications From the UK?

What Are the Visa-Free Countries for UK Citizens?

The list of visa-free countries for UK citizens seems all but endless.

The following list encompasses countries to visit for the purposes of tourism and business. Countries are listed alphabetically, followed by the length of validity allowed per visit, in days unless stated otherwise.

Countries not on the list will require either an e-Visa, a Visa on Arrival (a VoA, which you apply for upon arrival in your destination) or even a traditional embassy/consulate visa.

If you require an alternative visa unrelated to tourism or business, such as a permanent resident visa, it is wise to check with the embassy or consulate of that country. This is to ensure that you comply with all the entry and documentation requirements.

What Should I Know About the ‘Visa-Free Countries for UK’ Rules?

Usually, ‘visa-free’ means that you only require a valid passport to enter, and your passport won’t be stamped when you arrive at customs. Nonetheless, in certain countries, you may be asked to present additional documents to enter.

For example, member states of the EU currently only require Brits to hold a passport to visit. However, other countries could require you to hold other documentation such as:

• Valid travel insurance with proof, like a copy of the policy, for instance.
• Proof of booked accommodation such as a hotel confirmation. If you have pre-paid, then you may also use a receipt of payment, clearly stating the hotel or booking agency.
• Proof that you are able to support yourself financially for the duration of your stay.
• Vaccination certificates, if a particular country has diseases that are quite common or that have regular outbreaks. Moreover, we suggest that you check the health advice for your destination, especially if it’s further afield.
• Bank or building society official.
• Minister of religion.
• Doctor/dentist (who has known you for at least 2 years).
• Chartered accountant
• Solicitor or notary.
• Teacher or lecturer.

The best option is normally a solicitor or judge in the UK legal system.

How Long Can UK Passport Holders Stay in the Visa-Free Countries?

In the above list of visa-free countries that UK citizens can visit, you will see the current length of stay permissible in the second column. If in doubt, contact us for up-to-date information on the permitted length of stay or entry requirements for your destination, as these can occasionally change.

In some instances, UK passport holders can extend their visas whilst in-country, as we also show in the list above. For many destinations, the extension allows for visits of up to 180 days, although a few nations permit extended trips of up to 1 year from the date of entry.

Of course, to ensure your trip goes smoothly, it is wise never to extend your stay over and above the local rules.

I Have Heard of the EU’s ETIAS Waiver – Do These Count as ‘Visa-Free’ Countries?

The EU’s ETIAS stands for ‘European Travel Information and Authorisation System’. Technically, this is not a visa, but rather a visa waiver, similar to the USA’s ESTA.

This EU electronic travel pass will be obligatory to visit Schengen Zone countries from 2022/3. Prior to this, an entry permit was not required for Europe for nationalities such as the UK, USA, Australia, Canada and Japan, among others.

Although the ETIAS is a waiver rather than a full visa, it’s not ‘free’ in the sense that it is expected to cost 7 EUR to purchase online, plus a processing fee. For complete information, see our detailed ETIAS Countries and Eligibility section.

The Schengen Area countries that UK passport-holders will need an ETIAS to visit are as follows:

* Currently pending

What Countries are Visa-Free for UK Citizens Vs Passport Holders?

Being a UK citizen is not quite the same legally as being a passport holder, but fortunately, in terms of the ‘visa-free’ list, it rates as having the same benefits.

If you were born in Great Britain, or either of your parents were, then you may be considered a British citizen. If you’re in any doubt, you can check the UK government’s Check British Citizenship page to verify this, especially if you do not yet have a British passport.

Since 1981 and the British Citizens Act, the rules have changed as the years have gone on, so much so that whether you’re a British citizen may depend on the year you were born.

Prior to 1981, all those born in Great Britain were considered citizens. If you are a legalised citizen (you can apply for citizenship after a minimum of 1 year), you will be afforded the same rights, although it may take up to 6 months to attain this.

Again, if you’re in doubt, it’s worth checking, particularly if you want the full ability to travel as a Brit without too much additional paperwork.

What Countries Can I Travel to If I Have a UK ILR?

A UK ILR, or an ‘Indefinite Leave to Remain’ permit, entitles you to travel to all countries as if you were a UK passport holder, including the ones listed above. If a country asks for other documentation to enter, you must still comply with these requirements.

In terms of the ILR, ‘indefinite’ means exactly that, as there are no longer any time limits to its validity.

Meanwhile, if you are not yet a UK passport holder, a BRP (Biometric Resident’s Permit) is another useful form of identification. This can be attained with any visa that is recognised by the UK.

A BRP permit will confirm your identity (fingerprints etc) and allows you to stay here, work or study here (as long as you hold an appropriate visa), plus exit and enter freely. If you exit and do not return for 2 years or more, you will need to reapply to update your information.

How Many Countries Are Still Restrictive on Visa Applications From the UK?

A total of 34 countries currently have stricter visa requirements for Brits. These are:

To learn the visa rules for these destinations, speak to the nearest embassy or consulate.

So to sum up, UK passport holders can visit a vast variety of nations visa-free. This makes travelling abroad a cinch, whether you’re visiting Barbados, South Africa, Turkey, or a long list of other countries, compared to if you had to apply for a travel pass in advance!

Of course, though, whether you hold a UK passport or another form of ID, it is worth double-checking the maximum length of stay you’re permitted. In addition, it’s a good idea to confirm the validity of your passport or other ID before making your travel plans.

Similarly, countries can sometimes change their entry rules, including for UK passport holders, so these are also worth confirming in advance. Feel free to get in touch to confirm the visa requirements for where you’re planning to visit.

The world now seems to be a much smaller place, with the option to travel more freely than ever before. Visa-free access for Brits makes going abroad a lot easier without the rigmarole of paperwork. Enjoy!

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• Entering and staying in the UK
• Visas and entry clearance
• UK visa requirements: list for carriers
• UK Visas and Immigration

UK visa requirements (accessible version)

Updated 22 February 2024

© Crown copyright 2024

This publication is licensed under the terms of the Open Government Licence v3.0 except where otherwise stated. To view this licence, visit nationalarchives.gov.uk/doc/open-government-licence/version/3 or write to the Information Policy Team, The National Archives, Kew, London TW9 4DU, or email: [email protected] .

Where we have identified any third party copyright information you will need to obtain permission from the copyright holders concerned.

This publication is available at https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/uk-visa-requirements-list-for-carriers/uk-visa-requirements-for-international-carriers

Guidance to help carriers check their passengers’ travel documents. It lists the countries and territories of citizens who need a visa for the UK.

Nationals of countries and territories who need a visa to enter or transit the UK

• Afghanistan
• China (People’s Republic of) (1)
• Congo Dem. Republic
• Cyprus (northern part of) (2)
• El Salvador
• Eswatini (Swaziland)
• Guinea-Bissau
• Ivory Coast
• Myanmar (Burma)
• North Macedonia
• Palestinian Territories
• Sierra Leone
• Somalia (2)
• South Africa (5)
• South Sudan
• Timor-Leste
• Venezuela (non biometric)
• Vietnam (3) and (5)

Nationals of the countries and territories who need a visa to enter or transit the UK landside

• Bosnia and Herzegovina
• Burkina Faso
• Central African
• Dominican Republic
• Equatorial Guinea
• Indonesia (5)
• Korea (Democratic People’s Republic of)
• Philippines
• Sao Tome e Principe
• Turkmenistan
• Venezuela (biometric)

Airside Transit (where available)

Airside transit passengers are those who do not need to change airports and do not need to pass through the UK border. Passengers cannot transit ‘airside’ to the Republic of Ireland or anywhere within the common travel area.

Landside Transit

Landside transit passengers are those who need or wish to pass through the UK border and enter the UK (for example, to change airport, to collect baggage or arrive at airports where no airside transfer is possible).

Transit without visa (TWOV) - airside

All visa nationals seeking to transit the United Kingdom ‘airside’ without a visa must:

• arrive and depart by air
• have a confirmed onward flight departing the same day from the same airport
• hold the correct documents for their destination (for example, a visa for that country if required)

National countries and territories who need a visa to enter or transit the UK listed above need a visa to transit ‘airside’ unless they hold one of the following:

a valid visa for entry to Australia, Canada, New Zealand or the USA (whether or not the holder is travelling to or from these countries).

a visa for entry to Australia, Canada, New Zealand or the USA as part of a reasonable journey from the country in respect of which the visa is held and it is less than 6 months since the holder last entered that country with a valid entry visa.

a valid permanent residence permit issued by:

• Canada, issued after 28 June 2002
• New Zealand

USA issued after 21 April 1998; or a valid US Immigrant visa endorsed with a US arrival stamp (a wet-ink/ADIT stamp version will not be accepted by UK border control); or an expired I-551 Permanent Residence card provided it is accompanied by a valid I-797 letter authorising extension; or a standalone US Immigration Form 155A/155B (attached to a sealed brown envelope)

• a valid common format residence permit issued by an EEA state or Switzerland
• a valid common format category D visa for entry to an EEA state or Switzerland

a valid Irish biometric visa endorsed BC or BC BIVS (in order to transit to a destination other than the Republic of Ireland or the Common Travel Area)

a valid Schengen Approved Destination Scheme (ADS) group tourism visa where the holder is travelling to the country that issued it

a valid airline ticket from the Schengen area; provided the holder can demonstrate they entered there no more than 30 days previously on the basis of a valid Schengen ADS visa

E-visas or e-residence permits are not acceptable unless the airline is able to verify it with the issuing country.

Transit without visa (TWOV) - landside

All visa nationals seeking to transit the United Kingdom ‘landside’ without a visa must:

• have a confirmed onward flight that departs before 23:59 the following day

National countries and territories who need a visa to enter or transit the UK listed above need a visa to transit ‘landside’ unless they hold one of the following:

a valid visa for entry to Australia, Canada, New Zealand or the USA and a valid airline ticket via the UK as part of a reasonable journey to that country

a valid visa for entry to Australia, Canada, New Zealand or the USA and a valid airline ticket via the UK as part of a reasonable journey from that country

• a visa for entry to Australia, Canada, New Zealand or the USA as part of a reasonable journey from the country in respect of which the visa is held and it is less than 6 months since the holder last entered that country with a valid entry visa
• Australia (b)
• Canada, issued after 28 June 2002 (c)
• New Zealand (d)
• a valid Irish biometric visa endorsed BC or BC BIVS and travelling to the Republic of Ireland
• an Irish biometric visa endorsed BC or BC BIVS and travelling FROM the Republic of Ireland provided it is less than 3 months since the holder last entered there

E-visas or e-residence permits are not acceptable for landside transit.

The decision to allow a passenger to transit without a visa (TWOV) under the scheme is decided by an immigration officer at the UK border.

UK permanent residents

If a visa national is permanently resident in the UK they do not need a visa, as long as they return to the UK within 2 years of their last departure.

Passengers with the right of abode in the UK

If a visa national has a ‘certificate of entitlement to the right of abode’ label in their valid passport they do not need a visa.

Holders of non-national and refugee travel documents

If the passenger holds a refugee travel document issued by the UK they do not need a visa. If the passenger holds any other non-national or refugee travel document they need a visa to enter the UK.

Whether holders of non-national and refugee travel documents require a direct airside transit visa (DATV) depends on their original nationality, and whether they qualify for one of the exemptions listed above. Persons recognised as stateless under the 1954 UN Convention relating to the Status of Stateless Persons are not required to hold a DATV and may transit airside without a visa.

A seafarer travelling on duty, who is a visa national (including those in transit through the UK) does not need a visa if they hold a valid seafarer’s book issued by one of these countries which also contains a statement that it is issued under ILO108 (or convention of 1958) or ILO185, having previously ratified ILO108 (or convention of 2003):

• Antigua and Barbuda
• British Virgin Isles
• Czech Republic
• Moldova (Republic of)
• The Russian Federation
• Solomon Islands
• St Vincent and the Grenadines
• United Kingdom (including the Falkland Islands and Gibraltar)

A seafarer does not need to be a national of the country that issued the document.

Contact details

Please contact the relevant area, if you need further advice.

Produced by the carriers liaison section, Home Office.

(1) Holders of diplomatic passports do not require a visa. Service passport holders may transit without a visa. Holders of a public affairs passport may not transit without a visa. Service and public affairs passport holders do not require a visa if travelling with a serving Chinese government minister on an official visit to the UK

(2) Passport not recognised by HM Government – visa should be issued on a Form for Affixing a Visa (FAV).

(3) Holders of diplomatic or official passports may transit without a visa.

(4) Passports that include a personal ID number on the biodata page are exempt from the visa requirement.

(5) Holders of diplomatic passports do not require a visa for official visits, tourist visits or transit.

(6) Holders may not use a B1/B2 USA visa to transit the UK.

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• Travel Destinations

Which Countries Accept A UK Refugee Travel Document

Published: November 1, 2023

Modified: December 28, 2023

by Floria Mckim

• Plan Your Trip

Introduction

Welcome to our comprehensive guide on which countries accept a UK Refugee Travel Document. The journey of a refugee is marked by immense challenges and uncertainties. Obtaining refugee status in a new country is a significant milestone, granting individuals the right to protection and a chance to rebuild their lives. One essential document that facilitates this journey is the UK Refugee Travel Document.

What exactly is a UK Refugee Travel Document, and why is it important? To put it simply, it is an official travel document issued to individuals who have been granted refugee status in the United Kingdom. This document serves as an identity proof and allows refugees to travel internationally while ensuring their protection and safety.

For refugees, having the ability to travel is not only a matter of personal freedom but can also be crucial in certain situations. Whether it is reuniting with family members, attending important events, or seeking educational and employment opportunities abroad, the UK Refugee Travel Document plays a vital role in facilitating these journeys.

In this article, we will delve into the countries that accept a UK Refugee Travel Document and explore any potential travel restrictions that may be imposed. We will also provide some valuable tips for traveling with a UK Refugee Travel Document, ensuring a smoother and more hassle-free experience.

It is important to note that travel regulations can vary between countries and are subject to change. We recommend consulting with the relevant authorities or embassies of the countries you plan to visit for the most up-to-date information. With that said, let’s explore the world of travel opportunities that await UK Refugee Travel Document holders.

What is a UK Refugee Travel Document?

A UK Refugee Travel Document, also known as a Convention Travel Document, is an official document issued by the UK government to individuals who have been granted refugee status in the United Kingdom. It serves as proof of identity and travel authorization for refugees, enabling them to travel internationally while enjoying the rights and protections granted to them through their refugee status.

The UK Refugee Travel Document is recognized by numerous countries around the world as a valid travel document, allowing refugees to enter and exit these countries and travel within their borders. It is important to note that this document is not a passport and does not grant the same privileges as a passport held by a citizen of a particular country. However, it serves as a viable alternative for refugees who are unable to obtain a passport from their home country.

The UK Refugee Travel Document is designed to comply with international standards set forth by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO). It contains essential information about the document holder, including their full name, date of birth, nationality (as “Refugee”), and a photograph. The document also includes a unique document number and is typically valid for up to 10 years, although the exact validity period may vary.

It is crucial to understand that the UK Refugee Travel Document is only issued to individuals who have been granted refugee status by the UK government. Refugees who have been given humanitarian protection or discretionary leave to remain in the UK may not be eligible for this travel document. It is essential to consult with the relevant immigration authorities or seek legal advice to determine eligibility and understand the specific requirements for obtaining a UK Refugee Travel Document.

With a UK Refugee Travel Document in hand, refugees gain the ability to travel internationally, which can be instrumental in a variety of situations. From attending family events and weddings to pursuing educational opportunities or participating in international conferences, the UK Refugee Travel Document opens up a world of possibilities and helps refugees maintain connections and build new lives beyond their country of refuge.

Overview of Refugee Convention Signatories

The international community recognizes the importance of protecting refugees and providing them with the rights and support they need. Several international agreements and conventions have been established to ensure the welfare and safety of refugees, one of which is the 1951 Refugee Convention.

The 1951 Refugee Convention, also known as the Geneva Convention Relating to the Status of Refugees, is an international treaty that outlines the rights and obligations of signatory countries towards refugees. It defines who is considered a refugee and the legal protections they are entitled to receive.

Currently, 149 countries have signed and ratified the 1951 Refugee Convention, affirming their commitment to upholding the rights and protection of refugees. These signatory countries are obligated to offer assistance to refugees, including granting them access to legal protection, education, employment, and healthcare, among other essential services.

It is vital to note that not all countries that have signed the Refugee Convention automatically accept the UK Refugee Travel Document. Each country retains the authority to establish its own policies and requirements for accepting travel documents issued by other countries.

When planning international travel with a UK Refugee Travel Document, it is crucial to consider the specific travel regulations and restrictions implemented by each country you intend to visit. While many signatory countries accept the UK Refugee Travel Document, some may have additional requirements or restrictions that need to be taken into account.

It is also worth noting that there are some countries that, despite being signatories to the Refugee Convention, do not accept the UK Refugee Travel Document. Their decision may be based on various factors, including their internal immigration policies or diplomatic relations with the issuing country.

As such, it is imperative to thoroughly research and understand the travel policies of each country you wish to visit. Consulting with the relevant embassies or consulates is highly recommended to obtain accurate and up-to-date information regarding the acceptance of the UK Refugee Travel Document.

Overall, the Refugee Convention and its signatory countries play a crucial role in protecting and supporting refugees worldwide. It is through these international agreements that refugees are granted legal protections and the chance to rebuild their lives in a safe and welcoming environment. Understanding the nuances of each country’s acceptance policies ensures a smoother and more enjoyable travel experience for UK Refugee Travel Document holders.

Countries that Accept UK Refugee Travel Document

Refugees who possess a UK Refugee Travel Document have the opportunity to explore and visit numerous countries worldwide. While acceptance policies may vary, the UK Refugee Travel Document is generally recognized as a valid travel document by many nations.

Here are some of the countries that commonly accept the UK Refugee Travel Document:

• European Union (EU) Countries: Most EU member states, including Germany, France, Italy, Spain, Sweden, and the Netherlands, recognize the UK Refugee Travel Document and allow entry for tourism, business, or temporary visits. However, it is essential to check the specific visa requirements or travel restrictions imposed by each country.
• United States: The United States accepts the UK Refugee Travel Document for temporary visits under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP) or with the appropriate nonimmigrant visa. However, individuals with refugee status should consult with the U.S. Department of State or the nearest U.S. embassy for detailed information.
• Canada: UK Refugee Travel Document holders can travel to Canada for tourism, business, or study purposes. They may require an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) or a visitor visa, depending on their nationality. It is advisable to check the Canadian government’s official website or consult with the nearest Canadian embassy for precise information.
• Australia: Australia generally accepts the UK Refugee Travel Document for temporary visits. However, travelers are required to obtain a valid visa, such as an Electronic Travel Authority (ETA) or another appropriate visa category. It is important to review the Australian government’s official visa information or consult with the nearest Australian embassy or consulate.
• New Zealand: UK Refugee Travel Document holders can travel to New Zealand for tourism, business, or study purposes. They typically need to apply for a visitor visa, which can be done through the New Zealand immigration website or the nearest New Zealand embassy or consulate.

It is crucial to note that travel regulations can change, and entry requirements may vary depending on the purpose of travel, nationality, and specific circumstances. Therefore, it is always advisable to check the current travel policies of the desired destination country by consulting with applicable embassies, consulates, or official government websites.

Furthermore, it is essential to be aware that even when a country accepts the UK Refugee Travel Document, there may be additional entry requirements, such as visa applications or proof of sufficient funds to support the trip. Adhering to these requirements and obtaining the necessary visas or permits well in advance can help ensure a smooth and hassle-free travel experience.

Overall, UK Refugee Travel Document holders have the opportunity to explore numerous countries and experience different cultures around the world. By staying informed about entry requirements and planning accordingly, refugees can make the most of their travel opportunities and create enriching experiences beyond their country of refuge.

Potential Travel Restrictions for UK Refugee Travel Document Holders

While the UK Refugee Travel Document is generally accepted by many countries, it is important for holders to be aware of potential travel restrictions they may encounter. These restrictions can vary depending on the destination country’s immigration policies and diplomatic relations.

Here are some potential travel restrictions that UK Refugee Travel Document holders may face:

• Visa Requirements: Some countries may require UK Refugee Travel Document holders to obtain a visa before entering. The visa application process may involve providing additional documentation, such as proof of accommodation, travel itinerary, or financial means to support the trip. It is crucial to check the visa requirements of the desired destination and apply well in advance.
• Limited Stay Duration: Certain countries may impose limits on the duration of stay for UK Refugee Travel Document holders. It is essential to be aware of these restrictions and comply with the authorized length of stay to avoid legal issues or penalties.
• Travel Advisories: Travel advisories issued by governments to their citizens may also affect UK Refugee Travel Document holders. If a destination is subject to an active travel advisory, it is important to assess the risks involved and consider whether travel to that particular country is advisable at the time.
• Transit Restrictions: Some countries may have transit restrictions for individuals traveling with a UK Refugee Travel Document. This means that even if the destination country accepts the travel document, transiting through another country en route may not be permitted. It is crucial to check transit requirements and potential restrictions when planning multi-leg journeys.
• Pre-clearance Requirements: In some cases, UK Refugee Travel Document holders may need to undergo pre-clearance procedures, such as obtaining an entry permit or providing additional documentation, before boarding a flight or entering a specific country. It is essential to verify if any pre-clearance requirements exist for the intended destination and comply with the necessary procedures.

It is important to note that travel restrictions can change over time and can vary between countries. Therefore, it is crucial for UK Refugee Travel Document holders to stay informed about the latest travel advisories, entry requirements, and immigration policies of the countries they plan to visit.

Before embarking on any international trip, it is highly recommended to consult with the relevant embassies, consulates, or immigration authorities of the destination countries. They will provide up-to-date and accurate information regarding any potential travel restrictions, visa requirements, or other necessary documents.

By being proactive and well-informed, UK Refugee Travel Document holders can ensure a smoother and more enjoyable travel experience while minimizing any unforeseen challenges or complications that may arise during their journey.

Tips for Traveling with a UK Refugee Travel Document

Traveling with a UK Refugee Travel Document can be an exciting and fulfilling experience. To help ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey, here are some essential tips to keep in mind:

• Research Destination Requirements: Before traveling to a specific country, thoroughly research the entry requirements and visa policies for UK Refugee Travel Document holders. Check if a visa is required, the duration of stay allowed, and any other specific documentation that may be needed.
• Check Travel Advisories: Stay updated on travel advisories issued by authorities of the destination country and your home country. These advisories provide important information about safety concerns, political unrest, natural disasters, and other factors that may affect your travel plans.
• Ensure Validity of Travel Document: Confirm that your UK Refugee Travel Document is valid for the duration of your planned trip. Some countries require the document’s validity to extend beyond the planned departure date from their territory.
• Keep Copies of Travel Documents: Make digital and physical copies of your UK Refugee Travel Document and other important travel documents. Keep a copy with a trusted family member or friend and carry a duplicate set with you in case of loss or theft.
• Contact Embassies or Consulates: Reach out to the embassies or consulates of the countries you plan to visit to confirm any specific requirements or restrictions for UK Refugee Travel Document holders. They can provide the most accurate and up-to-date information.
• Plan Ahead: Give yourself plenty of time to plan your trip, including obtaining visas, booking accommodations, and arranging transportation. Some countries may have lengthy visa processing times, so it is advisable to start the visa application process well in advance.
• Travel Insurance: Consider purchasing travel insurance that covers medical emergencies, trip cancellation, or lost belongings. It provides peace of mind and financial protection in case unexpected situations arise during your journey.
• Stay Informed: Stay informed about the local customs, traditions, and cultural norms of the countries you plan to visit. This will help ensure you respect the local culture and avoid any unintentional misunderstandings.
• Practice Safety Precautions: Keep your travel documents secure at all times, be cautious of your surroundings, and follow general safety precautions. Familiarize yourself with emergency contact information and the location of your country’s embassy or consulate in each destination.
• Follow Immigration Rules: Always adhere to the immigration rules and regulations of the countries you visit. Abide by the specified duration of stay, avoid any prohibited activities, and ensure your conduct aligns with the local laws and regulations.

Remember, traveling with a UK Refugee Travel Document provides you with unique opportunities to explore new destinations and embrace new experiences. By staying informed, prepared, and respectful, you can make the most of your travels and create lasting memories.

Traveling with a UK Refugee Travel Document opens up a world of possibilities for individuals who have been granted refugee status in the United Kingdom. While there may be potential travel restrictions and varying acceptance policies, the majority of countries recognize the validity of the UK Refugee Travel Document and welcome holders for temporary visits and tourism.

It is crucial for UK Refugee Travel Document holders to familiarize themselves with the entry requirements, visa policies, and travel advisories of the countries they intend to visit. Staying informed about any potential travel restrictions and adhering to the immigration rules of each destination ensures a smoother and more enjoyable travel experience.

By conducting thorough research, consulting with relevant embassies or consulates, and planning ahead, UK Refugee Travel Document holders can navigate the complexities of international travel with confidence. Keeping copies of important travel documents, purchasing travel insurance, and practicing safety precautions are all essential elements of a successful trip.

The ability to travel internationally with a UK Refugee Travel Document empowers refugees to maintain connections, explore new horizons, and access educational and employment opportunities worldwide. It is a crucial step towards rebuilding their lives and embracing new experiences beyond their country of refuge.

As acceptance policies and travel regulations can change, it is important to stay up to date and consult with relevant authorities when planning trips. By doing so, UK Refugee Travel Document holders can make the most of their journeys, connect with different cultures, and create remarkable memories along the way.

Remember, traveling with a UK Refugee Travel Document is not just about visiting new places—it is about embracing the spirit of resilience and hope, celebrating newfound freedoms, and seizing the opportunities that lie ahead.

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• News & Blog

BREXIT impact on UN Travel Document holders – Update

Following the end of the BREXIT transitional period, it is no longer the case that UK resident UN Travel Document holders will be automatically permitted entry to all European countries without an advance visa.

EU Members States have been given the authority to individually decide on whether to require UK resident UN Travel Document holders to have been issued with a Schengen visa in advance of travel, or not.

The European Commission’s Notice on Travelling between the EU and the UK after the end of the transition period provides:

“Member States can currently decide to exempt from the visa requirement recognised refugees, stateless persons and other persons not holding the nationality of any country residing in the United Kingdom and holding a travel document issued by the United Kingdom, which is recognised by the Member State concerned.

As from the end of the transition period, Member States can still decide individually whether to grant a visa waiver to refugees and stateless persons residing in the United Kingdom, or whether to require a visa before travel.’’

The web pages of the Embassies of selected European countries can be found here:

If you would like further information in this regard, or if you have any questions, please do not hesitate to  contact us . Send us an  e-mail , or alternatively, follow us on  Twitter ,  LinkedIn  or  Facebook  to stay up-to-date.

The information in this blog is for general information purposes only and does not purport to be comprehensive or to provide legal advice. Whilst every effort is made to ensure the information and law is current as of the date of publication it should be stressed that, due to the passage of time, this does not necessarily reflect the present legal position. Gherson accepts no responsibility for loss which may arise from accessing or reliance on information contained in this blog. For formal advice on the current law please don’t hesitate to contact Gherson. Legal advice is only provided pursuant to a written agreement, identified as such, and signed by the client and by or on behalf of Gherson.

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TRAVELLING WITH UK REFUGEE TRAVEL DOCUMENT: VISA REQUIREMENTS AND RESTRICTIONS

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International protection regimes for refugees may have been undermined by State legislations contrary to that effect. This work critically examines the United Kingdom immigration and asylum laws and their conformity with the exclusionary clauses in the Refugee Convention of 1951.

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What Countries Can I Visit Visa Free with UK ILR

Although a visa is usually required for cross-border travelers, the United Kingdom has bilateral agreements with some countries and territories, allowing its citizens and residents to enter without visas and stay for a short period. ILR, referring to Indefinite Leave to Remain , is a UK permanent residence permit with which one can live in the United Kingdom permanently. In this passage, we are going to introduce visa free countries for UK ILR holder .

Travelling Outside of United Kingdom With ILR

Supposing that you have submitted an ILR application and it is being processed, you are not suggested to leave the UK, otherwise, your application will be invalidated. If you have obtained ILR and your home is in the UK, you are considered settling in this country. Therefore, you can travel abroad and re-enter the UK without extra visas. However, unlike British citizens who can travel in and out of the country without limitation, permanent residents should pay attention to the length of stay outside the UK. The PR status will become invalid if you are absent from the UK for consecutive 2 years or longer.

What Countries Can I Visit Visa-Free with UK ILR

Visa-free travel is known as one of the most attractive benefits of UK residence permits, but the entry requirements might vary from country to country depending on your nationality, visa type, etc.

UK ILR Visa-Free Countries for All Nationalities

14 countries and territories allow ILR holders to enter without visas despite their nationalities. They are covering Europe, North America, Central America, and the Caribbean Area. Duration of stay and entry requirements vary from country to country.

UK ILR Visa-Free Countries for Certain Nationalities

Can i travel to europe with ilr post brexit.

Yes. According to the Brexit agreement implemented on January 1, 2021, British nationals and permanent residents can take short-term travel to Europe without visas and stay within the Schengen Area for no more than 90 days in total during a 180-day period. When traveling within the Schengen Area, total duration of stay in all member states must not exceed 90 days during a 180-day period, which include Austria, Belgium, Czechia, Croatia, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, and Switzerland.

Please note that UK ILR visa free countries in Europe might require some supporting documents to allow entry, such as a passport with at least 6 months of validity, travel insurance, proof of sufficient funds and so on. Don’t forget to check the specific entry requirements of your destination countries.

What Happens If My ILR Is Not Valid

If your ILR becomes invalid, you must not continue residing in the country without limitation. What you should do depends on why it is invalidated. 

Supposing that you lose your permanent residency due to absence from the UK for a consecutive 2 years or longer, it is suggested can apply for a Returning Resident visa which allows you to obtain the Indefinite Leave to Remain again and continue to live in the UK. To apply for it, you must prove that:

• you owned an ILR before which can be verified by a permanent biometric residence permit, stamp in your passport, etc.
• you have never asked for financial support from the Home Office to travel abroad.
• you have strong ties to the country, such as being employed, having a UK spouse, etc.
• you have been absent for good reasons during the past few years.
• You plan to stay in the UK permanently.

Please note that if you lose the status under the EU Settlement Scheme (EUSS), the returning resident permit is not available.

On condition that you lose settlement status due to deportation, things will be more complicated because you will be banned from entering the UK in the coming 10 years.

Can Indefinite Leave to Remain Status Be Revoked

Yes. Your Indefinite leave status can be taken away on the condition that:

• you are very likely to be deported but cannot be removed due to legal reasons;
• you get the ILR by deception;
• You get the ILR as a refugee and the refugee status ceases.
• Your permanent residence status will be invalidated in case that:
• you are deported from the UK, or
• You are absent from the UK for a continuous 2 years or longer, or
• You are absent from the UK for a continuous 4 years or longer when you are a Swiss citizen and gain the status under the EU Settlement Scheme, or
• You are absent from the UK for a continuous 5 years or longer when you gain the status under the EU Settlement Scheme.

FAQ About UK ILR

Q: Can I travel to Ireland with ILR?

A: No. You have to present a valid passport and visa when traveling to Ireland unless you are a citizen of the Irish visa-wavier countries.

Q: Do UK ILR holders need Schengen visa?

A: No, but they should bring a valid ILR biometric residence permit and passport when traveling.

Q: Can I travel to Canada with ILR?

A: No. ILR biometric residence permit is not an acceptable travel document in Canada.

Q: How do I prove my ILR status?

A: You can prove it by presenting a letter from the Home Office indicating your PR status, a stamp or a vignette (sticker) in your passport, or a biometric residence permit.

Q: Can I work in Schengen countries with UK ILR without a visa?

A: No. An extra work permit or visa is usually required to get a paid job, especially for long-term employment. However, there are times when you are allowed to take short-stay business trips or participate in specific types of work without a visa. Please check the entry requirements of your destination country before traveling.

UK Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) grants permanent residency and free exit/entry to the UK to the holder. Visa free countries for UK ILR holder are widely located in Asia, Latin America, Europe, etc. Some have restrictions on your nationality while some are open to all ILR holders. Additionally, the entry requirements and permitted length of stay vary from country to country. It is highly recommended to check the newest rules and regulations of the destination country before setting out, so you can get ready in advance. Last but not least, don’t stay outside the UK for more than continuously 2 years, otherwise, your PR status might be lost and you have to spend time and effort obtaining it again.

Related Posts:

Does Indefinite Leave to Remain(ILR) in UK Expire

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By Dolores Xiao

I am a content creator and marketer with over 5 years of professional writing experience. I hold a bachelor's degree in communications and have a natural curiosity about technology, as evidenced by my technology blog. As an avid traveler, I draw upon adventures in over 10 countries to inject unique cultural perspectives into my articles and social media campaigns. I thrive on developing engaging content that informs and inspires audiences.

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