The UK government has published a list of 45 countries and territories whose nationals require a visa to transit landside through British ports of entry. Landside transit applies when a passenger must pass through UK border control to change terminals, collect baggage, or stay overnight. This new policy aims to streamline travel procedures and ensure that passengers are aware of the necessary documentation required for their journeys.
The list of countries includes several African and Asian nations, such as Armenia, Azerbaijan, Benin, Bhutan, and Bolivia. Citizens of these countries must secure the correct visa before departing for the UK. The UK government guidance clarifies that landside transit differs from airside transit, where passengers remain within the international transit area and do not pass through border control.
The requirement is relevant to passengers whose travel arrangements involve passing through UK border control. This can happen in situations where a traveller needs to change terminals, collect baggage or stay overnight before continuing their journey. Travellers from the listed countries should therefore check whether their specific itinerary requires a UK transit visa before starting their journey.
Transport providers are also required to check that passengers have the necessary immigration clearance before allowing them to travel. A passenger who arrives at an airport without the required visa or other immigration permission could be refused boarding or prevented from continuing their journey. The requirement can apply regardless of the traveller's final destination.
For example, a Zambian national travelling to another country through London may need a UK transit visa if the journey requires them to pass through UK border control. The UK government has taken steps to ensure that travellers are aware of the necessary documentation required for their journeys. The list of countries subject to landside transit visa rules includes 45 countries and territories.
The UK Home Office had previously clarified which foreign nationals could apply to remain in the country beyond the standard six-month visitor limit. Eligible categories included patients undergoing medical treatment, academic researchers, and doctors or dentists on clinical attachments. Applicants were required to pay a £1,172 extension fee and prove that they could support themselves without accessing public funds.
The UK government's move aims to enhance border control and ensure that passengers comply with immigration regulations. The list of countries subject to landside transit visa rules is available on the UK government's website. Travellers are advised to check the list and ensure they have the necessary documentation before embarking on their journey.
Key points
- The UK has outlined a list of 45 countries and territories whose citizens may need a visa when transiting through the country under landside transit arrangements.
- The requirement is relevant to passengers whose travel arrangements involve passing through UK border control.
- Transport providers are also required to check that passengers have the necessary immigration clearance before allowing them to travel.
