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Do I Need a UK Transit Visa If I Live in Europe?

Focus phrase: UK transit visa if I live in Europe.

If you live in an EU or EEA country, you generally do not need a UK transit visa when connecting through the United Kingdom. However, since Brexit, some travel rules have changed — particularly for non-EU nationals living in Europe. It’s therefore important to check the latest Home Office guidance before travelling to ensure your documents meet the requirements for transit through the UK in 2025.

1) Do EU Citizens Need a UK Transit Visa?

Citizens of European Union (EU) and European Economic Area (EEA) countries can usually transit through the UK without a visa. You will not need to apply for a UK Transit Visa if:

• You hold a valid passport from an EU or EEA country.
• Your connecting flight departs within 24 hours.
• You do not pass through UK Border Control during your layover.

However, if you intend to leave the airport or your connection is longer than 24 hours, you may need a Visitor in Transit Visa or Standard Visitor Visa.

2) Transit Visa Rules for Non-EU Nationals Living in Europe

If you are a non-EU citizen living in a European country (for example, holding residence in France, Spain, or Germany), your need for a UK transit visa depends on your nationality and residence permit type. You will not usually need a visa if you:

• Hold a valid residence permit issued by an EU or EEA member state.
• Have a valid visa for the USA, Canada, Australia, or New Zealand.
• Remain airside during your connection and do not pass through UK Border Control.

For those with refugee or EU Settlement Scheme family permits, you may also be exempt from UK transit visa requirements. You can verify your exemption using the official UK Transit Visa Eligibility Checker.

3) How Brexit Affects EU and EEA Travellers

Although Brexit has ended the UK’s participation in the EU freedom of movement system, transit travel for EU citizens remains visa-free for short connections. However, passengers from outside the EU who hold European residence permits may now need to provide additional documentation to prove their residency status.

To avoid disruption, ensure you have the following:

• Your valid residence permit or visa for your EU country of residence.
• A confirmed flight booking to your final destination.
• Proof of sufficient funds to cover your layover if required.

4) When a UK Transit Visa Is Required

You will typically need a UK Transit Visa if you:

• Are a citizen of a country that requires a visa to enter the UK (even if in transit).
• Plan to leave the airport or stay overnight during your layover.
• Do not hold a valid residence permit or long-term visa for an exempt country.

Depending on your situation, you’ll apply for one of two visa types:

• Direct Airside Transit Visa (DATV): For travellers who remain airside and do not pass UK Border Control.
• Visitor in Transit Visa: For travellers who need to pass through Border Control or change airports.

5) How to Apply for a UK Transit Visa

If you determine that you need a visa, you can apply online through the UK Government website. You’ll need to attend a biometric appointment and submit supporting documents such as:

• Your passport and residence permit
• Flight booking confirmation
• Proof of onward travel
• Visa for your destination country (if applicable)

Applications are typically processed within three weeks, though you can use the Priority Visa Service for faster decisions.

6) Common Questions

If I live in the EU, do I need a transit visa for the UK?

Usually no, unless you are a non-EU citizen without a qualifying residence permit or are planning to leave the airport during your layover.

Has Brexit changed the rules for EU citizens?

Brexit has not affected short-term visa-free travel or airside transit for EU citizens, but non-EU nationals living in Europe should check updated eligibility rules.

I have a UK Standard Visitor Visa — do I need a separate visa for transit?

No. Your existing UK Standard Visitor Visa allows you to transit through the UK without applying for a separate transit visa.

Can I apply for a UK transit visa on arrival?

No. All UK transit visas must be obtained before you travel.

Related Guidance

• Do I Need a Transit Visa for a UK Connecting Flight?
• Can I Transit the UK Without a Transit Visa?
• UK Visa Fees 2025

About This Page

Author: Michael Gibbons, UK Solicitor and Regulated Immigration Advisor
Last Updated: October 2025
Reviewed by: UK Visa Applications Editorial Team