Who Needs a UK Visa?

UAE Nationals (UAE Passport Holders)

UAE citizens do not need a UK Standard Visitor Visa for tourism or short visits. Instead, they must apply for a UK Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) before travelling.

Key Points for UAE Nationals:

• Allows short-term visits for tourism, family visits, or leisure
• No visa sticker required in the passport
• ETA is mandatory before boarding your flight

UAE Residents (Expatriates)

For UAE residents, visa requirements depend on your passport nationality, not your UAE residence status.

• If your nationality requires a UK visa, you must apply for a UK Standard Visitor Visa
• If your nationality is visa-exempt, you may only need a UK ETA

Important Note:
Holding a UAE residence visa does not automatically exempt you from UK visa requirements.

Purpose of Visit (Tourism Only)

The UK Standard Visitor Visa and ETA are strictly for short-term visits, including:

• Tourism and sightseeing
• Holidays and leisure travel
• Visiting friends or family
• Short recreational trips
• Attending social events (weddings, family gatherings)

Not Allowed:

• Employment or paid work
• Long-term study
• Permanent stay or settlement
• Business activities beyond allowed visitor rules

UK Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA)

For UAE Nationals

Requirements

To apply for a UK ETA, you will need:

• Valid UAE passport (minimum 6 months validity recommended)
• Clear digital scan of passport bio page
• Live selfie taken during application
• Active email address to receive ETA approval
• Debit or credit card for online payment

Processing Time

• Usually 1 to 3 working days
• In many cases, approval is received faster

Important ETA Notes

• No biometric appointment required
• No fingerprints or photo at visa center
• No passport submission needed
• ETA is linked electronically to your passport
• Valid for 2 years or until passport expiry, whichever comes first
• Multiple trips allowed
• Maximum stay: up to 6 months per visit

UK Standard Visitor Visa

For UAE Residents (Visa-Required Nationalities)

Required Documents

Applicants must prepare the following documents carefully:

• Passport
  Valid passport with at least one blank page
• UAE Residence Proof
  UAE residence visa and/or Emirates ID
• Photograph
  Recent passport-size photo (if requested)
• Travel Itinerary
  Tentative flight details (refundable or on-hold recommended)
• Accommodation Proof
  Hotel booking or invitation letter from UK host
• Bank Statements
  Last 6 months, stamped or verified, showing sufficient balance
• Income Proof
  Salary slips, employment contract, or income documents
• Employer NOC
  From UAE employer stating job position and approved leave
  OR business license if self-employed
• Cover Letter
  Explaining purpose of visit, travel dates, and return plan
• Sponsor Documents (if applicable)
  Sponsor passport, visa status, bank statements, and invitation letter
• Translations
  Certified English translation for any non-English documents

UK Visitor Visa Fees

• 6-Month Visa: £127
• 2-Year Visa: £475
• 5-Year Visa: £848
• 10-Year Visa: £1,059

Note:
Long-term visas allow multiple entries, but each stay cannot exceed 6 months.

UK Visitor Visa Processing Time

• Standard processing: Approximately 3 weeks
• Priority service: Faster decision (additional fee)
• Super Priority: Next working day decision (available in limited cases)

Processing time may vary during peak seasons.

Step-by-Step UK Visitor Visa Application Process

1. Check if your nationality requires a UK visa
2. Complete the UK visitor visa online application form
3. Pay the applicable visa fee
4. Book biometric appointment (Dubai or Abu Dhabi)
5. Attend the appointment for fingerprints and photo
6. Submit all supporting documents
7. Wait for visa decision
8. Receive passport with visa (if approved)

Biometrics & Visa Appointment Details

• Biometrics are mandatory for all visitor visa applicants
• Fingerprints and photograph are taken at the visa center
• Children under 16 must attend with a parent or legal guardian
• Arrive at least 15 minutes early
• Late arrivals may need to rebook

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Applying too close to travel date
• Filling incorrect or incomplete application details
• Showing insufficient funds or unclear bank transaction
• Missing UAE residence proof
• Booking non-refundable tickets before visa approval
• Inconsistent information across documents
• Submitting documents without certified translations

Important UK Visa Tips

• Apply 4–6 weeks before travel
• Maintain a strong travel history if possible
• Clearly show intention to return to the UAE
• Ensure bank statements reflect real and stable income
• Be honest, accurate, and consistent in all information

Need Help With Your UK Visa?

Professional guidance can increase approval chances, reduce errors, and save time—especially for first-time applicants or complex cases.

FAQ’S for UK Standard Visitor Visa