With Brexit now ‘done’ and the potential for new border restrictions in reaction to a resurgence of COVID-19 in China currently being discussed, it can be confusing to know whether or not a visa is required for a holiday in the UK.
Firstly, if you’re planning a trip to the UK, it’s essential to keep up to date with the UK’s latest guidance on entry, and be realistic that they may change at short notice. Click here to do just that.
Once you’ve established it’s safe to travel, you might be wondering if you need a visa to holiday in the UK? Here’s a brief summary.
Do Irish Citizens Need A Visa To Visit The UK?
In short, no. Irish citizens can continue to enter and live in the UK without a visa.
A UK citizen’s rights to live in Ireland (and vice versa) is protected by the Common Travel Area (CTA) which exists between the two countries, predating the forming of the European Union, and whose commitment was reaffirmed in 2019 by the UK and Irish government.
As stated on the UK Government’s official website, ‘’Both the UK and Irish governments are committed to protecting the CTA’’. Reassuring for those looking for some stability, don’t you think?
Read: Can I move to Ireland if I’m a UK citizen?
How About If I’m An EU Citizen?
Short holidays (of up to six months) to the UK can be enjoyed by EU, EEA and citizens of Switzerland visa-free; only a passport valid for the entirety of your stay is required. Citizens of these three places can use the automatic ePassport gates on arrival at the airport.
Visa Waivers & Exemptions
The same rules apply to a selection of countries who are visa exempt; as in, short holidays of up to six months can be enjoyed with a valid passport, visa free. You can use use automatic ePassport gates on arrival at the airport if you hold a passport from:
- United States
- Canada
- South Korea
- Singapore
- Japan
- Australia
- New Zealand
If you are a national of Oman, Qatar, the UAE or Kuwait, you can pay £30 for an Electronic Visa Waiver (EVW) for the United Kingdom instead of applying for a visa. This EVW allows you up to six months in the country, not only for tourism, but also for business, study or medical treatment.
For the majority of other countries, a Standard Visitor visa will be required. The government has a useful tool allowing you to check if you need a UK visa here. Simply enter your nationality, your reason for visiting and you’ll find the answer.
What Visa Do I Need To Work In The UK?
Should you be keen to move to the UK, it’s essential you get to grips with your potential visa status at the earliest given opportunity. It’s vital to get the right working visa to work lawfully in the UK; otherwise, you may face punishment or deportation.
Usually, this is the Tier 5 2-year mobility visa. However, other options are available as well, such as an Ancestry visa or Tier 2 sponsorship. Each comes with a separate set of conditions and fees. Check out the Government’s breakdown of the different visas and entry requirements available to you here.
Everyone who works (or intends to work) in the UK is required to have a National Insurance (NI) number. This unique number is an identifier to the government to track the taxes and earnings of the country’s residents. Sometimes this number is enclosed with your biometric visa (found on the back). If not, you have to apply for it. As long as you are qualified to work in the UK, there will be no difficulties getting your NI. Moreover, you can even begin working whilst expecting your NI card to arrive.
You will likely need a UK immigration lawyer to help with the pages of small print you’ll likely be confronted with in the process of moving to the UK. A lawyer can help you to understand the requirements for the visa you’re interested in and can provide guidance on the best way to proceed. They can also help you to gather the necessary documents and can represent you in the event of any issues or challenges with your application.
Where Should I Visit Once I’m In The UK?
Phew, that all felt pretty dry and terribly formal back there. Let’s focus on the trip itself for a brief moment…
The UK is full of architectural and natural wonder, tradition, heritage, and a rich and diverse culture well worth exploring. If you’re wondering what to include on your bucket list of Britain, consider these 7 IDEAL places to explore England’s history, these 4 of the best city breaks in Scotland, these 7 IDEAL things to do in Belfast, and last but not least, these 5 activities to enjoy in rural Wales.
Not had your fill or border based bureaucracy yet? Check out these 6 things you’ll likely need to travel abroad in 2021 and keep that form filling flame burning.
*This article doesn’t constitute legal advice, but rather, provides more general information on visas*