Entering the United Kingdom as a short-term visitor requires sound preparation. This guide sets out, in clear language, the rules that govern the Standard Visitor route—whether you need a full visa or the new Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA). Each section follows official Home Office policy and provides precise steps to help you apply United Kingdom ETA, arrive, and depart without difficulty.
The Standard Visitor route permits stays of up to 180 days for purposes such as tourism, unpaid business activity, short recreational study, and certain medical treatments. It does not permit paid work, long-term study, or residence. Entry clearance is granted in one of three ways: