Transit Visa for London Heathrow — Do You Need One? (2026)
Everything you need to know about UK Direct Airside Transit Visas for LHR layovers.
Quick Answer
Most travellers from visa-exempt countries like the USA, Canada, Australia, and EU nations do not need a transit visa at Heathrow. However, nationals from many countries — including India, Pakistan, Nigeria, and China — require a Direct Airside Transit Visa (DATV) even if they never leave the terminal. Always check the UK government's official tool before travel.
Transit Visa by Nationality
| Nationality | Transit Visa Required? |
|---|---|
| USA | No |
| Canada | No |
| Australia | No |
| India | Yes |
| Pakistan | Yes |
| Nigeria | Yes |
| Ghana | Yes |
| China | Yes |
| Brazil | No |
| South Africa | Yes |
Data valid for 2026. Always verify on the official UK Visas & Immigration website.
How to Apply for a UK Transit Visa
- 1
Check eligibility
Use the UK government's 'Check if you need a UK visa' tool at gov.uk to confirm whether a DATV applies to your nationality and route.
- 2
Complete the online application
Apply via the UKVI online portal. Upload your passport, travel itinerary, and proof of onward visa if required. Pay the £35 DATV fee.
- 3
Attend a biometric appointment
Book and attend an appointment at your nearest UK Visa Application Centre to submit fingerprints and a photo. Allow at least 3 weeks before travel.
Do I need a transit visa at London Heathrow? Answers by passport
Indian passport
Yes, even airside: India is on the UK list of nationals who need a visa to enter or transit the UK — unless you hold a valid visa for Australia, Canada, New Zealand or the USA, a permanent residence permit from one of those countries, or a residence permit or category D visa issued by an EEA state or Switzerland — and your onward flight leaves the same day from the same airport. Diplomatic and official passports are exempt. [1]
Nigerian passport
Yes, even airside, unless you hold a valid visa for Australia, Canada, New Zealand or the USA, a permanent residence permit from one of those countries, or a residence permit or category D visa issued by an EEA state or Switzerland — and your onward flight leaves the same day from the same airport. [1]
Pakistani, Bangladeshi or Sri Lankan passport
Yes, even airside, unless you hold a valid visa for Australia, Canada, New Zealand or the USA, a permanent residence permit from one of those countries, or a residence permit or category D visa issued by an EEA state or Switzerland — and your onward flight leaves the same day from the same airport. [1]
South African passport
Yes, even airside, unless you hold a valid visa for Australia, Canada, New Zealand or the USA, a permanent residence permit from one of those countries, or a residence permit or category D visa issued by an EEA state or Switzerland — and your onward flight leaves the same day from the same airport. Diplomatic passports are exempt. [1]
Chinese (PRC) passport
Yes, even airside, unless you hold a valid visa for Australia, Canada, New Zealand or the USA, a permanent residence permit from one of those countries, or a residence permit or category D visa issued by an EEA state or Switzerland — and your onward flight leaves the same day from the same airport. Diplomatic and service passports are exempt. [1]
Filipino, Indonesian or Thai passport
Not to stay airside: these nationalities need a UK visa only to enter or transit landside (for example to collect bags or change airports). Note that you cannot transit airside to Ireland or elsewhere in the Common Travel Area. [1]
Sources
- GOV.UK — UK visa requirements for international carriers — updated 3 Aug 2026; checked 1 Oct 2026.
Transit rules change. Check with your airline and the official source before you fly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I leave the airport during my Heathrow transit?
Only if you have a valid UK visa or are a visa-exempt national. Most transit passengers must remain in the international airside area.
How long does it take to get a UK Transit Visa?
Standard processing takes around 3 weeks. You can pay extra for priority (5 days) or super-priority (1 day) service.
How much does a UK Direct Airside Transit Visa cost?
The fee is £35 for a Direct Airside Transit Visa (DATV). A standard UK visitor visa costs £115 if you need to leave the airside area.
Planning a Layover at Heathrow?
Find out how long you need, what to do, and where to eat during your LHR stopover.
Read the Heathrow Layover Guide →