Transit Visa UK from Philippines
Filipino nationals changing flights in the UK on a connecting flight to another country may need a UK Transit Visa.
If you’re unsure about UK border control policy and whether you’ll need a UK Transit Visa to pass through the UK, you can speak to one of our qualified immigration lawyers on +44 (0)333 305 9375 or contact us today online for immediate assistance.
Overview of UK Transit Visa
A UK Visitor in Transit Visa is often required if you pass through the UK en route to another country. This type of visa enables you to stay in the UK for up to 48 hours while you wait for a connecting flight.
UK Transit Visas are typically single-entry visas, only for flight passengers transitioning briefly through the UK as part of their flight journey to their final destination country.
If you are a Filipino national whose journey includes a connecting flight to the UK, then you may need to apply for a UK Visitor in Transit Visa, which is a type of non-immigrant visa.
Types of UK Transit Visas - Difference Between DATV and Visitor in Transit Visa
The type of Transit Visa you need will depend on whether you pass through UK border control when you enter the UK. There are three types of UK Transit Visa:
Visitor in Transit Visa – if you pass through the UK in transit on the way to another country and need to pass through UK border control to check in your luggage or change airports for a connecting flight leaving the UK within 48 hours.
Direct Airside Transit Visa (DATV) – allows you to stay in the UK for up to 24 hours when passing through the country on a connecting flight, which means that your connecting flight must be within 24 hours of entering the UK. You will not be eligible for this visa if you pass through UK border control.
Long-term Visit Visa – if you visit the UK regularly this visa enables you to stay in the UK for six months each time and transit when you wish. A Long-Term Visit Visa lasts for 2, 5 or 10 years.
Do I Need a Transit Visa for UK?
Not all travelers require a Transit Visa to pass through the UK, but in general, foreign nationals must have a Transit Visa when passing through the UK in transit on a layover to another country. This is the same for all UK airports including those in London such as Heathrow.
Whether you require a visa depends on your nationality and other factors. Filipino residents must have a UK Transit Visa to enter or transit the UK landside (such as passing through UK border control).
If you need to re-check bags, transfer between terminals, or your booking involves more than one airline reservation code, you must have an airport transit visa. You will not need to apply for a Transit Visa if you:
- Are a refugee with a Home Office travel document
- Hold a standard Visitor Visa
- Have a Marriage/Civil Partnership Visitor Visa
Application Process for UK Transit Visas
You must apply online for a Transit Visa through the UK Government website’s application form, provide evidence that you are allowed to enter the UK and explain why you are entering the country.
All UK Transit Visa applicants must bring their identity documents when passing through the UK in transit and through UK border control. They will also need to take the following steps:
- Submit biometrics data, such as having their fingerprint scanned and photographs taken (you will need to book an appointment at your nearest VAC center for this)
- Pay the Transit Visa application fee
If you are in transit in the UK for longer than 48 hours or you pass through the UK regularly as a visitor in transit, you will be eligible to apply for a Standard Visitor Visa.
Required Documents for UK Transit Visas
As a non-UK national, you must provide identification documentation as part of your application for a Transit Visa to prove that you have the right to enter the UK:
- Completed Airport Transit Visa application form
- Valid passport with 6-month validity and blank pages
- Passport-size color photograph with a white background
- Travel health insurance
- Valid visa for your destination country (if required)
- Evidence of your onward journey (i.e. flight booking confirmation or boarding pass)
- Evidence that you can support your trip financially (such as bank statements for the last three months)
Children under 18 must have their application form filled in by a parent or legal guardian.
Transit Visa Fees and Processing Time
The cost for a UK Transit Visa is as follows:
- Visitor in Transit Visa in the UK – £74.50
- Direct Airside Transit visa (DATV) – £41.50
- Standard Visitor Visa (up to 6 months) – £135
On average, it takes around three weeks for the UK Home Office to process a Transit Visa application from a Phillipino national. However, it can take 30-45 days if extra documents to support your application are required.
Applicants can pay an additional fee for a priority service to get a faster decision. All UK Transit visas can be paid for online via the UK government website using a debit or credit card.
How Can Total Law Help?
At Total Law, we provide expert legal guidance for foreign nationals going through UK border control and immigration control who must apply for a Transit Visa. If you will be taking a connecting flight to a destination country, we can advise you on the steps you need to take.
If you are confused about immigration policy regarding transiting through the UK or have any questions or queries regarding your Visitor in Transit Visa, DATV, or any other type of UK Visa, our dedicated team of experienced immigration lawyers can help.
Contact us on +44 (0)333 305 9375 or reach out to us online for immediate step-by-step assistance with your UK Transit Visa application from the Philippines.
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Related pages for your continued reading.
Frequently Asked Questions
You can leave the airport if you have a layover time of at least 6 hours (this includes time to get to/from the UK and UK security immigration screenings).
Generally, you will still need a UK Transit Visa if you are not leaving the airport. A Transit Visa is needed to pass through border control.
Legal Disclaimer
The information provided is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. While we make every effort to ensure accuracy, the law may change, and the information may not reflect the most current legal developments. No warranty is given regarding the accuracy or completeness of the information, and we do not accept liability in such cases. We recommend consulting with a qualified lawyer at Total Law before making any decisions based on the content provided.