uk tourist length

• Immigration

UK Tourist Visa Durations: How Long Can You Stay and Rules to Know

If you're wondering about the duration of your stay in the uk on a tourist visa, the uk tourist visa length rules determine how long you can stay..

Key Takeaways:

• A UK tourist visa allows individuals to travel to the UK for leisure, business, or other short-term purposes.
• The standard duration of stay on a UK tourist visa is six months, but longer or shorter durations may apply.
• It is important to adhere to the visa rules, leave the UK before the visa expires, and avoid overstaying.

Understanding the Duration of Your UK Tourist Visa Stay

Visiting the United Kingdom can be a rich and exciting experience, but before packing your bags, it’s crucial to know the duration of stay permitted under a UK tourist visa. This seemingly simple aspect can have a significant impact on your travel plans and activities.

What Is a UK Tourist Visa?

A UK tourist visa, often referred to as a Standard Visitor visa, allows individuals to travel to the UK for leisure, business, or other short-term purposes that do not involve work or study. Obtaining this visa is a process that requires meeting certain eligibility criteria and providing necessary documentation.

Determining the Length of Stay on a UK Tourist Visa

The UK tourist visa length rules specify that visitors can generally stay for up to six months on a single trip. However, there are instances where a longer or shorter duration might apply, and it’s essential to adhere to the rules to avoid complications during your trip or with future UK visa applications.

Short-Term UK Tourist Visas

Also of Interest:

I-140 renewal after job transfer: is it necessary, eb-3 green card: your top questions answered.

These are typically granted for six months, suitable for travelers planing a brief visit for tourism, visiting family and friends, or attending short business appointments or academic conferences.

Longer-Term Visitor Visas

For those who need to visit the UK more frequently over a longer period, the UK offers long-term Standard Visitor visas. These visas can be valid for 1, 2, 5, or even 10 years. However, the key point to remember is that even on a long-term tourist visa, the maximum length of each stay is still capped at six months per visit.

Are Extensions Possible on a UK Tourist Visa?

Extensions on a UK tourist visa are possible but not guaranteed. They are granted only in exceptional circumstances, such as a sudden illness that prevents travel. To request an extension, you must apply before your current visa expires and have a convincing reason.

Critical Points for UK Tourist Visa Applicants and Holders

• When applying for a UK tourist visa, ensure that you understand the given duration of your visa and that it aligns with your travel plans.
• It’s necessary to leave the UK on or before your visa’s expiry date, unless you’ve successfully applied for an extension.
• Overstaying can affect your immigration record and impact future visa applications not just to the UK but to other countries as well.

Planning Your Trip According to the UK Tourist Visa Length Rules

It’s wise to plan your trip within the duration of UK tourist visa stay . Here’s a checklist to help you stay compliant:

• Familiarize yourself with visa dates upon receipt and plan your departure well before the expiry.
• Consider the six-month rule for each visit if you have a long-term visa.
• Keep track of your travel history as repeated long stays in the UK could raise concerns about your intention to return to your home country.

Where to Find Official Information

For the most current and detailed information regarding UK tourist visas, it’s best to refer directly to the official UK government immigration resources. The UK Visa and Immigration website should be your primary source. Here you can find specifics on application processes, required documents, fees, and other vital details.

Your travel joy to the UK shouldn’t be dampened by visa issues. Understanding the maximum duration of UK tourist visa stay is crucial for a hassle-free visit. Always check the latest immigration laws, as visa rules can change. By complying with the visa length rules and planning your trip accordingly, you’re setting yourself up for an exciting and undisturbed UK adventure.

Remember, should you have any questions or require further assistance with your UK tourist visa application or travel plans, consulting with an expert in immigration law or your local visa application center is advised. Safe travels and enjoy your time in the UK!

Expert Insights

Did You Know?

• Immigration Trends in the UK: The United Kingdom has a long history of immigration. In recent years, the top countries of origin for immigrants to the UK include India, Poland, Pakistan, Romania, and Bangladesh. The diversity of cultures and nationalities adds to the richness of the UK’s social fabric.

Refugee Protection: The UK has a strong commitment to providing refugee protection. As of 2020, the UK was among the top ten countries globally in terms of the number of refugees resettled. The country offers a safe haven to individuals fleeing persecution, conflict, and violence.

Language Diversity: English is the official language of the UK, but the country is home to a wide range of languages spoken by immigrant communities. Over 300 languages are spoken in London alone, making it one of the most linguistically diverse cities in the world.

The Windrush Generation: The Windrush generation refers to individuals who arrived in the UK from the Caribbean between 1948 and 1971. They were invited to rebuild Britain after World War II but faced significant challenges and discrimination. The term “Windrush” comes from the ship HMT Empire Windrush, which brought the first significant group of Caribbean immigrants to the UK.

Influence of Immigrant Cuisine: Immigrants have made a significant impact on British cuisine, introducing a diverse range of flavors and dishes. For example, Indian cuisine has become one of the most popular and beloved food choices in the UK, with favorites like curry and tikka masala gaining widespread popularity.

Contribution to the Economy: Immigrants play a crucial role in the UK’s economy. They contribute to the labor market, fill skill shortages, start businesses, and pay taxes. Studies have shown that immigrants have a positive net fiscal impact, contributing more in taxes than they receive in benefits.

Family Reunification: Family reunification is an essential aspect of immigration policy in the UK. British citizens and settled residents can sponsor their immediate family members to join them in the country, promoting family unity and support.

The Points-Based System: The UK introduced a points-based immigration system in 2021. Under this system, applicants are awarded points based on various criteria such as skills, qualifications, and salary. This approach aims to attract high-skilled workers who can contribute to the UK’s economic growth.

Citizenship Testing: To become a British citizen, immigrants must pass the Life in the UK test. This test assesses knowledge of British history, culture, and values. It is a way to ensure that individuals seeking citizenship have a good understanding of the country they want to call home.

Impact of Brexit: The UK’s decision to leave the European Union, known as Brexit, has had significant implications for immigration. As of January 1, 2021, free movement between the UK and EU countries ended, and a new immigration system was implemented. This change marked a significant shift in the UK’s immigration policies and procedures.

Learn today

Glossary or Definitions: Understanding the Duration of Your UK Tourist Visa Stay

• UK Tourist Visa: Also known as a Standard Visitor visa, this visa allows individuals to travel to the United Kingdom for leisure, business, or other short-term purposes that do not involve work or study. It has specific eligibility criteria and documentation requirements.

UK tourist visa length rules: These rules specify the duration of stay permitted under a UK tourist visa. Generally, visitors can stay for up to six months on a single trip. However, there may be exceptions where a longer or shorter duration applies.

Short-Term UK Tourist Visas: These visas are typically granted for six months and are suitable for travelers planning a brief visit for tourism, visiting family and friends, or attending short business appointments or academic conferences.

Longer-Term Visitor Visas: For individuals who need to visit the UK more frequently over a longer period, the UK offers long-term Standard Visitor visas. These visas can be valid for 1, 2, 5, or even 10 years. However, the maximum length of each stay is still capped at six months per visit.

Extensions on UK Tourist Visa: Extensions on a UK tourist visa are possible but not guaranteed. They are granted only in exceptional circumstances, such as a sudden illness that prevents travel. To request an extension, one must apply before the current visa expires and have a convincing reason.

Duration of UK Tourist Visa Stay: This refers to the maximum period of time that a visitor can stay in the UK under a tourist visa. It is crucial to understand and adhere to this duration to avoid complications during the trip or with future visa applications.

Immigration Record: An individual’s immigration record refers to a detailed history of their interactions, applications, and compliance with immigration laws in a particular country. Overstaying on a visa can negatively impact this record and future visa applications to not just the UK but other countries as well.

Visa Expiry Date: The visa expiry date is the date on which a visa is no longer valid. It is essential to leave the UK on or before this date, unless an extension has been successfully applied for.

Compliance: Compliance refers to adhering to and following the regulations, rules, and requirements set by immigration authorities. It is important for visa applicants and holders to comply with the duration of stay permitted under a UK tourist visa to avoid any legal issues.

Visa Application Center: A visa application center is a facility where individuals can submit their visa applications, provide supporting documents, and provide biometric information. Consulting with a visa application center can be helpful for guidance and assistance regarding UK tourist visa applications and travel plans.

So there you have it, my friend! Understanding the ins and outs of your UK tourist visa stay is like mastering a boss level in a game. But don’t worry, with the help of visaverge.com, you’ll have all the cheats and tips you need to navigate the visa world with ease. So go on, explore more on visaverge.com and level up your visa knowledge! Happy travels!

FAQ’s to know:

1. How long can you stay in the UK on a tourist visa?

The UK tourist visa generally allows visitors to stay for up to six months on a single trip. However, it’s important to note that there are instances where a longer or shorter duration might apply. It’s crucial to adhere to the rules and ensure that you understand the given duration of your visa to avoid complications during your trip or with future UK visa applications.

2. Can you extend your stay on a UK tourist visa?

Extensions on a UK tourist visa are possible but not guaranteed. They are granted only in exceptional circumstances, such as a sudden illness that prevents travel. To request an extension, you must apply before your current visa expires and have a convincing reason. It’s important to plan your trip within the duration of your UK tourist visa stay and leave the UK on or before your visa’s expiry date, unless you’ve successfully applied for an extension.

3. Can you apply for a long-term UK tourist visa?

Yes, the UK offers long-term Standard Visitor visas for those who need to visit the country more frequently over a longer period. These visas can be valid for 1, 2, 5, or even 10 years. However, it’s essential to note that even on a long-term tourist visa, the maximum length of each stay is still capped at six months per visit. It’s important to plan your trips accordingly and ensure you comply with the visa length rules.

What did you learn? Answer below to know:

• True or False: On a UK tourist visa, visitors can generally stay for up to six months on a single trip.
• What are the options for longer stays in the UK for frequent visitors? a) Multiple entry visas b) Extensions on the tourist visa c) Study visas d) None of the above
• What should you do if you wish to stay in the UK beyond the expiry date of your tourist visa? a) Apply for an extension before the current visa expires b) Leave the UK and reapply for a new tourist visa c) Overstay until granted an extension d) None of the above

Verging Today

The Dark Side of Desi Consultancies in the USA

Saudi Arabia Announces Umrah Visa Expiry Date for Pilgrims

Indian Graduate Students Caught Shoplifting in ShopRite U.S.

U.S. Visa Invitation Letter Guide with Sample Letters

How NRIs Can Vote in 2024 Lok Sabha Elections: Your Guide to NRI Voting Rights

Sign in to your account

Username or Email Address

Remember Me

Select language

What are you looking for, see things differently, welcome to britain.

Discover inventive new experiences and captivating stories in 2024, brought together with a dose of British flair. From exploring film settings and pioneering cultural spaces to countryside trails and relaxing wellness retreats, it’s all happening on our shores and you’re invited!

Join immersive exhibitions as the National Gallery celebrates a landmark anniversary or get a taste for chocolate as Birmingham’s Cadbury World also marks its 200th birthday. Venture off the beaten track for new coastal adventures, exploring new trails and walking routes, or take in sporting action as the world’s best compete in everything from athletics to the Premier League.

Whether it’s getting a feel for our vibrant cultural cities, embarking on a coastal adventure, or discovering locations made famous by film and TV, it’s time to experience Britain differently.

VisitBritain/Helena Bradbury

Explore different

VisitBritain/Kieran Duncan

Glen Coe, Scotland

Spilling the tea on GB

We’re spilling the tea on the hottest experiences – and it’s not just a good old brew that we’re mad about.

Cardiff, Wales

Key sporting moments in 2024

Grab your tickets, or a spot by a screen, and join the atmosphere of brilliant British sport.

Day trips from London

Britain packs a punch when it comes to the eclectic range of destinations within close proximity to London.

VisitBritain/Daniel Struthers

Parc national de Sowdonia (Eryri), Pays de Galles

How to see Britain differently

From gastronomic adventures to eco-friendly stays, there’s always more to explore on Britain’s shores.

VisitBritain - The official tourism website of Great Britain

Providing you with inspirational activities and experiences, from those in the know.

Your guidance and information about travelling to Great Britain and Northern Ireland.

Helping the travel industry showcase the best of Britain.

Cultural hotspots

An unmissable destination for travellers, London is a melting pot of history, culture and green spaces.

VisitBritain/Hazel Parreno

From palaces to cobbled alleys, and a dormant volcano, this city is a real show-stopper.

VisitBritain/Andrew Pickett

World-class football and a music scene that brought Oasis to centre stage – there’s lots to love about Manchester.

VisitBritain/Manchester Craft Beer Festival

A quirky seaside city filled with diverse cuisine, vintage shopping and adrenaline fuelled adventure.

VisitBritain/i360

From The Beatles to Frankie Goes to Hollywood, Liverpool is a UNESCO City of Music with seriously cool credentials.

Oh Me Oh My

Cool creative Bristol is a must-see for art, culture and action-packed adventure.

VisitBritain/Rod Edwards

Step into a land of castles, world-renowned rugby and a whole host of myths and legends.

VisitBritain/Ben Selway

Pushing the boundaries of art and culture and a heart that beats through its people.

VisitBritain/Tommy Ga-Ken Wan

An industrial hub with a vibrant, creative heart and a whole host of quirky adventures.

West Midlands Growth Company

Newcastle upon Tyne

Linked by no fewer than seven bridges, it's one vibrant place to visit.

Rich Kenworthy

Newcastle, England

A hotbed for shopping and the arts, you’ll find lots to explore in Leeds.

VisitBritain/Thomas Heaton

Packed with lively pubs, an eclectic food scene and a myriad of immersive experiences.

Tourism Northern Ireland

Discover annual events

James Bridle

Celebrate in Britain

Find out what’s happening across the nations with our round-up of annual events.

Planning a trip? We're here to help

Your trip to england is just around the corner.

Discover the land of Big Ben, Banksy and bangers and mash. From its bustling cities to its blooming beautiful gardens, it doesn’t disappoint.

Discover Great Britain’s northern reaches

Imagine a country where ancient castles guard mysterious lochs and emerald glens, and where the local spirit is as warm as the welcome.

Discover a land of adventure and mythical creatures

Delve into a world of dragons, renowned choirs, championship rugby, and some of the most spellbinding scenery Britain has to offer.

Your trip to Northern Ireland has never looked more magical

Get swept up in a world of ancient myths and modern-day legends, from the Giant’s Causeway and Game of Thrones to the vibrant buzz of Belfast.

Follow us on Instagram

Winter is here! Check out the winter wonderlands at these 5 amazing winter destinations in Montana

• Travel Destinations

How Long Is A Tourist Visa In UK

Published: November 7, 2023

Modified: December 28, 2023

by Donella Newton

• Plan Your Trip

Introduction

Planning a trip to the United Kingdom? One important aspect to consider is the duration of your stay. For travelers from most countries, a tourist visa is required to enter and explore the UK. Understanding the validity period of a UK tourist visa is essential for a smooth and hassle-free journey.

A tourist visa is a temporary visa that allows individuals to visit a country for leisure, tourism, or other non-business purposes. It is typically issued for a specific duration, after which the visitor is expected to leave the country. The validity period of a tourist visa determines the length of time you are permitted to stay in the UK as a tourist.

In the following sections, we will delve into the basic information about UK tourist visas, including the validity period, the application process, and possibilities for extension. Whether you’re planning a short vacation or a long-term exploration, this guide will provide you with the necessary knowledge to navigate the intricacies of UK tourist visas.

Understanding Tourist Visas

Before delving into the specifics of UK tourist visas, it’s important to have a basic understanding of what a tourist visa is and its purpose. A tourist visa is a type of travel document that allows foreign nationals to visit a country for a temporary period, typically for the purpose of leisure, sightseeing, or visiting friends and family.

Unlike work or study visas, which are issued for specific purposes and require additional documentation, a tourist visa is relatively straightforward to obtain. It is designed for individuals who wish to explore the cultural, historical, and natural wonders of a country without engaging in any paid employment or long-term educational pursuits.

Tourist visas are usually granted for a fixed period, ranging from a few days to several months, depending on the country’s immigration policies and the reciprocity agreements between nations. It’s essential to thoroughly research the specific requirements and validity periods for tourist visas of your intended destination, including the United Kingdom.

While tourist visas are generally easy to obtain, it’s crucial to comply with the immigration rules and regulations of the country you plan to visit. Failure to do so may result in denied entry, deportation, or other legal consequences.

It’s worth noting that tourist visas typically have restrictions and limitations. For instance, they usually prohibit engaging in any form of employment, studying, or seeking medical treatment. It’s important to respect and adhere to these conditions to ensure a positive and lawful travel experience.

Now that we have a foundation of understanding regarding tourist visas let’s dive into the specifics of UK tourist visas and the validity periods associated with them.

The Basics of UK Tourist Visas

If you’re considering a trip to the United Kingdom for tourism purposes, understanding the basics of UK tourist visas is essential. The UK offers tourist visas to individuals who wish to explore its vibrant cities, picturesque countryside, and rich historical sites. Here are the key points you need to know:

1. Standard Visitor Visa: The most common type of tourist visa for the UK is the Standard Visitor Visa. It allows individuals to visit the UK for up to 6 months for tourism, visiting friends and family, or engaging in certain business activities.

2. Multiple Entry: The Standard Visitor Visa usually allows for multiple entries within its validity period. This means you can leave and re-enter the UK multiple times during your authorized stay.

3. Validity Period: The validity period varies depending on the individual circumstances and purpose of your visit. Generally, a tourist visa is valid for up to 6 months, but it can be shorter or longer depending on factors such as nationality, previous travel history, and the discretion of the immigration officer.

4. Visa Expiry Date: The visa will clearly state its expiry date, which indicates the last day on which you are allowed to enter the UK.

5. Duration of Stay: The duration of stay refers to the maximum length of time you are permitted to remain in the UK during each visit. It is usually determined by the immigration officer at the port of entry and can vary based on individual circumstances.

6. Prohibited Activities: While on a UK tourist visa, you are not allowed to engage in employment or any form of paid work, including freelance and remote work. Studying for more than 30 days or receiving medical treatment is also prohibited.

7. Reapplication: If you wish to extend your stay in the UK beyond the initial visa validity period, you need to apply for an extension or switch to another visa category before your current visa expires. You cannot extend or switch to a different visa within the UK on the basis of a tourist visa.

It’s important to consult the official UK government website or seek professional advice to obtain accurate and up-to-date information on tourist visas for the UK. Understanding the basics of UK tourist visas will guide you in planning your trip and ensure compliance with immigration regulations for a smooth and enjoyable visit to the UK.

Validity Period of a UK Tourist Visa

The validity period of a UK tourist visa is the duration during which it is considered valid for entry into the country. It is essential to understand the validity period to ensure that your visa is still valid when you arrive in the UK. Here are some key points to consider:

1. Standard Validity: The standard validity period for a UK tourist visa is up to 6 months. This means you are allowed to stay in the UK for a maximum of 6 months from your date of entry.

2. Shorter Validity: In some cases, a tourist visa may have a shorter validity period. This could be due to various factors, including your nationality, travel history, and the specific circumstances of your visit.

3. Visa Expiry Date: The visa will clearly state its expiry date, which indicates the last day on which you are allowed to enter the UK. It is crucial to ensure that your visa is still valid on the day you plan to arrive in the country.

4. Duration of Stay: The duration of stay refers to the maximum amount of time you are permitted to remain in the UK during each visit. Although the validity period of a tourist visa is usually up to 6 months, the immigration officer at the port of entry has the authority to determine the specific duration of each individual visit.

5. Multiple Entry: The Standard Visitor Visa for the UK often allows for multiple entries within its validity period. This means you can leave and re-enter the UK multiple times during the authorized duration of your visa.

6. Overstaying: It is essential to adhere to the validity period and duration of stay specified on your visa. Overstaying beyond the permitted time can have serious consequences, including being banned from re-entering the UK in the future.

7. Extension Possibilities: If you wish to stay in the UK for a longer period than your initial visa allows, you may be able to apply for an extension or switch to a different visa category. However, it is important to note that you cannot extend or switch within the UK on the basis of a tourist visa.

It is important to plan your trip accordingly and ensure that your UK tourist visa’s validity period aligns with your intended travel dates. Adhering to the specified duration of stay and complying with all immigration regulations will help ensure a smooth and trouble-free visit to the UK.

Applying for a UK Tourist Visa

If you’re planning to visit the United Kingdom for tourism purposes, it’s essential to go through the process of applying for a tourist visa. Here are the key steps to follow when applying for a UK tourist visa:

1. Eligibility Check: Before starting the application process, ensure that you are eligible for a UK tourist visa. Check the official UK government website or consult with a professional immigration advisor to understand the specific requirements for your nationality.

2. Online Application: Start the application process by completing the online visa application form. Provide accurate and comprehensive information about yourself, including personal details, travel plans, and the purpose of your visit.

3. Supporting Documents: Gather the required supporting documents to submit along with your application. This may include proof of accommodation, travel itinerary, financial stability, and evidence of ties to your home country (such as employment, property ownership, or family commitments).

4. Biometrics Appointment: Schedule a biometrics appointment at a designated visa application center. During this appointment, your fingerprints and photograph will be taken as part of the visa application process.

5. Pay Fees: Pay the applicable visa fees, which vary depending on the duration of your intended stay and the visa processing options available to you. Ensure that you have the necessary funds to cover the fees before submitting your application.

6. Submit Application: After completing the online application form, attaching the supporting documents, and paying the fees, submit your application online. You will receive a confirmation email with a reference number and instructions on what to do next.

7. Processing Time: The processing time for UK tourist visas can vary depending on various factors such as the volume of applications and the level of scrutiny required. It is advisable to apply well in advance of your intended travel dates to allow sufficient time for processing.

8. Passport Return: Once a decision has been made on your visa application, you can collect your passport from the visa application center or have it returned to you by courier, depending on the option you selected during the application process.

It is important to note that the application process may vary slightly depending on your specific circumstances and the requirements of your home country. It is always recommended to consult the official UK government website or seek advice from an immigration professional to ensure that you have the most up-to-date and accurate information when applying for a UK tourist visa.

Extending a UK Tourist Visa

If you find yourself wanting to extend your stay in the United Kingdom beyond the initial validity period of your tourist visa, there are options available for extending your visa. Here are some key points to consider when it comes to extending a UK tourist visa:

1. Eligibility: Not all tourists may be eligible to extend their UK tourist visa. Generally, the UK government expects individuals to return to their home country at the end of their authorized stay. However, in special circumstances, such as unforeseen events or exceptional reasons, extensions may be granted.

2. Reasons for Extension: Common reasons for extending a UK tourist visa include medical treatment, unforeseen emergencies, or compassionate grounds. It is essential to provide evidence supporting your reasons for extension.

3. Application Process: To extend your UK tourist visa, you need to submit an application to the UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI). The application process may include filling out forms, providing necessary documents, and paying the required fees.

4. Timing: It is advisable to initiate the extension process well before your current visa expires. The UKVI may take some time to process the extension application, and you should not overstay your current visa while awaiting a decision.

5. Financial Requirements: You may be required to provide evidence of sufficient funds to support yourself during the extended stay, as well as proof of healthcare coverage or arrangements for medical treatment.

6. Immigration Rules: Take note of any specific immigration rules that apply to extending a UK tourist visa. Familiarize yourself with the requirements and obligations you must meet to qualify for an extension.

7. Professional Assistance: If you are unsure about the extension process or require guidance, consider seeking professional assistance from an immigration advisor or lawyer who specializes in UK visas. They can provide you with accurate advice and help navigate the complexities of the process.

It is important to remember that extending a UK tourist visa is not guaranteed, and the decision rests solely with the UKVI. It is always recommended to consult the official UK government website or seek professional advice to obtain the most up-to-date and accurate information regarding extending a UK tourist visa.

By following the appropriate procedures and providing compelling reasons, you may be able to extend your stay and continue exploring all that the United Kingdom has to offer.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How long does it take to process a UK tourist visa?

The processing time for a UK tourist visa can vary depending on various factors, including the volume of applications and individual circumstances. It is advisable to apply well in advance of your intended travel dates to allow sufficient time for processing, typically between a few weeks to a few months.

2. Can I work or study on a UK tourist visa?

No, a UK tourist visa does not permit you to work or study in the country. Tourist visas are specifically for leisure, tourism, and visiting friends and family. Engaging in any form of employment or studying for more than 30 days is prohibited.

3. Can I travel to other countries in Europe with a UK tourist visa?

No, a UK tourist visa only allows you to visit and stay in the United Kingdom. If you intend to travel to other countries in Europe, you will need to check their specific visa requirements and apply for separate visas accordingly. The UK is no longer part of the European Union, so be sure to understand the visa regulations for each country you plan to visit.

4. Can I apply for a UK tourist visa while already in the UK?

No, you must apply for a UK tourist visa from outside the UK. You cannot apply for or switch to a different visa category within the UK on the basis of a tourist visa.

5. Can I extend my UK tourist visa multiple times?

Typically, UK tourist visas can only be extended in exceptional circumstances, such as medical emergencies or unforeseen events. You should not rely on multiple extensions and should plan your trip accordingly within the initial validity period of your visa.

6. Do I need travel insurance for a UK tourist visa?

While travel insurance is not a mandatory requirement for a UK tourist visa, it is highly recommended. Travel insurance can provide coverage for medical emergencies, trip cancellations or disruptions, and loss or theft of belongings. It is a smart investment to protect yourself and your travel plans.

Remember, these are general answers to frequently asked questions about UK tourist visas. It is always advisable to check the official UK government website or consult with an immigration professional for the most accurate and up-to-date information based on your specific circumstances.

Understanding the validity period and other aspects of a UK tourist visa is crucial when planning a trip to the United Kingdom. By familiarizing yourself with the basics of UK tourist visas, including the application process, validity period, and possibilities for extension, you can ensure a smooth and enjoyable stay in the country.

Remember that the validity period of a UK tourist visa typically ranges from a few days to 6 months, depending on various factors. It is essential to check the specific requirements for your nationality and plan your trip accordingly. Be sure to apply for a visa well in advance to allow sufficient processing time.

Once you have obtained your UK tourist visa, be mindful of the duration of stay permitted and any restrictions associated with the visa. Respect the immigration rules and regulations to avoid any legal issues during your visit.

If you wish to extend your stay in the UK, be aware of the eligibility criteria and follow the necessary procedures for applying for an extension. Understand that extensions are typically granted only in exceptional circumstances, and it is advisable to plan your trip within the initial validity period of your visa.

Lastly, keep in mind that the information provided in this article is meant to serve as a general guide. It is always recommended to consult the official UK government website or seek professional advice from an immigration advisor to obtain the most accurate and current information based on your specific circumstances.

With proper knowledge and preparation, you can navigate the intricacies of UK tourist visas and embark on a memorable journey, exploring everything the United Kingdom has to offer.

• Privacy Overview
• Strictly Necessary Cookies

This website uses cookies so that we can provide you with the best user experience possible. Cookie information is stored in your browser and performs functions such as recognising you when you return to our website and helping our team to understand which sections of the website you find most interesting and useful.

Strictly Necessary Cookie should be enabled at all times so that we can save your preferences for cookie settings.

If you disable this cookie, we will not be able to save your preferences. This means that every time you visit this website you will need to enable or disable cookies again.

Updates, commentary, training and advice on immigration and asylum law

• 11th July 2023
• BY John Vassiliou

There is no 180 day a year rule for visitors to the UK

Page contents

The visit rules

Maximum stay per visit, what are the criteria for entry as a visitor, consequences of refusal.

One of the most common UK immigration myths is that there is a maximum permitted stay of 180 days in a year (or six months in 12 months) for UK visitors.  This myth has been propagated not just by migrants but also by advisers and even UK Border Force staff. In reality, there is no such rule.  

The widely held belief goes something like this: a visitor to the UK can spend no more than six months out of any 12 inside the UK, or alternatively no more than 180 days a year. For example, if the visitor spends three months in the UK between January and March, then comes back in the summer with a new visit visa, they only have three months “left” to spend in the UK for that year — even if the new visa grants leave for six months.

As with other myths, this tale varies in its telling, with some believing that the six-month cap runs from January to December and “resets” each calendar year, while others believe it is based on a rolling 12-month period. I’ve seen impressive Excel spreadsheets charting both, sometimes created at the insistence of an overzealous / bored immigration official.

Despite there being no such rule or requirement, adherents to this myth do tend to have less trouble being granted entry to the UK as visitors. That’s because staying in the UK for an extended period does increase the risk of being refused a visit visa for the next trip, as it could be an indication that the stay is not a genuine visit. It’s just that spending a total of 181 days a year in the UK is not really any more of a red flag than a total of 180. Now, before any visitors reading this gleefully rub their hands at the prospect of some magical loophole allowing them to overstay beyond the expiry date of their visa: you still have to adhere to your visa expiry date. What I am saying is that if you are granted leave to enter for six months, you can lawfully stay that full six months (subject to the health warning further down in this post). And if you are granted leave to enter for six months again not long after, you can stay for a further six months. Let’s take a look at what the actual rules are, explain why the 180 day rule is a myth — and why following it can still work to your advantage.

The visit rules are set out at Appendix V to the Immigration Rules. A visitor is defined as

a person who wants to visit the UK for a temporary period, (usually for up to 6 months), for purposes such as tourism, visiting friends or family, carrying out a business activity, or undertaking a short course of study.

Visitors from a country on the visa national list must obtain a visit visa in advance of travel to the UK. Non-visa national visitors (ie those from a country not on the visa national list) can normally just travel to the UK and seek entry as a visitor at the border on arrival.

I’ve been unable to find any trace of a “six months in 12” visitor rule anywhere in the Immigration Rules, past or present (and nor can Colin for what it’s worth!) Maybe someone longer in the tooth of greater wisdom and experience might recall a time when there was such a rule, but as far as I can tell, the myth may have been fuelled by conflation of immigration rules with tax rules. Spending over 183 days in the UK in any tax year may trigger UK tax residency. It may have also simply arisen from conflating other immigration rules and policies, as well as general prudence on the part of visitors.

There is, for example, a limit on the amount of time that can be spent in the UK on any one trip.

The maximum duration of stay in one standard visit is six months. For “visa nationals”, i.e. those who must obtain entry clearance prior to travelling to the UK, the six-month validity period will be stated on their entry clearance vignette in their passport. The holder can stay in the UK for as long as they like during that period, and even depart and re-enter, so long as they go by the expiry date. The mechanics behind this are set out at section 4 of the Immigration (Leave to Enter and Remain) Order 2000.

That six-month limit on any one stay applies even if someone holds a visit visa which is valid for much longer, such as a two-year, five-year or ten-year multi-entry visa. The visitor is permitted to stay in the UK for a maximum of six months from the date of any given entry (or up to the expiry date on the visa, whichever is soonest). Every time they arrive at the border, notwithstanding the fact that they hold entry clearance, the immigration officer will scrutinise them and determine whether or not to grant them entry in line with the visit visa rules.

Example Rodrigo is a Filipino national. Filipinos are visa nationals and must apply for a visit visa before coming to the UK. Rodrigo is granted a two-year multi-entry visit visa valid from 14 May 2020 to 14 May 2022. Rodrigo can come to the UK as many times as he likes during this time, as long as he does not stay for more than 6 months at a time and does not stay beyond 14 May 2022. Every time he enters, he will need to satisfy the immigration officer that his visit is consistent with the visit visa rules. If he does, he will be allowed to stay for up to six months (or until 14 May 2022, whichever is sooner). As long as he adheres to this, there is no cumulative maximum time per year that he is allowed to spend in the UK.

For “non-visa nationals” who don’t have to apply before they travel, such as Americans or Canadians, this six-month period will run from their date of entry to the UK.

Example Karen is a US national. US nationals are non-visa nationals and do not have to apply for a visit visa in advance; they can simply arrive and seek entry as a visitor at the UK border. Every time Karen arrives in the UK to visit, she will have to satisfy the immigration officer that she meets the visit visa rules. If she does, she will be granted leave to enter for six months every time. As long as she is granted leave to enter and does not stay for more than six months at a time, there is no cumulative maximum time per year that she is allowed to spend in the UK.

After the visit is over and the visitor has departed, there is nothing preventing them from applying again for a fresh visit visa, or seeking entry at the border again, subject to them continuing to meet the rules.

At the risk of being reductive, it’s all about genuineness of intentions. If you are interested in a deeper dive into the ins and outs of the visit visa rules, check out Colin’s and Nick’s post from 2017: What do immigration officers look for when assessing visit visa applications? .

The rules state: 

V 4.2. The applicant must satisfy the decision maker that they are a genuine visitor, which means the applicant: (a) will leave the UK at the end of their visit; and (b) will not live in the UK for extended periods through frequent or successive visits, or make the UK their main home; and (c) is genuinely seeking entry or stay for a purpose that is permitted under the Visitor route as set out in Appendix Visitor: Permitted Activities and at V 13.3; and (d) will not undertake any of the prohibited activities set out in V 4.4. to V 4.6; and (e) must have sufficient funds to cover all reasonable costs in relation to their visit without working or accessing public funds, including the cost of the return or onward journey, any costs relating to their dependants, and the cost of planned activities such as private medical treatment. The applicant must show that any funds they rely upon are held in a financial institution permitted under FIN 2.1 in Appendix Finance.

There are five elements to the genuineness question. None of those elements stipulates a maximum number of days that can be spent in the UK in one year. The closest thing to this is V 4.2(b): 

[the applicant] will not live in the UK for extended periods through frequent or successive visits, or make the UK their main home.

But there is no hard numerical cap on time in vs time out. The language of the rule is much woollier. This builds in flexibility for the officer to make an assessment on a case-by-case basis.

The Home Office has published further guidance on how a decision-maker should assess this aspect of a visit visa applicant’s case. Officials are directed to look at factors such as:

• previous immigration history 
• duration of previous visits and whether this was significantly longer than originally stated on their visa application or on arrival
• the cumulative period of time the applicant has visited the UK and their pattern of travel over the last 12-month period, and whether this amounts to ‘de-facto’ residence in the UK 
• whether, in the official’s judgment, the information and the reasons for the visit or for extending their stay are credible and correspond to their personal, family, social and economic background

The third bullet point suggests that cumulative time in the UK is relevant, but again, it doesn’t go so far as to impose a hard cap.

Crucially, the guidance document also seeks to dispel the six months in 12 months myth:

There is no specified maximum period which an individual can spend in the UK in any period such as ‘6 months in 12 months’. page 22 of 71, version 13, published 22 June 2023

There is a rider that goes back to the question of being a genuine visitor: “however, if it is clear from an applicant’s travel history that they are seeking to remain in the UK for extended periods or making the UK their home you should refuse their application”.

I have noticed a trend in visit visa application refusals where the second bullet point above comes into play. The decision-maker looks at the applicant’s past immigration history and checks if the person has previously visited the UK. If they have, the decision-maker then compares how long the applicant stated on their previous application form that they would stay in the UK against how long they actually stayed for.

For example, the person might have said they were only coming for two weeks but ultimately stayed the full permitted six months. Although they didn’t overstay their visa, the decision-maker will use the discrepancy between stated and actual duration of visit to infer dishonesty which will then be factored into the decision on the new visa. This may seem particularly unfair. I agree, it is, but it does warrant greater care over what is declared on application forms.

If a border officer determines that someone is not a genuine visitor, they can be refused entry and placed on the next flight home. There is no right of appeal against this decision; judicial review is the only remedy to prevent imminent departure. The same goes for advance refusals by officials based in visa application centres.

It is therefore vital that visitors satisfy the decision-maker that their intentions are pure, and this is where adherence to the mythical rule can work to one’s advantage. 

If a visitor spends more than six months per year in the UK, they are spending the majority of their time here. This could be one of many potential indicators that they are living in the UK for an extended period or making the UK their main home.

It will be up to the individual applicant to persuade the decision-maker that this is not the case and that they are still a genuine visitor. Broadly speaking, where visitors have managed to keep their time in the UK below six months in any year, they run less risk of being accused of making the UK their main home and thus have higher prospects of success in being granted entry.

John also discusses this article in a special episode of the Free Movement podcast .

This article was first published on 14 May 2020 and was updated on 11 July 2023.

John Vassiliou

Insert/edit link.

Enter the destination URL

Or link to existing content

We’re sorry, this site is currently experiencing technical difficulties. Please try again in a few moments. Exception: request blocked

Thanks for visiting nordicvisitor.com! For the very best browsing experience on our website, we urge you to upgrade to the most recent version of your browser . Some of our site features may not function properly on older versions.

• Travel Update
• Search Suggested Results View All Results
• EUR (€)
• GBP (£)
• Self-Drive i
• Privately Guided i
• Guided Small Groups i
• Northern Lights i
• Honeymoon & Romance i
• Ice & Snow Hotels i
• All Travel Styles
• Show all tours
• Best Sellers
• Special Offers
• Scandinavia
• Switzerland
• United Kingdom
• Book With Confidence i
• Why book with us i
• Booking Terms i
• Sustainability Policy i
• Manage Booking
• Privacy policy

Iceland Bíldshöfði 20 110 Reykjavík +354 578 20 80 View Map

Sweden Scotland View Details

Best Time to Visit the UK: Your Complete Guide

The UK is a must-see destination, with its blend of historical gems, vibrant cities and awe-inspiring landscapes. Made up of England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland, you’ll quickly notice that the United Kingdom has a diverse collection of cultures.

With each season bringing its own charm, it’s hard to choose when to visit. From the colourful blossom of spring to the orange glow of autumn, you’ll find the UK has year-round appeal.

When deciding the best time to visit the UK, it helps to think about what you want to do on your trip. Perhaps you’d like to venture into the countryside, with the warm sunlight shining down on the green, pristine landscape.

Instead, you might want to stroll cobbled streets in autumn, stopping by traditional British pubs to soak up the cosy atmosphere.

Keep reading to discover the best time of year to visit the UK. You’ll learn which months are quietest, what sort of weather to expect, and the special events you can attend throughout the year.

• Find your ideal tour of some of the top UK sights

Why you should visit the UK between April and October

Of course, you can lap up the rich history, varied landscapes and culture in the UK at any time of year. But the period between spring and autumn is the best time to travel to the UK.

Summer – June to August – is the peak time for visitors to the UK. However, there are plenty of reasons to come during the shoulder season too.

Compared to summer, spring and autumn in the UK are a little quieter, with fewer visitors around. You’ll also get to savour the beauty of iconic UK landmarks without the cold winter weather.

Read on for 3 reasons why April to October is the best time to go to the UK.

1. Longer days and warmer weather

Thanks to the UK’s northerly location, the day length varies throughout the year. You’ll experience the longest days between April and October, making it easier to see more each day.

The shortest day of the year – the winter solstice – is in mid-December, with 7.5 hours of daylight. From then, the average length of daylight increases daily until June.

The longest day of the year – the summer solstice – is in mid-June, with around 16.5 hours of daylight. The days are even longer up in Scotland, as it’s closer to the North Pole. Starting in March, there’s Daylight Savings Time. This is when the clocks go forward an hour, giving you an even later sunset.

The weather is also the best between April and October, with more sunny days and less rain.

• Learn more about Scottish weather throughout the year

2. Wildlife and nature

As the name suggests, springtime is when nature jumps into high gear. With both plant and animal life flourishing, it’s the ideal time of year to connect with the scenery.

In spring, you can admire the green rolling hills, dotted with lambs which fill the fields during lambing season. You could see pink cherry blossoms and yellow daffodils even in towns and cities, or woodlands and meadows brimming with bluebells and buttercups.

It’s a good time to visit England to see the blossoming grand parks, like Kew Gardens in London.

In summer, you’ll feel an excitable buzz in the air as locals and visitors make the most of the warm sunshine. Go for a stroll in the countryside to be treated to sights of wild rabbits, squirrels and birds.

Whereas in autumn you’ll step into an entirely different scene. As summer fades, the greenery bursts into bright oranges, reds and golds.

• Related: Best time to visit Scotland – Your complete guide

3. Plenty of festivals to take part in

Between April and October, you’ll see music festivals and fairs offering up delicious local food, produce and handmade crafts. The atmosphere is bubbly and communal, as locals and visitors gather to shop, socialise and enjoy the pleasant weather.

• Explore the Celtic nation and check out self-drive tours in Scotland
• Related: Top things to see and do in the UK

Keep reading to find out more about each of the seasons and learn which might be the perfect time of year for you.

In the UK, spring usually takes place from April to May.

What’s the weather like in spring?

In Scotland, the average temperature in April and May is between 7-13°C (45-55°F). England and Wales are slightly warmer, with the average temperature between 7-18°C (45-64°F).

How many daylight hours are there?

The average daylight hours are between 14-16, with longer days the further north you are.

In central Scotland and Northern Ireland, you’ll have around 16 hours of daylight, with the sun setting at around 9-9:30 PM.

In England and Wales, you’ll have around 14-15 hours of daylight, with the sun setting between 8:30-9 PM.

What’s spring like in the UK?

Spring in the UK is around mid-March to May. The winter chill in the air fades, trees blossom and the days become longer. The landscape comes alive in colour and the wildlife comes out of winter hibernation.

It’s worth bearing in mind that most of the UK’s bank holiday weekends are in spring. Although this means you’ll experience a lively atmosphere, it also might make popular attractions busier.

• Soaking up the sights on a self-drive tour of the UK
• Related: Why you should spend next spring or autumn in Scotland

Summer usually spans over June, July and August in the UK.

What’s the weather like in summer?

Summer is the warmest time of year in the UK. The average temperature ranges from 9-18°C (48-64°F).

Generally, you’ll experience hotter weather the further south you are in the UK.

The average maximum temperature in Scotland in July is between 15-17 °C (59-63°F), whereas in England it’s around 21°C (70°F).

You’ll be treated to long days with late sunsets in the UK throughout summer. However, it’s worth noting that the length of the day depends on what part of the UK you’re in.

In central Scotland in June, the sun rises at around 4:30 AM and sets at 10 PM. In London, the sun rises at around 4:30 AM and sets at 9 PM.

This means you’ll get between 16 and 18 hours of daylight in the UK during summer.

What’s summer like in the UK?

Summer is a good time to visit the UK and there’s an excitable buzz in the air. The coast is warm and inviting, and towns become hubs for relaxed, al fresco dining. Everyone is keen to make the most of the long, sunny days and enjoy the charms of the UK.

• Related: Best places to visit in the UK

Autumn tends to start in September and end in November.

What’s the weather like in autumn?

Autumn weather is similar to spring, with an average temperature between 8-15°C (46-59°F) in Scotland. And in London, the temperature is usually 13-20°C (55-68°F). The temperature gradually starts to drop, the leaves change colour and the days begin to shorten.

The day length is still long during autumn, with 8-11.5 hours of daylight in central Scotland. And in London, you’ll get between 8.5-12.5 hours of daylight per day. Daylight Savings Time finishes at the end of October and the clocks go back one hour. Although this makes the sun set earlier, it also means an earlier sunrise. 

What’s autumn like in the UK?

Autumn also falls into the quieter shoulder season. It’s a visually stunning time to visit the UK, as the countryside foliage turns orange and red.

You’ll get to see some of the most breathtaking scenery during autumn. For example, you could travel to England in September and October to see the Lake District ’s mountains (or “fells”) covered in bright golden trees.

• Related: Visiting the UK – Travel tips from a local expert

Stretching from November to March, the winter days are short and the air is cool and crisp.

What’s the weather like in winter?

The UK is relatively wet and chilly during winter, with some snowy showers in hilly areas. The average temperature in winter is from 2-7°C (36-45°F).

The days are significantly shorter during winter, with an average sunset time of 4 PM. The fewer hours of daylight mean you’ll have less time to explore the outdoors. But you can soak up the warm atmosphere in local pubs and restaurants instead.

What’s winter like in the UK?

The UK’s reputation for rain is well-known and this is especially true for winter.

Despite this, winter can be an enchanting time to visit the UK, with frost-coated trees, snowy hills and imposing castles. It’s also the quietest time of year, so you could explore top sights in a peaceful setting.

Some of the biggest events happen in the UK during winter. For example, you could visit one of the many Christmas markets in all major cities in the UK. Or you could attend some of the biggest celebrations, like Guy Fawkes Night (Bonfire Night), the London New Year’s Day Parade and St Patrick’s Day.

• Take a  winter tour in Scotland  and see the frosty landscape 
• Related: How to celebrate Christmas in Scotland

What’s the best time of year for festivals in the UK?

Between April and October, the UK has a lot more going on in terms of festivals and celebrations. Thanks to the warmer weather, outdoor events are hosted all across the UK.

1.   The RHS Chelsea Flower Show – May

May is a great time to visit London because you can attend the Chelsea Flower Show . Hosted every year since 1913 by the Royal Horticultural Society, you’ll see breathtaking floral displays and unusual garden designs.

The show attracts gardeners from all over the UK, giving them a rare opportunity to showcase their creative ideas and high-quality produce.

Plus, it’s a tradition that members of the royal family visit the show each year. So you might get lucky enough to see one of the British monarchs here.

Either way, you’ll certainly leave the show inspired, with some fresh ideas for your garden.

2.   Edinburgh Fringe Festival – August

Visit the Scottish capital during August to join the world’s largest performance art festival. For the entire month, Edinburgh hosts thousands of comedy, musical and dance performances.

You can spontaneously try out a few shows, or pre-book to schedule several per day for a jam-packed Edinburgh Fringe itinerary. Whichever way you plan your experience, get ready to immerse yourself in this bustling arts festival!

• Take a  summer tour in Scotland  and experience the festivities for yourself
• Related: 7 Best festivals & events in Scotland

3.   Highland Games – May to September

Between May and October, you can attend the Highland Games in Scotland. These events draw visitors from around the world.

For example, you could head to Peebles in the Scottish borders and join in traditional festivities. Think Highland dancing and of course some impressive field sports.

During the Highland Games, competitors showcase their physical strength. You’ll see events like the caber toss, where participants pick up and flip over a large wooden trunk. There’s also a thrilling game of tug of war and the hammer throw.

• Join in on the fesitivites on a guided small group tour of the UK
• Related: 10 Cool Scottish facts

Discover the UK

Fortunately, there’s no bad time to visit the UK. Each season brings with it different weather, landscapes and special celebrations. This means you can have an unforgettable trip regardless of when you visit.

If you’re keen to start planning your dream tour of the UK , Nordic Visitor will take care of it all for you. We’ll book your accommodation, local transport and excursions, meaning you can relax and look forward to your adventure.

Get in touch with one of our Edinburgh-based travel experts to begin curating your trip to the UK.

Hailing from Scotland, Emma has always pursued her love of adventure. With her trusty self-converted van, she roams Europe taking the roads less travelled to experience the natural beauty of each destination. When she’s not abroad, she fills her weekends going bouldering, cycling and hiking.

Find Emma on LinkedIn .

Getting there

We'd love to give you the same amazing travel experiences as you read about in our blog! To visit the destinations and attractions mentioned in this post - and to discover a few new highlights along the way - check out these recommended Nordic Visitor tours.

COMPLETE BRITAIN

• USD ($)
• CAD ($)
• AUD ($)

EXPRESS BRITAIN

Classic britain at leisure, related posts, 20 best places to visit in the uk.

Blogs , Destinations , Scotland , Guides , United Kingdom

Top 8 Things to See & Do in the UK

10 cool facts about england, visiting the uk: travel tips from a local expert.

• 02074940118
• [email protected]

Long Term Visitor Visa

Anne morris.

• 24 March 2024

IN THIS SECTION

If you are looking to visit the UK on multiple occasions over a number of years, you may want to apply for a UK long term visitor visa. Whilst this will not allow you to stay in the UK for more than 6 months at any one time, it will enable you to enjoy frequent visits over the course of several years, without having to re-apply for a visa each time you want to take another trip.

In this guide to the UK’s long term visitor visa, we look at the visa requirements and application process, as well as what is permitted – and not permitted – under this visa route.

What is the long term visitor visa UK?

The long term visitor visa is the permission given by UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI), the division of the Home Office responsible for the UK’s visa system, to be able to visit the UK for a prescribed period of time. This could be, for example, for the purposes of tourism and leisure, such as visiting friends and family, or taking regular holidays. It could also be to carry out a range of different business activities , such as attending meetings or conferences.

If you are a visa national , ie; a citizen of a country that does not qualify for visa-free travel to the UK, you will need to obtain a visitor visa in advance to obtain entry clearance before arriving at a UK port-of-entry. Even if you are a non-visa national, it can often be advisable to obtain a long term visa for multiple visits . Whilst this will not necessarily guarantee entry to the UK on each occasion, as you must still persuade border officials that you are a genuine visitor and the reason for each visit, it can help to ensure a smoother process.

What does the long term visitor visa allow?

The rules relating to visitor visas are set out under ‘Appendix V: Visitor’ of the UK’s Immigration Rules, including how long this visa will last. In most cases, you will not be permitted to stay in the UK for more than a maximum of 6 months.

However, where you are looking to visit the UK a number of times, for example, for the purposes of visiting friends and family, or taking several different business trips, you may be able to apply for a visitor visa with a validity period of either 2, 5 or 10 years. This means that you will be able to visit the UK multiple times, although each stay must not exceed the maximum length of stay endorsed on your visa, in most cases, a period of 6 months.

The UK long term visitor visa can therefore be ideal, for example, for parents whose adult children have settled in the UK, where they would like to regularly visit their children and grandchildren. It can also be well-suited to those who need to visit the UK regularly for the purposes of business meetings or attending conferences over the course of time.

Other activities permitted under the long term visitor route, as set out under ‘Appendix Visitor: Permitted Activities’ of the Immigration Rules, include doing some volunteer work for a registered charity for a period of up to 30 days, provided this is not the main reason for your visit to the UK. It can also include undertaking a short course of recreational study, again for up to 30 days and as long as this is incidental to the main reason for any UK trip.

What are you not allowed to do under a long term visitor visa UK?

When applying for a long term visitor visa, UKVI will always carefully consider the reason for wanting a visa over a prolonged period of time. The UKVI caseworker dealing with your application must be satisfied that you will leave the UK at the end of each trip. They must also be satisfied that you do not intend to use your visa to live in the UK for extended periods through either frequent or successive visits, or to make the UK your main home.

Equally, the long term visitor visa is not designed for those looking to undertake paid employment in the UK. If you are planning to work, look for work or start your own business, you will instead need to apply for a visa under one of the various work routes .

Importantly, as you will not be allowed to work whilst in the UK on a long term visitor visa, you must have sufficient funds to support yourself throughout your stay. This is because you will not be granted access to public funds, even though you cannot legally get a job.

UK long term visitor visa requirements

The eligibility requirements for visitor visas are again set out under Appendix V of the Immigration Rules. To be eligible for any subcategory of visitor visa, you must show that:

• you are genuinely seeking to visit the UK for a purpose permitted under the visitor rules
• you are able to support yourself for the entire duration of each stay
• you are able to pay for reasonable costs relating to each UK visit, without undertaking paid work or accessing public funds, and can cover each return or onward journey
• you will not undertake any prohibited activities
• you will leave the UK at the end of each visit
• you will not seek to reside in the UK for extended periods of time through either frequent or successive visits, nor will you make the UK your main home.

When it comes to long term visitor visas, and the risk that this can be used to live in the UK for extended periods of time, you will need to persuade UKVI that you have stable finances, as well as strong ties to your home country. Essentially, UKVI must be satisfied that you are a genuine visitor, with good reason to regularly visit the UK over either 2, 5 or 10 years.

How to apply for a long term visitor visa UK

To make an application for a long term visitor visa, you must apply online from outside the UK using the GOV.UK website on form ‘Apply for a UK visit visa’. You must pay the relevant fee, submit your biometric information at an overseas visa application centre, where required, and provide proof of your identity and nationality. You will also need to provide various documents in support, depending on the reason for your multiple visits.

The earliest you can apply for a long term visitor visa is 3 months before you travel to the UK, and you should get a decision from UKVI within 3 weeks of attending a visa application centre. However, it is currently taking up to 5 weeks for decisions to be made.

Long term visitor visa supporting documents

The type of documents you will need to support your application for a long term visitor visa will depend on the reason for your visits to the UK. However, in all cases, you will need to satisfy UKVI that your intentions are genuine and you intend to return home after each trip. This means that you will need to provide a passport or other valid travel ID, together with additional documentation to prove the purpose of your proposed trips to the UK.

Additionally, you must show that you have enough money to cover all reasonable costs in relation to your visits, and that any funds you rely upon are held in a regulated financial institution in relation to which the UKVI caseworker is able to make satisfactory verification checks as permitted under Appendix Finance of the Immigration Rules. For long term visitor visa applications, UKVI are looking for those with a stable income or sufficient wealth.

Importantly, as being granted a long term visitor visa does not guarantee entry to the UK, on your arrival at a port-of-entry you must also be in possession of sufficient documentation to persuade border officials that you are a genuine visitor, and that you are able to support yourself without undertaking work or accessing public funds during your stay.

How much is a long term visitor visa UK?

The cost of your visa will depend on how long you apply for. To apply for a standard single or multiple-entry visa lasting up to 6 months, the cost is £100. For a 2-year long term visitor visa the cost is £432 from 10 April 2024; for a 5-year long term visitor visa the cost is £670; and for a 10-year long term visitor visa the cost is £837. However, if you would like to expedite the time taken for UKVI to make a decision, there will be an additional fee for premium processing.

You may be able to get a decision from UKVI within as little as 5 working days using the priority service, at an additional cost of £250, or even by the end of the next working day using the super priority service, at a cost of £956. You will need to check with the visa centre at which you are making your application to see if these services are available.

If UKVI believe that you cannot meet all of the eligibility requirements for the duration of the visa applied for, you may be granted a shorter visa than that requested. If you are granted a shorter visa, you will not receive a partial refund of the application fee. Equally, if your application is refused, you will again not be entitled to a refund. Importantly, paying for one of the priority services does not guarantee a favourable outcome to your application for a long term visitor visa, nor the grant of a long term visa for the intended duration.

What happens if your long term visitor visa application is refused?

There are various reasons as to why your application may be refused. This could be because you fail to satisfy UKVI that you meet all of the requirements as a long term visitor for your intended purpose. UKVI must also be satisfied that you are a genuine visitor and that you intend to leave the UK after each trip. For example, if you are not able to show that you have stable finances and strong ties to your home country, an adverse inference may be drawn that you intend to work in the UK. Equally, if it is clear from any previous travel history that you are planning to make the UK your home, your application will be refused.

Additionally, you could fall for refusal under ‘Part 9: grounds for refusal’ of the Immigration Rules. In some cases, your application could be refused on mandatory grounds, whilst in others, this will be at the discretion of the UKVI caseworker deciding your application. For example, if you have been to prison for a criminal offence in the UK or overseas, where your sentence was for 12 months or more, your visa application ‘must’ be refused. In contrast, if you have been convicted of an offence for which you received a prison sentence of less than 12 months, or a non-custodial sentence, your application ‘may’ be refused.

If your application for a long term visitor visa is refused by UKVI, you will not be permitted to travel to the UK. In these circumstances, you should seek expert legal advice from an immigration specialist with a view to submitting a fresh application. It can be tricky to make a successful application following a refusal, but with a detailed explanation and proper evidence in support to address the reasons given for the refusal, it is possible.

Importantly, even if you are granted a long term visitor visa, this cannot be used as a means of living in the UK by spending 6 months, leaving and immediately returning, as this will breach the rule not to live in the UK for extended periods. Several long stays which reach the 6-month limit each time may arouse suspicion that your intentions are not genuine. In these circumstances, you may be refused entry. You also run the risk that your visitor visa will be cancelled altogether, presenting very real difficulties in applying for a new one.

Need assistance?

Travellers to the UK should note that even with a valid visitor visa in place, you may still be questioned at the UK border by immigration officials, to verify that you are a genuine visitor and will comply with the visitor visa rules. Where officials are concerned that you may stay longer than your visa date, or if your activities are prohibited under the visitor rules, you may be denied entry. For specialist UK visa and immigration advice , contact us.

Long term visitor visa FAQs

How do i get a uk long term tourist visa.

To make an application for a long term tourist visa, you must apply online from outside the UK. You must also pay the relevant fee, submit your biometric information, where required, and provide proof of your identity and nationality.

How much is a long term standard visitor visa UK?

For a 2-year long term standard visitor visa the cost is £432 from 10 April 2024; for a 5-year long term visitor visa the cost is £670; and for a 10-year visa the cost is £837.

How long visitor visa can stay in UK?

A standard visitor visa is typically for 6 months, although you can apply for a visa with a validity period of either 2, 5 or 10 years for regular visits of up to 6 months each time.

How much is a 2 year visitor visa UK?

The cost of applying for a 2 year long term visitor visa is £432 from 10 April 2024, although you can pay an additional fee to expedite the time it takes to get a decision.

Last updated: 24 March 2024

Founder and Managing Director Anne Morris is a fully qualified solicitor and trusted adviser to large corporates through to SMEs, providing strategic immigration and global mobility advice to support employers with UK operations to meet their workforce needs through corporate immigration.

She is a recognised by Legal 500 and Chambers as a legal expert and delivers Board-level advice on business migration and compliance risk management as well as overseeing the firm’s development of new client propositions and delivery of cost and time efficient processing of applications.

Anne is an active public speaker, immigration commentator , and immigration policy contributor and regularly hosts training sessions for employers and HR professionals

• Anne Morris https://www.davidsonmorris.com/author/anne/ Immigration & Societal Contributions
• Anne Morris https://www.davidsonmorris.com/author/anne/ A Guide to the Study Visa UK System
• Anne Morris https://www.davidsonmorris.com/author/anne/ The Principles of Immigration Sponsorship
• Anne Morris https://www.davidsonmorris.com/author/anne/ The UK Points Based System: A Guide

About DavidsonMorris

As employer solutions lawyers, DavidsonMorris offers a complete and cost-effective capability to meet employers’ needs across UK immigration and employment law, HR and global mobility .

Led by Anne Morris, one of the UK’s preeminent immigration lawyers, and with rankings in The Legal 500 and Chambers & Partners , we’re a multi-disciplinary team helping organisations to meet their people objectives, while reducing legal risk and nurturing workforce relations.

Contact DavidsonMorris

Sign up to our award winning newsletters, we're trusted, trending services.

DavidsonMorris Ltd t/a DavidsonMorris Solicitors is a company Registered in England & Wales No. 6183275

Regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority No. 542691

Registered Office: Level 30, The Leadenhall Building, 122 Leadenhall Street, London, EC3V 4AB

© Copyright 2024

Website design by Prof Services Limited . 

Featured on

• What is a visa?
• Electronic Visa (eVisa)
• Visa on Arrival
• Appointment Required Visa
• Invitation Letter
• Arrival Card
• Passport Renewal
• Project Kosmos: Meet the man with the world's most challenging travel schedule
• Australia Visa and ETA Requirements for US Citizens Explained
• Brazil eVisa for US Citizens
• India Tourist Visa for UK Citizens
• Possible B1/B2 Visa Questions During the Interview

Select Your Language

• Nederlandse
• 中文 (Zhōngwén), 汉语, 漢語

Select Your Currency

• AED United Arab Emirates Dirham
• AFN Afghan Afghani
• ALL Albanian Lek
• AMD Armenian Dram
• ANG Netherlands Antillean Guilder
• AOA Angolan Kwanza
• ARS Argentine Peso
• AUD Australian Dollar
• AWG Aruban Florin
• AZN Azerbaijani Manat
• BAM Bosnia-Herzegovina Convertible Mark
• BBD Barbadian Dollar
• BDT Bangladeshi Taka
• BGN Bulgarian Lev
• BIF Burundian Franc
• BMD Bermudan Dollar
• BND Brunei Dollar
• BOB Bolivian Boliviano
• BRL Brazilian Real
• BSD Bahamian Dollar
• BWP Botswanan Pula
• BZD Belize Dollar
• CAD Canadian Dollar
• CDF Congolese Franc
• CHF Swiss Franc
• CLP Chilean Peso
• CNY Chinese Yuan
• COP Colombian Peso
• CRC Costa Rican Colón
• CVE Cape Verdean Escudo
• CZK Czech Republic Koruna
• DJF Djiboutian Franc
• DKK Danish Krone
• DOP Dominican Peso
• DZD Algerian Dinar
• EGP Egyptian Pound
• ETB Ethiopian Birr
• FJD Fijian Dollar
• FKP Falkland Islands Pound
• GBP British Pound Sterling
• GEL Georgian Lari
• GIP Gibraltar Pound
• GMD Gambian Dalasi
• GNF Guinean Franc
• GTQ Guatemalan Quetzal
• GYD Guyanaese Dollar
• HKD Hong Kong Dollar
• HNL Honduran Lempira
• HTG Haitian Gourde
• HUF Hungarian Forint
• IDR Indonesian Rupiah
• ILS Israeli New Sheqel
• INR Indian Rupee
• ISK Icelandic Króna
• JMD Jamaican Dollar
• JPY Japanese Yen
• KES Kenyan Shilling
• KGS Kyrgystani Som
• KHR Cambodian Riel
• KMF Comorian Franc
• KRW South Korean Won
• KYD Cayman Islands Dollar
• KZT Kazakhstani Tenge
• LAK Laotian Kip
• LBP Lebanese Pound
• LKR Sri Lankan Rupee
• LRD Liberian Dollar
• LSL Lesotho Loti
• MAD Moroccan Dirham
• MDL Moldovan Leu
• MGA Malagasy Ariary
• MKD Macedonian Denar
• MNT Mongolian Tugrik
• MOP Macanese Pataca
• MUR Mauritian Rupee
• MVR Maldivian Rufiyaa
• MWK Malawian Kwacha
• MXN Mexican Peso
• MYR Malaysian Ringgit
• MZN Mozambican Metical
• NAD Namibian Dollar
• NGN Nigerian Naira
• NIO Nicaraguan Córdoba
• NOK Norwegian Krone
• NPR Nepalese Rupee
• NZD New Zealand Dollar
• OMR Omani Rial
• PAB Panamanian Balboa
• PEN Peruvian Nuevo Sol
• PGK Papua New Guinean Kina
• PHP Philippine Peso
• PKR Pakistani Rupee
• PLN Polish Zloty
• PYG Paraguayan Guarani
• QAR Qatari Rial
• RON Romanian Leu
• RSD Serbian Dinar
• RUB Russian Ruble
• RWF Rwandan Franc
• SAR Saudi Riyal
• SBD Solomon Islands Dollar
• SCR Seychellois Rupee
• SEK Swedish Krona
• SGD Singapore Dollar
• SHP Saint Helena Pound
• SLL Sierra Leonean Leone
• SOS Somali Shilling
• SRD Surinamese Dollar
• SVC Salvadoran Colón
• SZL Swazi Lilangeni
• THB Thai Baht
• TJS Tajikistani Somoni
• TOP Tongan Pa anga
• TRY Turkish Lira
• TTD Trinidad and Tobago Dollar
• TWD New Taiwan Dollar
• TZS Tanzanian Shilling
• UAH Ukrainian Hryvnia
• UGX Ugandan Shilling
• USD United States Dollar
• UYU Uruguayan Peso
• UZS Uzbekistan Som
• VND Vietnamese Dong
• VUV Vanuatu Vatu
• WST Samoan Tala
• XAF CFA Franc BEAC
• XCD East Caribbean Dollar
• XOF CFA Franc BCEAO
• XPF CFP Franc
• YER Yemeni Rial
• ZAR South African Rand
• ZMW Zambian Kwacha

We've updated our app!

Download it now

How long is the UK standard visitor visa valid for?

The UK standard visitor visa offers flexible options to help its applicants get a visa that suits their needs. Currently, the UK standard visa is offered in both short term and long term options. For the long-term standard visitor visa, there are three time frames offered:

• 10 year standard visitor visa
• 5 year standard visitor visa
• 2 year standard visitor visa.

Each of these options can be applied for provided that you are able to prove that you will only use the visa to visit the UK and that you plan to leave the UK after each visit. If you use the long term standard visa for the purposes of living in the UK, you may face a travel ban.

The validity of the standard visitor visa you receive will affect how long you are able to use the visa. You are able to use this visa for multiple entry so it is important to take note that each of your visits to the UK cannot exceed 180 days in Total .

In order to apply for the UK standard visitor visa, click here .

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Who can use the standard visitor visa.

The standard visitor visa can be used by tourists, academics, volunteers, business people, and more.

What Documents am I required to present with my application?

The application will ask you for various documents:

• Old travel documentation
• Proof of residence
• Proof of employment
• Proof of educational enrollment
• Business registration documents
• Proof of intended business activities
• Birth certificate
• A copy of the details page of your parent's or legal guardian's passport (if you're a minor)

What are the time restrictions placed on visits to the UK?

Currently, the United Kingdom allows a max stay of 180 days in Total for the standard visitor visa.

When Will My Standard Visitor Visa Expire?

Your visa will expire in 180 days after issued . Once your visa has expired, you will no longer be able to use it as a form of identification. Please apply for a new visa if yours has expired.

How Long Does Processing Take for the application?

The speed at which your visa application will be processed depends on the processing speed you choose:

• Standard: 30 days
• Rush: 30 days
• Super Rush: 30 days

How Much Does the Standard Visitor Visa Cost?

The cost of your visa will depend on the processing speed of your application:

• Standard: USD $328.99
• Rush: USD $329.99
• Super Rush: USD $333.99

Is Multiple Entry Allowed with the United Kingdom Standard Visitor Visa?

The current policy enforced by the UK allows Multiple Entry for the standard visitor visa.

Can I work while visiting the UK?

According to the UK's current policy for the standard visitor visa , you are not allowed to do paid or unpaid work while visiting the country.

Related Articles

My experience of London Gatwick Airport: What to expect on arrival

UK Work Visa: Eligibility, Types, and How to Apply

UK ETA for US citizens

• iVisa is NOT affiliated with any government agency. This site does not provide legal advice and we are not a law firm. None of our customer service representatives are lawyers and they also do not provide legal advice. We are a private, internet-based travel and immigration consultancy provider dedicated to helping individuals travel around the world. You may apply by yourself directly on the various government websites. The source of information: https://www.gov.uk/government/organisations/uk-visas-and-immigration

• Travel, Tourism & Hospitality ›

Leisure Travel

Industry-specific and extensively researched technical data (partially from exclusive partnerships). A paid subscription is required for full access.

• Number of outbound visits from the United Kingdom (UK) 2019, by length of stay

Number of visits abroad from the United Kingdom (UK) in 2019, by length of stay (in 1,000s)

• Immediate access to 1m+ statistics
• Incl. source references
• Download as PNG, PDF, XLS, PPT

Additional Information

Show sources information Show publisher information Use Ask Statista Research Service

United Kingdom

Other statistics on the topic

• Average number of vacations abroad taken per person in the UK 2011-2022
• Average length of stay on holidays abroad from the UK 2011-2022
• Leading holiday travel destinations visited by UK travelers 2019-2022
• Outbound holiday expenditure from the UK 2011-2022

To download this statistic in XLS format you need a Statista Account

To download this statistic in PNG format you need a Statista Account

To download this statistic in PDF format you need a Statista Account

To download this statistic in PPT format you need a Statista Account

As a Premium user you get access to the detailed source references and background information about this statistic.

As a Premium user you get access to background information and details about the release of this statistic.

As soon as this statistic is updated, you will immediately be notified via e-mail.

… to incorporate the statistic into your presentation at any time.

You need at least a Starter Account to use this feature.

• Immediate access to statistics, forecasts & reports
• Usage and publication rights
• Download in various formats

You only have access to basic statistics. This statistic is not included in your account.

• Instant access  to 1m statistics
• Download  in XLS, PDF & PNG format
• Detailed  references

Business Solutions including all features.

Statistics on " Outbound travel in the United Kingdom "

• Number of outbound tourist visits from the UK 2007-2022
• Monthly outbound tourist visits from the UK 2018-2023
• Outbound tourism expenditure in the UK 2007-2022
• Number of outbound overnight stays by UK residents 2011-2022
• Outbound tourism visits from the UK 2019-2022, by purpose
• Nights spent on outbound visits from the UK 2019, by purpose of trip
• Average length of stay on visits abroad from the UK 2019-2022, by purpose
• Number of holiday visits abroad from the UK 2011-2022
• Nights spent on holidays abroad from the United Kingdom (UK) 2011-2019
• Share of Britons taking a vacation 2016-2022, by destination
• Leading outbound travel destinations from the UK 2019-2022
• Leading outbound travel destinations from the UK 2019, by spending
• Leading holiday travel destinations visited by UK travelers 2019-2022, by spending
• Number of visits by UK residents to Europe 2011-2022
• Most visited European countries by UK residents 2019-2022
• United Kingdom (UK): number of outbound trips to Europe 2011-2019, by country
• United Kingdom (UK): number of outbound trips to the USA and Canada 2011-2019
• Number of visits abroad by UK residents 2022, by mode of travel
• Outbound visits from the United Kingdom (UK) 2019, by airport used
• United Kingdom (UK): overseas trips from leading London airports 2000-2019
• Number of outbound visits from the UK 2019 by seaport
• Number of UK tourist visits to Europe 2019 by airport used
• Visits to Europe by UK residents in 2019 by seaport and Channel Tunnel
• Number of UK tourist visits to North America 2019 by airport used
• Monthly spending on visits abroad by UK residents 2018-2023
• Average spend per trip abroad from the United Kingdom (UK) 2011-2019
• Average spend per day on trips abroad from the United Kingdom (UK) 2011-2019
• Average spend per day on trips abroad from the UK 2019, by purpose
• Outbound tourism spending from the UK 2019-2022, by purpose
• UK outbound travel: spending in Europe 2011-2019
• Travel spending by UK residents in Europe in 2019 by purpose of trip

Other statistics that may interest you Outbound travel in the United Kingdom

Outbound travel overview

• Premium Statistic Number of outbound tourist visits from the UK 2007-2022
• Premium Statistic Monthly outbound tourist visits from the UK 2018-2023
• Premium Statistic Outbound tourism expenditure in the UK 2007-2022
• Premium Statistic Number of outbound overnight stays by UK residents 2011-2022
• Premium Statistic Outbound tourism visits from the UK 2019-2022, by purpose
• Premium Statistic Nights spent on outbound visits from the UK 2019, by purpose of trip
• Premium Statistic Number of outbound visits from the United Kingdom (UK) 2019, by length of stay
• Premium Statistic Average length of stay on visits abroad from the UK 2019-2022, by purpose

Outbound vacation travel

• Premium Statistic Number of holiday visits abroad from the UK 2011-2022
• Premium Statistic Nights spent on holidays abroad from the United Kingdom (UK) 2011-2019
• Premium Statistic Average length of stay on holidays abroad from the UK 2011-2022
• Premium Statistic Share of Britons taking a vacation 2016-2022, by destination
• Premium Statistic Average number of vacations abroad taken per person in the UK 2011-2022

Destinations

• Premium Statistic Leading outbound travel destinations from the UK 2019-2022
• Premium Statistic Leading outbound travel destinations from the UK 2019, by spending
• Premium Statistic Leading holiday travel destinations visited by UK travelers 2019-2022
• Premium Statistic Leading holiday travel destinations visited by UK travelers 2019-2022, by spending
• Premium Statistic Number of visits by UK residents to Europe 2011-2022
• Premium Statistic Most visited European countries by UK residents 2019-2022
• Premium Statistic United Kingdom (UK): number of outbound trips to Europe 2011-2019, by country
• Premium Statistic United Kingdom (UK): number of outbound trips to the USA and Canada 2011-2019

Modes of travel

• Premium Statistic Number of visits abroad by UK residents 2022, by mode of travel
• Premium Statistic Outbound visits from the United Kingdom (UK) 2019, by airport used
• Premium Statistic United Kingdom (UK): overseas trips from leading London airports 2000-2019
• Premium Statistic Number of outbound visits from the UK 2019 by seaport
• Premium Statistic Number of UK tourist visits to Europe 2019 by airport used
• Premium Statistic Visits to Europe by UK residents in 2019 by seaport and Channel Tunnel
• Premium Statistic Number of UK tourist visits to North America 2019 by airport used

Spending abroad

• Premium Statistic Monthly spending on visits abroad by UK residents 2018-2023
• Premium Statistic Average spend per trip abroad from the United Kingdom (UK) 2011-2019
• Premium Statistic Average spend per day on trips abroad from the United Kingdom (UK) 2011-2019
• Premium Statistic Average spend per day on trips abroad from the UK 2019, by purpose
• Premium Statistic Outbound holiday expenditure from the UK 2011-2022
• Premium Statistic Outbound tourism spending from the UK 2019-2022, by purpose
• Premium Statistic UK outbound travel: spending in Europe 2011-2019
• Premium Statistic Travel spending by UK residents in Europe in 2019 by purpose of trip

Further related statistics

• Premium Statistic Number of outbound visits from the United Kingdom (UK) 2011-2019, by mode of travel
• Basic Statistic Number of outbound trips made from Portugal 2012-2018
• Premium Statistic Number of outbound tourist departures Egypt 2009-2014
• Premium Statistic Destinations with the biggest decline in tourist visits from the UK 2019
• Premium Statistic Preferred types of accommodation of Swedes when traveling abroad 2018
• Premium Statistic Destinations with the biggest growth in tourist visits from the UK 2019
• Premium Statistic Preferred months of Swedes for traveling abroad 2018
• Premium Statistic Number of UK visits to Turkey 2012-2022
• Premium Statistic Trips visiting friends or relatives abroad from the UK 2019, by length of stay
• Premium Statistic Outbound travel trips as percentage of households in Singapore 2013-2021
• Premium Statistic Outbound travel trips as percent of households in Sri Lanka 2013-2021
• Premium Statistic Outbound travel trips as percentage of households in Thailand 2013-2021
• Premium Statistic Outbound travel trips as percent of households in Bangladesh 2013-2021
• Premium Statistic Planning holiday destinations in Poland 2016-2023
• Premium Statistic Category of accommodation in exotic countries chosen by tourists from Poland 2020

Further Content: You might find this interesting as well

• Number of outbound visits from the United Kingdom (UK) 2011-2019, by mode of travel
• Number of outbound trips made from Portugal 2012-2018
• Number of outbound tourist departures Egypt 2009-2014
• Destinations with the biggest decline in tourist visits from the UK 2019
• Preferred types of accommodation of Swedes when traveling abroad 2018
• Destinations with the biggest growth in tourist visits from the UK 2019
• Preferred months of Swedes for traveling abroad 2018
• Number of UK visits to Turkey 2012-2022
• Trips visiting friends or relatives abroad from the UK 2019, by length of stay
• Outbound travel trips as percentage of households in Singapore 2013-2021
• Outbound travel trips as percent of households in Sri Lanka 2013-2021
• Outbound travel trips as percentage of households in Thailand 2013-2021
• Outbound travel trips as percent of households in Bangladesh 2013-2021
• Planning holiday destinations in Poland 2016-2023
• Category of accommodation in exotic countries chosen by tourists from Poland 2020

10,000 miles and 352 days later, a U.K. man reaches his goal of running the length of Africa

Sore and sandblasted but triumphant, runner Russ Cook reached the northernmost point of Africa on Sunday, almost a year after he set off from its southern tip on a quest to run the length of the continent.

Dozens of supporters gathered on a rocky outcrop beside the Mediterranean in northern Tunisia, cheering on the British charity fundraiser, who has run more than 10,000 miles across 16 countries in 352 days.

“I’m a little bit tired,” Cook said — likely an understatement.

In the course of his journey the 27-year-old endurance athlete from Worthing in southern England crossed jungle and desert, swerved conflict zones and was delayed by theft, injury and visa problems.

Cook — known on social media by his nickname, Hardest Geezer — set off on April 22, 2023 from Cape Agulhas in South Africa, the continent’s southernmost point. He hoped to complete the journey in 240 days, running the equivalent of more than a marathon every day.

He and his team had money, passports and equipment stolen in a gunpoint robbery in Angola. He was temporarily halted by back pain in Nigeria. And he was almost stopped in his tracks by the lack of a visa to enter Algeria, before diplomatic intervention from the Algerian embassy in Britain managed to secure the required documents.

Cook, who has spoken about how running helped him deal with his own mental health struggles, previously ran about 2,000 miles from Istanbul to Worthing in 68 days.

His African run has raised more than $870,000 for the Running Charity, which works with homeless young people, and Sandblast, a charity that helps displaced people from Western Sahara.

“It’s quite hard to put into words, 352 days on the road, long time without seeing family, my girlfriend,” Cook told Sky News as he started running Sunday, accompanied by supporters who’d come from far and wide to run the final stretch with him. “My body is in a lot of pain. But one more day, I’m not about to complain.”

Cook said he planned to celebrate with a party, where British band Soft Play was due to perform.

“We’re going to have strawberry daiquiris on the beach tonight,” he said. “It’s going to be unreal.”

The Associated Press

• Cast & crew
• User reviews

The Ministry of Ungentlemanly Warfare

The British military recruits a small group of highly skilled soldiers to strike against German forces behind enemy lines during World War II. The British military recruits a small group of highly skilled soldiers to strike against German forces behind enemy lines during World War II. The British military recruits a small group of highly skilled soldiers to strike against German forces behind enemy lines during World War II.

• Guy Ritchie
• Paul Tamasy
• Eric Johnson
• Henry Cavill
• Alan Ritchson
• Alex Pettyfer
• 5 User reviews
• 11 Critic reviews

• Gus March-Phillips

• Anders Lassen

• Geoffrey Appleyard

• Marjorie Stewart

• Brigadier Gubbins 'M'

• Henry Hayes

• Freddy Alvarez

• Heinrich Luhr

• Ian Fleming

• Viscount Algernon

• Captain Binea

• Kambili Kalu

• Admiral Pound

• Air Marshall Dowding

• All cast & crew
• Production, box office & more at IMDbPro

New and Upcoming Action Movies & Series

More like this

Did you know

• Trivia Based on the 2014 book "Churchill's Secret Warriors: The Explosive True Story of the Special Forces Desperadoes of WWII" by Damien Lewis.
• Goofs When Henry Cavill is talking to Cary Elwes about the mission, he reaches into a box of cigars. The cigars are Fuente OpusX, which weren't produced until 1995. Churchill also only smoked Cuban cigars, usually Romeo y Julieta.

Winston Churchill : If Hitler isn't playing by the Rules, then neither shall we?

• Connections Referenced in The DA'S Office: The DA's Office - Ep. 17 - 10K CELEBRATION! Netflix Good Times | Wonder Woman 3 | Godzilla x Kong (2024)

User reviews 5

• Apr 15, 2024
• How long will The Ministry of Ungentlemanly Warfare be? Powered by Alexa
• April 19, 2024 (United States)
• United States
• United Kingdom
• Your Lucky Day
• Antalya, Turkey
• Jerry Bruckheimer Films
• Lionsgate Films
• See more company credits at IMDbPro

Technical specs

• Runtime 2 hours
• Dolby Digital

Related news

Contribute to this page.

• See more gaps
• Learn more about contributing

More to explore

Recently viewed

• International

Trump hush money trial

Israel-Hamas war

SCOTUS arguments

Total solar eclipse 2024

By Ashley Strickland , Elise Hammond , Maureen Chowdhury , Antoinette Radford, Eric Zerkel and Aditi Sangal , CNN

In pictures: Watching the solar eclipse across North America

From CNN Digital’s Photo Team

Click here for more spectacular photos from today's eclipse.

Why eclipses create a "beautiful coincidence" on Earth

From CNN's Ashley Strickland

Americans are a little spoiled when it comes to eclipses. After all, we just experienced one that the majority of the country got to see, and it comes on the heels of the "Great American Eclipse" that tracked from Oregon to South Carolina in 2017.

But that doesn't often happen. And it won't again until the 2040s.

On average, an eclipse occurs in the same place every 375 years, said Dr. John Mulchaey, Carnegie Institution for Science’s deputy for science and the director and Crawford H. Greenewalt Chair of the Carnegie Observatories.

And we’re living at the right time to truly enjoy the sight of a total eclipse on Earth, he said.

While eclipses occur throughout the solar system, none are exactly like the ones experienced in our world.

The moon is about 400 times smaller than the sun, but the moon is also about 400 times closer to Earth than the sun is, creating a “beautiful coincidence” that results in eclipses when the three celestial bodies align, Mulchaey said.

This alignment is called syzygy, or when three objects line up in space.

In the distant past, the moon was much closer to Earth, which means totality likely didn’t appear as it does now. And within another 60 million years or so, the moon will be so far away that it will never cover the sun, making this a rare moment in time, Mulchaey said.

The long history of myths and folklore inspired by eclipses

From CNN's Ashley Strickland and Terry Ward

Eclipses have long inspired terror and awe as ancient cultures sought ways to explain the celestial phenomenon .

“I find the mythology and folklore of eclipses fascinating,” said Mark Littman, a journalism professor at the University of Tennessee in Knoxville and coauthor of “ Totality: The Great North American Eclipse of 2024 .”

“To see how people long ago and people today reacted to a total eclipse of the Sun, a sight so unexpected, so dramatic, so surprising in appearance, and so unnatural even though it is utterly natural.”

Ancient records of eclipses date back to 772 BC, when the Chinese marked them on animal bones, and 750 BC, when Babylonians recorded eclipses in their cuneiform writing on clay tablets, Littmann said. Both cultures "realized there was a rhythm to eclipses," which meant they could be calculated and predicted in the future.

Despite the ability to predict eclipses, the cause of the eclipse remained unknown, so myths and folklore filled the knowledge gap.

"The mythology of eclipses most often involves a beast that tries to eat the sun for lunch. For the Chinese, that beast was a dragon or a dog. For Scandinavians, it was a wolf," Littmann said.

Those in northern South America thought the sun and moon fought one another, trying to shut off each other's light, he said.

Transylvanian folklore suggested that the sun looked down on Earth, saw the corruption of humans, and turned away in disgust.

And the Fon people of western Africa thought the male sun ruled the day, while the female moon ruled the night.

"They love each other, but they are so busy traversing the sky and providing light that they seldom get together," Littmann said. "Yet when they do, they modestly turn off the light."

Eclipses provide unique opportunities for NASA scientists to learn more about the future of the sun

From CNN's Elise Hammond

NASA scientists took full advantage of Monday’s eclipse to collect data and study the Earth, moon and sun in different ways, the agency’s deputy administrator said. One area of specific interest is the sun’s corona , or outer atmosphere.

“This is a very elusive region and it can be viewed during a solar eclipse in a very special way,” Pam Melroy said during a news conference at the end of March .

She said understanding the corona is “key to understanding fundamental questions about how heat and energy are transferred out into the solar wind,” which contributes to how solar wind and flares impacts Earth.

“Things are happening with the corona (that) we don’t fully understand and the eclipse gives us a unique opportunity to collect data that may give insights into the future of our star,” Melroy said.

And this is an especially good year to study the corona, she said. The sun is approaching  solar maximum — the peak of activity — later this year, and scientists are eager to capture this moment through a variety of observations that can only occur during eclipses. During solar maximum, the sun’s magnetic poles flip and then the sun will grow quiet again during a solar minimum.

“The chance that we are going to see something amazing is very high,” Melroy said.

Former NASA astronaut says she hopes eclipse sparks sense of connectedness with the universe

A former NASA astronaut said she hopes Monday’s total solar eclipse inspires a connection between everyone who witnessed it and the universe.

“We’re all part of this universe – and the universe was showing us some of its secrets at that point in time,” Mae Jemison told CNN.

While viewing totality in Bloomington, Indiana, the former astronaut said she was thinking about other times she experienced eclipses. 

When she saw a partial eclipse as a child in Chicago, Jemison said she was trying to make sense of what was happening.

But then thinking about her time as an astronaut, “it reinforced the feeling that when I look up, when I look away from the Earth when I was in space, it again connects me with this world, with this universe – and know that I have a responsibility.”

Jemison said science is about building on knowledge for the next generation, and the eclipse was an opportunity to do just that. Scientists used Monday’s eclipse to gather data to better understand the sun but Jemison said she hopes there is also learning at a personal level.

“I hope what people discover is themselves and their connectedness to the rest of the universe,” she said.

Eclipse Explained: Is there anywhere that saw totality in both 2017 and 2024? 

Yes! There is an area where both 2017 and 2024 paths of totality intersect. According to a map from NASA , that area includes parts of Missouri, southern Illinois and western Kentucky.

One of the places in that intersection, Carbondale, Illinois, experienced the longest period of totality in 2017 at 2 minutes, 42 seconds, according to NASA. 

Seeing the eclipse again more than 20 years later

From CNN's Christina Zdanowicz

Juan M. Soto Peña and his wife experienced the joy of a total solar eclipse alongside their daughter, Luciana, in Tucson, Arizona.

The couple saw a partial solar eclipse together on December 25, 2000, in the state of Sonora in Mexico, he said.

Worried about eye damage? Here are the signs you should visit an optometrist after the eclipse

Maybe your eclipse glasses were fake. Perhaps you forgot to slip them back on as the first bit of sunlight reappeared after totality. Or you noticed your child, friend or family member looking up at the sun without putting on their glasses.

Symptoms of eye damage after improperly viewing the eclipse without proper protection can take hours or days to manifest. They include loss of central vision, altered color vision or distorted vision .

And if you notice any symptoms or experience eye discomfort, make an appointment immediately using the American Optometric Association's doctor locator , said Ronald Benner, an optometrist and president of the American Optometric Association.

“For most people, it’s an alteration of color vision,” Benner said. “The next morning, colors just don’t look right, or it may be bleached out it or just kind of hazy all the time. For others, it may be that they actually have holes in their vision.”

If the damage occurs in the center of someone’s vision, it can affect the ability to read or recognize faces, Benner said.

Here's what the eclipse looked like from the International Space Station

From CNN's Taylor Nicioli

From space, crew members at the International Space Station saw a different perspective of the celestial event — the moon’s shadow cast onto Earth.

The orbiting laboratory "soared into the moon’s shadow" and NASA Flight Engineers Matthew Dominick and Jeanette Epps got a chance to capture it following their “workday filled with cargo transfers, spacesuit maintenance, and microgravity research,” according to a statement from NASA . The astronauts took pictures and videos of the shadow of the moon as seen from their position about 260 miles above southeastern Canada. 

Please enable JavaScript for a better experience.

Watch CBS News

Solar eclipse maps show 2024 totality path, peak times and how much of the eclipse people could see across the U.S.

By Aliza Chasan

Updated on: April 9, 2024 / 5:00 AM EDT / CBS News

A total solar eclipse  crossed North America Monday with parts of 15 U.S. states within the path of totality. Maps show  where and when astronomy fans could see the big event  as skies darkened in the middle of the day Monday, April 8.

The total eclipse first appeared along Mexico's Pacific Coast at around 11:07 a.m. PDT, then traveled across a swath of the U.S., from Texas to Maine, and into Canada.

About 31.6 million people live in the path of totality , the area where the moon fully blocked out the sun , according to NASA. The path ranged between 108 and 122 miles wide. An additional 150 million people live within 200 miles of the path of totality.

Solar eclipse path of totality map for 2024

The total solar eclipse started over the Pacific Ocean, and the first location in continental North America that experienced totality was Mexico's Pacific Coast, around 11:07 a.m. PDT, according to NASA. From there, the path continued into Texas, crossing more than a dozen states before the eclipse enters Canada in southern Ontario. The eclipse exited continental North America at around 5:16 p.m. NDT from Newfoundland, Canada.

The path of totality included portions of the following states:

• Pennsylvania
• New Hampshire

Small parts of Tennessee and Michigan also experienced the total solar eclipse.

Several major cities across the U.S. were included in the eclipse's path of totality, while many others saw a partial eclipse. These were some of the best major cities for eclipse viewing — though the weather was a factor :

• San Antonio, Texas (partially under the path)
• Austin, Texas
• Waco, Texas
• Dallas, Texas
• Little Rock, Arkansas
• Indianapolis, Indiana
• Dayton, Ohio
• Cleveland, Ohio
• Buffalo, New York
• Rochester, New York
• Syracuse, New York
• Burlington, Vermont

Map of when the solar eclipse reached totality across its path

The eclipse began in the U.S. as a partial eclipse beginning at 12:06 p.m. CDT near Eagle Pass, Texas, before progressing to totality by about 1:27 p.m. CDT and then moving along its path to the northeast over the following few hours.

NASA shared times for several cities in the path of totality across the U.S. People could have also  checked their ZIP code on NASA's map  to see when the eclipse was to reach them if they were on, or near, the path of totality — or if they saw a partial eclipse instead.

How much of the eclipse did people see if they live outside the totality path?

While the April 8 eclipse covered a wide swath of the U.S., outside the path of totality observers may have spotted a partial eclipse, where the moon covers some, but not all, of the sun, according to NASA. The closer they were to the path of totality, the larger the portion of the sun that was hidden.

NASA allowed viewers to input a ZIP code and see how much of the sun was to be covered in their locations.

Could there be cloud cover be during the solar eclipse?

Some areas along the path of totality had a higher likelihood of cloud cover that could interfere with viewing the eclipse. Here is a map showing the historical trends in cloud cover this time of year. 

You could have checked the latest forecast for your location with our partners at The Weather Channel .

Where did the solar eclipse reach totality for the longest?

Eclipse viewers near Torreón, Mexico, got to experience totality for the longest. Totality there lasted 4 minutes, 28 seconds, according to NASA. 

Most places along the centerline of the path of totality saw a totality duration of between 3.5 and 4 minutes, according to NASA. Some places in the U.S. came close to the maximum; Kerrville, Texas, had a totality duration of 4 minutes, 24 seconds.

What is the path of totality for the 2044 solar eclipse?

The next total solar eclipse that will be visible from the contiguous U.S. will be on Aug. 23, 2044.

Astronomy fans in the U.S. will have far fewer opportunities to see the 2044 eclipse they had on April 8. NASA has not yet made maps available for the 2044 eclipse but, according to The Planetary Society , the path of totality will only touch three states.

The 2024 eclipse will start in Greenland, pass over Canada and end as the sun sets in Montana, North Dakota and South Dakota, according to the Planetary Society.

Aliza Chasan is a digital producer at 60 Minutes and CBSNews.com. She has previously written for outlets including PIX11 News, The New York Daily News, Inside Edition and DNAinfo. Aliza covers trending news, often focusing on crime and politics.

More from CBS News

Object that crashed through Florida home's roof was from space station

NASA seeks to reign in costs of Mars Sample Return mission

Transcript: Ret. Gen. Frank McKenzie on "Face the Nation," April 14, 2024

These businesses are offering Tax Day discounts and freebies

Cookies on GOV.UK

We use some essential cookies to make this website work.

We’d like to set additional cookies to understand how you use GOV.UK, remember your settings and improve government services.

We also use cookies set by other sites to help us deliver content from their services.

You have accepted additional cookies. You can change your cookie settings at any time.

You have rejected additional cookies. You can change your cookie settings at any time.

• Visas and immigration
• Travelling to the UK

Entering the UK

Before you leave for the uk.

Check what documents you’ll need to enter the UK.

You’re a British citizen

You can enter the UK with one of the following identity documents:

• a Gibraltar identity card

If you’re travelling from Ireland to Northern Ireland

You do not need any documents to enter.

If you’re travelling from Ireland to England, Scotland or Wales

A Border Force officer may ask to see proof of your identity and nationality. You can use any documents that show your identity or nationality, for example:

• a passport (current or expired)
• proof that you’ve been given British citizenship - such as a UK citizenship certificate
• a Gibraltar identity card (current or expired)
• a copy of your passport or Gibraltar identity card that clearly shows your identity and nationality

You can use more than one document - for example, a driving licence with a citizenship certificate. If you’re using an expired passport or identity card, it must be recent enough that it’s clear that it’s yours.

You’re from the EU, Switzerland, Norway, Iceland or Liechtenstein

• an Irish passport card
• a national identity card issued by an EU country , Switzerland, Norway, Iceland or Liechtenstein, if you’re eligible to use one

Your identity document should be valid for the whole of your stay.

If you’re travelling with a passport or national identity card, it should be registered on your UK Visas and Immigration account if any of the following are true:

• you have settled or pre-settled status
• you used the ‘UK Immigration: ID Check’ app to scan your identity document when applying for a visa

You may be delayed at the border if your passport or national identity card is not registered on your UK Visas and Immigration account .

Travelling with a national identity card

You cannot use a national identity card from an EU country , Switzerland, Norway, Iceland or Liechtenstein to enter the UK unless you:

• have settled or pre-settled status under the EU Settlement Scheme , or Jersey, Guernsey or the Isle of Man’s settlement schemes
• have an EU Settlement Scheme family permit, or the equivalent from Jersey, Guernsey or the Isle of Man
• have a Frontier Worker permit
• are an S2 Healthcare Visitor
• are a Swiss national and have a Service Provider from Switzerland visa
• are an EU, EEA or Swiss national aged 18 or under travelling as part of a French school group using a France-UK school trip travel information form

Check if you need a visa to come to the UK .

If you’re waiting for a decision on your application for settled or pre-settled status

You can still use your EEA or Swiss national identity card to enter the UK if all of the following are true:

• you’ve applied for settled or pre-settled status under the EU Settlement Scheme, or Jersey, Guernsey or the Isle of Man’s settlement schemes
• you’ve been issued with confirmation your application is valid
• you’re not applying as a joining family member

You may also need to show evidence that you were living in the UK by 31 December 2020 .

If you have not applied for settled or pre-settled status but are planning to

You must enter the UK with either:

• an EU Settlement Scheme family permit

Your family permit or visa could be issued by the UK, Jersey, Guernsey or the Isle of Man.

You do not need any documents to enter Northern Ireland.

You may need a visa if you’re planning to stay in the UK - for example, to work or study.

A Border Force officer may ask to see proof of your identity and nationality.

If you’re an Irish citizen, you can use any documents that show your identity or nationality. For example:

• proof that you’ve been given Irish citizenship - such as a certificate of naturalisation
• an Irish passport card (current or expired)
• a copy of your passport or Irish passport card that clearly shows your identity and nationality

You can use more than one document - for example, a driving licence with a certificate of naturalisation. If you’re using an expired passport or Irish passport card, it must be recent enough that it’s clear that it’s yours.

If you’re not an Irish citizen, you’ll need to use either a passport or a national identity card, if you’re eligible.

Find out more about travelling to the UK from Ireland, Jersey, Guernsey or the Isle of Man .

You’re from outside the EU, Switzerland, Norway, Iceland or Liechtenstein

You must have a valid passport to enter the UK. It should be valid for the whole of your stay.

You may also need a visa, depending on which country you’re from.

Check if you need a visa to come to the UK . You must have your visa before you travel to the UK.

You may also need a visa if you’re ‘transiting’ or travelling through the UK , for example you’re changing flights at a UK airport.

If you need a visa, you’ll need to show your airline or transport provider (your ‘carrier’) either:

• a valid visa
• a ‘visa exemption document’ such as a UK-issued biometric residence card or EU Settlement Scheme family permit

Before you travel, check that your visa is valid and will not expire before you enter the UK.

If you have settled or pre-settled status under the EU Settlement Scheme

If you would usually need a visa to come to the UK , you’ll need to show your carrier one of the following visa exemption documents:

• a UK-issued biometric residence card
• an EU Settlement Scheme travel permit

If you do not have an exemption document, you may be able to prove your immigration status online using the view and prove service . Check if your carrier allows this before you travel.

If you have a pending application to the EU Settlement Scheme you must have a valid visa or visa exemption document to travel to the UK.

If you’re travelling from Ireland

You do not need any documents to travel from Ireland to Northern Ireland. You may need a visa if you’re planning to stay in the UK - for example, to work or study.

If you’re travelling from Ireland to England, Scotland or Wales, a Border Force officer may ask to see your passport. It should be valid for the whole of your stay.

If you’re travelling from Jersey, Guernsey or the Isle of Man

You only need to show your documents if you’re stopped by a Border Force officer. They may ask to see proof of your:

• permission to come to the UK, Jersey, Guernsey or the Isle of Man, if you need it - for example, a visa, biometric residence permit (BRP) or work permit

You do not have to use a passport, Irish passport card or identity card to prove your identity. You can use other documents instead - for example, a driving licence or armed forces identity card.

Travelling with children

You may be asked at the border to prove the relationship between yourself and any children travelling with you, if you do not seem to be the parent, for example if you have a different surname.

You can prove this with:

• a birth or adoption certificate showing your relationship with the child
• divorce or marriage certificates if you’re the parent but have a different surname from the child
• a letter from the child’s parent giving permission for the child to travel with you and providing contact details, if you’re not the parent

Before you board

Your carrier will check your passport and other travel documents. They’ll send this information electronically to Border Force .

You can ask to see the information about you that’s been sent by carriers.

Related content

Is this page useful.

• Yes this page is useful
• No this page is not useful

Help us improve GOV.UK

Don’t include personal or financial information like your National Insurance number or credit card details.

To help us improve GOV.UK, we’d like to know more about your visit today. We’ll send you a link to a feedback form. It will take only 2 minutes to fill in. Don’t worry we won’t send you spam or share your email address with anyone.

When is Eid al-Fitr 2024 and how is it celebrated?

The three-day festival celebrates the completion of the fasting month of Ramadan by Muslims across the world.

As a new moon was not sighted on Monday evening after Maghrib prayers, Muslims in Saudi Arabia and neighbouring countries will fast one more day, completing 30 days of Ramadan. The first day of Eid will then be celebrated on Wednesday, April 10.

The first day of Eid al-Fitr is determined by the sighting of the crescent moon marking the start of the month of Shawwal, the 10th month of the Islamic (Hijri) calendar.

Keep reading

A ramadan no palestinian will ever forget, the cost of a ramadan iftar meal around the world, ramadan 2024: where do your dates come from, in washington, dc: celebrating ramadan, protesting israel’s siege of gaza.

Lunar months last between 29 and 30 days so Muslims usually have to wait until the night before Eid to verify its date.

Other countries follow independent sightings.

When the sighting has been verified, Eid is declared on television, radio stations and at mosques.

How do Muslims celebrate Eid?

Traditionally, Eid is celebrated for three days as an official holiday in Muslim-majority countries. However, the number of holiday days varies by country.

Muslims begin Eid day celebrations by partaking in a prayer service that takes place shortly after dawn, followed by a short sermon.

On their way to the prayer, which is traditionally held in an open area, Muslims recite takbeerat, praising God by saying “Allahu Akbar”, meaning “God is great”.

It is customary to eat something sweet before the prayer, such as date -filled biscuits known as maamoul in the Middle East. This particular festival is known as the “sweet” Eid – and the distribution of sweets is common across the Muslim world.

Muslims usually spend the day visiting relatives and neighbours and accepting sweets as they move around from house to house.

Each country has traditional desserts and sweets that are prepared before Eid or on the morning of the first day.

Children, dressed in new clothes, are offered gifts and money to celebrate the joyous occasion.

Girls and women in many countries decorate their hands with henna. The celebration for Eid begins the night before as women gather in neighbourhoods and large family gatherings for the application of henna.

In some countries, families visit graveyards to offer their respects to departed family members right after the morning prayers.

It is common for Muslim-majority countries to decorate their cities with lights and hold festivities to commemorate the end of the fasting month.

Eid amid the onslaught in Gaza

For some 2.3 million Palestinians in Gaza this Eid, this will be the first Muslim religious holiday after more than 33,000 people have been killed in Israeli attacks. With little food aid, and very limited water, Gaza’s Eid al-Fitr will be mired in destruction amid the continuing attacks.

What are common Eid greetings?

The most popular greeting is “Eid Mubarak” (Blessed Eid) or “Eid sa’id” (Happy Eid). Eid greetings also vary depending on the country and language.

The video below shows how people say Eid Mubarak in different languages around the world.