If you are planning to travel outside the UK, you may be wondering how far your UK visa can take you. In this article, we will explore the different types of UK visas and the number of countries they allow you to visit.
Types of UK Visas
The United Kingdom issues several types of visas depending on the purpose of your travel. These include:
Standard Visitor Visa: This type of visa allows you to stay in the UK for up to six months for tourism, business, or medical treatment.
Tier 4 Student Visa: If you are planning to study in the UK, you need to apply for a Tier 4 student visa.
Tier 2 Work Visa: If you have been offered a job in the UK, you need to apply for a Tier 2 work visa.
Family Visa: If you have a family member who is a British citizen or settled in the UK, you can apply for a family visa to join them in the UK.
Transit Visa: If you are traveling through the UK to another country, you may need a transit visa.
Number of Countries Allowed with a UK Visa
The number of countries you can visit with a UK visa depends on the type of visa you hold. Let’s explore each type of visa:
Standard Visitor Visa
A standard visitor visa allows you to travel to any country that is not in the European Economic Area (EEA) or Switzerland. This means that you can visit over 170 countries with a standard visitor visa.
However, it is important to note that some countries may require you to obtain a separate visa before entering. For example, if you want to visit the United States, you need to apply for a US visa separately.
Tier 4 Student Visa
A Tier 4 student visa allows you to travel to any country during your studies in the UK. However, you must ensure that you have a valid visa for the country you are visiting.
Tier 2 Work Visa
A Tier 2 work visa allows you to travel to any country during your stay in the UK. However, you must ensure that you have a valid visa for the country you are visiting.
Family Visa
A family visa allows you to travel to any country during your stay in the UK. However, you must ensure that you have a valid visa for the country you are visiting.
Transit Visa
A transit visa only allows you to stay in the UK for up to 48 hours while you wait for your connecting flight. You cannot leave the airport or visit any other countries during this time.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the number of countries you can visit with a UK visa depends on the type of visa you hold. A standard visitor visa allows you to visit over 170 countries, while a Tier 4 student visa, Tier 2 work visa, and family visa allow you to travel anywhere as long as you have a valid visa for the country you are visiting. If you are traveling through the UK, you may need a transit visa, which only allows you to stay in the UK for up to 48 hours.
