United Kingdom visa for Eritrean citizens

For Eritrean citizens considering travel to the United Kingdom, it is crucial to understand that direct visa information, including typical processing times, stay durations, or costs, is not readily available due to the highly restricted nature of this route. The path from Eritrea to the UK is profoundly challenging, reflecting both Eritrea's stringent exit visa requirements for its own citizens and the United Kingdom's rigorous immigration policies. While no direct flights exist, typically requiring at least one stopover for the journey spanning over 3,000 miles, the primary hurdle remains securing the necessary travel permissions. This unique confluence of regulatory environments means prospective travelers should anticipate significant difficulties and a high likelihood of refusal, underscoring the complexities involved.

Visa required· verified 2026-05-29

Entry requirements

Passport validity
6+ months
Onward ticket
Required
Funds proof
Required
Health insurance
Not required
Biometrics
Required

Visa options

TouristStandard Visitor visa (up to 6 months)
180d$189multiple-entryvalid 6mo
Apply
TouristStandard Visitor visa (long-term, up to 2 years)
180d$710multiple-entryvalid 2y
Apply
TouristStandard Visitor visa (long-term, up to 5 years)
180d$1267multiple-entryvalid 5y
Apply
TouristStandard Visitor visa (long-term, up to 10 years)
180d$1583multiple-entryvalid 10y
Apply
OtherVisiting academic – Standard Visitor (more than 6 months up to 12 months)
365d$328multiple-entryvalid 1y
Apply
FamilyMarriage Visitor visa
180d$189multiple-entryvalid 6mo
Apply
MedicalVisit visa for private medical treatment (more than 6 months up to 11 months)
335d$328multiple-entryvalid 11mo
Apply
TouristVisit visa – in a Chinese tour group (Approved Destination Status)
30d$189valid 6mo
Apply
TouristChild Standard Visitor visa (up to 6 months)
180d$189multiple-entryvalid 6mo
Apply
TouristChild Standard Visitor visa (long-term, up to 2 years)
180d$710multiple-entryvalid 2y
Apply
TouristChild Standard Visitor visa (long-term, up to 5 years)
180d$1267multiple-entryvalid 5y
Apply
TouristChild Standard Visitor visa (long-term, up to 10 years)
180d$1583multiple-entryvalid 10y
Apply
TransitDirect Airside Transit Visa (DATV)
1d$58valid 6mo
Apply
TransitVisitor in Transit visa
2d$105valid 6mo
Apply
TransitVisit visa – joining a ship or aircraft as crew
7d$105valid 6mo
Apply
FamilyParent of a Child Student visa
365d$1019multiple-entryvalid 1y
Apply
StudentShort-term Student (English language, 6–11 months)
335d$320multiple-entryvalid 11mo
Apply
OtherElectronic Travel Authorisation (ETA)
180d$25multiple-entryvalid 2y
Apply

Sources