Visitor visa
Pakistanis need a visitor visa — not an ETA
Not on Appendix ETA — Standard Visitor visa
Pakistan is not on the ETA national list. A Pakistani passport needs a Standard Visitor visa (or another visa category) to visit London. Agents in Karachi and Lahore sometimes advertise ‘UK ETA’ because they saw Gulf and US coverage — that advertisement is wrong for Pakistani nationals. Apply on GOV.UK, pay the visitor-visa fee, give biometrics. If you already have ILR or a spouse visa, you do not start an ETA. Dual British–Pakistani citizens should travel on the British passport.
Standard Visitor visa on GOV.UK →
Pakistani travel facts
| Passport | Pakistan |
|---|---|
| Roll-out | Not on Appendix ETA — Standard Visitor visa |
| What you need | Standard Visitor visa |
| Stay | Usually up to 6 months as a visitor |
| Work | Not allowed on visit permission |
| Landside transit | Usually a visa or transit visa — check GOV.UK |
Mistakes pakistanis make
- ETA reseller WhatsApp ads aimed at Pakistani travellers.
- Appointments at a visa centre booked after the flight.
London notes for Pakistani arrivals
Direct ISB/LHE/KHI flights use Heathrow. After a granted visa, travel as a visitor: contactless on the Tube, no work. Family in London on settlement cannot ‘cover’ you with their status — you still need your own visa.
FAQs
- Is Pakistan on the UK ETA list?
- No. Use a visitor visa unless you have another UK permission.
- Can I transit Heathrow without a visa?
- Many Pakistani nationals need a transit visa for landside connections. Check GOV.UK transit rules — do not guess.
Other passports
Bodhixt is not affiliated with UKVI. Confirm on GOV.UK before you book. Apply via https://www.gov.uk/eta only.