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Do I need a visa?

Check visa requirements for your trip

Heading off on holiday? Use our free tool to check the visa requirements for your destination before you travel.

Travel visa checker

Enter your destination to check any visa requirements and FCDO advice
Planning a backpacking trip?
You can select up to 4 countries at a time.
Conent

*All information provided is for short-term tourism for those living in the UK and holding a British passport.

What our travel insurance expert says

“British passport holders need visas for some countries, including China, Egypt and Australia. It’s important to check visa requirements well in advance so you have time to complete the process and gather any necessary documents.

Our travel visa checker can help make this easier, guiding you to the official government provider so you’re prepared ahead of time and don’t get caught out at the airport - while also helping you avoid unnecessary third-party fees.”

Rhydian Jones - Confused.com Commercial Director
Travel insurance expert Confused.com logo

How to apply for a visa

Most tourist visa applications are completed online through the official government website for your destination. Some countries may also require an appointment. Apply early whenever possible - this gives you time to respond to any additional requests and reduces the risk of being refused entry at the border.

You'll usually need:

  • A valid passport
  • Travel dates or itinerary
  • Proof of accommodation
  • Evidence you can financially support your trip
  • A recent photo or biometric details, such as fingerprints
  • Travel insurance

Before submitting your visa application, double-check that all details match your passport and travel plans, as small errors can cause delays.

What's the difference between a visa and a travel authorisation system?

Some countries require a visa, while others allow entry with a travel authorisation. This is an online approval that lasts for a certain amount of time, allowing you entry into certain countries without needing to apply for a visa each time you travel.

Examples of entry systems include the new European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS) for the Schengen Area and the Electronic System for Travel Authorisation (ESTA) for the USA.

How long does it take to get a tourist visa?

Visa application processing times can vary depending on the destination and the time of year. If you're applying during peak travel seasons, it can take longer for your application to be approved.

Your visa application might also take longer if you need to provide additional information or attend an appointment as part of the application process.

It's always best to apply as early as possible for your visa, as some can take days, while others may take several weeks.

Can I travel to my destination while my tourist visa is being processed?

Generally, no. You'll usually have to wait until your visa has been approved before you travel. Travelling without a valid visa can mean you're refused entry at the border.

In urgent cases, you might be able to apply for an emergency tourist visa or expedited visa processing. These services can process your application more quickly for urgent travel needs, often within 1-2 working days. However, you'll normally be required to have proof of circumstances that require you to travel sooner.

FCDO and safety advice

The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) provides official travel advice to help you stay safe abroad.

Their guidance covers:

  • Entry requirements for your destination, including any visa requirements or passport validity needs
  • Local laws and safety updates
  • Travel alerts

Travelling against FCDO advice can affect your travel insurance. Some providers may refuse cover if you travel against official advice.

Your travel checklist

Along with your visa, make sure these essentials are ready before you travel:
  • Travel insurance - The right policy can help if things go wrong. Just check it covers the activities you plan to do.
  • UK GHIC - A UK GHIC (or valid UK EHIC) can help with state healthcare abroad. Keep it with your travel docs, just in case.
  • Passport validity - Check yours with our passport checker; most countries need 6+ months validity beyond your travel dates.
  • Money - Make sure you have enough to cover your trip, and take more than one way to pay.
  • Important travel docs - Keep key booking confirmations handy, on your phone or printed, in case you need them while abroad.
  • Emergency contacts - Save important numbers before you travel so they’re easy to find if needed.

Don’t forget your travel insurance

Once your visa is sorted, travel insurance is the next essential to tick off. Most standard policies cover things like:

  • Emergency medical treatment iconEmergency medical treatment abroad - If you get sick or injured, insurance can help cover hospital or doctor costs.
  • Cancellation iconCancellation cover - If your trip is cancelled or delayed, you can recover costs and avoid losing money when plans change unexpectedly.
  • Luggage iconBaggage cover - If your luggage is lost, stolen, or delayed, essential items can be reimbursed so your trip isn’t disrupted.
  • Price iconPersonal liability while travelling - This can protect you if you accidentally cause damage or injury to others or their property.

Even if you never need to use it, having travel insurance means you’re better prepared for the unexpected.

Types of travel insurance

When it comes to travel insurance, there are 3 main options to consider. Choosing the one that suits you best could make your trip smoother and save you cash.

Image of a beach with beautiful blue water

Single-trip travel insurance

Got a holiday coming up? Single-trip insurance covers you for one trip, usually up to 120 days. This makes it ideal for those 'one-off' trips, like a big family summer holiday.

Airplane taking off

Annual travel insurance

Love to travel often? Annual travel insurance (also called multi-trip insurance) can cover various trips over 12 months. It's a great choice for frequent travellers.

Backpackers climbing up a mountain

Backpackers travel insurance

Planning a large trip to multiple destinations? Backpackers travel insurance is probably what you need. It can cover you for multiple destinations, usually up to 18 months.

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