How UK Immigration and Visa Stances Affect Tourism
Browse more guides: United Kingdom travel | Europe destinations How UK Immigration and Visa Stances Affect Tourism Last updated: April 2026 · 11 min read The UK Standard Visit Visa costs £127 for Indian, Chinese, and most non-EEA passport holders. Visa-waiver nationals from the United States, Australia, Japan, and 50+ other countries now need a £10 Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA), rolled out across 2024-2025. EU, EEA, and Swiss citizens remain visa-free for up to 6 months of tourism, even after Brexit. Stricter immigration policies under the 2024+ governments have tightened work and student routes , Skilled Worker minimum salary jumped to £38,700, Graduate Route shortened , but tourist Visit Visa rules stayed unchanged. TL;DR: Visit Visa £127 (Indians and most non-EEA), ETA £10 for visa-waiver nationals, EU passports visa-free 6 months. Processing typically 15 working days. Single biggest tip: apply 6-12 weeks ahead with strong 6-month bank statements and clear ties to ho...