United Kingdom Transit Visa for Pakistani Passport Holders
Fee Breakdown
Key Requirements
- ✓ Valid Pakistani passport
- ✓ Pakistani passport holders are visa nationals and require a Direct Airside Transit Visa (DATV) even when transiting without passing through UK border control
- ✓ Confirmed onward ticket to a destination outside the UK
- ✓ Proof of valid visa for the onward destination country if required
- ✓ Evidence of legal residence in the country of onward travel if applicable
- ✓ Sufficient funds for transit
Documents Required
Step-by-Step Application Process
Step 1: Check whether you need a Direct Airside Transit Visa (DATV) or a Visitor in Transit Visa based on whether you will pass through UK immigration control.
Step 2: Apply online at gov.uk and complete the Transit Visa application form.
Step 3: Pay the transit visa fee of GBP 35 online.
Step 4: Book a biometric appointment at VFS Global in Karachi, Lahore, or Islamabad.
Step 5: Submit your documents including onward tickets and destination country visa if applicable.
Step 6: Await the decision, which typically takes 5 to 15 working days.
Step 7: Collect your passport from VFS or opt for courier delivery.
⚠️ Important Notes
Pakistani passport holders are among the nationalities that require a Direct Airside Transit Visa for the UK. This applies even when transiting at Heathrow, Gatwick, Manchester, or other UK airports without leaving the secure transit area. Exceptions apply for holders of valid visas from the USA, Canada, Australia, and certain other countries. Always check the latest rules on gov.uk before booking connecting flights through the UK.
Common Rejection Reasons
- ✗ No confirmed onward tickets
- ✗ Destination country visa not held when required
- ✗ Insufficient evidence of transit purpose
- ✗ Previous UK visa refusals or immigration violations
- ✗ Suspicion that transit is a pretext for remaining in the UK
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. Pakistani passport holders are classified as visa nationals and require a Direct Airside Transit Visa (DATV) even if they are transiting through a UK airport without passing through UK border control, unless they hold a valid visa for the USA, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, or certain other approved visas.
Yes. If you hold a valid and unexpired visa or residence permit for the USA, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Ireland, or a Schengen Area country, you may be exempt from needing a Direct Airside Transit Visa for the UK. Always verify this on the official gov.uk website before travel.
A Direct Airside Transit Visa (DATV) is for passengers who remain in the international transit area of the airport without passing through UK border control. A Visitor in Transit Visa is for those who need to pass through UK border control, for example to collect baggage or change airports.
Ready to Apply?
Apply through the official portal. Always use official government/embassy websites.
Apply for United Kingdom Transit Visa →