Full list of 20+ countries whose citizens can visit the UK visa-free in 2026

The United Kingdom has updated its immigration guidance, confirming that citizens of over 20 countries can continue to visit Britain without applying for a traditional visitor visa before travelling. Under the revised travel rules, eligible travellers can enter the UK for short stays using an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) instead of a standard visitor visa.

Countries eligible for visa-free travel to the UK

Citizens from the following countries can travel to the UK without first applying for a traditional visitor visa for short stays: United States, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, Singapore, South Korea, Israel, Malaysia, Brunei, Chile, Argentina, Brazil, Mexico, United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, and Saudi Arabia.

Citizens of many European countries are also eligible for visa-free short visits to Britain. These include France, Germany, Italy, Spain, Portugal, the Netherlands, Belgium, Sweden, Norway, Denmark, Finland, Austria, Switzerland, and Poland.

Special status for Irish citizens

Irish citizens remain exempt from both visa and ETA requirements under the long-standing Common Travel Area agreement. Ireland enjoys a special status that allows its citizens to enter the UK without requiring either a visitor visa or an ETA.

What travellers need to know

While travellers from these countries do not need a traditional visitor visa, they must still meet the UK's entry requirements and, where applicable, obtain an ETA before travelling. The UK government advises prospective visitors to confirm their eligibility and immigration requirements before booking a trip, as visa and ETA rules vary depending on nationality and the purpose of travel.

Eligible visitors can typically stay in the UK for up to six months for tourism, family visits, business meetings, or short-term study. The changes are part of the UK's ongoing effort to modernise border controls while maintaining easier access for visitors from approved countries.

What this means for Nigerian travellers

Nigerian passport holders are not on the visa-free list and must secure a visitor visa before travelling to the UK. The latest update provides greater clarity for millions of international travellers planning short visits to Britain while reinforcing the country's shift toward a fully digital border authorisation system.