FULL LIST: UK Updates Countries Requiring Visas for Entry
By Fact Harbour News
The United Kingdom has updated its list of countries and territories whose nationals must obtain a visa before travelling to or transiting through the country, reaffirming its immigration requirements for short-term visits and other categories of entry.
According to the updated guidance issued by the UK Home Office on July 10, 2026, nationals of more than 100 countries and territories are required to obtain entry clearance before travelling to the UK, unless they qualify for an exemption under the country’s immigration rules.
The revised list covers countries across Africa, Asia, the Middle East, Europe, Central America, South America, and the Caribbean. Citizens of countries on the visa-national list must obtain a valid UK visa before travelling for tourism, business, family visits, medical treatment, or other short stays of up to six months.
The update reaffirms that Nigeria remains among the countries whose citizens require a visa before entering the United Kingdom. Other African countries on the list include Ghana, Kenya, Cameroon, Ethiopia, Egypt, Algeria, Angola, Botswana, Burundi, Congo, Democratic Republic of Congo, Eritrea, Eswatini, Gambia, Guinea, Guinea-Bissau, Ivory Coast, Liberia, Libya, Malawi, Morocco, Mozambique, Namibia, Rwanda, Sierra Leone, Somalia, South Africa, South Sudan, Sudan, Tanzania, Tunisia, Uganda, Zambia, and Zimbabwe, among others.
The updated guidance also confirms that travellers from countries that do not require a visa for short visits may instead need to obtain an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) before travelling to the UK. The ETA applies to eligible visa-exempt nationals and is separate from a standard UK visa.
The Home Office explained that visitors who require a visa must obtain approval before boarding a flight or other form of transport to the United Kingdom. Airlines and transport operators are required to verify that passengers hold the appropriate travel documents before departure.
The UK Government said the updated visa requirements are part of its broader immigration framework aimed at maintaining border security while facilitating legitimate travel for tourism, education, business, and family visits. Travellers are advised to check the latest immigration rules before making travel arrangements, as visa and entry requirements may change periodically.
For the complete and updated list of countries requiring UK visas, travellers can consult the official UK Home Office guidance before applying for entry clearance.