Visiting new countries to explore the best that they have to offer may have long been a part of your wish list. Once you have saved enough and decide to set sail, there’s no better place to start your globe-trotting than Her Majesty’s backyard - the United Kingdom. But wait! Before you are wheels up for the British Isles, do you know that a valid UK visa entitles you to visit more than twenty countries around the world?
As a holder of a valid UK visa, you are entitled to bypass the entry permit procedure of over twenty countries across the globe
On a single permit, you can extend your foreign tour across regions like:
Eastern Europe
Combining the charm of Western Europe and the Mediterranean, it is fast becoming a hotbed for international travellers. Whether you are seeking scenic beauty or have a weakness for medieval architecture, Eastern Europe has something in store for you. In your travel itinerary, you can include countries like:
Georgia
A part of the former Soviet Union, Georgia is in the Caucasus region of Eurasia. Set at the crossroads of Western Asia and Eastern Europe, Georgia has unmatched natural beauty and over 12,000 historical and cultural monuments. It is also home to UNESCO World Heritage Sites like Bagrati Cathedral and Gelati Monastery.
With a valid UK visa, you can visit Georgia for up to 90 days. Click here for more information.
Montenegro
Located in Southeast Europe, along the beautiful Adriatic Sea, Montenegro had witnessed many historic events over the ages. Rich in natural beauty, it has both a scenic seacoast and mountainous northern region. The country has many well preserved historical towns. It regularly features in various tourism rankings conducted by internationally acclaimed bodies.
A UK visa will allow you a stay in the country for up to 90 days. You can get further information here.
Caribbean
A group of over 700 islands, the Caribbean region is on the southeast of the Gulf of Mexico. Hosting one of the most diverse ecosystems in the world, the Caribbean is rich in both flora and fauna. Whether you are a hardcore nature lover, or just trying to have a good time, the Caribbean is the perfect place for you. As part of your tour, visit countries like:`
Dominican Republic
Set on the Greater Antilles archipelago of the Caribbean, the Dominican Republic is the most visited destination in the Caribbean. The region’s tallest mountain peak, Pico Duarte and largest lake, Lake Enriquillo are here. The Damajagua waterfalls, white-sand beaches and some of Caribbean’s oldest cathedrals and fortresses are some other significant tourist attractions here.
Set on the Greater Antilles archipelago of the Caribbean, the Dominican Republic is the most visited destination in the Caribbean. The region’s tallest mountain peak, Pico Duarte and largest lake, Lake Enriquillo are here. The Damajagua waterfalls, white-sand beaches and some of Caribbean’s oldest cathedrals and fortresses are some other significant tourist attractions here.
You can visit the country for up to 60 days with a UK visa. Find more information about the visa regime of the Dominican Republic here.
Cayman Islands
Located in the Western Caribbean Sea, the Cayman Islands are an autonomous British Overseas Territory. Apart from being a financial haven, the place is known for international standard beach resorts and water sports destinations. You can embark on deep-sea fishing expeditions from Cayman Brac or visit the famous Seven Mile Beach. The country is rich in biodiversity, including endangered species like the iguana.
Before visiting the Cayman Islands, you should click here for more information.
Asia
It is the Earth’s most populous continent and home to some of the earliest civilisations like that of ancient India and China. The land is known for its diverse topography and biodiversity and has tremendous cultural significance. From massive shopping malls, high tech business centres, scenic wedding destinations to locations of religious importance, Asia has something for everyone. Some notable countries are:
Philippines
The Philippines archipelago is in the Western Pacific Ocean. Set on the Pacific Ring of Fire, the country is rich in biodiversity. It hosts the headquarters of international organisations like the Asian Development Bank (ADB). The country’s flora and fauna are major tourist attractions. If you are looking for a budget-friendly destination with pleasant weather, this is your place!
With a UK visa, you can stay for 14 days. It is extendable for up to 7 days. You can have more information here.
Qatar
The State of Qatar is in Western Asia. The country offers a perfect blend of antiquity and modernity. The massive skyscrapers in its cities stand tall with the dunes of Rub’al-Khali desert in the background. Apart from desert safaris, you can also visit famous tourist districts like the 250-years-old market Souq Waqif or the Museum of Islamic Art in Doha. It is in the city’s Corniche waterfront.
With a UK visa, you need to apply for Electronic Travel Authorization and then avail a visa on arrival. It will allow you to stay for 30 days.
How to get a UK visa
Apply online for a tourist visa to the UK. You are required to book an appointment at a visa application centre near you by paying the required fees. At the interview, you will be asked to submit your:
- Biometric data
- Appointment confirmation
- Application printout
- Passport
- Supporting documents
The authorities will communicate their decision to you, usually within three weeks. A standard visitor visa will allow you to stay in the UK for up to 6 months.
A word of caution
It is recommended to have a look at the visa office websites of the countries you are planning to visit with your UK visa. Visa rules may change according to geopolitics, and such privileges may be withdrawn without prior notice.
Like your hard-earned assets, your foreign travel also involves financial investments and deserves to be secured by a travel insurance policy. Today, many reputed insurers offer international travel insurance online. From covering the loss of luggage to providing cashless facilities for medical emergencies abroad, such international travel insurance plans or single trip travel insurance protect your foreign trip against a wide range of contingencies.
Countries that allow entry with a valid UK visa
Here’s a quick snapshot of countries where UK visa holders can gain entry:
- Georgia
- Montenegro
- Dominican Republic
- Cayman Islands
- Philippines
- Qatar
- Mexico (with multiple-entry UK visa)
- Panama
- Serbia
- Albania
- Colombia (if UK visa is used previously)
- Turkey (e-visa access with UK visa)
Tips for applying and maximising a UK visa
Keeping these things in mind will help smooth your visa application process to UK:
- Choose the right visa type: If you plan to travel frequently, a multiple-entry Standard Visitor Visa can be beneficial.
- Include valid travel insurance: Travel insurance not only helps with the UK application but is also essential for other countries that may require it.
- Keep your UK visa active: Try to make at least one trip to the UK to fulfil entry conditions for other destinations.
- Keep your documents handy: Always carry copies of your UK visa, passport bio page, return ticket and hotel booking.
Conclusion
Holding a valid UK visa can unlock access to many global destinations, reducing your paperwork and widening your travel horizons. But always stay informed, prepared and covered, especially withtravel insurance or single trip travel insurance, to ensure smooth and safe journeys. Whether it’s a spontaneous island escape or a historical exploration of Eastern Europe, your UK visa could be your passport to more than just the United Kingdom.
FAQs
1. Can I visit Europe with a UK visa?
Not the Schengen area, but some Eastern European countries like Georgia and Montenegro do allow it.
2. Does holding a UK visa guarantee entry to other countries?
Not necessarily. You must meet specific entry conditions set by each country, even if they accept UK visas.
3. Is travel insurance required for visa-free countries?
It is highly recommended and sometimes mandatory to havetravel insurance, especially for medical emergencies or cancellations.
4. What type of UK visa is accepted for entry into other countries?
Generally, multiple-entry Standard Visitor Visas with at least 6 months' validity are accepted.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for educational and informational purposes only. It may contain outdated data and information regarding the topic featured in the article. It is advised to verify the currency and relevance of the data and information before taking any major steps. ICICI Lombard is not liable for any inaccuracies or consequences resulting from the use of this outdated information.