🇫🇷
French
فرنسي
United Kingdom
المملكة المتحدة
✓ Visa-free entry — No application needed. EU/EEA — no ETA required (live in UK eligible)
French passport holders can enter United Kingdom visa-free under a bilateral agreement. You may stay for up to 180 days without applying in advance. Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months with 2 blank page(s). EU/EEA — no ETA required (live in UK eligible)
Free
Fee (USD)
180d
Max stay
6mo
Passport validity
Multiple
Entry type
Comparison
Your case (French)
$0
Visa-free · 180 days
Standard ETA
$13
Multiple · 180 days
Step-by-step guide
1
Check passport validity
Must be valid for 6+ months from entry with 2 blank page(s)
2
Book flights
Book round-trip flights to United Kingdom. Return ticket may be asked at immigration.
3
Prepare documents
Hotel booking or accommodation address recommended. Proof of funds may be requested.
4
Arrive and enjoy
Present passport at immigration. Stamp granted for up to 180 days.
Special restrictions
Israeli stamp — No restriction — accepted
Travel insurance — Not required
Yellow fever — Not required
Best time to visit
Best OK
Warmest and most reliable weather. Long summer days. Edinburgh Festival: Aug. Avoid Nov-Feb (cold, grey, dark).
Tips & warnings
⚡ Apply early — even though processing is fast, apply at least a week in advance.
⚡ Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months — check before applying.
⚡ Only apply through the official portal (gov.uk) — avoid unofficial websites that charge extra fees.
Frequently asked questions
Do French citizens need a visa for United Kingdom? +
No. French citizens can enter United Kingdom visa-free for up to 180 days. EU/EEA — no ETA required (live in UK eligible)
How much does a United Kingdom visa cost for French citizens? +
No fee required — visa-free entry.
How long can French citizens stay in United Kingdom? +
Maximum stay is 180 days. Visa validity: 730 days from issue date.
What documents do French citizens need for United Kingdom? +
Valid passport (minimum 6 months validity). Return ticket recommended.
Practical notes
- Payment
- Visa, Mastercard, American Express, Apple Pay, Google Pay on gov.uk/eta and UK ETA app. ETA fee is £20 GBP (~$27 USD). Fee is non-refundable even if application is refused. Third-party sites may charge higher fees — use official gov.uk/eta only.
- Transit — Depends on nationality
- Complex rules: Direct Airside Transit Visa (DATV) required for many nationalities (visa nationals). Exempt if holding valid US/Canada/Australia/New Zealand visa. TWOV scheme available under strict conditions. Landside: Visitor in Transit visa required for visa nationals. Source: GOV.UK transit-visa guidance updated March 25, 2026.
Sources & verification
This information was compiled from the official source below and last verified on 2026-04-01.
Official source: gov.uk ↗
Always confirm on the official portal before travelling — rules can change without notice.
Always verify on official portals before applying.