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How does it work?

Most visitors may stay in the United Kingdom for up to 6 months per visit. There is no fixed limit per year, but frequent or long visits that look like living in the UK can lead to refusal. This calculator shows the latest departure date for each visit and your total days in the UK over the last 12 months. Learn more in the

Plan your Stay(s)

How does it work?

How long can I stay in the UK as a visitor?

As a Standard Visitor you can usually stay in the United Kingdom for up to 6 months per visit. This applies both to visa-free visitors (for example from the EU, the USA or Australia) and to people with a visitor visa. In some cases, for example for medical treatment, a longer stay can be applied for.

How does the calculator count the 6 months?

Each visit starts on the day you enter the UK. The calculator takes the same date 6 months later and shows the day before as the latest departure date, for example entry on 10 January, departure by 9 July. Entry and exit days count as days in the UK. Stays that follow each other without a day outside the UK are treated as one visit. This is a cautious way of counting: the date in your passport or permission is what counts.

Is there a limit of 6 months in 12 months?

No. The Home Office guidance says there is no fixed maximum such as '6 months in 12 months', as long as each visit is no longer than allowed. However, you must not live in the UK through frequent or successive visits or make it your main home. That is why the calculator also shows your total days in the UK over the last 12 months and warns you when it is more than half a year.

Do I need an ETA or a visa?

That depends on your nationality. Many visa-free visitors, including EU citizens, now need an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) before travelling to the UK; others need a visitor visa. Check the requirements on GOV.UK before you book.

Does time in the Schengen Area count for the UK?

No. The United Kingdom is not part of the Schengen Area. Days in the UK do not count towards the Schengen 90/180 rule, and Schengen days do not count for the UK. Use the region menu at the top to check your Schengen days separately.

What happens if I stay longer than allowed?

Staying longer than your permission allows is an overstay. It can lead to removal, refusal of future visas or entry, and re-entry bans, especially for longer overstays. Plan your departure date in time.

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