Which countries can I visit with UK student visa?

While the process of getting a UK student visa can be challenging, its benefits make it worth the effort.

It not only allows you to study in the country, but, if you love to travel like I do, your visa allows you to explore nearby countries.

For UK passport holders studying in the UK, there’s no need for a visa to visit these countries – your passport, ranked 5th in the world by the Henley Passport Index is all you need.

But, if you’re an international student in the UK, indeed, you don’t have the same level of freedom, however, your student visa still gives you a taste of these travel privileges.

While not as extensive as a UK passport holder, you can still visit these countries more easily with your UK student visa.

Can we travel to other countries with a UK Student visa?

A UK student visa only allows you to enter, study and stay in the UK, it does not necessarily grant you access to other countries. However, having a UK visa facilitates your entry to other countries.

In addition, some of these countries have ties with the United Kingdom, therefore, they allow international students from the UK to enter the country if they meet other entry requirements.

Disclaimer: Immigration policies change over time and so are entry requirements.

Before you travel to any of these countries, check the current entrance requirements for international students in the UK.

Your country of origin can also be helpful when travelling to other countries with your UK student visa.

If your home country has ties (visit-free policy) with the country you wish to visit, your UK student visa will be a plus.

Which countries can I visit with a UK student visa?

You can travel to Georgia, Gibraltar (British Territory), Ireland, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Romania, Serbia, Turkey, Mexico, Panama, Anguilla (British Territory), Antigua and Barbuda, Peru, Bahamas, Bermuda (British Territory), Dominican Republic, Jamaica, Sint Maarten, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates, Armenia, Philippines, Singapore, and South Korea with your UK student visa for academic purposes if you meet other relevant travel conditions specific to each country.

Every country has its (specific) entrance requirements which you’re expected to meet before they let you in.

In some countries, you’ll be allowed only for a short period – there are limitations on the number of days you can spend in the country.

1. Mexico

If you have a UK student visa, you can visit Mexico for a short stay.

Your UK visa or residence permit, plus your passport must be valid for the entirety of your stay.

• • • Conditions: Depending on your country of origin, FMM (Forma Migratoria Múltiple) is required, usually provided on arrival.
    • Duration: You can stay for up to 180 days.

2. Georgia

Georgia welcomes you to enjoy the country’s rich history, scenic landscapes, and warm hospitality without a separate visa.

• Eligible nationalities: All nationalities
• Conditions: Visa-free access for UK visa holders.
• Duration: Up to 90 days.
• Entry rules: Your UK visa must be valid and the total duration of consecutive stays must not exceed 90 days in any 180 days.

3. Gibraltar (British Territory)

As a British Overseas Territory, Gibraltar extends a friendly welcome to every UK visa holder.

• Conditions: You do not need to obtain a separate visa for short visits (up to 90 days).
• Duration: Up to 90 days within 180 days.

While at Gibraltar, you can visit the Rock of Gibraltar, explore St. Michael’s Cave, and enjoy the Mediterranean views.

4. Ireland

If you are from a qualifying nation, Ireland grants UK visa holders unrestricted access to enjoy the country’s lively culture.

• • • Conditions: You do not need a visa to enter Ireland from the UK if you hold a valid UK visa.
    • Nationalities: Unfortunately, the visa-free rule in Ireland does not apply to students from all nations so, check the Ireland embassy near you (for entrance requirements) before coming.
    • Duration: You’re allowed to visit for the duration of your study program in the UK

While in Ireland, you can visit the capital, home to iconic attractions like the Guinness Storehouse, Trinity College (with the Book of Kells), Dublin Castle, and the bustling Temple Bar area.

You can also visit the Cliffs of Moher which is one of Ireland’s most stunning natural landscapes.

It offers breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean and the rugged Irish coastline.

Read also: What happens when an international student drops out of college?

In addition, you can drive or hike along Wild Atlantic Way which is full of scenic beauty, charming villages, and outdoor activities.

5. Montenegro

Located on the Adriatic coast, Montenegro allows UK visa holders to enjoy its beaches, historic sites, and welcoming atmosphere without the hassle of a visa.

• • • Conditions: Visa-free access for up to 90 days.
    • Eligible Nationalities: Open to all nationalities.

6. North Macedonia

North Macedonia allows UK student visa holders a chance to enter the country and explore its cultural heritage and natural beauty.

• • • Conditions: You do not need a separate visa to enter the country.
    • Duration: You can stay up to 90 days within 180 days.
    • Eligible nationalities: All nationalities are eligible.

7. Romania

Romania is popular for its medieval castles and charming towns, and of course, you are allowed into the country for a short visit.

• • • Conditions: Visa-free access for up to 90 days within 180 days.
    • Eligible Nationalities: There is no nationality restriction.

8. Serbia

• • • Eligible nationalities: All nationalities
    • Duration: The total duration of your stay must not exceed 90 days every 180 days.

9. Turkey

• • • Eligible nationalities: Not all nationalities are allowed to enter Turkey with a UK visa therefore, contact a Turkish embassy near you to confirm your eligibility.
    • Conditions: Aside from your student visa, you must also get an e-visa.
    • Duration: You’re allowed to stay for up to 30 days.

The e-visa fee is USD 43, valid for 180 days, single-entry only.

10. Panama

To visit Panama as a student in the UK, your

• UK visa must have been used to enter the UK at least once before your planned visit to Panama.
• Furthermore, your visa must be valid for at least 6 months from the day of your arrival in Panama.
• In the same weight, your passport must be valid for at least 3 months from the day of your arrival and you must show proof of at least USD 500.

• • • Conditions: Depending on where you’re from, you’ll need a Tourist card, which is usually provided on arrival.
    • Duration: You can stay for up to 180 days.

11. Anguilla (British Territory)

Anguilla, often called a paradise in the Caribbean, is an amazing place to visit. Known for its tranquillity and laid-back atmosphere, the island offers a perfect escape for those seeking relaxation and adventure alike.

You’ll enjoy pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant local culture here.

Read also: How early can I travel to Australia after being granted a student visa 500?

The island is home to some of the Caribbean’s most stunning beaches, such as Shoal Bay and Rendezvous Bay, where powdery white sands meet turquoise waters, making it ideal for sunbathing, swimming, and snorkelling.

Beyond the beaches, Anguilla offers world-class dining, with a mix of local flavours and gourmet cuisine at beachfront restaurants, many serving fresh seafood straight from the ocean.

The island’s culture is rich with a blend of African and European influences, reflected in its music, art, and festivals like the annual Anguilla Summer Festival, featuring calypso music, colourful parades, and boat races.

For adventure lovers, Anguilla provides plenty of water activities, from scuba diving and paddleboarding to sailing and fishing.

• • • Conditions: You’re allowed a short visit (up to 90 days).
    • Eligible nationalities: All nationalities

12. Antigua and Barbuda

You do not need a separate visa to visit Antigua and Barbuda if you have a valid UK student visa however, you’ll get a visa on arrival.

The visa fee is USD 100 (this is subject to change), valid for 30 days.

Read also: Universities that Accept 2.5 GPA for Masters in Canada

In addition, your passport and UK student visa must be valid for at least 6 months from the day of your arrival.

13. Peru

If you want to visit the world-renowned Machu Picchu, a breathtaking Incan citadel perched high in the Andes, Peru will be happy to welcome you.

Read also: What happens if you fail your visa interview?

This UNESCO World Heritage Site offers stunning views and insight into ancient Incan engineering.

Hiking the Inca Trail to reach Machu Picchu is a once-in-a-lifetime experience you’ll cherish.

• • • Conditions: If you have a UK student visa, you don’t need a separate visa to visit Peru for academic purposes.
    • Entry granted: 30 days

14. Bermuda (British Territory)

To visit Bermuda with your UK student visa, your visa must be valid for at least 45 days after you depart from Bermuda.

• • • Duration: Up to 30 days
    • Eligibility nationalities: All nationalities

15. Philippines 

If your passport is valid for more than six months and you are from an eligible country, you can enter the Philippines without an additional visa.

However, your UK student visa must be valid for the entire duration of your study.

• • • Eligible nationalities: Not all nationalities.
    • Entry granted: 14 days

16. Qatar

Your valid UK visa is not enough to get you into Qatar, you’ll need an eTA.

Plus, you’ll get a visa on arrival; valid for up to 30 days, single entry.

Read also: Cheapest colleges in Saskatchewan for international students.

Your UK student visa must be valid for up to 30 days from the day you arrive in Qatar.

• Eligible nationalities: All nationalities

If you are a student in the UK on a valid student visa, and your passport is valid, you can explore any of these countries.

Before your visit, check the current entry requirements of your chosen country, immigration laws change over time and so do entry conditions.