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Mexican citizens can generally visit United Kingdom without a visa

As of 2026-08-16

Up to 6 months visa-free stay (verify entry conditions before travel)

Processing

Minutes

Fee

£20

Max Stay

6 months

Last updated: 2026-08-16 • Information may change—always verify with official sources.

United Kingdom Visa Overview for Mexican Citizens

Mexican citizens need an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) to visit United Kingdom. UK ETA required. Mexico on ETA-eligible list.. The ETA costs £20 and can be applied for online before departure.

The application is a quick online process that typically takes only a few minutes to complete. Approvals are usually processed within Minutes. Once granted, the authorization is electronically linked to the passport — no need to print a separate document.

With an approved authorization, Mexican travelers can stay in United Kingdom for up to 6 months. Standard Visitor visa holders cannot work or access public funds.

Entry Requirements

Documents and conditions you will need when entering United Kingdom

  • Passport valid for the duration of your stay in the UK (the UK does not require 6 months validity, but your passport must not expire during your visit)
  • Visa grant letter
  • Return or onward travel tickets
  • Proof of accommodation
  • Evidence of sufficient funds
  • Approved ETA/eTA/ESTA linked to passport (save confirmation email)

Available Visa Types for Mexican Citizens

How to Apply

1

Visit the official United Kingdom ETA/eTA website

2

Complete the online application with your passport details and travel information

3

Pay the ETA fee of £20 by credit or debit card

4

Receive confirmation by email (typically within Minutes)

5

The ETA is electronically linked to your passport — no printing required

6

Travel to United Kingdom and present your passport at immigration

Stay Rules & Conditions

  • Standard Visitor visa holders cannot work or access public funds
  • Maximum stay is 6 months per visit
  • Cannot switch to most other visa types from within the UK
  • Overstaying your permitted stay may result in fines, detention, deportation, and difficulty obtaining future visas to this and other countries

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Arriving with a passport that expires too soon — the UK requires validity for the duration of your stay, but airlines may enforce stricter rules
  • Forgetting to apply before departure — ETAs must be approved before you board your flight

Important Notes for Mexican Applicants

  • Apply at least 72 hours before departure to allow for processing
  • The US, Canada, and Australia are the only major destinations that still require Mexican passport holders to apply for a full visa — the UK moved to the £20 ETA, and Schengen, Japan (180 days), and the UAE (180 days) are visa-free
  • B1/B2 interview wait times vary widely between Mexican consulates — check ustraveldocs.com and consider a less congested post if your travel date is tight
  • A valid US visa or a prior Canadian visa can make you eligible for the CAD 7 eTA instead of the CAD 100 visitor visa — check before paying the higher fee
  • Standard Visitor visa holders cannot work or access public funds
  • Maximum stay is 6 months per visit

Frequently Asked Questions

Do Mexican citizens need a visa for United Kingdom?

Mexican citizens need an electronic travel authorization (ETA/eTA/ESTA) for United Kingdom, which can be applied for online. The fee is £20. This is not a full visa — it is completed online.

How long can Mexican citizens stay in United Kingdom?

With an approved visa, Mexican citizens may stay in United Kingdom for 6 months. The exact duration is determined by the visa type and conditions.

Where do Mexican citizens apply for a United Kingdom visa?

Mexican citizens typically apply through UK ETA online (£20) — no visa or centre visit needed. The application process is online through GOV.UK, followed by a biometrics appointment. Book appointments early, especially during peak travel seasons.

Can Mexican citizens work in United Kingdom on a tourist visa?

No. A tourist visa does not permit paid employment in United Kingdom, including freelancing or working for local employers. Remote work for overseas employers is a legal gray area that varies by country — do not assume it is permitted. Working without proper authorization can result in deportation and future visa bans. A separate work permit or visa is required for any employment.

Can Mexican citizens extend their UK visa?

Standard Visitor visa holders generally cannot extend their stay beyond 6 months or switch to another visa type from within the UK. If you need to stay longer, you would typically need to leave and apply for a new visa from your home country. Overstaying has serious consequences for future UK visa applications.

Other destinations for Mexican citizens

View all destinations for Mexican citizens
Last verified:August 2026

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