UK to require visas for Turkish diplomatic passport, along with other nations: Sources

Speaking to Türkiye Today, diplomatic sources confirmed media reports that the United Kingdom will impose visa requirements on diplomatic passport holders from Türkiye.

However, sources clarified that the measure is part of a broader global policy rather than a Türkiye-specific decision.

Visa requirement on Turkish diplomatic passport along with other nations

The allegations emerged following reports that the U.K. had initiated a new border control strategy called the “Border Transformation and Modernization Program” and introduced a Universal Permission to Travel system.

Official sources confirmed that under this new framework, diplomatic passport holders will still be granted a visa through a simplified, cost-free application process without needing to apply in person.

Authorities emphasized that this decision is in line with a global shift in border policies and not a specific measure targeting Türkiye.

Clarification on visa requirements for officials

A report published by the Turkish daily Sozcu claimed that the U.K. would require visas for members of Türkiye’s Parliament and government ministers. Additionally, the report suggested that ministers and their families traveling for personal reasons, such as vacations, would be required to obtain a visa.

However, official sources clarified to Türkiye Today that the U.K.’s new travel authorization system applies universally to all foreign visitors, regardless of nationality.

Mandatory pre-travel authorization for all foreign nationals

Authorities explained that similar to the European Union’s recent pre-travel authorization requirements for visa-exempt countries, the U.K. has now implemented a comparable system. The “Universal Permission to Travel” initiative mandates that all foreign visitors obtain travel authorization before entering the U.K.

As part of this policy, starting April 2, 2025, passport holders from visa-exempt countries, including those from the EU and the U.S., will need to apply for an electronic travel authorization (ETA) before their trip to the U.K.

Simplified visa for diplomatic passport holders from March 2025

Additionally, as of March 11, 2025, a new simplified visa process will be implemented for diplomatic passport holders. This policy, which applies to all countries previously exempt from visa requirements, will allow diplomatic passport holders to receive a visa automatically, without the need for an in-person application, and at no cost.

“This is not an exclusive measure for Türkiye but part of the U.K.’s broader global border security strategy,” officials reiterated.

Turkish diplomatic sources’ statement is as follows:

Following the introduction of a pre-authorization requirement for citizens of countries eligible for visa-free entry into the Schengen area of the EU, the United Kingdom (U.K.) has also launched a program called “Border Transformation and Modernization” and implemented the Universal Permission to Travel system.

Under this new regulation, all foreign nationals traveling to the U.K. will be required to obtain pre-authorization before their journey. Accordingly, as of April 2, 2025, passport holders from visa-exempt countries (such as the EU and the US) will be required to apply for an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) before traveling to the U.K.

Additionally, as of March 11, 2025, a facilitated visa application process will be introduced for all countries whose diplomatic passport holders are currently exempt from visa requirements. Under this scheme, diplomatic passport holders will be issued a visa through a simplified method, free of charge, and without the need for an in-person application. This decision is not exclusive to Türkiye but is part of the U.K.’s global border policy update.

The U.K. authorities have emphasized that these changes are designed to enhance border security while maintaining ease of travel for diplomats and officials worldwide.