Quick answer
Indian passport holders need a UK Standard Visitor visa for cruises from Southampton, Dover or Liverpool, and for British Isles itineraries. If your cruise starts in Southampton and calls at Schengen ports, you need both a UK visa and a Schengen visa.
- Covers
- England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland
- Indian passport
- Indian passport holders need a UK Standard Visitor visa for cruises from Southampton, Dover or Liverpool, and for British Isles itineraries.
- How to apply
- Apply online on GOV.UK, then give biometrics at a VFS centre.
- When to apply
- Standard processing is usually about 3 weeks; priority options exist.
- Other passports
- Visa-exempt nationalities (US, EU, Australia and others) need a UK Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA).
Cruise-specific advice
If your cruise starts in Southampton and calls at Schengen ports, you need both a UK visa and a Schengen visa.
Documents usually asked for
- Cruise confirmation
- Bank statements and income proof
- Employment or business proof
- Previous travel history
Cruise regions that need it
Visa rules change frequently. This page reflects our understanding as of November 2026; we confirm the current rule for your passport and travel dates before you apply.
Frequently asked questions
Do Indians need a UK visa for a cruise?
Indian passport holders need a UK Standard Visitor visa for cruises from Southampton, Dover or Liverpool, and for British Isles itineraries.
How do I apply?
Apply online on GOV.UK, then give biometrics at a VFS centre.
How early should I apply?
Standard processing is usually about 3 weeks; priority options exist.
Is there anything cruise-specific?
If your cruise starts in Southampton and calls at Schengen ports, you need both a UK visa and a Schengen visa.