Apply as a serving government minister on official travel to the UK
Information on what to do if you are a serving government minister on official travel to the UK.
Overview
Serving government ministers travelling to the UK on official government business are exempt from immigration control in the UK.
Who can apply
You can apply if you are a qualifying serving government minister on official travel to the UK.
You cannot apply if you are a serving government minister coming to the UK for any reason that is not official government business.
What you can do
If you qualify for this route, you:
-
are exempt from immigration control in the UK for the duration of your official visit
-
can bring your qualifying partner and children who live in your household as ‘dependents’
A dependent partner or child is any of the following:
- your husband, wife or civil partner
- your child under the age of 18
You cannot:
- settle in the UK
- study
- switch to another visa route
How to apply
You should apply online to get a digital record of exemption..
As part of your application, you’ll need to book an appointment at a visa application centre (VAC).
You’ll need to:
- bring your passport to your appointment at the VAC (this must be the original version, not a photocopy)
- bring a passport-sized photo that meets UK passport standards to the VAC
- provide a written notification (Note Verbale) from your government confirming your name, date of birth, passport number and role to support your application
You or someone authorised by your government (such as a delegate from your Ministry of Foreign Affairs) must submit your documents in person at a VAC.
You should get a digital record of exemption linked to the passport used in your application.
A digital record of exemption is not mandatory, but it will clearly show your exempt status to airlines, carriers and border officials. This will prevent unnecessary delays or being denied boarding by airlines or other carriers.
How much it costs
You do not need to pay a fee for a digital record of immigration.
After you apply
We will email you or send a letter with your decision within 15 working days.
You cannot extend your digital record of exemption. If it expires, you must apply again.