Travelling to The United Kingdom

The United Kingdom is a gateway for global business, education, and cultural exchange. Whether you are visiting for work, study, or leisure, this guide provides essential information to help you plan a smooth and rewarding journey.

Key resources

►Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) for Visiting the UK

►Foreign Travel Advice

►Foreign Travel Checklist

►Transport For London

►Visit the UK on a Business Trip

General Guidelines

Visa Requirements

1. You may need a visa to come to the UK to work.
   • Click here to check if you need a UK visa

 

Entry Requirements

1. Passport Validity: Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months from your entry date into the UK.
2. Purpose of Travel: Proof of purpose of travel and accomodation details may be required.
3. Return or Onward Ticket: Proof of a return or onward journey ticket may be required.
4. Sufficient Funds: Travellers should have enough funds to cover their stay in the UK.
5. Most visitors travelling to the UK need an electronic travel authorisation (ETA) or a visa.
   • Click here to check if you need an ETA or visa to come to the UK
   • An electronic travel authorisation (ETA) lets you travel to the UK for tourism, visiting family or certain other reasons for up to 6 months.

 

Customs Regulations

1. Prohibited Items: Controlled drugs; offensive weapons e.g. flick knives; self-defence sprays e.g. pepper spray and CS gas; endangered animal and plant species; rough diamonds; indecent and obscene materials e.g. books, magazines, films and DVDs; personal imports of meat and dairy products from most non-EU countries
2. Duty-Free Allowance: Limits exist on duty-free goods, including alcohol and tobacco.
3. Currency Declaration: Declare if carrying cash of £10,000 or more between Great Britain (England, Scotland and Wales) and a country outside the UK (or equivalent in other currencies) upon arrival.

 

Local Laws and Regulations

1. Dress Code: Respect local customs and traditions; wear appropriate attire for religious sites and formal occasions.
2. Legal Issues: The UK has strict laws against drug, banned goods, and animal trafficking. Adhere to local laws to avoid severe penalties.
3. Immigration Checkpoints: Present your passport, electronic travel authorisation (ETA), visa (if applicable), and other required documents at immigration checkpoints.

 

Special Considerations

1. Business Travel: Ensure you have the correct visa for business purposes.
2. Work Permits: Obtain the necessary work permit before arrival if intending to work in the UK.

 

Additional Tips

1. Travel Insurance: Consider purchasing travel insurance covering health, accidents, and theft.
2. Contact Information: Know the contact details of your country’s embassy or consulate in the UK in case of emergencies.

 

Official Sources

• Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office
• Home Office

 

Disclaimer: While every effort has been made to provide complete and accurate information, BMCC makes no warranties, express or implied, to the accuracy of content on this site. For the most accurate and up-to-date information, always refer to these official UK government sources or contact the nearest UK embassy or consulate before travelling.