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

 

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.