Passport Requirements

To enter the UK, your passport must:

• Be valid for the entire duration of your stay

• Be in good physical condition and not damaged

• Have at least one blank page for entry and exit stamps

Travellers with damaged or altered passports may be refused entry at the border.

Visa Requirements

Most visitors to the United Kingdom will need either a visa or an Electronic Travel Authorisation(ETA), depending on their nationality and purpose of travel. Those who already hold valid UK immigration permission typically do not need an ETA.

1. Electronic Travel Authorisation(ETA)

An ETA is required for many visa-exempt nationals visiting the United Kingdom for short stays, such as tourism, business meetings, or visiting family. The system is being rolled out in phases, so it is essential to check whether your nationality now requires one before booking your trip.

ETA official guidance is available: https://www.gov.uk/eta

2. Standard Visitor Visa

This visa is suitable for:

• Tourism and holidays

• Business visits and meetings

• Short courses

• Visiting family or friends

3. Student Visa

Required for anyone studying at a UK education provider that holds official approval.

4. Other Visa Types

Work visas, long-term residence, and specialist professional activities fall under separate visa categories, each with specific requirements.

Visa and immigration options: https://www.gov.uk/browse/visas-immigration

It is important to remember that the border officer will make the final decision on arrival.

Health Requirements

• There are no routine vaccination requirements for short visits to the UK

• Some long-term visas may require medical checks based on nationality and length of stay

• Travellers should review current health guidance for their home country before departure

Arrival Requirements

UK border officials may request:

• A return or onward travel ticket

• Proof that you can financially support yourself during your stay

• Accommodation details, such as hotel bookings or an invitation from a host

• Evidence of your travel purpose

Travel insurance is strongly recommended for all visitors. Some travellers may also need to complete online forms or provide biometric information before travel, depending on their nationality and visa type.

UK Customs Rules

The UK has clear rules about what you can bring into the country.

Items You Must Declare

• Cash of £10,000 or more, or the equivalent in other currencies, when entering from outside the UK

• Certain restricted or controlled goods

Prohibited Items

These include illegal drugs, unauthorised weapons, counterfeit goods, and items that pose a risk to public safety, animals or the environment.

Currency Regulations

• You must declare cash of £10,000 or more if travelling from outside the UK

• You can bring any amount of money, but large sums must be declared

• Keeping exchange or withdrawal receipts is advisable

• The UK currency is the pound sterling, shown as £

Important Reminders

• UK entry rules can change, so always check the latest requirements before travelling

• Some nationalities may have additional conditions to meet

• Documents should be in English or provided with certified translations

• Keep digital and printed copies of important documents separate from the originals