London Calling: Unlocking The City's Travel Requirements

London is a great city to visit, with a lot of attractions and things to do. Here are some of the requirements and things to keep in mind when travelling to London:

- Visas: Depending on your nationality, you may need a transit visa to pass through a UK airport on your way to another country. Check the UK government website for more information.

- COVID-19 Rules: Currently, there are no specific COVID-19-related requirements for travelling to England. However, other countries may have rules about what you need to do to leave their country for England. Always check the latest guidance before travelling.

- Driving: If you plan to drive in the UK, be aware that they drive on the left side of the road. The minimum legal age to hold a driving licence is 17, and you must be at least 17 years old to rent a car. The speed limits and road types vary, so make sure you familiarise yourself with the UK Highway Code.

- Public Transport: London is known for its excellent public transport system. The Tube (London Underground) is a fast and easy way to get around the city, but buses and Uber boats can also offer a cheaper and more scenic way to get around.

- Money: London has a reputation for being an expensive city. Set a realistic budget and look for ways to save money, such as taking advantage of the many free museums and galleries.

- Manners: Londoners value good manners. Remember to say thank you, hold doors open for others, and be considerate of your fellow passengers on public transport.

- Planning: Spontaneity is fun, but when it comes to visiting popular attractions, booking ahead and making reservations is essential to avoid disappointment.

- Safety: London is generally a safe place to visit, but it's always good to be vigilant and keep your belongings safe, especially in busy tourist areas and on public transport.

- Weather: London's weather can be unpredictable, so pack accordingly. Bring sunglasses, a scarf, and an umbrella to be prepared for all eventualities!

Passport and visa requirements

To enter the United Kingdom, your passport must be valid for the entire duration of your stay. It is also recommended that your passport has at least six months' validity after the last day of your trip. If you are a citizen of the United States, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, or South Africa, you do not need a visa to enter the UK and can stay for up to six months. However, if you plan to work or study in the UK, you will need to obtain the correct paperwork.

For US citizens, the UK's Registered Traveller Service (RTS) allows the use of ePassport Gates upon arrival. Additionally, if you are travelling onwards to a country that requires a visa, such as India, it is recommended that you secure that visa before arriving in the UK.

If you are not a citizen of the countries mentioned above, you may need to apply for a Visitor in Transit visa or a Direct Airside Transit Visa (DATV) depending on your circumstances. The Visitor in Transit visa is required if you will be passing through UK border control but leaving within 48 hours. The DATV is required if you are catching an onward flight from the same UK airport on the same day and will not be passing through border control. The application process for these visas involves submitting an online application, paying the relevant fee, and attending an interview to provide supporting documentation and biometric information.

It is important to note that visa requirements and exemptions may vary based on your nationality and the purpose of your visit. Therefore, it is always recommended to check the official UK government sources and the embassy or consulate of your home country for the most up-to-date and accurate information regarding passport and visa requirements for travelling to London.

Covid-19 restrictions

As of April 2023, there are no COVID-19-related restrictions for travellers to London. You do not need to complete a UK passenger locator form before travelling, nor do you need to take any COVID-19 tests before travelling or after arriving. You also do not need to quarantine when you arrive. These rules apply regardless of your vaccination status.

However, it is important to note that your travel provider or transport hub may have their own COVID-19 rules in place. For example, you may be required or advised to wear a face covering. It is recommended that you follow any COVID-19 rules and guidance from your travel provider and the relevant transport venue.

Additionally, other countries may have COVID-19 rules that you must follow when travelling from the UK. It is essential to check the 'Entry requirements' section of foreign travel advice for all countries you will visit or travel through.

Customs declarations

When to Declare Goods

When entering London, it is essential to declare certain goods to UK customs. This includes situations where you:

• Exceed your personal allowances for Great Britain (England, Scotland, and Wales) or Northern Ireland. Personal allowances refer to the maximum value of goods you can bring into the country without paying additional taxes or duties.
• Possess goods that are banned or restricted. These may include controlled drugs, offensive weapons, indecent or obscene material, and counterfeit items.
• Intend to sell or use goods for business purposes. This includes commercial goods, regardless of their value.

Additionally, if you are transiting through a UK airport en route to another country, you must declare any goods you are carrying. This applies even if you do not plan to leave the airport or pass through border control.

How to Declare Goods

There are several ways to declare goods when travelling to London:

• Online Declaration: You can declare goods online using the HMRC Online Service for Passengers. This service allows you to make a declaration up to 72 hours in advance of your arrival. It is recommended to use this service whenever possible.
• Red Channel or Red-Point Phone: If you are unable to declare online, or if you have goods that exceed your personal allowance, you must use the red channel or red-point phone upon arrival in the UK. This includes situations where you are carrying goods for business purposes or have cash or goods exceeding the equivalent value of €10,000.
• Green Channel: If you do not have any goods to declare and are travelling with goods within your allowances, you can use the green channel. This typically applies if your goods have been declared online or fall within the permitted limits.

Important Considerations

• Allowances and Restrictions: Familiarize yourself with the specific allowances and restrictions for different types of goods, such as alcohol, tobacco, and other items. These allowances vary by country and age, so check the government website for the most up-to-date information.
• Cash Declaration: If you are carrying cash or its equivalent (including traveller's cheques) exceeding £10,000, you must declare this separately. This can be done online or by obtaining a form from a Border Force Officer at the red customs exit.
• Duty-Free Goods: If you have made a declaration for duty-free goods and have nothing further to declare, you can use the Green Channel when going through customs. However, keep your reference number and email receipt handy, as officers may request to see them.
• Uncertain About Goods: If you are unsure about the goods you are carrying, it is best to speak to an officer in the red channel or on the red-point phone. They can provide guidance and ensure you comply with the regulations.

Local laws and safety

London is generally a safe city to visit, study, and explore. However, as with any big city, it's essential to be cautious and aware of your surroundings. Here are some tips to ensure your safety and follow local laws while traveling in London:

• Be Aware of Your Surroundings: Use your common sense, and if something doesn't feel right, walk away. Stick to well-lit and busy areas, especially after dark.
• Know Your Way Around: Familiarize yourself with London's transport system and try to plan your routes beforehand. Use registered taxis, and avoid walking alone in dark or isolated areas.
• Secure Your Valuables: Keep your passport in a safe place, and use a bank card for payments instead of carrying cash. Always keep an eye on your belongings, especially in crowded areas.
• Stay in Contact: Keep your friends and family updated about your whereabouts. This provides peace of mind and can be helpful in case of an emergency.
• Nightlife Caution: When enjoying London's nightlife, don't accept drinks from strangers, and never leave your drink or belongings unattended. Stay with your friends or family.
• Online Safety: Protect yourself online by restricting social media posts to friends only and checking your privacy settings. Regularly update your passwords and antivirus software.
• Phone Safety: Be cautious when answering calls from unknown numbers. Avoid providing personal information or your address and phone number.
• Emergency Contacts: Know the emergency numbers: 999 for police, fire, or ambulance, and 101 for non-urgent crimes to reach your local police station.
• Transport Safety: When using public transport, be mindful of your belongings and keep them secure. Avoid traveling during rush hour if possible, as it tends to be extremely busy.
• Road Safety: Always look both ways and check for cyclists before crossing the road. Cyclists can be fast and unpredictable, so stay vigilant.
• Pickpocket Awareness: Pickpockets operate in central London and around tube stations, so keep your phone and wallet secure at all times.
• Weather Preparedness: London's weather can be unpredictable, so pack accordingly. Bring sunglasses, a scarf, and an umbrella to be ready for any weather conditions.

Transport

London has one of the largest public transport networks in the world, with integrated underground, train and bus systems spanning the city.

The London Underground

The London Underground, or "Tube", is the oldest underground metro network in the world, with parts operating since 1863. The Underground operates in fare zones 1–6, which cover London in expanding concentric circles, with zone 1 in the centre and zone 6 at the outside. Generally, the more zones you cross on your journey, the more expensive it will be.

Overground

The Overground is similar to the Underground, except it is above ground. The Overground was created in 2007 and helps to fill in coverage gaps that the Underground has. The Overground has the same fare pricing as the Underground and follows the same zone-based rules.

Docklands Light Railway (DLR)

The Docklands Light Railway, or DLR, is an automated rail system that covers the docklands area of London, specifically the area directly east and southeast of central London. The DLR links London City Airport to the rest of the tube network. The DLR is part of the overall London fare zone, and in fact, some tube stations also contain DLR stations.

Suburban Rail

In addition to the Underground, Overground, and DLR, London also has suburban rail that links central London to its suburbs, and fast trains that link London to the rest of the country (and the world). There are also direct rail links to London's three major airports: Heathrow, Gatwick, and Stanstead.

Buses

London buses are the most used form of public transport in London, with over two billion journeys taken per year. There are just so many bus routes in London, serving a huge area – you can basically get anywhere in London by bus. Bus fares are also cheaper, at a fixed price of £1.75 (as of March 2024) for a single journey for Oyster card users, regardless of distance.

Trams

In south London, specifically from Wimbledon through to Croydon and Beckenham, there’s a tram service known as London Tramlink. The tram has four lines and 17 miles of track. The tram works the same as the bus in terms of payment – it’s a fixed fee per journey, and you just have to touch in with your Oyster card or contactless card when you board to validate your ticket.

Cable Car

London has a cable car service that gets you across the River Thames, from Greenwich to the Royal Victoria Dock. The Cable Car is part of the TfL system, so you can pay with your Oyster card or contactless card.

Boats

London also has a public transport system that uses the waterway of the River Thames. Thames Clippers operates a service under license from TfL, with four "routes" that get you from one end of London to the other.

Frequently asked questions