By Michelle Nesbit
Due to the tightened security in many countries, passports or visas are an important travel detail that need to be taken into consideration, no matter where you are going. When traveling to England, it is required that everyone have a valid passport; however, visas requirements will differ based on your point of origin.
Visa Requirements for Canadians, Australians and Americans
Canadians, Australians and Americans must hold a valid passport, but a visa is not required. Depending on the reason for your visit, you can stay up to six months.
Visa Requirements for South Africans
South Africans must hold a valid passport and a visa are required for visiting or travel through England. Transit visas are £45 (pounds sterling) and a visiting visa is £65 (pounds sterling). South Africans can no longer travel to the United Kingdom on a temporary passport.
Visa Requirements for Irish Nationals
Irish Nationals do not need a visa or passport to enter the United Kingdom unless you are an Irish National coming from a country other than Ireland, the Isle of Man or the Channel Islands.
Other Requirements
Any travelers who are not required to have a visa must have a ticket for return or traveling on from the country, or your will need to provide proof of funds for your entire duration. You should also make sure your passport is valid for the entire length of your stay in England.
Additional Requirements for Other Countries
Nationals or citizens of any country other than Canada, Australia, the United States or Ireland need a visa, including those that have travel papers from the previous Soviet Union or Yugoslavia. Anybody who is classified as "stateless" or who holds non-national papers also must obtain a visa.
Employment and Education
You may need a letter from your employer stating the length of employment, what your job position is and when you are to be back at work. If you are a student, you need a letter from your school or college listing the start and finish dates. Also, you may be required to submit bank statements that go back several months, evidence of savings accounts and evidence of any firm travel plans. It might be helpful if you can prove you have a family to return to or responsibilities.
Length of Stay
Basically, England wants to be sure that you can support yourself while you are visiting and also wants assurance that you are not planning to stay indefinitely. They are more sensitive to terrorism than in the past, so don't automatically assume you will be issued a visa. You should check before traveling to see whether you will need a visa. If you need clarification on visa requirements, you can contact your nearest embassy or consulate.
Multi-Entry Visa
If you travel regularly to England on business, you can apply for a multi-entry visa that is available for 2, 5 or 10 years. Most travel or student visas are good for six months unless a longer term is purchased.
About the Author:
Michelle Nesbit started her writing career in 1999, when she wrote "The Title Searcher's Handbook." Nesbit has written for The Chattanoogan, Healthmad and several clients who secure her services as a ghostwriter. Nesbit's background includes licenses in Insurance, certification as a Rescue and Technical Scuba Diver, Underwater Photographer, and a clinical hypnotherapist. Nesbit is currently completing studies as a clinical nutritionist.
