GoUnited Kingdom Visa Requirements

Visa Entry

1. UK Visa

According to British law, individuals holding a regular passport of the People's Republic of China must obtain a visa before entering or transiting through the UK. Applicants generally need to apply to the outsourcing visa centers located in Beijing, Wuhan, Shenyang, Jinan, Chongqing, Chengdu, Shanghai, Hangzhou, Nanjing, Guangzhou, Shenzhen, Fuzhou, Xi'an, Kunming, Changsha and other places near the British Embassy in China. Except for special exemptions and children under 5 years old, corresponding biometric information such as fingerprints must generally be provided.

Individuals holding Hong Kong and Macau Special Administrative Region passports who come to the UK for family visits, tourism, business activities, and stay in the UK for no more than 180 days do not need to apply for a visa.

Since 2008, the UK Home Office has implemented the Points Based Immigration (PBS) visa system, which simplifies over 80 types of work and study visas into five tiers of visa types. If applying for a work visa, it is generally necessary to provide a Certificate of Sponsorship (COS) issued by an employer within the UK, and to apply for a student visa, an electronic offer letter (CAS) from the school is required.

For specific visa requirements and procedures, please inquire with the UK Visa Centre or the UK Embassy in China in advance.

2. Entering the UK

When Chinese citizens enter the UK, they must carry valid passports, visas, airline tickets, as well as admission notices, invitation letters, proof of funds, or documents related to the purpose of entry, such as the address and contact information of their contact person in the UK, for inspection by border immigration officials. Do not put these materials in checked baggage.

When handling entry procedures, one should truthfully answer inquiries from British immigration officials; If you do not understand English or cannot correctly comprehend the questions raised by the immigration officer, you can request the English side to provide a Chinese translation; If you feel that you have been treated unfairly, you can express your opinion to the British immigration officer in person and request to contact the Chinese Embassy in the UK.

There are three entry channels at UK border ports based on the passport status of the intended entry personnel: British Passports, EU Countries, and Other Passports. Chinese citizens should choose the "Other Passports" channel to handle entry procedures.

Customs epidemic prevention and control

The UK Customs is divided into red, green, and blue channels. Those who need to declare items or are unsure whether they need to declare should go through the red channel; For those who arrive in the UK from non EU countries and do not need to declare any items, please use the green channel; For those arriving in the UK from EU countries without any declared items, please use the blue channel. Do not carry items for others to pass customs.

1. Entering the UK from non EU countries

Each person is allowed to bring the following personal items into the country tax-free: 200 cigarettes (or an equivalent of 100 small cigars, 50 cigars, 250 grams of tobacco, or 200 electronic cigarettes); 42 liters of beer, 18 liters of wine, 4 liters of spirits with an alcohol content exceeding 22% (or 9 liters of alcoholic beverages with an alcohol content below 22%); Other items with a total value not exceeding £ 390 (£ 270 upon arrival in the UK by private plane or boat). Individuals under the age of 17 must declare tobacco products and alcoholic beverages before entering the UK.

When carrying the following items, it is necessary to declare to customs: cash worth over £ 10000 when entering England, Scotland, and Wales from countries or regions outside the UK; Carrying cash worth over 10000 euros when entering Northern Ireland from England, Scotland, Wales, and non EU countries; Self use items that exceed the tax-free limit or quota; Items used for commercial purposes; Prohibited or restricted items for entry.

The prohibited and restricted items mainly include: meat, dairy products, fish and other animal products, fruits, vegetables, nuts and seeds, controlled drugs, rough diamonds, obscene materials, counterfeit and pirated products, offensive weapons (such as spring knives), firearms, explosives and ammunition, etc.

2. Entering the UK from EU countries

Chinese citizens who come to the UK from EU countries (or Switzerland, Norway, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Faroe Islands, and Greenland) can bring into the UK uncontaminated meat (pork and pork products not exceeding 2 kilograms), fish, dairy products, etc. purchased in these countries. Visitors from EU countries (or Switzerland, Liechtenstein) to the UK can also bring fruits, vegetables, nuts, and seeds.

Due to the frequent adjustment of the types of items that passengers can bring into the country by the UK Customs and Border Inspection Department, it is recommended to consult with the UK Customs and Taxation Department or the British Embassy in China before traveling.

3. Apply for tax refund when leaving the country

Starting from 2021, the UK has stopped providing tax refund services for overseas tourists leaving the country.

For relevant information, please refer to www.gov.uk/browse/apload/travel-apload

Residency and Naturalization

1. Residency in the UK

If Chinese citizens intend to stay in the UK for more than six months, they need to obtain a biometric residence permit (BRP) through a guarantor or designated post office upon arrival in the UK. BRP is proof that the holder has the right to reside, work, or study in the UK, and those traveling to the UK must collect it before the expiration of their 30 day UK visa or within 10 days after arriving in the UK, whichever is later. The UK will implement electronic visas and cease issuing BRPs by 2025. BRPs obtained before this date will be valid until December 31, 2024 at the latest. If you need to prove your immigration status after this date, you can apply for a share code through the UK Visa and Immigration Office (UKVI). For relevant information, please refer to www.gov.uk/biometric sidence-permits

2. Naturalization to the UK

China does not recognize dual citizenship. Chinese citizens who wish to acquire British citizenship can refer to the official website of the UK for information: www.gov.uk/browse/citizenship/citizenship。

The risk level in the UK is yellow (medium risk).                            

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs reminds Chinese citizens in the UK to closely monitor the local security situation, be vigilant, strengthen prevention, and pay attention to safety. In case of emergency, please report to the police in a timely manner and contact the Chinese embassy or consulate in the local area.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and overseas embassies and consulates will continue to closely monitor changes in the overseas security situation, dynamically adjust relevant risk assessments, and release and update corresponding security reminders in real time on platforms such as the China Consular Service Network. Please continue to pay attention.   

public security

The political system in the UK is stable, and the overall social security situation is good. In the past two years, there has been a significant increase in violent crime cases in British society, with incidents such as robbery of property and knife attacks occurring from time to time, and telecommunications fraud cases being particularly frequent. The UK government often announces national security threat levels and precautions based on the situation. For more details, please visit websites such as the UK Home Office and Transport Department.

In addition, mass incidents such as strikes, marches, and riots occur from time to time. It is recommended that Chinese citizens avoid crowds as much as possible and take good care of their valuables at famous attractions, train stations, subways, airports, and other places in densely populated cities such as London. In case of emergency, you can call the bandit police, fire alarm, and emergency hotline 999.

Epidemic prevention and control

In late February 2022, the British government announced the implementation of the plan of "coexistence with COVID-19", canceling provisions such as self isolation for patients diagnosed with COVID-19, no longer providing free testing services for the public, and turning "government prevention and control to personal responsibility". The Chinese Embassy in the UK once again reminds Chinese citizens in the UK to continue to take measures to prevent the epidemic, adhere to personal protective measures, maintain social distancing, and protect their health.

natural disaster

The main natural disasters in the UK are storms, blizzards, and floods. In December 2015, a severe storm hit the northwest of the UK, causing floods, power outages for residents, and school closures, affecting the academic and daily lives of over a hundred Chinese international students in the area. In December 2017, heavy snowfall occurred in many parts of the UK, causing many flights at airports such as London Heathrow to be delayed or cancelled, and road traffic in some areas to be blocked, resulting in many passengers being stranded.

The UK government generally issues natural disaster warnings in a timely manner. Strong disaster relief capability after a disaster occurs. If you are stranded in the UK due to natural disasters, it is recommended to keep in touch with ticket agents and airlines at all times to understand the resumption of flights, ticket changes, and refunds, and to promptly report your safety to your family and maintain contact. In case of emergency, you can call the emergency and emergency hotline 999.

FDA

The food safety situation in the UK is good. If food sources are accidentally contaminated with diseases or toxic substances, the UK government generally takes timely preventive measures, guides consumers to avoid using contaminated food, and provides medical support.

The UK Food Standards Agency (FSA) has launched a national food rating system, which classifies food hygiene standards in restaurants, bars, takeaway restaurants, hotels, supermarkets and other places from low to high on a scale of 0 to 5 for public reference. For more information, please visit the FSA website.

Urgent Help

The police, fire department, and emergency hotline in the UK are all 999.

air traffic

As of October 2023, there are direct flights from Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Chengdu, Chongqing, Qingdao, Changsha, Xi'an, Wuhan, Shenzhen, Hong Kong and Taipei to London, and direct flights from Beijing and Hong Kong to Manchester. Passengers can also transfer between China and the UK through major cities in mainland Europe and the Middle East.

There are five major passenger airports around London, among which Heathrow International Airport is one of the world's most important aviation hubs, connecting over 90 countries and approximately 180 cities. The center of London is about 34 kilometers away from Heathrow Airport, with buses, subways, and the Heathrow Express intercity rail line running between the city center and the airport, as well as the M4 motorway leading to the airport.

In addition to London, Manchester, Edinburgh, Glasgow, Liverpool, Belfast, Birmingham, Newcastle and other major British cities also have international airports. The number of flights entering and leaving major airports such as Heathrow is approaching saturation, and there are occasional delays due to frequent rainy and snowy weather in the UK. In case of delays caused by force majeure such as weather or strikes, please handle them rationally. In case of emergency, please contact the Chinese Embassy in the UK.

land transport

The railway and road transportation in the UK are highly developed. The train routes reach all parts of the country with dense schedules; Long distance buses and urban public transportation are also extremely convenient. In addition, there are also Eurostars between major cities in the UK and mainland Europe, especially in countries such as France, the Netherlands, and BelgiumEurostarConnect trains and long-distance buses.

The punctuality rate of trains and long-distance buses in the UK is relatively high, and long-distance travel can be arranged based on the timetable. In addition, it is very convenient to purchase tickets in the UK, which can be purchased on the spot or ordered online or by phone. To check the traffic situation in London, pleaseclick hereTo check the train situation, pleaseclick here.

There are many car rental companies in the UK. Generally, customer service hotline can be found on the Internet. The traffic rules in the UK are different from those in China, where motor vehicles drive on the left side, and even minor violations of traffic regulations may face criminal penalties. The responsibility for traffic accidents is strictly divided according to the proportion of fault of the parties involved. Renting a car for self driving should carefully read the contract and thoroughly inspect the condition of the vehicle before departure. Drive with caution, fasten the seat belt, and prepare a safety seat for children under 12 years old or less than 135 centimeters tall.

water communication

Britain is a traditional maritime power. In recent years, the UK has maintained its position as a global shipping pricing and management center by developing shipping finance and maritime services. The headquarters of international shipping organizations such as the International Maritime Organization and the International Chamber of Shipping are located in London.

The scale of inland waterway transportation in the UK is not large. There are some municipal water bus or sightseeing shipping routes in London and other places. In terms of maritime passenger transportation, the British Isles have ferry services with Northern Ireland, the Isle of Man, the Channel Islands, and some coastal cities in Ireland, the Netherlands, Belgium, France, Spain, and other countries.

Urban transportation

London's urban subway and bus stations are densely packed, with long daily operating hours, especially with a large number of nighttime buses, which can provide 24-hour public transportation in major urban areas. The London Underground map can be obtained for free at each subway station, and most bus shelters are equipped with nearby bus stops and route lookup tables. To check the traffic situation in London, pleaseclick here.

The vast majority of taxis in London use a unified model, with a unique and easily recognizable appearance. London taxis implement meter based pricing, with standardized charges but higher prices. In addition, it is recommended that taxi passengers request a receipt before getting off the car in case they lose their belongings.

The roads in the UK are relatively narrow, with high traffic and fast speeds. When crossing the road, please be sure to follow traffic rules and do not look at your phone while walking.

major city

Major cities in the UK include London, Manchester, Edinburgh, Belfast, Birmingham, Bristol, Cambridge, Cardiff, Glasgow, Leeds, Liverpool, Newcastle, Oxford and York.

Commodity prices

The UK's gross domestic product ranks among the top in the world, and its people's living standards are relatively high. It is a country with high wages and high consumption, and due to various factors, the price level in the UK continues to rise. According to data from the UK Office for National Statistics, the average inflation rate from September 2022 to September 2023 reached 6.3%, and the Consumer Price Index rose by 6.7%.

The official currency of the United Kingdom is the pound, with four denominations of banknotes in circulation: 50, 20, 10, and 5 pounds, and eight denominations of coins in circulation: 2, 1 pound, and 50, 20, 10, 5, 2, and 1 pence. 1 pound is equivalent to 8.9 yuan (November 2023 exchange rate). Foreign currency is not circulated in the UK, and there are banks or bureau de change offices in major airports and commercial areas. Banks in the UK are usually open from 9:30 am to 4:30 pm on weekdays, and most airport currency exchange offices are open 24 hours a day. Glasgow and Edinburgh airport currency exchange offices may only be open until 8 pm.

British Chinese have set up Chinese supermarkets in major cities such as London, Manchester, Birmingham, Edinburgh, Belfast and Glasgow, which basically meet the daily needs of Chinese people in terms of product types. In addition, there are many Chinese restaurants and food delivery shops. International credit and debit cards marked with VISA or Mastercard can be used in most restaurants, shopping malls, supermarkets, convenience stores, and popular tourist attractions. Holders of UnionPay cards can withdraw British pound cash from ATM machines with the "LINK" network logo within the UK. Some stores and restaurants accept UnionPay card, Alipay and WeChat payment. To learn about the branches that accept UnionPay cards, you can log in to: https://www.link.co.uk/ Conduct a query. In addition, domestic banks such as Bank of China and Industrial and Commercial Bank of China have branches in the UK.

Insurance Medical

The United Kingdom implements the National Health Service (NHS), which provides all or part of free medical services to British residents or foreigners who have stayed in the United Kingdom for more than 180 consecutive days (such as non European economic area personnel who need to collect additional "medical surcharges", 150 pounds per year for students and 200 pounds per year for other personnel). It is recommended that Chinese citizens who meet the above conditions register with the nearest public medical clinic (General Practitioner, abbreviated as GP, similar to community hospitals in China) in their place of residence. Regular medical appointments are required, and medication can be obtained for free at local pharmacies with a doctor's prescription, and the corresponding prescription fee can be paid at the pharmacy (free in Scotland). Children under 16 years old, pregnant women, and elderly people over 65 years old are exempt from paying prescription fees. If the condition is severe, the GP generally recommends that the patient be transferred to a national health hospital for treatment or hospitalization, and most expenses such as hospitalization fees can be waived. Visiting a dentist is within the scope of self payment (excluding children).

Short term tourists and visitors to the UK are not eligible for free medical treatment at the National Health Service. If you need regular medicine, you can purchase it from local pharmacies or supermarkets. Common chain pharmacies include Boots, and there is a Chinese medicine store called Beijing Tongrentang in Chinatown. If you need to see an emergency, you can call NHS 111 or go directly to the nearest hospital for treatment. If you need first aid, you can call 999.

There are many private hospitals or clinics in the UK with good service conditions, but the fees are expensive. It is recommended that Chinese citizens purchase private medical insurance locally in the UK according to their actual needs.

According to the British government, one fourth of British residents die of cancer, mainly lung cancer, rectal cancer, breast cancer cancer and prostate cancer. Other common diseases include heart disease, stroke, diabetes, asthma, tuberculosis, venereal diseases and mental diseases. The UK attaches great importance to infectious and high mortality diseases and has implemented strict prevention and control measures.

The UK is a major producer and consumer of pharmaceuticals in the world, with a vast pharmaceutical industry with strong research foundations and abundant supply of various drugs in the market. Most drugs are prescribed and distributed by general practitioners or licensed doctors, and over-the-counter drugs are also sold in the market. There are at least 120000 pharmacies in the UK, regulated by the government and operated by qualified pharmacists who are registered with the Royal Pharmaceutical Society and subject to its review and supervision.

Customs taboos

The British are generally reserved, respect tradition, like quietness and pay attention to etiquette. British people dress seriously and solemnly on formal social occasions. Men usually wear suits and women wear uniforms.

British funeral etiquette is relatively simple. If someone in the family unfortunately passes away, the family will publish a small notice in the newspaper, indicating when and where the funeral will be held. Both men and women attending the funeral wear black or dimly colored clothing and only receive flowers or wreaths.

The British people are mainly devoted to Christianity. The Christian Church is mainly divided into the Anglican Church of England, the Roman Catholic Church, the Scottish Church and the Free Church. The Church of England is the state religion of England, with the secular leader being the King of England, the religious leader being the Archbishop of Canterbury, and the deputy leader being the Archbishop of York. The main traditional festivals in the UK include New Year's Day (January 1), Valentine's Day (February 14), St. David's Day (March 1), St. Patrick's Day (March 17), April Fool's Day (April 1), Easter (the first Sunday after the full moon and spring equinox), Halloween (November 1), and Christmas Day (December 25).

Communications Power

When making calls to other countries in the UK, it is necessary to add the country code of the called location. For example, the country code for China is 0086. When calling the Beijing phone number 010-666666666 from the UK, you should dial 0086-10-66666666.

Public Internet access in the UK is relatively developed. Generally, hotels have room Internet access.

Public telephone booths in the UK generally accept coins and credit cards.

The voltage in the UK is 230V, 50Hz, and power sockets only accept British three-way straight plugs. Generally, Chinese appliances can be used normally in the UK with a British plug converter.

contact information

1. Some Chinese funded institutions in the UK