Travelling to UK as a minor
Traveling to the UK as a Minor
Hi everyone! I’m planning a trip to the UK in December to visit my cousin in London. I’m a 16-year-old minor and will be traveling with my older brother, who is 23. Besides the recently introduced ETA, what else do I need to ensure I can enter the UK upon arrival?
I’ve read that if I’m not staying in a hotel, I should have all the necessary details about my host, including their phone number, address, status, and full name. I believe I also need to show proof of my return flight— is that correct? Additionally, I’m getting a notarized letter from my parents giving my brother guardianship for the trip.
What are the chances of encountering issues with the visa? I plan to stay for about a week. I’ll be traveling from Romania, and I will be 17 by the time the trip occurs. Thank you for any advice!
It sounds like you have a well-thought-out plan for your trip to the UK! Here’s a summary of what you might need and some tips to help ensure a smooth entry:
ETA (Electronic Travel Authority): As you mentioned, ensure that you apply for the ETA before your trip as it’s a new requirement for travelers to the UK.
Documentation: Yes, having the details of where you’ll be staying is important. Make sure to have:
A letter from your cousin inviting you to stay, if possible.
Return Flight: Having proof of your return flight can help show your intent to leave the UK by the end of your stay.
Parental Consent: Carry the notarized letter from your parents granting permission for your brother to act as your guardian during the trip. This is particularly important since you are a minor.
Other Important Documents: Keep your passport and any relevant travel insurance documents handy, as well as any other identification that might be helpful.
Visa Requirements: Since you are traveling from Romania, you generally do not need a visa for short visits to the UK, but it’s always good to check the latest regulations or any updates on visa policies.
Chance of Entry Issues: As long as you have all your documents in order and you’re transparent about your travel plans, the chances of being denied entry are relatively low. Border officials will want to ensure that you are traveling for the right reasons and that you have a safe place to stay.
Make sure to also check the latest travel advisories and requirements due to ongoing changes in regulations. It’s always better to be over-prepared. Have a great trip!