Risk level(s)

Safety and security

Crime

Violent crime, such as mugging and sexual assault occurs, particularly in larger cities. Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and purse snatching occurs in tourist areas and airports, restaurants, pubs and bars and underground pedestrian walkways, and on public transportation. Be vigilant, particularly in urban areas during the summer months and when walking after dark.

Vehicle theft and theft from parked vehicles also occurs, particularly in tourist areas and roadside stops.

There have been incidents of passengers being sexually assaulted and robbed when using unlicensed taxis. Consult Transport for London’s Report a crime or incident page for information on what to do if you have been the victim of a crime on the transportation system, including in a taxi.

Spiked food and drinks

Never leave food or drinks unattended or in the care of strangers. Be wary of accepting snacks, beverages, gum or cigarettes from new acquaintances, as these items may contain drugs that could put you at risk of sexual assault and robbery.

Fraud

Beware of automated banking machine (ABM) scams, which are on the rise in the United Kingdom (U.K.); they can range from simple to sophisticated, sometimes involving hidden electronic devices that obtain account information and personal identification numbers. To avoid being a victim of fraud, use ABMs located in well-lit public areas or inside a bank or business, avoid using card readers with an irregular or unusual feature, cover the keypad with one hand when entering your PIN and check any unauthorized transactions on your account statements. Pay careful attention when cards are being handled by others during payment processing.

See our Overseas Fraud page for more information on scams abroad.

Terrorism

There is a threat of terrorism. Since March 22, 2017, separate attacks, causing multiple deaths and injuries, have taken place, two in London and one in Manchester. The attacks have been indiscriminate and have targeted public areas and entertainment venues.

Further attacks are likely. Targets could include government buildings, places of worship, schools, transportation hubs and public areas such as tourist attractions, restaurants, bars, coffee shops, shopping centres, markets, hotels, and sites frequented by foreigners. Be aware of your surroundings at all times in public places.

The Government of the United Kingdom maintains a public alert system on terrorism:

• The level of threat to the U.K. from international terrorism is at "severe", meaning that an attack is highly likely.
• The level of threat to Northern Ireland from domestic terrorism is at "severe".
• The level of threat to Great Britain from Northern Ireland-related terrorism is at "substantial", meaning there is a strong possibility of an attack.

Visit the British Home Office’s Terrorism and national emergencies page for details and updates on current threat levels.

Demonstrations and civil unrest

Demonstrations occur and have the potential to suddenly turn violent. They can lead to significant disruptions to traffic and public transportation. Avoid all demonstrations and large gatherings, follow the advice of local authorities and monitor local media.

In Northern Ireland, civil unrest, often associated with Protestant parades through predominantly Catholic neighbourhoods, may occur during the Orange Order summer marching season (April to August). Exercise caution during the summer marching season and follow the advice of local authorities.

Road safety

Roads are excellent but are often narrow and congested, especially in urban areas.

Use caution when entering a traffic circle (roundabout). Pedestrians should use caution when crossing streets and be mindful that traffic is usually coming from the opposite direction than what they may be used to.

Public transportation

Public transportation is excellent and extensive.

Only use officially licensed marked taxis.

Ferry services link the United Kingdom to Europe and Ireland. The Eurotunnel spans the English Channel from England to France.

Delays may occur on train routes, including Eurostar trains, due to track repairs or flooding. Expect delays also at airports and other ports of entry due to stringent security screening measures.

Occasional strike action and migrant (see General Safety Information below) activity in and around Calais can cause delays when using cross-channel services to travel to and from the United Kingdom. Contact your transportation carrier for up-to-date information and monitor local news.

Expect possible delays and disruptions in some areas of Northern Ireland during the weeks leading up to July 12, the day Protestants celebrate their victory at the 1690 Battle of the Boyne.

Air travel

The Government of Canada does not assess foreign domestic airlines’ compliance with international aviation safety standards. See Foreign domestic airlines for more information.

Mountain or trekking activities

If you intend to do mountaineering or trekking:

• never practice these activities alone;
• always hire an experienced guide from a reputable company;
• buy travel insurance that covers helicopter rescue and medical evacuation;
• ensure that your physical condition is good enough to meet the challenges of your activity;
• advise a family member or friend of your itinerary, including when you expect to be back to camp;
• know the symptoms of acute altitude sickness, which can be fatal;
• sign up with the Registration of Canadians Abroad service; and,
• obtain detailed information on trekking routes or ski slopes before setting out and do not venture away from marked trails or slopes.

If you are planning on mountaineering or skiing, consult SportScotland’s Scottish Avalanche Information Service for information on weather and safety conditions.

General safety information

Exercise normal security precautions and avoid isolated areas. Ensure that your personal belongings, including passports and other travel documents, are secure at all times. Avoid showing signs of affluence and carrying large sums of cash.

There has been a significant increase in the number of migrants and refugees entering Europe. Some countries have already experienced disruptions to transportation services, including at ferry ports and railway stations, and have seen major delays at border crossings. The situation also heightens the potential for demonstrations that could turn violent without warning, particularly at railway stations and other transportation hubs. If you are travelling in the region, monitor local news and follow the advice of local authorities, and contact your transport carrier to determine whether the situation could disrupt your travel.

Entry/exit requirements

It is the sole prerogative of every country or territory to determine who is allowed to enter or exit. Canadian consular officials cannot intervene on your behalf if you do not meet entry or exit requirements. The following information has been obtained from the British authorities and is subject to change at any time. The country- or territory-specific entry/exit requirements are provided on this page for information purposes only. While every effort is made to provide accurate information, information contained here is provided on an "as is" basis without warranty of any kind, express or implied. The Government of Canada assumes no responsibility, and shall not be liable for any damages in connection to the information provided. It is your responsibility to check with the British High Commission or one of its consulates for up-to-date information.

Customs officials may ask you to show them a return or onward ticket and proof of sufficient funds for your stay. If you are unable to do so, or if you seek entry as a visitor but are found with items indicating that you intend to seek any type of employment (such as curriculum vitae or educational certificates), you may be denied entry and expelled from the country. If you have previously been refused entry, contact the British High Commission in Ottawa for entry clearance before making plans to visit the United Kingdom, even if a visa is normally not required.

Passport

Canadians must present a passport to visit the United Kingdom, which must be valid for at least the expected duration of their stay in that country. This requirement may also apply when travelling to Northern Ireland from other parts of the United Kingdom, and vice versa. Prior to travelling, ask your transportation company about its requirements related to passport validity, which may be more stringent than the country's entry rules.

Temporary passport holders may be subject to different entry requirements. Check with diplomatic representatives for up-to-date information.

Official (special and diplomatic) passport holders must consult the Official Travel page, as they may be subject to different entry requirements.

Visas

Canadians needing any type of visa should consult UK Visas and Immigration to ensure that they apply for the proper visa and have the appropriate documents for the purpose of their visit (for example, marriage, employment, study), as well as to find out if they will be required to pay a health-care surcharge. Canadians planning to work or volunteer in the United Kingdom for any period of time are required to have a work permit.

Tourist visa: Not required (for stays of six months or less)

Business visa or work permit: Required*

Student visa: Required

*A work permit or visa is required even if planning to do unpaid, volunteer or part-time or temporary work.

Children and travel

Children need special documentation to visit certain countries. See Children for more information.

Yellow fever

See Health to obtain information on this country’s vaccination requirements.

Health

Medical services and facilities

Good medical care is widely available. You may be required to pay medical fees in advance. Make sure you have travel insurance that covers all medical expenses in case of illness or injury (including hospitalization abroad and medical evacuation).

Keep in Mind...

The decision to travel is the sole responsibility of the traveller. The traveller is also responsible for his or her own personal safety.

Be prepared. Do not expect medical services to be the same as in Canada. Pack a travel health kit, especially if you will be travelling away from major city centres.

Laws & culture

You are subject to local laws. See Arrest and detention for more information.

Canada and the United Kingdom are signatories to the Convention on the Transfer of Sentenced Persons (Council of Europe). This enables a Canadian imprisoned in the United Kingdom to request a transfer to a Canadian prison to complete a sentence. The transfer requires the agreement of both Canadian and British authorities.

Identification

You must carry adequate photo identification, such as a passport or residency permit, at all times. Keep a photocopy of your passport in case it is lost or seized.

Dual citizenship

Dual citizenship is legally recognized in the United Kingdom. However, Canadian officials may be limited in their ability to provide you with consular services if local authorities consider you a British citizen. You should always travel using your valid Canadian passport and present yourself as Canadian to foreign authorities at all times to minimize this risk. You may also need to carry and present a British passport for legal reasons, for example to enter and exit the country (see Entry/exit requirements to determine passport requirements). Citizenship is determined solely by national laws, and the decision to recognize dual citizenship rests completely with the country in which you are located when seeking consular assistance. See Travelling as a dual citizen for more information.

Driving

Traffic drives on the left.

Although an International Driving Permit is recommended, you can drive with a valid Canadian licence for up to 12 months from your date of entry.

The use of a cellular telephone while driving is prohibited, unless it is fitted with a hands-free device.

A fee is charged to those driving into central London on weekdays. The Congestion Charge zone is indicated by a large “C” painted on the roads and by signs. You can pay the fee by phone, online or at selected shops and gas stations. Visit Transport of London’s Congestion Charge page for further details.

Penalties for drinking and driving are severe. Convicted offenders can expect heavy fines or jail sentences.

Additional information regarding road safety and regulations can be found on the European Commission’s Mobility and Transport.

Illegal drugs

Penalties for possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs are similar to those imposed in Canada. Convicted offenders can expect jail sentences and heavy fines.

Money

The currency of the United Kingdom is the pound sterling (GBP).

Credit cards are widely accepted and automated banking machines are widely available. Traveller’s cheques are not usually accepted at retail outlets but can be exchanged at banks.

When crossing one of the external border control points of the European Union (EU), you must make a declaration to customs upon entry or exit if you have at least €10,000 or the equivalent in other currencies. The sum can be in cash, cheques, money orders, traveller’s cheques or any other convertible assets. This does not apply if you are travelling within the EU or in transit to a non-EU country. For more information on the EU legislation and links to EU country sites, visit the European Commission’s cash controls website.

Natural disasters & climate

England, Scotland and Wales are subject to wind storms that can cause death and injury and severely damage commercial, residential and natural areas. Heavy flooding, fog, rain and snow can have widespread impacts, including transportation disruptions. Consult the Met Office, the Environment Agency or the Scottish Environment Protection Agency for additional information and advice.

In mountainous regions, avalanches present a risk that may result in injuries or fatalities. If you are planning on mountaineering or skiing, consult the Scottish Avalanche Information Service for information on weather and safety conditions.

Assistance

Local services

Consular assistance

For emergency consular assistance, call the High Commission of Canada in London and follow the instructions. At any time, you may also contact the Emergency Watch and Response Centre in Ottawa.