Is it true that you will be stopped at the border if you try to enter the UK without valid passport/visa?

Flynn_17

The UK is an island. We don't HAVE a border. That's the problem... Jun 20 06, 3:53 PM

helenasykes

But you won't get past customs without a valid passport. Jun 20 06, 3:57 PM

Baloo55th

We do have a border - with the Republic of Ireland. The UK is one and a bit islands. (OK, loads of little ones as well....) Jun 20 06, 4:13 PM

lanfranco

You will be refused entry by any country if you don't possess the documents it requires. That is, assuming that you are attempting to enter via an official checkpoint. Jun 20 06, 4:43 PM

wajo	Even if you have the correct documents they can still refuse you entry if, for example, they suspect you're intending to look for work illegally or overstay your visa for whatever reason. Jun 20 06, 5:28 PM

sue943

"You will be refused entry by any country if you don't possess the documents it requires. That is, assuming that you are attempting to enter via an official checkpoint." Not necessarily, I have entered France a number of times without anyone checking my passport. Jun 20 06, 5:30 PM

lanfranco

I've done the same, and in Italy, too, Sue. However, if you are stopped and can't present whatever documents you are supposed to have, you will probably be subjected to major hassles. Much depends on whoever happens to be on duty. I've found that's also true of U.S. Customs coming the other way. Jun 20 06, 5:53 PM

quidditch123

I think that's true for every country. Unless you were sneaking in illegally. After 9/11 I think all countries are pretty cautious with their security. Jun 20 06, 9:02 PM

davejacobs

But between almost any other two countries in the European Union, you can walk, cycle, drive, train, or fly over borders without any check whatever. You can drive from Calais through France, Belgium, Luxembourg, Germany, Austria and Italy without being stopped. They are more laid back there. Jun 21 06, 1:09 AM

Gnomon

Within the EU, there are groups of countries between which no passport is necessary. The Republic of Ireland and the UK have an agreement so that you don't need a passport to travel between them. The Schengen countries have a similar agreement - this includes France, Belgium, Germany, Italy and some others. But you need a passport between the UK/Ireland and a Schengen country. Jun 21 06, 3:00 AM