Immigration
APIs
All foreign visitors, regardless of their position, undergo some level of immigration check on arrival into the UK.
For all types of visit including landside transit (see below for more details), Missions are requested to complete an API V4.4, detailing all passengers in the delegation, including the Lead VIP.
The completed API should be emailed to the FCDO Protocol VIP Visits Team at least 72 hours before arrival: VIParrivals.departures@fcdo.gov.uk
The FCDO Protocol VIP Visits Team will then forward the completed API to UK Border Force so they and the arrival airport/ port are aware of the visit in advance. This should minimise the risk of there being issues at immigration on arrival.
Please Note:
• that submitting an API form does not entitle the VIP and accompanying delegation to fast-track the immigration queue.
• there are no diplomatic lanes at UK airports/ ports.
• medical lanes are not for VIP use to fast track through the airports and are unable to support Mission requests to fast track VIPs through the airport in any circumstance.
FCDO-designated State Visits and Guest of Government Visits
For FCDO-designated State Visits and Guest of Government Visits only, the Lead VIP plus a small accompanying delegation can be exempt from normal immigration control. This policy is owned by UK Border Force who have the final decision on implementation. The immigration process will be discussed as part of the pre-planning meetings between the Mission and the FCDO.
For all other types of visits, normal immigration procedures will apply.
Private Flights
The immigration process for private flights may differ from the immigration process of commercial flights. Therefore, it is recommended that Missions discuss the immigration process with the FCDO Protocol VIP Visits Team and the UK flight handler, also known as Fixed Based Operator (FBO) that they are using.
Customs
Importing Goods
Please refer to the following UK Government customs guidance on bringing commercial goods into the UK in your luggage:
https://www.gov.uk/guidance/bringing-commercial-goods-into-great-britainin-your-baggage
Food & Animal Products
As a polite reminder, visitors are kindly requested to refer to the following UK Government guidance on bringing goods into the UK for personal use, including food or other plant or animal products can be found at: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/personal-food-plant-and-animal-product-imports
ATA Carnets
Border Force and HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) ask that those coming in for official visits who are bringing media and significant equipment, carry an ATA Carnet. An ATA Carnet simplifies the clearance of goods process. The ATA Carnet will be processed by Border Force on arrival.
Further information on ATA Carnets can be found here on GOV.UK https://www.gov.uk/guidance/apply-for-an-ata-carnet#ata-carnets