United Kingdom

Terrorism is a threat worldwide. Terrorist attacks could occur anywhere and at any time. Be alert to possible threats, especially in public places. 

The overall UK terrorism threat level is currently 'substantial' (level 3 of 5), meaning an attack is likely. The 3 key sources of this threat are groups or individuals motivated by:

• Islamic extremism
• extreme right-wing ideology
• the status of Northern Ireland.

UK authorities have installed security barriers on London's major bridges.

Terrorists have attacked other European cities.

Targets have included:

• aviation
• public transport and transport hubs
• sporting venues and mass gatherings, including places popular with travellers.

Remain vigilant and:

• be alert to the danger of terrorism
• be aware of your surroundings
• report suspicious behaviour or bags left alone on public transport and in other public places to the police
• monitor official warnings and the media for any threats
• follow the advice of local authorities.

Northern Ireland

The terrorism threat level for Northern Ireland is 'substantial', meaning an attack is likely.

In the past, terrorist groups have used firearms and bombs to target security forces. They have attacked or have attempted attacks in public places. Civilians have been at risk.

There's also a risk of isolated violence by dissident groups in Northern Ireland, focused primarily on police and military targets.

Northern Ireland has previously experienced street violence and rioting, including attacks on police with stones, fireworks and petrol bombs. The violence has mainly occurred in loyalist areas in west and south Belfast, Londonderry, and parts of County Antrim. 

If there’s a terrorist incident, leave the area if it’s safe to do so and follow the instructions of local authorities. 

More information:

• Terrorism threat levels in the UK
• Terrorism

Public protests and events that draw large groups of people can turn violent and evolve into riots.

Tensions can rise in Northern Ireland from April to August, worsening in the weeks leading up to 12 July, also known as the 'Twelfth' or 'Orangemen's Day'.

To stay safe:

• avoid all protests
• monitor the media for the latest information
• follow instructions of local authorities.

More information:

• Protests and civil unrest

Be alert and aware of your surroundings and safeguard your belongings.

Petty crime is common, including pickpocketing, passport theft and theft from cars across the UK. Mobile phone and bag snatching is on the rise and can happen at any location. Thieves use scooters and bicycles to snatch belongings. Take care to protect your belongings on public transport, in crowded tourist areas and at landmarks.

Robberies could also lead to identity theft. If you think you've been the victim of identity crime, report it to local police.

Violent crimes such as muggings, knife crime and sexual assaults occur across the UK. Be alert to other criminal activities, including drink spiking and fraud.

To stay safe:

• keep money and valuables such as mobile phones out of sight
• avoid putting valuables in your pockets, using shoulder bags or bags that can't be closed securely
• stay alert in public places, especially where there are lots of people, including other tourists
• when using ATMs and credit cards, keep your card in sight, conceal your PIN and check your bank statements
• be alert to suspicious behaviour.

More information:

• Theft and robbery
• Scams

Kidnapping 

Kidnapping can happen anywhere, anytime, including in destinations that are typically at lower risk.

The Australian Government’s longstanding policy is that it doesn’t make payments or concessions to kidnappers.

More information:

• Kidnapping 

Drink spiking

Methanol poisoning

Cyber security 

The UK experiences severe weather, including:

• strong winds
• flooding
• rain
• snowstorms

Expect transport disruptions.

Monitor local weather reports. Follow the advice of local authorities.

Register with the Global Disaster Alert and Coordination System to receive alerts on major disasters.

If you need counselling, the Samaritans provide private phone support. You can call 116 123 (UK free call) 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

For specific information on bringing medication into the UK, read the UK Home Office website. 

Health risks are broadly similar to those in Australia.

Ask your doctor about health risks and vaccines before you go.

More Information:

• NHS information and advice
• Infectious diseases

The standard of medical facilities is similar to that of Australia.

Call the National Health Service (NHS) on 111 to find your nearest GP surgery or hospital.

If you need urgent medical care, go to your nearest hospital.

Accessing NHS medical services

There's a reciprocal healthcare agreement between Australia and the UK.

Some GP and hospital treatments are free if you're in the UK for a short visit.

Check the Department of Human Services to find out what's covered. You'll need to prove you're eligible.

If you stay for over 6 months, you'll pay an Immigration Health Surcharge, which will be charged when you apply for your visa.

Your details will be shared with the NHS when your visa is approved, allowing you access to medical care.

When you access healthcare in the UK, you may need to:

• provide your biometric residence permit if you have one
• prove your status online using a share code if you have a digital immigration status.

There may be delays in accessing medical treatment through the NHS.

The NHS won't cover the cost of a medical evacuation, which can be very expensive. Get comprehensive travel insurance before you leave Australia.

When you travel to another country, you must follow their laws. Even if they seem strict compared to Australia's. Before you go, learn about the local laws in that country.

The Australian Government is limited in how and when we can help if you're arrested overseas. We can't get you out of trouble or out of jail. Understand our limits. Read the Consular Services Charter.

Drugs

Penalties for possessing, using or trafficking illegal drugs are severe. They include imprisonment and fines.

More information:

• Carrying or using drugs
• Arrested or jailed
• Controlled substances

Some Australian laws still apply even if you’re in another country. You could be charged in Australia if you break these laws overseas.

More information:

• Staying within the law and respecting customs

The UK recognises dual nationality.

If you’re a dual national with Australian-British or Australian-Irish nationality travelling to the UK, you will need to prove your citizenship for entry into the UK using:

• a valid British passport
• a valid Irish passport
• another valid passport containing a certificate of entitlement.

For assistance with dual nationality contact the UK Home Office.

More information:

• Check if you need an ETA or visa to come to the UK
• Dual nationals

Make sure you meet all entry and exit conditions. The Australian government can't help you if you don't.

If you're travelling to the UK, seek guidance from the UK's Visa and Immigration Service on entry requirements.

If you plan to visit the UK for less than 6 months as a tourist or to transit, you will need an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA).

If you plan to stay longer than 6 months or for reasons other than tourism, you will likely require a visa. You'll need a visa if you plan to do paid or unpaid work, volunteer or get married. Arrange this before you travel.

Australian-British or Australian-Irish dual citizens must enter the UK on their British or Irish passport, or through a certificate of entitlement in another valid passport. These dual citizens are not able to be issued an ETA or other visa to enter the UK. Dual citizens may not be able to board a flight to the UK without a valid document. The UK government has advised these requirements will be strictly enforced from 25 February 2026. Allow ample time before departure to ensure you have a valid document to enter the UK. 

The UK can refuse you entry without a visa, ETA, or evidence of British or Irish dual citizenship.

Check if you need an ETA or visa to come to the UK.

Entry and exit conditions can change at short notice.

Contact the UK High Commission for details about visas, currency and customs. For assistance with dual nationality, contact the UK Home Office. Australian Government officials can't help you change your UK visa status.

Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA)

An ETA permits multiple visits to the UK for stays of up to 6 months at a time over 2 years or until the holder's passport expires, whichever is sooner.

An ETA does not guarantee entry to the UK. 

More Information:

• Electronic travel authorisation (ETA).

Online Immigration Status (eVisa)

UK Visas and Immigration now issues eVisas rather than physical documents.  eVisas have replaced the following physical documents: 

• biometric residence permits (BRP)
• biometric residence cards (BRC)
• passport endorsements, such as indefinite leave to enter wet ink stamps
• vignette stickers in passports, such as entry clearance or visa vignettes.

More information:

• Online Immigration Status (eVisa) 

Visa scams

Travellers have been scammed by private online visa services and travel agents.

Only apply for your visa through the Visas and immigration - GOV.UK website.

You can usually use eGates on arrival in the UK (free of charge) if you:

• have a biometric symbol on the cover of your passport; and
• are aged 10+ with an Australian ePassport (10 to 17 year olds must be accompanied by an adult).

You don't need to complete a landing card.

You must see a Border Force officer and get your passport stamped if you're coming to the UK with a Temporary Work - Creative Worker Certificate of Sponsorship for short-term assignments (up to 3 months).

Read the Guide to faster travel through the UK border, as these requirements can change at short notice.

Security

UK airports have extensive security screening. Allow extra time if you're flying to or transiting through the UK. Check UK Department of Transport for details.

Check UK Visas and Immigration for details. Also, check the UK's hand luggage rules.

Contact your airline or travel provider for more details.

Brexit

The UK provides updated guidance on the implications of Brexit for issues such as travel, residency, education and employment. The latest information can be found on the UK Government website.

Validity

Lost or stolen passport

Passport with 'X' gender identifier 

The official currency is the Pound Sterling (GBP).

ATMs are available, and credit cards are widely used. Contactless payment is widely accepted.

There are rules about how much cash you must declare upon arrival or departure from the UK.  These may differ between Great Britain (England, Scotland and Wales) and Northern Ireland. This covers all forms of currency (i.e., bearer bonds, prepaid cards, gold coins, bullion or nuggets, cheques, and travellers’ cheques), not just cash.

You may have to pay a penalty if you don't declare this cash.

More information:

• UK Visas and Immigration - Bringing Cash Into UK

Regular strikes can occur across several industries, including ambulance services, hospitals and public transport. For the latest service updates, check the National Rail or  Transport for London websites.

Severe weather can affect airline, bus and train services. Check with local transport providers for up-to-date details.

Driving permit

You can drive a car or motorbike for up to 12 months. You need a full Australian licence for the relevant vehicle (digital driver's licences may not be accepted). After 12 months, you'll need to get a UK driver's licence. An International Driving Permit isn't required.

If riding a motorcycle, always wear a helmet.

Road travel

Road and safety conditions in the UK are comparable to those in Australia. Follow the advice from local authorities.

More information:

• Driving or riding

Taxis

Some people have reported sexual assaults and robberies in unlicensed taxis. Only use officially marked taxis.

Rail travel

Rail services are extensive. They can be affected by industrial action, weather, or engineering work.

Check National Rail or the Transport for London websites for the latest service updates.

More information:

• Transport and getting around safely

Air travel

Check the UK's air safety air profile with the Aviation Safety Network.

More information:

• Air travel

Depending on what you need, contact your:

• family and friends
• travel agent
• insurance provider
• employer
• airline

Fire and rescue services

Call 999.

Medical emergencies

Call 999.

Police

Call 999.

Always get a police report when reporting a crime.

Your insurer should have a 24-hour emergency number.

For criminal issues that aren't an emergency:

• call 101 for the local police
• call 0800 555 111 to make an anonymous report to Crimestoppers

The Australian Government aims to provide high quality consular assistance. There are limits to what we can do. Read the Consular Services Charter to understand how we can assist you overseas.

Australian High Commission, London

Australia House
Strand
London WC 2B 4LA, United Kingdom

Phone: +44 20 7379 4334
Website: uk.highcommission.gov.au
Facebook: Australian High Commission in the United Kingdom
X: @AusHouseLondon and @AusHCUK

Check the High Commission website for details about opening hours and any temporary closures.

24-hour Consular Emergency Centre

In a consular emergency, if you can't contact the High Commission, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on:

• +61 2 6261 3305 from overseas
• 1300 555 135 in Australia