I traveled to England recently but was denied entry because I didn't have enough money to support myself for a three week stay. How much should I have if I only want to stay 5 days? I don't mind staying in cheap hotels or even hostels. Would $1,000 USD be enough ? Is it necessary that I apply for entry clearance also?
2006-09-12 05:01:06 · 9 answers · asked by Stella 1 in Travel ➔ United Kingdom ➔ London
$1000 is more than enough. It would also be helpful if you had a credit card which you could show as a backup form of financial aid (in case your money gets stolen) and if you have friends in the UK, ask them to write a letter saying they would help you out if you get into dire straits. Then show the letters to immigration at the airport. Trust me, having letters like these from UK citizens really helps.
2006-09-12 05:09:00 · answer #1 · answered by Cardinal Richelieu 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I couldn't help but laugh at Bricklayer- because he is so very right.
I cannot understand why you would be denied entry here just becaus you didn't have any spending money!!! Seems very strange. Whenever I travel I always take my maestro card as it works everywhere, or my Matsercard- I don't like to carry cash. $1000 would probably be fine for a five day holiday.
YOu would only need financial support if you were planning on living here, but as Bricklayer said, our government is always ready help anyone who justs comes over here, not expecting to work, and will give you a five bed house, all the benefits you could wish for, and you'd be top of the NHS waiting list no worries *sigh*
2006-09-12 12:29:59 · answer #2 · answered by Personal Angel 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Ha ha, I love Bricklayer's answer!
However, I'd like to ask your nationality. I'm American and have never been asked how much money I have nor have I had to produce anything other than my passport. I've been there for weeks at a time, and the situation you describe has never occurred.
Who asked you for documentation pertaining to your financial situation? The only officials I've ever had to see anyone come in contact with upon arrival at either Gatwick or Heathrow was simply Passport Control. They asked me why I'm there (business or leisure) and how long I plan on staying. That's it. They stamp my passport, then I go and collect my luggage and am off to where I need to go.
My impression is that you are definitely not American or from another European country.
2006-09-12 17:13:45 · answer #3 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
I have traveled to London quite a few times and you have to realize that everything there costs about twice the amount then in the States. $1000 (the equivalent of 500 pounds) is definitely not enough to vacation there for five days (you want to play it safe). Here is a tip: Obviously pre-book and pay for your flight, and see if you cannot take care of all of your reservations and deposits for hotels before you arrive at Heathrow. Also, you will need traveling money for buses, tube, and taxis.
Tip: You can buy a one week Travelcard at any tube station for 20 pounds (price may have change since last year). This is also your bus pass so you kill two birds with one stone.
Final Tip: Bring about twice the amount you were thinking of bringing, you also have food and attractions to consider. Not to mention Pubs and Shopping! :)
Enjoy your vacation and take lots of pictures!
2006-09-12 19:13:21 · answer #4 · answered by Travelin' Girl 1 · 1⤊ 0⤋
I don't know what you mean about applying for entry clearance? I would think about £100 a day should be fine, it is easy to spend a lot of money in London!!
2006-09-12 12:07:47 · answer #5 · answered by sparkleythings_4you 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
You have one time there for 3 weeks ,so you can calculate for 5 days how much you need.
2006-09-12 12:08:50 · answer #6 · answered by lucky s 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I do not understand what went wrong.
normally people arrive at Heathrow,with no money.
We then supply them with money,housing and medical care.We do not ask you to leave,and if you are anti-British you may qualify for a lottery grant to run a workshop.
We will allow you to practice any religion that you wish,and grant you free legal help if you wish to sue any of our citizens that may upset you.
When you want to go home we will pay your fare and give you £3,000.00.
See you soon.
2006-09-12 12:11:50 · answer #7 · answered by Anonymous · 1⤊ 0⤋
I would have 900 hundred dollars.For five days, and that includes food, for lunch and dinner, not breakfast because the hotel will provide you with that.
2006-09-12 12:04:12 · answer #8 · answered by Ali L 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Go here and read http://www.learn4good.com/travel/tourist_information/uk_england_london_guidebooks_embassy_list_visas.htm
It tell most of what you will need.
If, you not understand Pounds to Dollars go here;
http://finance.yahoo.com/currency
Have fun!
2006-09-12 12:12:46 · answer #9 · answered by Snaglefritz 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋