What is entry clearance?

Question

Ok I've asked before but without all the details. I'm an American citizen who recently tried to visit friends in the UK. When I arrived at the airport I was questioned about my reason for visiting pulled aside for more questions then sent back the the US because they said I didn't even have enough money to substain my visit. I was to stay for three weeks with friends. One of my friends was there to pick me up from the airport and was questioned. We were told that I should come back with more money next time and I would have to apply for entry clearance before I could return. So, how much money should I have just to visit friends for 5 days? What is entry clearance? Is it the same as a visa? Should I just fly back with more money and try again?

Answer 1

It would seem that as you have been refused entry to our country once before that you would need to be cleared to come into the country by the people who refused you entry the first time...I'm assuming it was immigration who did that.

You could try enquiring at either of these links....

http://www.usembassy.org.uk/cons_new/acs/scs/ukimmigration.html

http://www.workpermit.com/uk/entry_clearance.htm

Answer 2

I got across first time an American refused entry, perhaps you need to come here again and carry enough money, and credit cards, also carry a return flight tickets in case if they ask, Usually you have to convience them that your visit to UK is temporarily, I did visited UK previously for 3 days over weekends.