I travelled to the UK at the beginning of March this year to visit friends I had made while studying there. I intended to stay for a month but it turned into 4 after a series of unforeseen events. Now I've plans to go back in the middle of August and my return flight is in December. In September I'll be travelling with my friend to Brazil for 20 days, so I won't be in the UK for the entire time. Will this cause any problems at customs? I read through the official UKBA documents and it only says that I can't stay more than 6 months at a time and that I must be able to pay for my whole trip with my return flight included. I'll be staying with my friend for free the entire time and I've got my return flight paid for already.
Posted by
Lynnwood, Washington
8397 posts
It is always best to get immigration/visa information from the correct government itself, rather than hoping that strangers on a forum know the answer. There are some terrific people on this forum that are very knowledgeable. However, I think that in matters that deal with the law, you need to get the answers directly from the UK.
Posted by
Oxford, United Kingdom
5330 posts
The rule of thumb for the UK as a visitor is no more than a total of six months in any 12 but this is not a hard and fast regulation any more. The immigration officer will assess each time the risk that you are attempting to stay for prolonged periods in the UK by multiple visitor entries. Now whether the officer will suspect that is what you are doing and question you on it is a risk for you. You may just be admitted for a shorter period; you could be turned around, or on the other hand waved through.
Posted by
Hampshire, England.
1069 posts
"Will this cause any problems at customs?"
"Customs" are only interested in luggage, it's immigration you have concerns about.