Proof of sufficient funds

I would suggest that "none of your business" is not an appropriate response to any question asked by an immigration officer. Remember, he/she gets to decide within a few seconds whether you are a welcomed guest or not. There is no court of appeal or fairness doctrine. We have never been asked to produce any documents but always asked a few questions about our current travel plans. And never volunteer any more information than is necessary to answer the question directly and simply.

Never been asked for proof of financial resources when entering the UK.

These kinds of questions usually come up only when it's obvious that you are planning an extended stay in the country. If you want to be on the safe side you could take along a copy of a recent bank statement. That would be much safer than travelling with a large stack of cash in your wallet.

hi, its none of their business with a smile! the only time ive been asked if i had any "large" amount of $$ was on my return to the USA. I replied "the whole idea of traveling was to SPEND money, not bring it back!" happy trails.

I've never been asked that when entering the UK - on vacation trips of 7 to 14 days each time. Unless you're planning a long stay, or you can't show that you have your return flight already booked, I wouldn't worry about it.

A one-way ticket might raise the question as well as an extended stay.

I have never ever been asked ,, even when younger and travelling for longer periods, but I agree if you have a one way ticket that might be an issue. If you are only travelling for a few weeks and have a return ticket I doubt very much you will be asked. I would never arrive in Europe with more then say 100 or 150 euros or GBP,, often left over from trip.

If you are on a short stay and have a return ticket to the U.S., they will likely not ask you to show proof of funds. I've been asked to show proof of funds once ... some 25 years ago. I was traveling on a one-way ticket (this was back when you could get standby tickets). The Officer asked to see my return ticket. When I told him that I didn't have one because I was flying on a youth fare that was standby only, he asked to see my funds. I told him that I would be paying for the ticket with my credit card and once I showed him the credit card and travelers checks, that was sufficient. By the way, I assume that Ray was joking because it is their business. It is totally at the discretion of an Immigration Officer as to whether they admit you. They have to be satisfied that the intended purpose of your visit is within their laws and that you are not attempting to circumvent the rules.

They typically only ask if you are arriving from a third-world country. Even if you are asked, you don't necessarily need to have cash on-hand. If you're planning on using cash machines, they will escort you to an ATM and will ask for a balance statement to show proof of sufficient funds. Of course you could also do that at home right before you leave if you think it's going to be an issue.

Thalia, As others have mentioned, I've also never been asked to prove "sufficient funds" when entering the U.K. I suspect there could be a few "flags" that might prompt them to ask that question - travellers arriving on a one-way ticket, young Backpackers who may appear to be lacking financial means, etc. I wouldn't suggest using the its "none of their business with a smile!" approach, as that could result in "Entry Denied" and get you a seat on the first flight back to your departure point. I know someone who decided to pop into the U.K. from another part of Europe on a whim, and got a big surprise. It was all rather innocent but the Border officers didn't believe their story, so after questioning for a few hours, they were on the next plane out. I'm not sure if this is the most applicable section, but part of the guidelines provided to UK Border Agency staff state: "You must consider if the proposed purpose of a visit to the UK is reasonable, taking into account the visitor's: > financial means and their family, social and economic background. > ties to their home country > previous immigration history and visits to the UK, and > if the cumulative period of time spent in the UK amounts to genuine residence. See related guidance - Frequency and duration of visits. Financial status is one of the criteria that they use to determine admissability, so it is within their mandate. It's not likely you'll be asked, but be prepared to provide the information if it's requested. Happy travels!

"like" button for Frank's answer. I wouldn't risk antagonizing an immigration officer with a smart remark (even with a smile). I think the biggest red flag is not having a return ticket. If you have that, they won't ask about your financial status.

Thank you for your replies. I definitely wouldn't antagonize any official just doing their job or otherwise. I think respect is key. I appreciate every response and detailed info shared, THANK YOU!! :)

I am curious, Thalia. Why were you asking these question? Are you anticipating something?