Essential Travel Declaration Form for International Travel from England
Travelers wanting to leave England for overseas destinations are now required to complete a travel declaration form. This form confirms that they are legally allowed to travel abroad. Failing to provide this form could result in significant fines.
Current Travel Restrictions
Stay-at-home restrictions are currently in place throughout the country. English residents are permitted to travel abroad only if they have a legally justifiable reason. As it stands, it is illegal to travel abroad for holidays, with this mandate set to continue even after the stay-at-home requirement concludes on March 29. According to the government’s roadmap, the resumption of vacation travel is projected for May 17.
Completing the Travel Declaration Form
To travel abroad, individuals must fill out a travel declaration form. This form needs to be printed and signed, or saved on a mobile device for easy access. Travelers may be required to present this form at the port of departure, along with evidence supporting their reason for travel.
It is important to note that travelers do not need to complete the form for journeys within the UK, to Ireland, the Channel Islands, or the Isle of Man. Additionally, certain individuals are exempt from this requirement due to their professional roles, such as those traveling for education or work-related purposes.
Permissible Reasons for International Travel
Permitted reasons for international travel include:
- Essential travel for business, work, volunteering, or education purposes when remote work is not feasible.
- Travel for medical and compassionate reasons.
- Attending the wedding or funeral of a family member.
- Visiting a burial ground or memorial site.
Consequences of Non-Compliance
Traveling without a completed form is considered a criminal offense. Individuals attempting to travel abroad without a valid reason may face fines for violating the stay-at-home guidelines. Moreover, it is crucial to acknowledge that different regulations may apply for international travel from Northern Ireland, Scotland, and Wales.
