Travel documents

If you are an international student, make sure you have your documents ready before you travel to the UK. 

Documents checklist

• Passport (proof of identity for all circumstances)
• Study visa (to be checked at a UK airport)
• Tuberculosis (TB) Certificate (if applicable to your home country, you must carry in hand luggage)
• Driving licence (additional proof of identity, if you have one)
• At least a three month supply of prescribed medication and an explanation letter - written in English from your doctor (for GP registration)
• Letter evidence of a disability, learning difference, health or neurodiverse condition - written in English within the last 6 months by a medical professional, outlining how it may affect your learning
• Cash (in case of any delays with opening a bank account, recommended no more than £1000.00)

If you use an eGate, you will not receive a stamp in your passport. You should keep your boarding pass(es) or travel itinerary in a safe place, as proof of the date you arrived in the UK. 

Find out more about entering the UK on the Government website

Travel safety tips

• Keep a photocopy or scan of your passport and any visa stamps in case it gets lost
• NEVER carry large amounts of cash, and keep any money that you do carry hidden in a secure place on your person
• Don’t put cash or other valuables in your check-in luggage
• Label your luggage clearly so that it can be sent to you if it gets lost
• If you are travelling on your own and you need to sleep, try using your hand luggage as a pillow so you will wake if anyone tries to tamper with it
• Use padlocks to lock the zips on your bags and cases

Further guidance is provided by the Student Immigration Service