Essential Tips on Getting Through Security at Heathrow Airport

London Heathrow airport security is one of the toughest in the world. I even had a friend who arrived in London and got rejected entry (because he didn’t say the right thing with the immigration officer). There are important things that you should know before going to London. 

Why Is Clearing Customs and Immigration Hard in England?

The reason is simple. First, they want to stop illegal immigration coming from other countries. Second, they want to stop terrorists coming into the country. 

So, all you need to do is not give the officers any doubt that you are a terrorist or trying to become an illegal immigrant. 

What Do I Need to Prepare for Immigration

Outbound Ticket from London

The most important thing is to have an outbound ticket. Sometimes we buy one way ticket and buy the return ticket while traveling. But this can cause you to be rejected entry.  

Your Accommodation Confirmation Letter 

Sometimes they ask where you are staying. Make sure to say the same accommodation as your landing card.

I once stayed in more than one hotel in London and said one thing to the immigration officer and wrote another place on the landing card. Nothing happend but the officer asked like 100 different questions and made me sweat like crazy.

Some Cash and Credit Card

They occasionally ask how much you brought. 

Things that Immigration Officers Ask

It can be nervous when the immigration officer asks you questions. It feels like interrogation and can be terrifying. So I wrote down some questions that officers usually ask.   

 

RELATED BLOG POST: How to Cut the 2 Hour Line at the Heathrow Airport and Get Through in 10 Minutes

 

1. How long are you staying in London?
2. What is the reason for visiting London?
3. Where are you from?, Where are you coming from?
4. Where is your next destination?
5. What are you planning to do in London?
6. How much money did your bring?
7. How did you prepare for the money?
8. Where are you staying in London?
9. What do you do for living?

Please let me know below if you have any questions!

Things You Need to Be Careful

1. Don’t Lie
2. If they ask you questions that you don’t have the answer to, just say you don’t know

The List

 

1. Passport
2. Return Ticket
3. Accommodation Confirmation Letter
4. Cash