Is there passport control between London and Paris?

Passport Control and Customs Procedures for Eurostar Travel Between London and Paris

When traveling by Eurostar, the high-speed rail service connecting London and Paris, passengers are subject to passport control and customs inspections.

Passport Control

Upon departure from either London St Pancras International or Paris Gare du Nord, passengers will undergo passport control at their departure point. This involves presenting a valid passport and having it checked by immigration officials.

However, it’s important to note that there is no passport control between London and Paris. Once the train enters the Channel Tunnel, it is considered international territory, and passport checks are not required.

Customs Inspections

Upon arrival in London St Pancras International, all passengers must pass through the designated Customs area. This involves declaring any goods purchased or acquired outside the UK that may be subject to customs duty, such as alcohol, tobacco, or luxury items.

Customs inspections are conducted by UK Customs officials, who may ask passengers to open their luggage or provide receipts for purchases. Passengers should be prepared to comply with any requests made by officials.

Smooth Border Crossings

The Eurostar service between London and Paris is designed to facilitate smooth border crossings for passengers. By eliminating passport control between the two countries, the journey time is significantly reduced.

Passengers should arrive at the station with ample time to allow for both passport control at departure and customs inspections upon arrival. By following the procedures outlined above, travelers can ensure a hassle-free and secure experience when traveling by Eurostar between London and Paris.