International students Arriving at Glasgow Airport

Adventure awaits - be prepared for a smooth landing

Make sure you read over our Pre-arrival Guide and follow the tips inside.

Arrival at Glasgow Airport

Get ready for a seamless entry into the UK at Glasgow Airport! 

All of the documents below must be available to present to UK Border Force staff at any time during your arrival process.  It is crucial that these documents are readily accessible in your hand luggage, and physical copies of all documents are strongly recommended. 

  • Valid passport: Your passport should be valid for the entire duration of your stay in the UK.
  • Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS): A printed copy of your CAS, issued by the University, is essential.  This document confirms your enrolment details.
  • Funding evidence (Maintenance): Be prepared to show evidence that you have sufficient funds to cover your tuition fees and living expenses in the UK.  This should be evidenced using the same documents provided for your Student visa application.
  • Accommodation details: Have a clear record of where you will be staying, especially for your initial period in the UK.  This includes addresses and contact information for university halls, private rented accommodation, or details of any hotels or family/friends you will be staying with.
    • Note: If you are staying in a hotel or with family/friends when you initially arrive in the UK, Border Force staff may apply a higher level of scrutiny to ensure your accommodation arrangements are legitimate and secure.
  • ATAS Certificate (course specific): If your course of study requires an ATAS Certificate, you must have a printed copy with you on arrival in the UK.  You would have been required to provide your ATAS certificate for your Student visa application.
  • Medication prescriptions: Carry official prescriptions for any medication you have with you.
  • Personal allowances declaration: Depending on where you're arriving from, check personal allowances for items you're bringing and, if required, fill out the declaration form.  Refer to the UK Government website for details.
  • Cash declaration: If you will be carrying £10,000 (GBP) or more in cash, you must declare this to UK customs.  You can declare online in advance of your travel (up to 72 hours before travel) or on arrival in the UK.  Check the UK Government website for more information on taking cash in and out of the UK.
  • While COVID-related documents aren't currently required, stay updated on any potential changes by checking the UK Government website before your trip.
  • Familiarise yourself with items you must not carry to the UK.

You should also Check if you are eligible to use the eGates on arrival.

What to expect at Border Control

Border Force staff are there to ensure everyone entering the UK is doing so legitimately.  They may ask you some general questions to verify your reason of entry.  Be prepared to answer any questions clearly and honestly. 

Some of the common questions that may be asked by Border Force staff are shared below:

  • "What university are you studying at?"
  • "What course are you studying?"
  • "Where are you staying in the UK?"
  • "How will you be funding your studies and living costs?"
  • "What are your plans after completing your studies?"
  • "Have you travelled to the UK before?  If so, when and for what purpose?"
  • "Do you have any relatives or friends in the UK?"

Bringing food into the UK

The UK has strict rules on what food products can be brought into the country to prevent the introduction of diseases. 

  • Do NOT bring meat, dairy, or certain animal products from outside the UK.  These may be confiscated at the border.
  • Be mindful of strong odours or messy items.  Even if a food item is technically permitted, if it has a strong odour or is prone to making a mess, it may be confiscated or even lead to refusal of onward transport by airlines or other carriers.  It is best to avoid bringing any large quantities of food from home.  You will find a wide variety of food options available in and around Glasgow.

After you pass through Border Control and baggage reclaim

  • The most economical onward travel option is by bus.  You can find details on the Glasgow Airport website.  There is an excellent Airport Express Bus Service with multiple stops in Glasgow City Centre.  This will cost £10.50 and runs regularly 24 hours per day.  You can pay with cash (GBP), a credit/debit card, or contactless.  When you arrive in the City Centre, you can either walk to your accommodation or take a local black taxi.  There is a taxi rank on George Square close to the last stop on the bus route.  
  • If you wish to take a taxi directly to your accommodation from the airport, you can find the taxi bay outside of the terminal building at international arrivals.  Taxis cost approximately £28 to £35 for destinations within the City Centre and upwards of £40 for outlying areas.  Again, you can pay with cash (GBP), a credit/debit card, or contactless. 

Arriving at your accommodation

You must check with your accommodation provider to ensure they are expecting your arrival.  If you're staying at the University of Strathclyde, you should review our Accommodation - Frequently Asked Questions for Arrival and Induction information.  You must complete your accommodation welcome induction prior to your arrival or you will be unable to collect your keys.

Overcoming jetlag

Check out our handy guide to overcoming jetlag.