Both Dover and Folkestone’s Eurotunnel depot have “juxtaposed” border controls – meaning the French border is in the UK and vice versa.
Why do the French check passports in Dover?
But now French officials have to stamp passports and carry out a number of checks including: checking the identity page. checking the traveller hasn’t been to the EU for more than 90 days in the last 180 days. checking there is at least three months left on the passport.
Are there French customs at Dover port?
All UK immigration and customs matters are dealt with by British officials on the French side of the Channel regardless of whether you use a ferry, Eurostar or EuroTunnel.
Are there customs checks at Dover?
You should use your goods movement reference number in the ‘check if you need to report for an inspection’ service to understand if your goods are held. If you’re arriving into the Port of Dover, Eurotunnel or Holyhead, you’ll need to attend an inland border facility to have these checks carried out.
How many French passport booths are there in Dover?
The UK’s Port of Dover, where cross-channel ferries sail to France, is putting the blame on French authorities for disrupting travelers’ vacations, according to a statement it released Friday morning. BBC News reported that out of 12 passport booths run by the French authorities, only six were open.
How long does Passport Control take at Dover?
about 10-20 minutes
The passport control is usually fairly fast. But you may be called in by Customs to have your vehicle inspected and this can take about 10-20 minutes.
Why are French border checks at Dover?
Permission to enter the EU is given by French border guards in Dover. EU border guards are slowly moving towards a system to make sure visitors do not exceed the allotted maximum of 90 days in a 180 day period allowed for UK citizens to visit the Schengen zone.
What is security like at the Port of Dover?
The Port of Dover has its own independent police force charged with maintaining law and order throughout the Port estate and providing a reassuring and highly visible police presence throughout the Port.
Is there customs between UK and France?
Duty-free allowances
Items bought in the UK and imported to the EU/France are free from customs duties and TVA (VAT) as long as they fall within your personal allowance.
Where are French customs at Eurotunnel?
Calais Terminal
Eurotunnel Le Shuttle have these located within our Calais Terminal. To validate your refund for shopping in EU countries other than France, you must obtain a custom stamp on your tax refund forms from our customs office which is located inside our Calais Terminal Building.
How do I avoid customs charges from UK to France?
Gifts posted from the UK with a declared value of less than €45 (this should be a realistic valuation as blatantly improbable values can be questioned by the Douanes if they inspect the parcel), should not attract any import VAT or customs duties.
How do I know if I have to go through customs?
When Do You Go Through Customs? Generally, you’ll go through customs when you arrive in a country that is different from the one your flight departed from. You’ll encounter the customs process while making your exit from the final destination’s airport.
Do you need a passport for ferry to France?
It is compulsory for all passengers (including babies) to have their own valid passport or officially recognised European Union I.D. card when travelling to and from Britain or France. In some cases, a visa may also be required. If you are driving a vehicle you will also need a valid driving licence.
Can you smile in French passport?
Smiling is almost never acceptable, especially for passport or visa photos. Keep face relaxed, mouth closed, and an overall neutral expression. Eyes need to be seen clearly. Prescription and reading glasses are advised to be removed before the photo is taken.
What is the issue at Dover?
Dover is directly affected by any French staffing shortages because of “juxtaposed controls”, where travellers clear French entry requirements at the port before crossing the Channel.
Who controls the border at Dover?
On leaving the ferry, after its arrival in Dover, follow the exit signs. The exit route will lead you through UK Border Force (UKBA) controls where your vehicle may be subject to random inspection.
How early do I need to be at Dover for the ferry?
We advise you to be at the port 60 to 90 minutes before departure. In high season and during the holidays, we recommend that before departure at least 90 minutes. The crossing via Dover to Dunkirk has 12 sailings per day.
Do you need passport details to book a ferry?
If you are travelling within the country where your passport was issued, then any form of I.D. is valid. However, if you are travelling on an international service, or within a country where your passport was not issued, then you will need your passport in order to be able to travel by ferry.
Can I just turn up at Dover and get a ferry?
You can just turn up of course. However, you may well end up paying a premium amount of £££ for your last-minute crossing, just like lo cost plane co’s, crossing fares get more expensive, the later you leave it.
Why is there French on the front of the British passport?
French words on the front of the blue British Passport
One is “Dieu et mon Droit” which means “God and my Right”, which was believed to have been used by Richard I, who reigned from 1157 to 1199, as a battle cry. Over 200 years later, King Henry V adapted the phrase to add “and my right”.
Are there border checks in Schengen?
No, under normal circumstances, there are no border checkpoints between member countries of the Schengen Area. Schengen border control only occurs at external borders. These are entry points from outside the Schengen Area, such as international airports, seaports, and land borders with non-Schengen members.