Catching the Eurostar is a little different from catching a normal train, as you’ll have to pass through customs before you can board. With that in mind, we’d always recommend you giving yourself extra time to allow for any hold ups.
Are there customs checks on Eurostar?
Important: French and Belgian customs officials will be on board some of our trains to enable declarations and carry out random checks. When you arrive, you may see French customs officers on the platform carrying out routine checks.
Is there border control after Eurostar?
“Following the UK’s departure from the European Union, additional border checks apply to UK citizens seeking to enter Schengen,” Damas writes. Since roughly 40 per cent of Eurostar’s customers are British, this has caused a “significant increase in the processing times at these stations.”
Do you have to go through security on Eurostar?
For most journeys – but not all – you should get to the station 45-60 minutes before departure. This’ll give you enough time to scan your ticket, then go through security and passport control. You can find out more about your journey and see all of our station arrival times in our guide.
Can you bring anything on Eurostar?
Each adult can take two pieces of luggage up to 85cm long, as well as one small piece of hand luggage. Plus, there’s no restriction on liquids so you can take your favourite toiletries (and a bottle of something bubbly for the journey). Find out more about our luggage allowances.
How does customs work on Eurostar?
When travelling from Paris or Brussels to London on the Eurostar, you pass through UK Customs on arrival at St Pancras. You walk through the Customs Inspection area. Most people are simply allowed to walk through the “Green Channel” unhindered as the customs officers look on.
How strict is Eurostar luggage?
On Eurostar there’s no weight limit for your luggage, but you must be able to carry and lift your bags safely on your own, as there is no porter service at the station and our teams are unfortunately unable to help with luggage. Each bag can be up to 85cm long at its widest point and should be clearly labelled.
Does Eurostar stamp your passport?
If you cannot prove that you are an EU resident, you may be asked additional questions by border authorities and your passport may be stamped before you enter the Schengen area.
What is forbidden on Eurostar?
Firelighters and lighter fuel.
All flick knives, gravity knives and daggers. Folding/lock pocket knives are also banned. Small folding pocket knives with blades under 75mm without a locking mechanism are the exception and are permitted. Any other weapon made, adapted or intended for use as an offensive weapon.
Is there customs between London and Paris?
Actually, for the trips from Brussels or Paris to London, the UK does immigration at the departure point and customs (nearly always just a walk through, but I have seen them stop some people) upon arrival in London. For going to Paris, all formalities are done in London.
Do they scan bags on Eurostar?
All passengers boarding at any station to use Eurostar trains will have their luggage scanned. It’s similar to scanning at airports but with importance differences.
How many hours should you arrive before Eurostar?
The check-in procedure for Eurostar train journeys takes roughly 20 minutes from start to finish, so it’s recommended that you arrive at least 45 minutes before your Eurostar train leaves.
Can I bring my own food on the Eurostar?
Can you take food on the Eurostar? You’re welcome to bring your own food from home. Unlike airlines, there are no restrictions on liquids so you can even bring a bottle of bubbly.
Are there sniffer dogs on Eurostar?
Unfortunately, Eurostar isn’t part of the pet passport scheme, so we only allow guide dogs and assistance dogs on board. Since our trains don’t have space to carry animals comfortably, we feel it’s in the best interests of pets, their owners and other passengers not to let them on the train.
Can I take a cheese sandwich on Eurostar?
Hi Bethany, you can bring cheese back with you but ensure that it is sealed and kept in with your luggage whilst on board.
Where do you put your luggage in Eurostar?
You’ll find a Left Luggage office at the north end of the station, next to Boots. It’s open Monday to Saturday from 05:30 to 23:00 and Sunday from 07:00 to 22:00. You’ll find lockers at the SNCF luggage office on the lower ground floor, next to platform 3 and opposite the exit marked Cour de taxis.
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.
Are there customs checks at Eurotunnel?
Remember that at Eurotunnel we don’t have ‘red’ customs channels, so you’ll need to declare in advance. If you have more than your allowance, please click here to make a declaration online.
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.
Do you have to wear face coverings on Eurostar?
DO I NEED TO WEAR A MASK ONBOARD? For everyone’s comfort, we recommend wearing a mask on board our trains. You’re not required to take any COVID-19 tests, complete any forms or quarantine on arrival. This applies to ALL travellers, regardless of vaccination status.
Do trains check your bags?
Checked baggage service is available at a number of our stations and on many trains and Thruway Services. Not all trains or locations are equipped to handle checked baggage. Before you travel, make sure to check and see if your train and origin and destination stations accept checked baggage.