U.S. Embassy London will be sending a daily update to ensure all US citizens in the United Kingdom have the latest information about COVID19 and local conditions. Updated information will be prefaced with (NEW). If different or additional information would be useful, please email us with your suggestions at SCSLondon@state.gov.
(NEW) Information on Updated UK COVID-19 Immigration Policies
UK immigration will temporarily waive the overseas requirement for foreign nationals applying for or changing long-term visa categories if they are present in the UK but are unable to depart due to COVID-19. All respective visa requirements and applications fees are unchanged and processing delays should be expected. Tier 4 student visa holders are also permitted to undertake distance learning courses without impacting or mandating sponsorship withdrawal. This arrangement is valid through May 31, 2020. Workers in the UK on visa Tiers 2 and 5 are similarly not subject to sponsor reporting requirements if working from home as a direct result of COVID-19.
The UK government is granting visa extensions for most foreign national visa holders through May 31, 2020. Extensions will be granted for those who are unable to depart the United Kingdom as a direct result of COVID-19. You MUST contact the Coronavirus Immigration Team if your leave to remain in the UK expires between January 24 and May 30, 2020. For information on how to contact the Coronavirus Immigration Team, please visit Advice for UK Visa Applicants and Temporary UK Residents.
Information Regarding Hotel Availability in the United Kingdom
Most hotels in the UK have closed until further notice, per UK government guidance issued on March 23. Travelers are urged to reach out to directly by phone before travel to ensure specific hotels are still operating and accepting guests. The most up-to-date guidance can be found on the UK COVID-19 website.
Information Regarding Flights to the United States
Commercial flights are still available from multiple UK airports connecting to London Heathrow for direct flights to the United States. Trains from Scotland to London are also still available; however, this may change at any moment. Please check the airport and rail websites for the latest information:
On March 23, the Prime Minister advised that people should leave home only for the following reasons:
Shopping for basic necessities
One form of exercise a day
Any medical need/care for a vulnerable person
Travelling to and from work, only if absolutely necessary
Visit the UK COVID-19 website for updated information.
The U.S. Mission to the United Kingdom has suspended routine consular services. For emergency American Citizens Services, including emergency passports, please visit our website for additional information at https://uk.usembassy.gov/.
Consult the CDC website for the most up-to-date information.
For the most recent information on what you can do to reduce your risk of contracting COVID-19, please see the CDC’s latest recommendations.
U.S. Embassy London, United Kingdom
from U.S.: 011 44 (0)20 7499-9000
U.S. Consulate General Edinburgh
U. S. Consulate General Belfast
State Department – Consular Affairs
888-407-4747 or 202-501-4444
