How will the upcoming Border Force strike impact travel?

The upcoming Border Force strike is taking place from 23 December 2022 to New Year’s Eve, and will likely significantly impact travel to and from the UK.

Which airports are affected?

The strikes involve Border Force staff at most major airports across the UK, including Heathrow, Gatwick, Birmingham, Cardiff and Glasgow.

What is the reason for the Border Force strike?

Border Force staff, who are responsible for checking passports and ensuring the security of the UK’s borders, are demanding a pay increase and better working conditions. The strike action is supported by the Public and Commercial Services Union (PCS), which represents the majority of Border Force staff.

Advice for inbound passengers

If you are planning to come to the UK during the industrial action, be prepared for increased waiting times at the UK border. This will particularly affect those not eligible to use eGates because Border Force staff must carry out physical document checks. We recommend you periodically check for information regarding your flight due to potential cancellations. 

Advice for outbound passengers

While the UK outbound flights are likely to be less affected by the strikes, we still recommend that you check for the latest information on the airport websites and airline you will be flying with. This is because delays caused by the strike on the inbound passenger side might impact departures.

Other transport services

In addition to the Border Force, other transport service provider staff are also striking during the holiday period, including train operators and bus services. This is likely to put additional strain on the UK underground system. It is worth checking how you can get to and from any UK airports during this time.

General advice

Whether you are planning to travel to or from the UK, keep the Border Force and other industrial actions in mind. Check with your flight operator regularly and follow the news on the UK government website. Please make sure you have all the necessary documents on hand to ensure a speedy border control check.

How Gherson can assist

Gherson’s Immigration Team are highly experienced in advising on UK visa matters. If you have any questions arising from this blog, please do not hesitate to contact us for advice, send us an e-mail, or, alternatively, follow us on Twitter, Facebook, or LinkedIn to stay-up-to-date.

The information in this blog is for general information purposes only and does not purport to be comprehensive or to provide legal advice. Whilst every effort is made to ensure the information and law is current as of the date of publication it should be stressed that, due to the passage of time, this does not necessarily reflect the present legal position. Gherson accepts no responsibility for loss which may arise from accessing or reliance on information contained in this blog. For formal advice on the current law please do not hesitate to contact Gherson. Legal advice is only provided pursuant to a written agreement, identified as such, and signed by the client and by or on behalf of Gherson.

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