It is very important that we know when you are arriving and where you intend to stay in the UK – we want to ensure that your arrival into the UK is as smooth as possible. Please remember to tell us about your travel and accommodation details as soon as they are booked.

Customs and quarantine

You should ensure that you have the following available in your hand luggage when you arrive in the UK:

• Your passport
• A valid visa or entry certificate
• Details of where you will be staying
• Evidence of funding: personal or family resources, or confirmation of sponsorship
• The letter from BCUIC confirming your place of study as a full-time student
• TB certificate (if you were required to submit this as part of your visa application)

You may be asked for additional information regarding your proposed studies in the UK.

Immigration procedures

Immigration procedures at British airports can be stringent and may result in a considerable delay at the end of your flight, especially during peak traffic periods (at the start of term and during UK holiday periods). For information on what goods you may bring into the UK, please click here

How to get to your accommodation

You can either get a taxi from the taxi rank at the airport or you can call one of the following taxi numbers:

TOA Taxis, 0121 427 8888

Castle Cars, 0121 472 2222

Ambassador Cars, 0121 444 1111

Please make sure that you have the full address of your accommodation building,including the postcode.

Late arrival

If you land later than 17:00 (GMT), we recommend that you stay in a hotel near your arrival airport for the night. BCUIC are happy to help you arrange this – simply email 

Please note that if you arrive late in Birmingham without informing a member of the BCUIC accommodation team, BCUIC will not be able to assist you with your first night’s accommodation.