Traveling Between France and the UK via Eurostar: Border Formalities in Paris

How Juxtaposed Borders Work on the Eurostar

When taking the Eurostar train from Paris Gare du Nord to London St Pancras, you complete all international border formalities in Paris before boarding the train.

The Three Security Steps at Paris Gare du Nord

1. Step 1: Ticket Gate Scan: Must be completed at least 45 to 60 minutes prior to scheduled departure.
2. Step 2: French Exit Immigration (Police aux Frontieres): Scans your passport and stamps you officially OUT of the Schengen Area.
3. Step 3: UK Border Force: British officers examine your passport, check UK entry requirements, and stamp you INTO the United Kingdom.

Once through, you wait in the departure lounge. When your train arrives in London St Pancras 2 hours and 15 minutes later, you simply step off the platform and walk out into central London without any further passport checks.