With excellent transport links into the city from across the UK and beyond, it’s quick and easy to get to Glasgow. It’s Scotland’s most accessible city.

Glasgow is served by 3 international airports, with connections across the UK and the world. There are direct flights from over 165 locations, including Europe and North America. Flights to and from Dubai provide an excellent connection for Asia, Africa and Australasia. 

  • Edinburgh Airport is 39 miles (63km) from Glasgow. There is a direct bus service from the airport to Glasgow’s Buchanan Bus Station which takes around 1 hour. Head to edinburghairport.com for more information.

Click here for further information about getting to Glasgow. 

Click here for information about getting around Scotland by train.

 

Visa 

To attend an international conference in the UK, you must first determine if you need a visa and then apply for a Standard Visitor visa online up to three months before your travel date. The process involves submitting an online application, attending an appointment to provide biometric data, and supporting your application with required documents like an invitation letter from the conference organizer. 
Before you apply
  • Determine if you need a visa: Check if your nationality requires a visa, or if you can visit without one or with an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA).
  • Check your eligibility: Ensure you meet the requirements for a Standard Visitor visa, such as intending to leave the UK at the end of your visit and not intending to take employment.
  • Gather required documents:
    • Invitation letter: Obtain a letter from the conference organizer that includes details of the event, dates, location, and costs covered, if any.
    • Proof of funds: Demonstrate you have enough money to support yourself during your visit.
    • Passport: Your passport must be valid for the duration of your stay.
  • Note the timing: The earliest you can apply is three months before you plan to travel.
How to apply
  • Apply online: Complete the application form on the GOV.UK website.
  • Pay the fee: The Standard Visitor visa costs £127 for up to six months.
  • Book an appointment: Schedule an appointment at a visa application centre to provide your fingerprints and photograph (biometric information). You can use the 'UK Immigration: ID Check' app in some cases instead. 
After you apply
  • Submit documents: Bring your supporting documents to your visa application centre appointment or submit them online as instructed.
  • Attend an interview (if required): You may be required to attend an interview as part of the process.
  • Receive a decision: The processing time is usually three weeks, but it can take longer depending on your circumstances.

All up to date details can be found on the UK Home Office website - Home Office - GOV.UK

 

Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) 

An ETA is an advance travel permission required by specified non-visa nationals when coming to the UK as a visitor or transiting the UK. The list of countries that require and ETA can be checked here - Get an electronic travel authorisation (ETA) to visit the UK: Apply for an ETA - GOV.UK

 

Getting around Glasgow

  Walking
    Getting around Glasgow on foot is really simple. Delegates can easily walk from their hotel to the conference centre or any social venues.
  Cycling
    Glasgow’s cycle hire scheme offers cost-effective, eco-friendly, and healthy transportation options for delegates, with regular and e-bikes available for hire. Click here for a guide which includes updated information about all of the options for hiring bicycles and e-bikes in Glasgow including the new Voi hire scheme.
  Public Transport
    Glasgow has an efficient public transport system, including Scotland’s only subway network. Hillhead station is only a few stops away from the central subway stations including; St Enoch & Buchanan Street.
  Taxis
    Taxis in Glasgow are cost effective, with a 5-10 minute journey takes delegates between the city centre and westend, close to the University of Glasgow.