Amid the COVID-19 pandemic, the sports industry was one of the first to be in a position to move its people around the world, with sporting events often a test case for further easing measures. Now with varying levels of restrictions being eased globally, we are seeing more events take place within the context of restricted travel. This constantly changing landscape makes managing and traveling to large international events a challenge for sporting professionals and those who work in the industry.
At the beginning of the pandemic, it was necessary to partner with government authorities to create bespoke exceptions for sporting professionals and supporting individuals. While more formal procedures are now in place, the goal posts are moving on a sometimes daily basis, so it is important to keep up with the changes in addition to the usual visa requirements. With post-Brexit immigration measures taking effect at the start of 2021, there is further complexity to factor in for the United Kingdom.
PLAN AHEAD
Many consulates are at or near capacity and the range of procedures in place for exempted sports-related travel are in addition to traditional visa and passport services already provided. It is also often necessary to supplement exemption requests with further information from a relevant national sporting body. Exemption processes can therefore take weeks or months so it is key to factor this into your timeline where possible.
In the United Kingdom, if the event you are attending is listed as a specified competition, any international elite sportspersons or eligible supporting staff will not need to self-isolate for 10 days before they can participate. If there is an event that doesn’t appear on the specified list, it is possible to have the event added, but this can take up to six weeks to request.
It is often necessary to have at least six months on your passport or travel documentation validity; ensure you check your travel documents in advance.