Border control in the UK and other countries has been a big challenge throughout the course of history. This is due to various reasons, including security concerns, conflicts, and invasion threats. These factors have called for the implementation of stricter regulation, a feat that can only be met by first learning about the history of border controls in the UK.
With this information, policymakers can implement better policies to solve future issues, making access to the United Kingdom easier and smoother. So, learning about past and present border control measures will also help travelers understand the requirements and how to make their visit smooth and fun.
Luckily, travel authorization systems like ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorization System) are coming through, helping travelers move in and out of European countries smoothly for business and other purposes.
Here’s a glimpse of the UK’s past and present border control measures.
Border Control in the Age of Empires
During the 16th to early 20th centuries, the United Kingdom established and maintained massive colonial holdings, which massively affected border policies. Below are some ways the UK controlled its borders during the colonization and imperial expansion periods.
- Fortifications and colonial borders: The British Empire built fortifications and established border posts along its imperial borders to assert control over its territories and monitor the movement of people and goods. The fortifications also helped defend British Empire interests and maintain order within the colonies.
- Immigration policies: The British Empire ensured border control during its historical period by regulating immigration policies. The regulation helped manage the influx of people from different regions of the kingdom. The move also helped the British Empire gather skilled labor to support its economic development while restricting the entry of marked groups of people.
- Contract labor and migration: The British Empire also needed contract laborers from India and China to work on plantations and various industries. The Empire used contracts, travel permits, and movement restrictions to ensure that only required laborers entered their territories.
Border Control in the Modern Era
- Immigration control: By the early 20th century, the UK had decided to implement laws and regulations to control the entry and residence of foreigners. The first major legislation was the Aliens Act of 1905, which aimed at regulating immigration.
- Passport and visa requirements: These border control measures were implemented in 1914. During World War II, the passport requirement was later reinforced to control movement across British borders. The implementation of the visa requirements in the Foreign Office in 1917 marked the start of the modern-day visa system.
- Border infrastructure: The UK has also established dedicated borders such as airports, seaports, and railways to accelerate border control processes. Most of these infrastructures are equipped with immigration and customs checkpoints. The adoption of the border force 2008 put together the immigration and customs functions under one unified agency, further enhancing border control efficiency.
- Technological advancements: Introducing biometric passports in 2006, which used facial recognition technology, helped improve the verification of traveler identities. Moreover, establishing automated e-gates at seaports and airports has expedited the immigration process for low-risk travelers, reducing queues and wait times.
Final Thoughts
Learning about the history of border control in the UK is crucial to making informed and successful future policies. If you wish to visit the United Kingdom, it is essential to familiarize yourself with the present border control measures while appreciating the history. This will ensure guarantee safer and stress-free movement into the country.