Travelling well with Eurostar

Here are our recommendations for trouble-free travel on Eurostar:

  • If you are travelling to or from London, you must pass through customs to check your identity and luggage before boarding the train. That's why it's best to arrive well in advance to make sure you can board your Eurostar.
     
    The company recommends arriving 1 hour before the departure of the train, depending on the boarding station (45 minutes before for Eurostar Premier).
     
    To get to the train, scan your ticket and provide your passport, then board! Boarding Eurostar trains ends 30 minutes before departure (15 minutes before on Eurostar Premier).
     
    Mandatory information: You must check in on the Eurostar.com website under "Manage your booking" before your journey. A valid passport must be presented at boarding (no later than 60 minutes before departure).
     
    Citizens of the European Union, the European Economic Area and Switzerland must present a passport.
    You can no longer use your EU, EEA or Swiss identity card. Find out more
     
    Remember to apply for an electronic travel authorisation on the UK government website. ETA (Electronic Travel Authorisation) applications are processed within a maximum of 3 days. The ETA has been compulsory for all European passengers since 02 April 2025 (excluding exemptions).
     

  • When travelling between France, Belgium, Germany and the Netherlands, simply consult adeparture board to find your train and go straight to the platform.
     
    For peace of mind, we recommend arriving at the station 20 minutes before your train's departure time.
     
    The conductor will check your ticket during the journey, so it's important to have it to hand. If you have a special fare, don't forget to present the required documents.
     
    A passport is not necessary, but you should remember to take an identity document with you, as customs checks may be carried out from time to time.

  • Starting October 12, 2025, the Entry/Exit System (EES) will be gradually implemented — a new EU border requirement.
    The EES applies to non-EU citizens traveling for short stays in the EU (up to 90 days in any 180-day period).

    What does this mean for your trip?

    Please arrive at the station at the time indicated on your ticket and bring all required travel documents.
    This will ensure you have enough time to complete all checks before departure, including border controls.

    Learn more: EES – Entry/Exit System (EES)

  • The train is free for children under the age of 4 travelling on an adult's lap, within the limit of one child per adult passenger.
     
    It is necessary to buy a child ticket if you are travelling alone with a second child under the age of 4.
     
    Children of all ages must have their own passport or documents to travel.

  • Passengers aged between 12 and 15 (inclusive) must present the following documents at the pre-boarding inspection:
     
    • a valid passport or national identity card,
    • the unaccompanied minor form
     
    Get the unaccompanied minor form
     
    Children under the age of 12 are not allowed to travel alone on Eurostar.

  • Booking for people with reduced mobility is available on SNCF Connect.
     
    At the station:
     
    At the departure or arrival station, we provide the necessary ramps, so you don't have to make any calls.
    However, if you wish to book an assistance service, please let us know at least 48 hours before your journey.
    You can:
     
    • Contact us using the online contact form. You will be contacted for further information if required
    • Contact us via social media
    • Visit one of our ticket offices
    • Call the following numbers (choose your language, then option 6):   
    - from France: +33 (0)1 70 70 60 99 (non-premium rate number, call charges vary according to operator),   
    - from Belgium: +32 (0)2 400 67 76 (non-premium rate number, call charges vary according to operator) 
    - from the United Kingdom, the Netherlands or Germany: +44 (0)3432 186 186 (non-premium rate number, call charges vary according to operator).   
     

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