IOM aware of 'a small number' of visa holders being stopped at the UK border

Resident left feeling “absolutely awful and humiliated”

A Manx government spokesperson has confirmed there have been no policy changes for Island residents travelling within the Common Travel Area. 

It's a long-standing open-border zone comprising the United Kingdom, Ireland, Isle of Man and the Channel Islands

However, government is aware of a small number of visa holders being stopped at the UK border and is engaging with the UK Home Office and UK Border Force to minimise the risk of similar incidents.

It follows an incident involving an Isle of Man resident at Heathrow Airport last week.

The resident, who’s asked to remain anonymous, was told by border officials that while she is an Isle of Man resident, she is only permitted to transit through the airport and does not have the right to remain in the UK for leisure purposes.

Speaking to Manx Radio, she said she felt “absolutely awful and humiliated”, adding that the experience was particularly hurtful as a law-abiding resident who lives, works, and contributes to the Island.

In response, a government spokesperson said immigration permission issued by the Isle of Man, in the form of a wet-ink passport stamp, remains fully valid and is recognised by UK Border Force at all UK ports of entry.

They added that this position is clearly set out in the UK Home Office’s published Common Travel Area guidance, with permission continuing to be granted using ink stamps, which remain valid under Schedule 4 of the Immigration Act 1971.

While the UK plans to move towards a fully digital immigration system, the spokesperson said the Isle of Man is working closely with the UK and the other Crown Dependencies to ensure continued alignment, so that Isle of Man immigration documentation remains recognised both internationally and at UK borders.

Residents who believe they have been incorrectly challenged at a UK border are encouraged to contact the Immigration Service, so individual cases can be investigated and resolved appropriately.