Visitor opportunities and important information regarding your travel to Glasgow, UK for the World Water Congress & Exhibition 2026
We are pleased to know you plan to attend the World Water Congress & Exhibition 2026 in Glasgow! As you prepare for your journey to the UK, we want to provide you with all the essential information to ensure a smooth and hassle-free trip and conference. This guide includes important travel requirements, visa and invitation letter instructions, accommodation options, and transport details to help you plan your visit with confidence. Whether you are travelling from within the UK or internationally, our goal is to make your journey as seamless as possible so that you can focus on connecting with fellow water sector professionals, exploring innovations, and fully enjoying the Congress experience.
Important travel information
Please note that the UK is moving to a digital immigration system. These changes will enhance security, reduce reliance on physical documents and allow carriers to carry out automated checks against Home Office records, improving the traveller experience.
Note: The following information is a summary for guidance purposes only, based on the UK Government website. Please refer to the official UK Government site for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Additional resources:
- Guidance on visitor eligibility and permitted activities – Standard Visitor overview
- Practical information to prepare for your journey – Before you leave for the UK
- Details on documentation required for visa applications – Guide to supporting documents for a visitor visa
From 25 February 2026, eligible nationals travelling to the UK as visitors must have a valid ETA unless they already hold a valid UK immigration permission. Carriers will deny boarding to anyone who requires an ETA but does not hold one.
Further information on how to apply, including how to check if you already have an ETA, and when it expires: www.gov.uk/ETA
For visit visa applications paid for on or after 25 February 2026, applicants will receive an eVisa only. This replaces visa vignette stickers and simplifies the user journey because applicants will attend the Visa Application Centre (VAC) only once to confirm identity. Their passport will be returned during the appointment.
Further information: Updates on the move to eVisas – GOV.UK
HOTDs are issued to eligible Commonwealth citizens and foreign nationals unable to obtain a passport from their country of origin.
From 26 February 2026, all existing and newly issued HOTDs will automatically link to UKVI accounts, enabling carriers to confirm permission to travel though automated checks. Holders do not need to take any immediate action, but from that date they can sign in to their UKVI account to confirm their HOTD is linked correctly.
Further information: https://www.gov.uk/apply-home-office-travel-document/how-to-apply
How to Get to the Scottish Event Campus (SEC) and nearby hotels
From Glasgow International Airport (GLA):
- By Train:
Take the Glasgow Airport Express Service 500 from the airport to Glasgow city centre (e.g., Buchanan Bus Station or near Central/Queen Street). The journey takes about 15-25 minutes.
More info: www.glasgowairport.com - By Taxi/Rideshare:
Taxis are available at the Arrivals level of the airport. Ride-sharing services like Uber are also available. - By Car:
The SEC is well-connected via the M8 motorway. Parking is available at SEC and nearby hotels.
From Glasgow Central Station (if arriving by train from other parts of the UK):
- SEC Glasgow is approximately 10-15 minutes by taxi or 15-20 minutes via public transport (subway or bus).
Rail Travel within Glasgow – ScotRail Conference Rover
Rail Travel within Glasgow – ScotRail Conference Rover
Delegates can purchase a special ‘Conference Rover’ ticket for rail travel within the Conference Zone in Glasgow.
This ticket costs just £5 for up to 5 days travel within the Conference Zone (including journeys between Glasgow Central and Exhibition Centre station at the SEC).
How to buy: this special ticket is only available to purchase from stations on arrival, as it’s exclusive to conference delegates. Visit the ticket office at a Conference Zone station. You may be asked to show either your conference badge or proof of registration.
Find more information here:
Public transport discounts:
- More details on bus and subway routes in Glasgow: www.spt.co.uk