Can you leave the country while on bail? (UK)

10th January 2025
Stephen Halloran headshot

Stephen Halloran

Managing Partner

At Lawtons, we understand the complexities and uncertainties that come with legal proceedings, including the conditions of being on bail. 

Bail can be a challenging period, marked by various restrictions and responsibilities. Our goal is to provide clear, concise guidance to help you navigate this difficult time, ensuring you fully understand your obligations and the implications of being on bail, especially when it comes to travel.

What does it mean to be on bail?

Bail allows individuals suspected of a crime to be released under investigation while awaiting a charging decision or court date but with an obligation to surrender to the court or police station at a later date. It is granted when there isn’t enough proof to charge immediately or if conditions seem fair and the flight risk is low, interference with witnesses is not an issue or there is a manageable risk of further offending. 

Bail doesn’t imply guilt or innocence; it simply means the judge or officer believes you will attend future hearings and are not an immediate danger to yourself or others. The terms of bail, however, can vary significantly depending on the nature of the charges and your personal circumstances.

What restrictions will you face whilst being on bail?

When you are on bail, there are specific conditions that you may need to follow. These conditions are put in place to make sure that you comply with legal requirements and , amongst other things, to keep the public safe or prevent offending. Some of these conditions may include regularly reporting to a police station, following a curfew, and avoiding certain places and individuals. You may also have to give up your passport, which can affect your ability to travel internationally. The exact restrictions depend on the seriousness of the charges against you and the assessment of your risk of fleeing or posing a danger to the public. It’s extremely important to fully understand and strictly adhere to these conditions, as any violation could lead to your bail being revoked, and you being taken into custody until your court date.

Can you leave the country whilst on bail in the UK?

You can go on holiday while out on bail if you have no travel restrictions or if your holiday is approved by the bail officer. This approval is needed to ensure you are not a flight risk, meaning there’s a minimal chance you won’t attend court hearings. Depending on the case, the bail officer may impose conditions on your travel, such as the duration of your trip, permissible countries to visit, who you can travel with, and how often you must report your location. If in doubt, always seek expert legal advice before taking action.

Don’t risk breaching your conditions or jeopardising your case. At Lawtons, we’re here to provide expert guidance and support throughout your bail period. Contact our experienced team today for personalised advice and robust representation to ensure your rights are protected.

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