About Wales

Is Wales a country?

Although Wales is joined with England by land, and is part of Great Britain, Wales is a country in its own right.

On 18 September 1997, the people of Wales voted in favour of devolution in Wales. This gave Wales the powers needed to make secondary laws that affect us by an act called the Government of Wales Act 1998. In 2006, more powers were gained again for Wales with the Government of Wales Act 2006.

Read more about Wales in the 'About' section of the site.

Visiting Wales

How can I get to Wales?

Wales is well-connected to the rest of the UK as well as to Ireland and mainland Europe via road, rail, sea and air.

Read our guide for more information about getting to Wales.

If you are living outside of the UK you may need a UK visa to visit Wales. Wales is part of the United Kingdom and the UK-wide visa and immigration system. To find out more visit the UK Government Visas and Immigration website, where you can find specific guidance on visiting the UK after Brexit.

I normally reside overseas. I am currently working/studying in England/Scotland and would like to come to Wales for a day trip/holiday – do I need an additional visa?

No additional visa is needed. You are able to visit Wales provided the dates of your visa are valid. Visas are dealt with on a UK wide basis. There are no border controls between England and Wales.

If you plan to fly to Wales from other parts of the UK, photo identification will be required for you to take your flight.

Read more about visiting Wales in the 'Visit' section of the site.

Living, Working and Studying in Wales

I want to study in Wales. Can I apply?

Visit Study in Wales for further information about universities in Wales.

Can I come and live in Wales?

Wales is welcoming and we hope that this website provides you with inspiration and information on living and working in Wales and our distinctive economy, culture and communities.

If you are living outside of the UK you may need a UK visa to visit Wales. Wales is part of the United Kingdom and the UK-wide visa and immigration system. To find out more visit the UK Government Visas and Immigration website, where you can find specific guidance on visiting the UK after Brexit.

I want to set up a Business in Wales / expand my business to Wales – can you help?

There are many great reasons for setting up or expanding your business in Wales.

Find inspiration in the Economy section of our site, or visit the Trade and Invest Wales website for specific details.

I’d like personal finance assistance – can you help?

Visit the Study in Wales scholarships webpage for details of the financial support options for international students.

If you run a business, you may be eligible for business support, visit Business Wales for more details.

I want to apply for a job in Wales, what do I need to do?

There are a wide variety of jobs in Wales with companies from global players in Life Sciences and Tech, to pioneers in Energy & Environment and Tourism. Find out more about our key industries on the Trade and Invest Wales website.

If you are living outside of the UK you may need a visa to allow you to work in Wales. Wales is part of the United Kingdom and the UK-wide visa and immigration system. To find out more visit the UK Government Visas and Immigration website, where you can find specific guidance on visiting the UK after Brexit.

Read about living and working in Wales in the 'Lifestyle' and 'Economy' sections of the site.

To register a website issue or problem

If you've had an issue whilst using our website, please contact us by email, including a description of the problem, a link to the specific page, name and version of your web browser and your device operating system.

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