Jersey is the perfect, hassle-free escape. Hop on a plane or ferry and, in just a few hours, you could be sipping a sundowner with the sea breeze in your hair.
Planning a quick getaway or a grand island adventure? Get clued up on all things Jersey to make the most of your time here.
Location
Where is Jersey?
Set like a jewel in the English Channel, with a sea breeze that carries a whisper of both Britain and the continent, Jersey is an island with a lot to discover. Just 85 miles (137 km) from mainland Britain and a mere 14 miles (22 km) from France, it’s a place that feels both familiar and deliciously different.
Despite its compact size – just nine miles by five miles (14.5km by 8km) – Jersey packs in a world of contrasts. Rolling sand dunes meet lush green valleys, rugged cliffs give way to soft sandy beaches, and a vibrant town centre buzzes with life while hidden coves offer total seclusion.
With an area of 45.5 square miles (120 square km) and a permanent population of over 100,000 people, Jersey may be small, but you’ll never be short of things to do. Arriving by air, you’ll spot a patchwork of fields, golden Jersey cows and a dramatic coastline just crying out to be explored.
Parishes
Jersey is divided into twelve parishes, each with its own personality and charm. From the sun-kissed beaches of St. Brelade to the charming country lanes of St. Martin, every corner of the island has its own story to tell.
All twelve parishes are named after the saints of their ancient parish churches – Grouville, St. Brelade, St. Clement, St. Helier (the capital), St. John, St. Lawrence, St. Martin, St. Mary, St. Ouen, St. Peter, St. Saviour, and Trinity.
Wherever you wander, you’re only 10 minutes from the sea.
Jersey’s Archipelago
Jersey may be the largest of the Channel Islands (encompassing Jersey, Guernsey, Sark, Herm and Alderney), but it’s not alone. This stretch of sea is home to a scattering of islands and reefs, some inhabited, others ruled only by seals, seabirds and the rhythm of the tides. Venture beyond Jersey’s shores and you’ll find hidden gems such as Les Minquiers and Les Écréhous waiting to be explored.
Come prepared
Passports & Visas
Travelling from the UK and the Common Travel Area (CTA)
Travelling to Jersey is refreshingly hassle-free. It’s part of the Common Travel Area (CTA) which includes the UK, Ireland, Guernsey and Isle of Man. There are no formal immigration controls at Jersey when arriving from within the CTA. On arrival in Jersey, you won’t need to show your passport for immigration purposes, but customs and immigration officers may ask for photo ID and proof of your UK immigration permissions – so it’s always good to have them handy. European passport holders travelling to Jersey via the UK will need an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) before reaching the UK border.
Before you set off, check with your airline or ferry company to confirm what ID they require, as policies can vary.
Travelling from outside the Common Travel Area (CTA)
If you’re coming from outside the Common Travel Area (the UK, Ireland, Guernsey and Isle of Man) you’ll need a valid passport. Most non-British and non-Irish nationals travelling to Jersey directly or via the UK from outside the CTA will need an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA). This is a digital permission to travel – not a visa.
However, French nationals making a same-day trip via an approved ferry service may use a French national identity card when travelling directly from France only.
Need to double check your travel requirements? Get the latest passport and visa advice below.
Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA)
An Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) is a digital permission to travel – not a visa. It allows multiple trips to Jersey and the Common Travel Area (CTA) for stays of up to six months at a time, valid for two years or until your passport expires, whichever comes first. The CTA is defined as an open-border zone comprising the United Kingdom, Ireland, the Isle of Man, Jersey and Guernsey.
Most non-British and non-Irish nationals travelling to Jersey from outside the CTA will need one. Check GOV.UK to confirm whether this applies to you before you travel.
Exceptions – you won’t need an ETA if you:
- Are a French national making a same-day trip via an approved ferry service, using a French national identity card (travelling directly from France only)
- Are a French student under 19 travelling as part of an organised school group
Applying is simple. It costs £20 per person (including children and babies), takes around 10 minutes, and you’ll usually receive a decision by email within three working days.
For an ETA for travel to Jersey, apply via the UK Government website, GOV.UK, using the UK ETA app or the online form. Make sure you apply before you travel.
Find out more about ETAs for Jersey
Start exploring
Getting around Jersey
Exploring Jersey is as easy as a gentle island breeze. Whether you fancy hopping on a bus, hiring a bike, or cruising the scenic lanes by car, getting from A to B is simple. Our island may be small, but it’s big on adventure – walk the coastal paths, cycle countryside trails or take to the water for a different view. With car hire, taxis and an easy-to-use public transport system, you’ll never be far from your next discovery.
Healthcare when visiting
Jersey’s healthcare system is not part of the NHS and, while some emergency treatment is covered for UK visitors, other services may incur charges.
In an emergency, dial 999 or visit the Emergency Department at Jersey General Hospital.
Currency in Jersey
In Jersey, the currency is sterling, but we like to add our own twist with the Jersey pound, which circulates alongside British pounds. While you may receive Jersey pounds as change when shopping, British money is just as welcome here, and all major debit and credit cards are accepted. You’ll find plenty of ATMs in St. Helier and throughout the island, making it easy to access cash when you need it.
Claim back GST
Visitors to Jersey may be entitled to claim back GST on purchases of £100 or more, when shopping at participating stores, as part of Global Blue’s refund scheme.
Roaming abroad
Using your phone in Jersey
When visiting Jersey, be aware that most UK mobile networks don’t extend here, and calls are usually considered international. It’s a good idea to check with your service provider to understand the current charges for calls, texts and data usage. To call a Jersey number from the UK, dial 01534, and from anywhere else, use +44 1534.
For a seamless experience, Jersey Telecoms offers an eSIM starting at just £5 for 5GB of data, with unlimited local calls and texts across the Channel Islands. It’s a convenient, hassle-free way to stay connected on holiday.
Weather
As the most southerly of the Channel Islands, Jersey enjoys relatively mild weather, often warmer and sunnier than the south coast of Britain. The warmest months are July and August, bringing long days with temperatures often averaging into the high 20s.
Tides
Jersey also boasts one of the largest tidal ranges in the world, the third largest to be exact. At low tide, the island nearly doubles in size, revealing hidden coves and vast beaches. But while our tides are breathtaking, they can also be dangerous. Always check the tide times before venturing out and, for a safer adventure, explore with a guide or expert.
Discover our beach cams
FAQs
What is the Common Travel Area?
Is Jersey part of the UK?
What language is spoken in Jersey?
Do you need to change your watch when you arrive in Jersey?
Do I need an adapter when visiting?
Can I work in Jersey?
