Everyday laws that may differ from home

Some rules abroad are stricter than in the GCC and some are looser. Knowing the everyday ones keeps you out of trouble, and knowing which ones apply to you, not just to others, keeps you calm. The Choices module lesson 'The Law at Home and Abroad' covers drugs and alcohol in depth; this lesson focuses on daily life.

The basic principle

• You are subject to the laws of the country you live in, whatever your nationality, and your home country's laws may still matter to you too.
• Official travel advice pages, such as GOV.UK's, include a section on legal differences for each country. Read the one for where you will live.
• Your university's student handbook and accommodation contract add their own rules on top of the law, such as rules on guests, noise and smoking. Read them in your first week.

Knives and weapons: the UK example

• In the UK, GOV.UK says it is illegal to carry most knives, or any weapon, in public without a good reason. Examples of good reasons include work, religious reasons and national costume, and a court decides whether you had one.
• Small folding pocketknives are an exception only if the cutting edge is 3 inches or less and they do not lock.
• GOV.UK lists a maximum penalty for adults of 4 years in prison, an unlimited fine or both for carrying a knife illegally.
• Practical tip: when you move kitchen knives into your flat, carry them wrapped and packed in a bag or box, go straight home, and do not carry them around afterwards.
• Most knives cannot be sold to under-18s in the UK, so you may be asked for ID when buying kitchen knives.

Alcohol rules around you

• In the UK, it is illegal to buy alcohol if you are under 18, and illegal for an adult to buy it for someone under 18, according to GOV.UK.
• Alcohol will be more visible than at home: in supermarkets, at events and in halls. Being around it is not the same as taking part, and you can always choose not to drink.
• Ages and rules on alcohol differ between countries and sometimes between regions, so check the law where you live rather than assuming.

Your immigration conditions are law too

• Your visa comes with conditions. A UK eVisa, for example, records your immigration status and conditions such as whether you can work or study, according to GOV.UK.
• Breaking visa conditions, such as working more than you are allowed, can put your studies at risk. Check your own conditions in your account, not on social media.
• Keep your details up to date with the immigration authority and your university if your passport, address or course changes. The Paperwork module covers this.

Customs that are not laws but still matter

• Lancaster University's guide to UK culture notes that jumping a queue is considered very rude, and that honking a car horn is seen as impolite unless there is an emergency.
• Rules about recycling, rubbish days, cycling and parking are often set locally. Ask your accommodation office or check the local council website.
• If you are unsure whether something is allowed, ask the international office. It is better to ask than to guess.