All Legislation
International Law
c. 33
England & Wales
State Immunity Act 1978
View on legislation.gov.ukThis page mainly applies to England and Wales. Scotland and Northern Ireland may have different rules — check the jurisdiction before relying on this information.
Last amended by State Immunity Act 1978 (Amendment) Order 1985 in 1985. Extended immunity provisions.
Independent editorial summary — not the official statute text. Read the official version on legislation.gov.uk.
Summary
Implements the restrictive doctrine of state immunity in UK law. Foreign states are generally immune from the jurisdiction of UK courts, subject to exceptions for commercial transactions, employment contracts, personal injury or damage to property, and other specified categories.
Key Points
- General immunity for foreign states
- Exception for commercial transactions (s.3)
- Exception for personal injury/property damage in UK (s.5)
- Exception for employment contracts (s.4)
- Diplomatic immunity governed by separate legislation
- General rule of state immunity
- Exceptions for commercial transactions, personal injury, employment
- Diplomatic immunity distinct from state immunity
Parts & Sections
Amendments History
1985 — State Immunity Act 1978 (Amendment) Order 1985
Extended immunity provisions.