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Traveling to the UK After Brexit

What changed for travelers after the UK left the EU.

Brexit and UK Travel

When the UK left the European Union on 31 January 2020 (with the transition period ending 31 December 2020), travel rules changed significantly. The UK is no longer part of EU free movement, and EU citizens are now treated similarly to other third-country nationals.

The most significant change is the introduction of the UK Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA), which becomes mandatory for all visa-exempt visitors from 25 February 2026.

Before and After Brexit

Feature Before Brexit After Brexit
EU Citizens to UK Free movement, indefinite stay 6-month tourist stays, UK ETA required
UK Citizens to EU Free movement, indefinite stay 90/180 day limit, ETIAS required
Work Rights Automatic right to work Visa/sponsorship required
Healthcare EHIC reciprocal care GHIC with limitations
Travel Authorization ID card sufficient Passport + ETA required
Border Checks E-gates, minimal checks Full immigration control

Key Dates to Remember

📅
Brexit Date 31 Jan 2020 UK officially left the EU
🔄
Transition End 31 Dec 2020 Free movement ended
🛂
UK ETA Mandatory 25 Feb 2026 For all visa-exempt visitors
🇪🇺
ETIAS Launch Q4 2026 For UK citizens to Schengen

What Changed for EU Citizens Visiting the UK

  • UK ETA required: From 25 February 2026, EU citizens need an Electronic Travel Authorisation (£16) to enter the UK
  • Passport required: EU national ID cards are no longer accepted for travel to the UK (except for some settled status holders until 2025)
  • 6-month limit: Visitors can stay up to 6 months per visit for tourism, family visits, or business (no work)
  • No automatic work rights: You need a visa to work, study long-term, or live in the UK
  • Longer queues: EU citizens now use non-EEA passport queues at UK airports

What Changed for UK Citizens Visiting Europe

  • ETIAS required: From Q4 2026, UK citizens need ETIAS (€20) to enter Schengen countries
  • 90/180 day rule: UK citizens are now limited to 90 days within any 180-day period in the Schengen Area
  • No work rights: Working in EU countries requires a visa or work permit
  • Passport stamps: UK passports are stamped at Schengen borders (entry/exit tracking)
  • EES registration: From April 2026, UK citizens must register in the Entry/Exit System

Important for British Expats

If you were living in an EU country before Brexit and applied for settled status or a residence permit, you retain your pre-Brexit rights. Contact your country of residence for specific rules. UK citizens who moved after Brexit follow the new third-country national rules.

The Common Travel Area (CTA)

The Common Travel Area between the UK and Ireland predates the EU and continues unchanged after Brexit. British and Irish citizens can:

  • Travel freely between the UK, Ireland, Isle of Man, and Channel Islands
  • Live and work in either country without a visa
  • Access healthcare, education, and social welfare
  • Vote in local elections

There are no routine immigration checks on the land border between Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland.

Healthcare When Traveling

The Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC) replaced the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) for UK residents traveling to EU countries. It covers:

  • Emergency medical treatment during temporary stays
  • Treatment that becomes necessary during your visit
  • Pre-existing conditions that need care during travel

Important: The GHIC has limitations and doesn't cover private healthcare or medical repatriation. Travel insurance is strongly recommended for all trips.

Related Information

UK ETA Guide

Everything about the UK ETA

ETIAS for UK Citizens

Travel authorization for Europe

90/180 Day Rule

Understand Schengen stay limits

Travel Insurance

Protect your trip

Brexit Travel FAQs

Can EU citizens still visit the UK without a visa?
Yes, EU citizens are visa-exempt for short visits up to 6 months. However, from 25 February 2026, they need a UK ETA (£16) to enter. This is a travel authorization, not a visa.
Can I use my EU ID card to enter the UK?
No. Since October 2021, EU national ID cards are no longer accepted for travel to the UK (with limited exceptions for some settled status holders until 2025). You need a valid passport.
How long can UK citizens stay in Europe?
UK citizens can stay in the Schengen Area for up to 90 days within any 180-day rolling period. This applies to all 30 Schengen countries combined — days in France, Spain, and Germany all count toward the same limit.
What is the 90/180 day rule?
It means you can spend a maximum of 90 days in the Schengen Area within any 180-day period. The 180 days is a rolling window counted backwards from any given day. Use our Schengen calculator to track your days.
Can I work in the UK or EU after Brexit?
Not without authorization. EU citizens need a UK work visa to work in the UK, and UK citizens need a work visa or permit to work in EU countries. Tourist visits don't allow paid employment.
What if I have EU settled status in the UK?
If you have settled or pre-settled status in the UK, you can continue living and working in the UK. You can also use the EU Settlement Scheme digital status to prove your right to travel to and from the UK.

Related Information

ETIAS Guide Schengen Area Guide Schengen Calculator Schengen Visa Guide

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