Do I need a visa to travel to the UK?
This is not, however, the case. Although the UK is now outside the EU, British citizens do not need a visa to enter the Schengen Area and stay short-term. Although there are no visa requirements for UK citizens, travellers will need to apply for ETIAS from the end of 2022.
Do you need a visa to visit the EU?
The latest information, released on the weekend of May 28, confirms that all non-EU residents will require a visa to visit the EU. Some countries however, like the UK, will not require a visa but will have to apply for a waiver instead. But for those who enjoyed free access before, the question remains why a “visa waiver”.
Can EU citizens work in the UK without a visa?
EU nationals and other non-visa nationals may travel to the UK without first having to apply for a visa to seek entry as a visitor to look for work and attend job interviews. The visitor must adhere to the rules of entry, including not intending to undertake any of the prohibited activities and leaving the UK within the six-month visitor period.
Why do UK nationals need a “visa waiver”?
Why do UK nationals need a “visa waiver” to visit the EU? Earlier this year the European Union (EU) said that British travellers will need a “visa waiver” to visit any one of the bloc’s 27 countries from 2023. The latest information, released on the weekend of May 28, confirms that all non-EU residents will require a visa to visit the EU.
How long do you have to work in the UK to get a visa?
How long before you arrive in the UK do you have to complete a passenger locator form?
What is the CTA?
What happens if you don't qualify for a business exemption?
Can Swiss citizens use ePassport?
What is a commercial goods declaration?
When will the UK list of travellers end?
See 4 more
About this website

Do UK citizens need a visa for EU now?
You do not need a visa for short trips to EU countries, Switzerland, Norway, Iceland or Liechtenstein if both of the following apply: you're staying for 90 days or less in a 180-day period. you're visiting as a tourist or for certain other reasons.
Can UK citizens travel to EU?
UK passport holders can cross an external EU border using just a valid passport and stay anywhere in the Schengen Area for up to 3 months. To stay in the Schengen Area for longer than 90 days, a visa or another kind of travel permit is required.
Does British citizen need visa for Europe after Brexit?
We are pleased to confirm that British citizens do not require a visa for the Schengen Member States, if the duration of their stay does not exceed 90 days within any 180-day period.
Do UK citizens need a visa for Spain?
TRAVEL TO SPAIN FROM UK British citizens will need a visa for purposes other than tourism, such as carrying out professional activities in Spain. Please, carefully check regulations before travelling.
Do I need ETIAS in 2022?
Etias is expected to launch in 2022, but it won't be required of all travelers until 2023.
Will you need a visa to travel to Europe in 2023?
In mid-to-late 2023, U.S. citizens and nationals of over 60 other countries will need an electronic travel authorization to visit much of Europe. Travelers to any Schengen-zone country will have to register with a European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS).
How long can a UK citizen stay in the EU?
The EU has agreed to add the UK to the EU's list of visa-exempt countries (of which there are currently 61). This gives British citizens the right to travel to the EU after the transition period for up to 90 days without a visa within any 180-day period.
Where can Brits live without a visa?
Where can you live visa-free after Brexit?The Common Travel Area. The Common Travel Area was introduced in the 1920s. ... The Isle of Man and Alderney. The Isle of Man and Alderney are part of the UK. ... Gibraltar. If you have a valid British passport, you don't need a visa to live or work in Gibraltar.Belize.
How much does an ETIAS visa cost?
How Much Will an ETIAS Cost? The ETIAS will cost 7 € for applicants over 18, and will be free for applicants under the age of 18 and over the age of 70. The fee has to be paid online through a valid debit or credit card.
Do UK need visa for Portugal?
You can travel to countries in the Schengen area for up to 90 days in any 180-day period without a visa. This applies if you travel as a tourist, to visit family or friends, to attend business meetings, cultural or sports events, or for short-term studies or training.
Will I need a visa to go to Spain in 2023?
From November 2023, the ETIAS visa waiver for Spain is a requirement for citizens (of eligible countries) traveling to this European country. The online application will be straightforward and hassle-free. Once approved, the ETIAS for Spain will be sent by email. ETIAS is not a visa.
Will I need a visa for Spain after Brexit?
Will I need a visa to travel to Spain after Brexit? The majority of UK citizens will not need a visa to travel to Spain. The country still permits visa-free access to British visitors for up to 3 months for tourism and business purposes. However, British nationals will soon need a visa waiver to enter Spain.
What do I need to travel to Europe from UK?
All you need is your passport, travel ticket or driving documents (if you are driving), enough money, and health insurance.
Can I travel freely in Europe?
Your rights & EU rules As an EU national, you enjoy the right of free movement. This means you're entitled to travel, work and live in another EU country. If you're a citizen of a Schengen country – which is most EU countries – you're also free to travel to other Schengen countries without the need for border checks.
Can I still use my red passport?
Thousands of people have still been able to use their red passports, however, if they're in date. But due to changes in rules around expiry dates, passports are now only valid for 10 years exactly - additional months are no longer valid.
How long can UK citizen stay in Europe?
90 daysAs such, UK citizens are now subject to the Schengen Area's visa-waiver stay limitation of 90 days within any 180 days throughout the entire zone. The count begins as soon as a traveller enters the Schengen Area until the day they depart.
What is a business visitor?
A business visitor is someone who comes to the UK on a short-term basis for business-related reasons or activities without formally taking part in...
What is the difference between a tourist visa and a business visa?
In the UK, the standard visitor visa applies to both tourists and business travellers.
Do I need a visa for a business trip to the UK?
Non-UK nationals who are not resident in the UK will need to apply for a visa to travel to the UK. If you a planning a short trip for business, you...
Visiting from the EU, EEA and Switzerland | VisitBritain
What you need to know about visiting the UK from the EU, EEA or Switzerland If you're an EU, EEA or Swiss citizen, please ensure you check the official UK Government website for updates prior to travelling. ID cards and visas Do EU, EEA or Swiss citizens need visas to travel to the UK? If you’re an EU, EEA and Swiss citizen, you can travel to the UK for holidays or short trips without ...
Entering the UK: Before you leave for the UK - GOV.UK
We use some essential cookies to make this website work. We’d like to set additional cookies to understand how you use GOV.UK, remember your settings and improve government services.
Travel to England from another country during coronavirus (COVID-19)
You do not need to complete a UK passenger locator form before you travel, take any COVID-19 tests or quarantine when you arrive in England.
EU nationals travelling to the UK after EU Exit
What you will need to enter the UK • What you need to enter the UK • If the UK leaves the EU with a deal, what youll need to enter the UK will not change until 2021. • If the UK leaves the EU without a deal you will need to check gov.uk for updates.After free movement has ended, EEA and Swiss citizens will be able to continue to enter the UK without a visa and stay for up to 3
Can I travel to the UK with an ID card after Brexit or do I need a ...
From 1 October 2021 you need a valid passport to travel to the United Kingdom (UK). If you become a UK resident on or before 31 December 2020, you can continue to use your ID card to travel between the Netherlands and the UK until at least the end of 2025.
How long do you have to work in the UK to get a visa?
If you require EU, EEA or Swiss citizens to work in the UK for longer than 6 months, they need to apply for a visa. Find out more about working in the UK.
How long before you arrive in the UK do you have to complete a passenger locator form?
In the 48 hours before you arrive in the UK from abroad you must complete a passenger locator form to give us your journey and contact details. This is part of the UK ’s COVID-19 response.
What is the CTA?
The Common Travel Area (CTA) is made up of the UK, Ireland and the Crown Dependencies (Jersey, Guernsey and the Isle of Man).
What happens if you don't qualify for a business exemption?
If you do not qualify for a business exemption, you can pay for a COVID-19 test. If the test is negative, you can reduce your self-isolation period after international travel.
Can Swiss citizens use ePassport?
EU, EEA and Swiss citizens can continue to use the automatic ePassport gates to pass through the border on arrival.
What is a commercial goods declaration?
Commercial goods are things to sell. You need to make a full customs declaration if you are bringing commercial goods that are any of the following: above the total value of £1,500 into Great Britain. above the total value of £873 into Northern Ireland. excise, restricted or controlled goods.
When will the UK list of travellers end?
You will not be able to use the List of Travellers scheme to visit the UK from 1 October 2021.
Do EU workers need a visa to attend a job interview in the UK?
In response to the recent reports of border entry issues, Minister for Future Borders and Immigration Kevin Foster went on record to confirm that attending a job interview is permissible for entry into the UK as a visitor.
What is a business visitor?
A business visitor is someone who comes to the UK on a short-term basis for business-related reasons or activities without formally taking part in the UK labour market or being employed here.
What is the difference between a tourist visa and a business visa?
In the UK, the standard visitor visa applies to both tourists and business travellers .
What can visitors ask about their immigration history?
Visitors can also be asked about their immigration history and previous travel and visits to the UK, to determine if the traveller is a genuine short-stay visitor or if they are using the visit route for ‘under the radar’ residency.
What happens if a traveller is refused entry to the UK?
If a traveller is refused entry, this will be noted on their UK immigration record, which can impact future Home Office applications. As such, travellers and their employers should take steps to reduce the risk of border issues.
What are permissible visitor activities?
Permissible visitor activities include leisure and tourism, visiting friends and family, undertaking a short course of study, school exchanges and visits. volunteering for up to 30 days with a registered charity or carrying out a business activity. ‘Business activity’ can include:
What are the EU nationals?
Post-Brexit rules for EU nationals. ‘EU nationals’ refer to citizens of the 26 European Union member states, as well as Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway and Switzerland. Following the end of EU free movement, EU nationals who do not hold valid UK immigration status such as EU settled status or pre-settled status, ...
What is ETIAS in the EU?
ETIAS, the European Travel Information and Authorisation System, is being developed by the EU after an agreement between the European Parliament and European Commission. The visa waiver system is similar to that of the US ESTA and Canadian eTA. Britain’s exit from the EU has led to questions about how travel will be affected by Brexit ...
How long can a British citizen stay in Europe?
UK citizens travelling to Europe with ETIAS can remain in the travel zone for up to 90 days in a 180-day period.
When will ETIAS be implemented?
ETIAS for UK citizens is set to be implemented by the end of the year 2022, by which time the Brexit transition period will have ended and Britain will be out of the union. UK citizens travelling to Europe will be required to apply online with a valid passport and an email address before leaving Britain. What do British tourists have to do ...
What are the advantages of leaving the EU?
By departing the EU, British citizens will become “third-country nationals” and lose the automatic right of admission to other European nations . ETIAS for UK citizens is set to be implemented by the end ...
How long does it take to get an ETIAS?
The ETIAS fee is then paid using a debit or credit card before being submitted for review. The process takes approximately 10 minutes to complete and most ETIAS for UK citizens will be approved within minutes. The European Union is a political and economic union of 27 members.
When will the EU implement ETIAS?
As discussions between Europe and Britain continue regarding post-Brexit policies, one of the proposals at the forefront of talks has been the ETIAS travel authorisation, Europe’s visa waiver to be implemented in late 2022. ETIAS, the European Travel Information and Authorisation System, is being developed by the EU after an agreement between ...
How many members are there in the European Union?
The European Union is a political and economic union of 27 members. The goals of the organisation are to promote peace and offer freedom, security and justice without internal borders. It encourages sustainable development based on balanced economic growth and price stability. The Brexit withdrawal agreement was signed on January 24th, 2020, ...
How long can a visitor stay in the UK?
Generally a ‘standard’ visitor will be admitted to the UK for 6 months at a time, and the permitted activities are quite wide, as is set out above in the guidance for EU visitors, broadly being “tourism, visiting family and friends, short term study and business-related activities, such as events and conferences”. Here is a link to the Immigration Rules (Appendix V – Visitor) which set out the permitted activities for visitors in all the visit categories.
How to contact immigration barristers in UK?
For expert advice and assistance with the new rules governing EU citizens who wish to visit the UK, contact our immigration barristers on 0203 617 9173 or complete our enquiry form below.
How long is a standard visitor allowed?
Standard visitor: for those seeking to undertake the activities set out in Appendix Visitor: Permitted Activities, for example tourism and visiting family, usually for up to 6 months.
What does V 4.2 mean?
V 4.2. The applicant must satisfy the decision maker that they are a genuine visitor, which means the applicant:
How long is a paid engagement visitor?
Permitted Paid Engagement visitor: for experts in their field coming to the UK to undertake specific paid engagements for up to one month.
How old do you have to be to apply for a V 12.1?
V 12.1. The applicant must be aged 18 or over on the date of application.
When will the UK end free movement?
With the end of free movement on 31 December 2020, EU/EEA nationals entering the UK as visitors are now governed by the Visit Visa immigration rules applicable to all non-EEA citizens. In this post we look at the new rules for EU/EEA nationals who wish to visit the UK.
How long can a person stay in the Schengen zone?
The number of days permitted to stay in any of the Schengen zone countries doesn’t exceed 90 days/ three months every half a year needless ...
Which countries require a Schengen visa?
The countries whose citizens are required to obtain a Schengen visa in order to enter any member country of the Schengen Area are: Afghanistan. Gabon. Oman. Algeria. Gambia. Pakistan. Angola.
Do you need a visa for more than one nationality?
In the case of citizens with more than one nationality, the visa requirements depend on the passport he/she chooses to travel with. If you chose to travel with a passport of a nationality that requires a mandatory visa you will have to obtain one even if you are in possession of a passport of one of the Schengen member countries but you are not willing to use it for any reason.
Which countries require airport transit visas?
The list of the countries which are subject to the airport transit visa in the Schengen Area goes as following: Afghanistan. Bangladesh.
Can a national enter the Schengen area?
While there are categories and nationals of countries that are privileged with entering the Schengen visa-free zone, there are also other categories and nationals, which have to go through all the processes of meeting requirements and attending interviews, in order to obtain a visa that grants them with the permission to enter the Schengen Area.
Does Sri Lanka require a transit visa?
Sri Lanka. There are however exceptions regarding the Airport Transit Visa for certain individuals. In case of the following terms, the nationals of the above-mentioned countries are not obliged to obtain an airport transit visa:
Do I Need a Visa for the UK?
If you are from the US , an EU Member State, or certain Commonwealth countries, you do not need a visa for the UK for up to six months.
Do I Need a Transit Visa for the UK?
If you typically need a visa to enter the UK as a tourist, you will also need a transit visa. However, there are two types of transit visas for the UK, and the requirements change depending on what country you are from:
What is a visitor in transit visa?
Visitor in Transit Visa. This type of visa is needed if you will pass through British border control but you intend to depart the country within 48 hours. You need a Visitor in Transit Visa if you are from a country that typically requires UK visitor visas (see above).
When will the EU change visa requirements?
There will not be any changes to visa requirements for EU nationals until at least December 31, 2020, when the Brexit transitional period is due to end. Until then, EU nationals can continue to travel to the UK without a visa for short trips and holidays.
Does Brexit mean the U.K. is not in the Schengen Area?
Britain was never a member of the Schengen Area of borderless travel but British citizens did have the right to freedom of movement within the EU when the country was a member. This ended when the country formally left the European Union (EU) at the end of 2020. As a result, there have been some changes to U.K. nationals’ ability to travel to the EU, especially for longer visits to European countries.
Will I be able to stay more than three months in the Schengen Area now Britain is outside the EU?
U.K. nationals will be subject to the same 90-day rule travelers of countries outside the EU are subject to. This means you can stay within the Schengen Area for 90 days out of every 180, but after that, you must either apply for residency or a work or study visa. Over a year you could spend 180 days in total in the Schengen Area but not consecutively, and you would have to break up your stays by spending time outside the area. You can fill your 90 days as one block or as several shorter trips, but in every 180 days, the total number of days spent in the Schengen Area must not exceed 90.
Are U.K. passports stamped in Schengen countries after Brexit?
Any U.K. citizen entering the Schengen Area will now need to receive a stamp at passport control when they enter or leave. You will need to check you have received the right stamps or officials may attempt to bar you from a country as they may assume you have overstayed.
Where do I apply for my visa, if I need one?
You will need to apply at the embassy or consulate of the country where you plan to spend most of your visit. However, for many countries, you will not apply to the embassy but via a third-party visa application center that acts on its behalf for the initial stages of visa processing, such as checking supporting documents and the collection of biometric data. For example, the firm VFS Global handles visa applications on behalf of Italy, while TLScontact does so for France. You can fill in your visa application form via their websites.
Do I need to obtain travel and medical insurance when traveling to the Schengen Area?
If you are traveling to Europe as a U.K. citizen, you will not automatically require Schengen travel insurance when applying to ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorization System) or traveling visa-free. The U.K.’s reciprocal arrangement allows British citizens to access free healthcare in the EU using a valid European Health Insurance Card or the new U.K. Global Health insurance card, which replicates the benefits of the EHIC ’s (European Health Insurance Card). It is important to state, however, that although the GHIC and EHIC will cover you for “necessary healthcare”, not all treatments are covered under the scheme for free, with some countries requiring co-payments or refundable fees, as well as cash to cover prescription costs. It is advisable to take out travel and medical insurance.
How long is an ETIAS valid?
No. Only one approved ETIAS is required per traveler to visit all ETIAS member countries - and this can be valid for up to three years.
When will ETIAS be in place?
It will be in place by the end of 2022.
How long do you have to work in the UK to get a visa?
If you require EU, EEA or Swiss citizens to work in the UK for longer than 6 months, they need to apply for a visa. Find out more about working in the UK.
How long before you arrive in the UK do you have to complete a passenger locator form?
In the 48 hours before you arrive in the UK from abroad you must complete a passenger locator form to give us your journey and contact details. This is part of the UK ’s COVID-19 response.
What is the CTA?
The Common Travel Area (CTA) is made up of the UK, Ireland and the Crown Dependencies (Jersey, Guernsey and the Isle of Man).
What happens if you don't qualify for a business exemption?
If you do not qualify for a business exemption, you can pay for a COVID-19 test. If the test is negative, you can reduce your self-isolation period after international travel.
Can Swiss citizens use ePassport?
EU, EEA and Swiss citizens can continue to use the automatic ePassport gates to pass through the border on arrival.
What is a commercial goods declaration?
Commercial goods are things to sell. You need to make a full customs declaration if you are bringing commercial goods that are any of the following: above the total value of £1,500 into Great Britain. above the total value of £873 into Northern Ireland. excise, restricted or controlled goods.
When will the UK list of travellers end?
You will not be able to use the List of Travellers scheme to visit the UK from 1 October 2021.