UK Travel Requirements for EU, EEA & Swiss Citizens in 2025

Starting in 2025, citizens from the EU, EEA, and Switzerland planning to visit the United Kingdom must adhere to new travel regulations. These rules apply to tourists, business travelers, students, and those visiting family. Here’s what you need to know for a smooth trip.

Entry Requirements

Beginning April 2, 2025, EU, EEA, and Swiss citizens (excluding Irish nationals) must obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) before entering the UK. Travelers must present a valid passport that remains active throughout their stay. Importantly, entry using national ID cards will no longer be accepted, except in certain cases:

Individuals with settled or pre-settled status under the EU Settlement Scheme (EUSS).
Holders of family permits, frontier worker permits, or S2 Healthcare Visitors.
Swiss nationals with a Service Provider visa.

Those in these categories can continue using ID cards until December 31, 2025. Irish citizens retain their free movement rights under the Common Travel Area (CTA).

Business Travel Guidelines

Short business visits remain visa-free for EU, EEA, and Swiss nationals, but an ETA is now mandatory from April 2, 2025. Visitors may attend meetings, conferences, and events, staying up to six months. However, they must not:

• Engage in any form of work for a UK employer.
• Conduct internships or placements.
• Sell goods or services directly to the public in the UK.

For long-term work or employee postings, a work visa is required under the UK’s points-based immigration system.

School Travel Rules

French school groups enjoy special arrangements. Students traveling on approved school trip forms can use their national ID cards and avoid visa or ETA requirements, even if from visa-required countries. Other school groups must ensure all students carry passports, and visa or ETA requirements may apply depending on their nationality.

Driving and Insurance

Visitors can drive in the UK with a valid non-UK license. An International Driving Permit (IDP) is not necessary. However, if your vehicle is insured in the EU, EFTA countries, or Switzerland, you should carry a green card or proof of insurance. If your insurance is from outside these areas, check if your country is part of the green card system; if not, you’ll need insurance issued in the UK.

What You Can Bring

When entering the UK, specific rules apply for goods and currency:

• Declare commercial goods valued over £1,500 (Great Britain) or £873 (Northern Ireland).
• Declare cash amounts of £10,000 or more upon arrival from the EU.
• Review restrictions on bringing pets, endangered species, or horses into the country.
• For personal items, refer to the updated guidelines on permitted goods.

Healthcare Access

EU, EEA, and Swiss citizens should carry valid health insurance. While the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) might still be accepted, travelers should ensure they have coverage for NHS services during their visit.

Mobile Phone Use

Roaming charges can vary by provider. Some EU mobile operators no longer offer free roaming in the UK. Always check your mobile plan for potential charges related to calls, texts, and data.

Common Travel Area (CTA) Regulations

Travelers moving within the UK, Ireland, Jersey, Guernsey, and the Isle of Man should note that while travel remains visa-free, document requirements may differ. It’s crucial to check the rules before crossing internal borders.

Family Members and Non-EEA Nationals

Non-EEA family members of EU, EEA, or Swiss nationals must present:

• A valid passport.
• Either pre-settled or settled status or an EU Settlement Scheme family permit.
• Article 10/20 residence cards are no longer valid for entry. These travelers do not need an ETA if they possess the appropriate documentation.

By following these updated guidelines, citizens from the EU, EEA, and Switzerland can ensure a hassle-free journey to the UK.