As of 2025, EU, EEA, and Swiss citizens planning to visit the United Kingdom for tourism, short business stays, school travel, or family visits face updated border entry rules and travel authorizations. Here’s everything you need to know to prepare for your UK trip — whether you’re crossing for leisure or work.
What You Need to Enter the UK in 2025?
From 2 April 2025, EU, EEA, and Swiss citizens (excluding Irish nationals) will require an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) before visiting the UK. You must travel with a valid passport that remains valid for your entire stay. Entry using EU/EEA/Swiss national ID cards is no longer accepted — unless you fall under specific exceptions, such as:
- You hold settled or pre-settled status under the EU Settlement Scheme (EUSS)
- You have a family permit, frontier worker permit, or are an S2 Healthcare Visitor
- You are a Swiss national with a Service Provider visa
These individuals can use ID cards until at least 31 December 2025 without needing an ETA.
Irish citizens are unaffected and continue to have free movement rights under the Common Travel Area (CTA).
Business Travel to the UK
Short business visits are still visa-free for EU, EEA, and Swiss nationals, but an ETA will be required from 2 April 2025. Visitors may attend meetings, conferences, and events, and can stay up to 6 months per trip, provided they do not:
- Engage in paid/unpaid work for a UK employer
- Conduct internships or placements
- Sell goods or services directly to the UK public
For long-term work or if you’re posting employees to the UK, a work visa will be necessary under the UK’s points-based immigration system.
School Travel Rules
French school groups benefit from a unique arrangement. Children traveling on approved France-UK school trip forms may:
- Enter with an EU/EEA/Swiss national ID card
- Avoid visa/ETA requirements, even if they are from visa-required countries
Other countries’ school groups must ensure all students carry passports, and some may require a visa or ETA, depending on nationality.
Driving and Vehicle Insurance in the UK
Visitors can drive in the UK with a valid non-UK licence. No International Driving Permit (IDP) is needed. However:
- If your car is insured in the EU, EFTA countries, or Switzerland, carry a green card or proof of insurance.
- For vehicles insured outside these areas, verify if your country is a green card system member. If not, you’ll need UK-issued insurance.
What You Can Bring Into the UK?
Rules apply for goods and currency:
- Declare commercial goods valued over £1,500 (Great Britain) or £873 (Northern Ireland).
- Declare cash of £10,000 or more when arriving from the EU.
- Check restrictions on bringing endangered species, pets, or horse transport.
- For personal items, read updated guidelines on what is permitted.
Healthcare Access in the UK
EU, EEA, and Swiss citizens are encouraged to carry valid health insurance. While the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) may still be accepted, ensure you’re covered for access to NHS care during your visit.
Mobile Phone Use in the UK
Roaming charges vary by provider. Some EU mobile operators may no longer offer free roaming in the UK. Check your plan for call, text, and data charges before departure.
✈ Travelling via the Common Travel Area (CTA)
Special rules apply for those traveling within the UK, Ireland, Jersey, Guernsey, and Isle of Man. While travel remains visa-free, document requirements vary, so check in advance if crossing internal borders within the CTA.
Family Members and Non-EEA Nationals
Non-EEA family members of EU, EEA, or Swiss nationals must present:
- A valid passport, and
- Either pre-settled/settled status or an EU Settlement Scheme family permit
Article 10/20 residence cards are no longer valid for entry. These travelers do not require an ETA if they hold relevant settlement documentation.
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