UK to EU Travel Guide: Understanding Visas for Tourism, Work, and Study After Brexit
UK has long been a popular destination for travellers from across the EU. With its rich history, diverse culture, and vibrant cities, it’s no wonder that many EU nationals wish to enter the UK for tourism, work, or study. However, the requirements for entry can vary significantly depending on whether a country is part of the Schengen Area or not.
The entry requirements for non-Schengen EU countries, including the proposed Entry/Exit System (EES) set to be implemented in 2025.
The Schengen Area is a group of European countries that have abolished passport and other types of border control at their mutual borders. This agreement facilitates free movement for citizens of the member states, making travel more accessible and convenient. Currently, there are 27 countries in the Schengen Area, including popular destinations such as France, Germany, and Spain.
Non-Schengen EU countries, such as Ireland, Romania, Bulgaria, and Croatia, have specific entry requirements when it comes to travelling to the UK. As of now, nationals from these countries can enter the UK without a visa for short stays, typically up to six months, for purposes such as tourism, family visits, or business trips. However, it’s essential to have a valid passport or national identity card for entry.
For those wishing to stay longer or for specific purposes, such as work or study, different rules apply. Non-Schengen EU nationals must apply for the appropriate visa before travelling to the UK. The UK’s points-based immigration system assesses applicants based on various criteria, including job offers, skills, and language proficiency. This system aims to attract skilled workers and ensure that those entering the UK can contribute positively to the economy.
In addition to visa requirements, travellers should also be aware of health insurance and financial stability. While it is not mandatory for short visits, having travel insurance can provide peace of mind in case of medical emergencies. Furthermore, visitors may be asked to demonstrate that they can support themselves financially during their stay, especially if they are planning to stay for an extended period.
Moreover, it is important for travellers from non-Schengen EU countries to be aware of the potential for customs checks upon arrival in the UK. Each traveller is permitted to bring in a certain amount of goods for personal use without incurring duties, but exceeding these limits can lead to complications. This includes restrictions on the amount of alcohol, tobacco, and other goods that can be brought into the country. Additionally, border officers may inquire about the purpose of the visit and the duration of stay, so having relevant documentation readily available can facilitate a smoother entry process.
An overview of the Schengen area and the requirements of those countries, including reference to the proposed Entry/Exit system (EES) in 2025
For EU nationals from Schengen countries, entering the UK requires compliance with specific regulations. Unlike non-Schengen EU nationals, those from Schengen countries typically need to present a valid passport or national ID card upon arrival. They can enter the UK for short stays without a visa, similar to their non-Schengen counterparts. However, it is crucial to note that the UK has its own immigration policies, which differ from those of the Schengen Area.
The European Union’s Entry/Exit System (EES) is scheduled for implementation in October 2025. This innovative digital border control system will apply to all non-EU nationals, including UK citizens, travelling to the Schengen Area. The EES will replace traditional manual passport stamping with a streamlined digital process that records biometric data and travel details at border checkpoints.
UK nationals journeying to the Schengen Area will need to register their biometric details, including fingerprints and a facial photograph, at their first point of entry into the EU. This registration will take place at self-service kiosks or with border staff at airports, seaports, and international train stations such as Dover, Eurotunnel, and St Pancras. The system will create a digital record containing the traveller’s name, biometric data, and entry/exit information. This record remains valid for three years, meaning frequent travellers will only need to provide fingerprints or photos at subsequent crossings within that timeframe. A key function of the EES is to automatically identify non-EU travellers who exceed the 90-day limit within any 180-day period in the Schengen Area.
At the Port of Dover, tablets will be provided for car passengers to complete registration without leaving their vehicles, whilst coach passengers will need to disembark and use dedicated kiosks. Eurostar stations (including St Pancras) and Eurotunnel terminals will feature purpose-built kiosks for EES registration. The UK government has invested in significant infrastructure upgrades at these locations to support the new system’s rollout. Concerns have been raised about potential increased wait times at border points, particularly during the initial implementation. To mitigate this, the system will undergo a six-month “soft launch” period, allowing both passport stamping and electronic recording to operate in parallel, easing the transition and managing queues effectively.
No pre-registration is required before travel, as all data collection occurs at the border upon arrival. The EES will not apply to travel between the UK and Ireland, as both countries remain part of the Common Travel Area. Whilst the system aims to modernise and enhance border security, travellers should anticipate possible delays, especially at busy ports and during the initial implementation phase. The EES is scheduled to become operational in October 2025, with the exact launch date to be confirmed by the EU closer to implementation. The related European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS) is expected to follow in late 2026.
This system aims to streamline the entry and exit process for third-country nationals travelling to the Schengen Area. While the UK is not part of the Schengen Agreement, the EES may influence how EU nationals from Schengen countries interact with UK immigration policies. The EES will require travellers to register their entry and exit information electronically, which may lead to increased scrutiny and more stringent checks at borders.
As the UK continues to steer through its post-Brexit identity, it is essential for EU nationals to stay informed about the evolving entry requirements and ensure they have the necessary documentation before travelling.
Understanding the differences between Schengen and non-Schengen entry requirements will help facilitate smoother travel experiences for all EU nationals wishing to enter the UK. Additionally, it is advisable for travellers to keep abreast of any changes in travel advisories or health regulations, particularly in light of ongoing developments related to public health and safety. This vigilance can help ensure that their travel plans proceed without unnecessary disruptions, allowing them to enjoy their time in the UK to the fullest.
Enhance Your Professional Expertise on UK Immigration
Staying informed and skilled is crucial for legal and immigration professionals. HJT Training is your partner in keep up with these changes confidently.
HJT’s live online course ‘TRAVELLING TO THE EU AND SCHENGEN AREA’ offers essential, up-to-date guidance on this rapidly evolving topic. Immigration advisors across the UK cannot afford to miss this comprehensive session, which will equip you with the detailed knowledge needed to confidently prepare and advise clients travelling from both EU and non-EU countries.
With significant changes on the horizon, including the upcoming ETA implementation, this course ensures you remain at the forefront of the latest entry requirements and regulatory developments. Secure your place today to ensure both you and your clients can navigate these complex border changes with clarity and confidence. To book your spot, visit here
Note: If you are reading this blog after 11th June 2025 and have missed our live course, please do not hesitate to contact us. Our team can advise you on alternative resources, recordings, and updated materials that may assist with your EUSS travel-related enquiries. As regulations continue to evolve, we remain committed to supporting immigration advisors with the most current guidance available.
Email: enquiries@hjt-training.co.uk or call us on 075 4416 4692
Useful links
- List of countries requiring visa to enter the UK:
https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/media/6800febb90dd6a0497e287fc/UK+Visa+requirements+April+2025.pdf - Guidance: Apply for an electronic travel authorisation (ETA) : https://www.gov.uk/guidance/apply-for-an-electronic-travel-authorisation-eta
- Applying for Schengen visa: https://home-affairs.ec.europa.eu/policies/schengen/visa-policy/applying-schengen-visa_en
- EU visa policy: https://home-affairs.ec.europa.eu/policies/schengen/visa-policy/applying-schengen-visa_en
Written by Shareen Khan – Legal Content Writer, HJT Training
Disclaimer: This blog post is intended for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Immigration advisors should consult the full decisions and official policy documents when advising clients on specific cases.
