With the ongoing changes to travel rules between the UK and EU countries post-Brexit, it’s essential for EU, EEA, and Swiss citizens to understand the current entry requirements to the UK. This article will explore whether EU citizens can still use their national ID cards for entry into the UK and outline all the latest travel documentation requirements.
Current Entry Requirements
As of October 1, 2021, the UK government implemented significant changes to entry requirements for EU, EEA, and Swiss citizens. While previously, EU citizens could enter the UK with just their national ID cards, the UK now requires most of these individuals to present a valid passport when entering the country.
National ID cards are generally no longer accepted as valid travel documents for entry into the UK. This applies to citizens of the EU member states, the European Economic Area (EEA), and Switzerland. However, there are some exceptions to this rule, which we will discuss below.
Exceptions to the Rule
There are specific exceptions where EU, EEA, and Swiss citizens can still use their national ID cards to enter the UK. These include:
EU Settlement Scheme
Citizens who have settled or pre-settled status under the EU Settlement Scheme are still allowed to use their national ID cards for entry. This also applies to their family members who are eligible for the scheme.
EU Settlement Scheme Family Permit
Individuals holding an EU Settlement Scheme Family Permit may also enter the UK with an ID card.
Frontier Workers
Frontier workers—those who live in an EU/EEA country but work in the UK—are still eligible to use their national ID cards for entry.
S2 Healthcare Visitors
Citizens who are eligible for S2 Healthcare Visitors under the UK’s healthcare agreement with EU countries can use their national ID cards for entry as well.
Swiss Citizens with a Service Provider Visa
Swiss citizens holding a Service Provider from Switzerland visa are allowed to enter the UK with their national ID cards.
These exceptions are set to be in place until at least December 31, 2025. After this date, further changes could take place depending on the UK’s policies and negotiations with the EU.
Required Documents
For the majority of EU, EEA, and Swiss citizens, a valid passport is the primary document required for entry into the UK. To ensure smooth entry, here are some of the key documents that you should be aware of:
Passport
A passport must be valid for the entire duration of your stay in the UK. It is essential to check the expiration date before traveling, as passports that are close to expiring may not be accepted.
Visa or Permit
Depending on the purpose of your visit (e.g., work, study, family visits), you may need additional documentation such as a visa or permit. Be sure to check if you need a student visa, work visa, or other special permits.
EU Settlement Scheme Documentation
If you are relying on your EU Settlement Scheme status to enter the UK, be sure to have proof of your status, either via a digital certificate or other official documentation.
Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA)
In the latest update to UK travel requirements, starting from April 2, 2025, EU, EEA, and Swiss citizens (with the exception of Irish citizens) will need to apply for an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) to visit the UK.
The ETA is part of the UK’s efforts to strengthen border security and streamline the travel process. It is a pre-screening system that will allow UK authorities to assess visitors before they arrive at the border.
To apply for an ETA
Online Application: The application process will be entirely online. You will need to provide basic details about your travel, such as your passport information and travel dates.
Associated Costs: The ETA will come with a small fee. Details about the cost and how to make the payment will be published on official government websites closer to the launch date.
Important Note: You will need the ETA for all visits to the UK, including tourism, business, and family visits. However, individuals traveling for specific purposes like work or study may need additional visas or documentation.
Travel Tips and Recommendations
To ensure smooth travel and entry into the UK, here are some helpful tips and recommendations:
Organize Your Documents
Keep all travel documents, including your passport, visa (if applicable), and any additional paperwork, organized and easily accessible. This will help you avoid delays during your journey.
Check Entry Requirements
Rules and entry requirements may change, so it’s important to stay up-to-date. Always check the latest travel advisories and entry requirements on official UK government websites before departure.
Allow Extra Time at Border Control
Border control procedures may take longer than usual, especially with new requirements such as the ETA system. Ensure you have enough time between connecting flights or activities.
Ensure Passport Validity
Double-check that your passport is valid for the entire length of your stay. Some countries may require passports to be valid for several months beyond your travel dates.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while most EU, EEA, and Swiss citizens are no longer able to enter the UK with just a national ID card, there are still exceptions in place for those with specific statuses or visas. It’s crucial to ensure you have the correct documentation, such as a valid passport or any required permits. From April 2, 2025, an ETA will be mandatory for EU, EEA, and Swiss citizens, marking a new phase in travel to the UK.
By keeping your travel documents organized and staying informed about any changes, you can ensure a smooth and hassle-free journey to the UK. Always check the latest information from official sources to stay up-to-date with the latest travel requirements.
