Rules on travelling to and from European Union countries will change on 1 January 2021.
That’s because an agreement between the UK and EU to keep many things the same – for 11 months after Brexit – comes to an end by then.
A post-Brexit deal between the UK and the EU has now been reached, with lots of new rules on trade and in other areas.
Can I go on holiday to the EU after 1 January?
At the moment, no.
Because of Covid, travellers from most non-EU countries can’t visit except for essential reasons.
After 31 December, the UK will no longer be treated like a member of the EU, so becomes subject to these rules.
The only non-EU countries exempt from these restrictions are those with very low infection rates, such as New Zealand.
The EU could choose to exempt the UK and individual EU countries could create a “travel corridor” with the UK, allowing restriction-free travel.
When the pandemic ends, you’ll be able to travel to all EU countries – plus Switzerland, Norway, Iceland and Liechtenstein – as a tourist, without needing a visa.
How long can I go for?
You’ll be able to stay for up to 90 days in any rolling 180-day period.
So, an Easter weekend in Spain, followed by a June fortnight in Italy, would be covered by your 90-day limit.
