Planning a short trip to the UK? Here’s everything EU, EEA, or Swiss citizens need to know about entry rules, what you can do during your stay, and practical tips to make the most of your time here.
1. Do You Need a Visa or ETA?
- Good news: no standard visa needed for short visits (up to 6 months) if you’re an EU/EEA/Swiss citizen—even post-Brexit. You arrive as a Standard Visitor and can stay up to six months per visit
- From 2 April 2025, most EU, EEA, and Swiss passport holders must apply for a UK Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) before travelling The ETA:
- Costs £16
- Is valid for multiple trips, each up to six months, over its two-year duration (or passport expiry)
- Exceptions: Irish citizens and anyone with settled/pre‑settled status, family permits, or frontier‑worker permits don’t need an ETA
2. Entry Documents
- Must arrive with a valid passport covering your entire stay .
- National ID cards are no longer sufficient—unless you’re already enrolled under the EU Settlement Scheme, frontier‑worker permit, or similar
- If you have settled or pre‑settled status, you can still use your national ID until at least 31 December 2025
3. Visitor Permitted Activities
As a Standard Visitor, you’re free to:
- Enjoy holidays, see family or friends.
- Take short courses (up to six months).
- Attend business events: meetings, interviews, conferences.
- Volunteer (up to 30 days with registered charities).
- Participate in cultural, academic, sporting events
Not allowed without a specific visa:
- Paid/unpaid work for UK businesses.
- Internships or selling goods/services.
- Living in the UK through frequent visits
If you plan to work, study over six months, or marry here, you’ll need the relevant visa.
4. Staying Longer or Frequent Visits
- You can re-enter the UK multiple times, as long as each visit is under six months.
- Be mindful: if it seems you’re living here through continuous visits, Border Control may deny entry, read more here.
- If working or living longer-term (over six months), explore visas like Skilled Worker, Temporary Worker, or Family routes assets.publishing.service.gov.uk.
5. Healthcare
The UK recognises the EU EHIC and the UK Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC), offering access to state healthcare during your stay en.wikipedia.org. Be sure to:
- Bring your valid card.
- Consider supplemental travel insurance covering healthcare, travel delays, and losses.
6. Driving in the UK
- Your EU/EEA/Swiss licence is accepted (learn more) – no need for an International Driving Permit (IDP).
- It’s always wise to check for the latest insurance and driving rules based on where you’re from.
7. Tips Before You Travel
- Apply for your ETA well in advance – via the ETA app or on GOV.UK.
- Travel with your passport and card/visa status docs if applicable.
- Have evidence of your return journey, accommodation, and enough funds to support your stay – Border Control may ask for these details.
- Declare cash over £10,000 if you’re bringing it into the UK.
Final Word
EU, EEA, and Swiss visitors can still enjoy seamless travel to the UK—with just a few new steps. Apply for your ETA, bring the correct travel docs, and enjoy everything the UK has to offer—from London’s vibrant city life to scenic escapes like the Yorkshire Dales.
