Until 2020 going to London was like going to Paris or Barcelona: an ID card was enough, your phone worked as at home and the duty-free till charged less. After Brexit the trip is still easy, but it needs a little more preparation. Here is everything that has changed for European visitors, updated for 2026.
A passport is compulsory
Since 1 October 2021 national identity cards are no longer accepted at the British border: you need a passport, valid for the whole length of your stay (British rules do not require three or six months' remaining validity, but a margin is wise in case of delays). The exception is EU citizens with resident status obtained through the EU Settlement Scheme, who may continue to use their ID card. Children also need their own passport.
The ETA, the electronic authorisation
Since 2 April 2025 citizens of European countries must obtain an ETA (Electronic Travel Authorisation) before departure, an electronic permit similar to the American ESTA. Since 25 February 2026 checks have been fully enforced: without an ETA airlines, ferries and Eurostar will not let you board.
- Cost: £20 since 8 April 2026 (previously £16).
- Validity: two years, or until your passport expires if sooner; valid for multiple trips of up to six months each.
- How to apply: online only, through the official UK ETA app or the gov.uk website. Beware of intermediary sites charging much higher fees.
- Timing: a decision usually arrives within minutes, but the government advises applying at least three working days before travel.
- Who needs one: everyone, including babies. British and Irish citizens and holders of UK residence permission are exempt.
It is also required for those entering Northern Ireland overland from the Republic of Ireland. Details on our page about documents and the ETA.
Customs and allowances
The UK is now outside the customs union, so traveller allowances apply: you can bring in duty-free 42 litres of beer, 18 litres of still wine, 4 litres of spirits (or 9 litres of fortified and sparkling wine), 200 cigarettes and other goods up to £390 in value. Since April 2025 it has been forbidden to bring meat and dairy products (cured meats, cheese, milk) from the EU, even vacuum-packed and for personal use, because of the risk of foot-and-mouth disease. So leave that wheel of cheese for your friends at home, or send it through commercial channels.
Phone, healthcare, money
- Roaming: the UK is no longer covered by the EU's "roam like at home" rules. Many European operators still include it in their plans, others charge for bundles: check before you go, or buy a local eSIM.
- Healthcare: the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) remains valid for necessary treatment during a temporary stay in NHS public hospitals. Travel insurance is still advisable.
- Tax-free shopping: since 2021 visitors can no longer reclaim VAT on purchases in British shops.
- Payments: contactless cards are accepted almost everywhere, including on buses and the Tube; check your bank's fees for payments in sterling.
Driving and travelling with pets
An EU driving licence is valid for driving in the UK during a tourist stay; a green card is not required, but check your cover with your insurer. Remember that traffic drives on the left. For dogs and cats the EU pet passport is accepted, with a microchip and rabies vaccination; dogs also need tapeworm treatment before entry.
And for Britons in Europe
The reverse journey has changed even more: since October 2025 Britons entering the Schengen area register fingerprints and a photo in the EU Entry/Exit System, can stay no more than 90 days in any 180, and will soon also need the European ETIAS authorisation. For the rest of your trip planning see getting to the UK, travel tips and the Brexit special.