U.K. Warns Citizens of Possible New Post-Brexit Travel Rules to EU

The U.K. Foreign and Commonwealth Office is warning that citizens with fewer than 15 months remaining on their passports may not be able to travel to countries in the European Union.

The move could affect as many as 3.5 million citizens and their passports.

“In the event of the UK leaving the EU without a deal, new rules will apply,” the agency said on a website that allows citizens to check their passports for validity.

The EU College of Commissioners, which effectively serves as the block’s cabinet, said last November that, if the United Kingdom exits the European Union without reaching an agreement – the so-called “hard” Brexit – U.K. citizens will be eligible for visa-free entry going forward. Visits will be limited, however, to a stay of 90 days in any 180-day period and travelers are limited to activities including visiting friends or family, attending cultural or sports events or exchanges, business meetings, travel for journalistic or media purposes, medical treatment, for short-term studies or training, and any similar activities. They are not, however, permitted to work in the 27 EU member nations.

EU border officials may also ask U.K. citizens for evidence of “sufficient means of subsistence” for the intended stay and return, such as a return ticket, hotel reservations, or an invitation letter to a conference.

(Photo: Accura Media Group)