Immigration documentation announcement for EU nationals post October 2021

The Home Office has requested stakeholders to publicise the following change to documentation requirements for individuals seeking entry to the United Kingdom.

On 1 October 2021, European Union nationals including those from the European Economic Area and Switzerland will only be allowed to travel to the United Kingdom with a valid passport and therefore, will no longer be able to use national ID cards to gain entry unless they are exempt.

However, those who have been issued with the documents specified below will still be able to use their ID cards until at least 31 December 2025:

• individuals granted settled or pre-settled status through the EU Settlement Scheme
• are awaiting a decision through the EUSS – evidence of this should be available
• have an EU Family Permit
• are an S2 Healthcare visitor
• hold a frontier work permit
• Swiss nationals with a Swiss Service Provider.

The key message is that individuals previously entitled to Free Movement through the UKs membership of the EU should ensure they have correct documents when travelling to the UK post October 2021. It is important to note that individuals will need to present valid documents at immigration control.

As a stakeholder RLegal Immigration Solicitors are ensuring this information is spread as widely as possible. Further information on travelling to the United Kingdom should be sought from a carrier such as an airline or the Home Office.