Switzerland has announced relaxed entry rules for British holidaymakers, allowing them to use e-gates at airports and eliminating mobile roaming charges. The changes aim to reduce travel disruptions and costs for UK visitors.
New Agreement Details
Under a new agreement between the UK and Switzerland, British tourists and business travellers will be able to use Swiss e-gates at airports, providing a smoother experience at passport control. The e-gates will initially be available at Zurich Airport, the country's largest, by the end of 2026, with plans to extend to Geneva and Basel airports. Additionally, roaming charges for mobile phone use in Switzerland will be scrapped.
Impact on Travel
Mark Tanzer, ABTA chief executive, said: "We want travel to be as easy and smooth as possible, so this announcement includes great outcomes for British holidaymakers and business travellers. Removing roaming charges would give people one less thing to think about before their trip and should make it cheaper to stay in touch, too." He added that access to e-gates will make airport processes quicker.
Free Trade Agreement Context
The changes follow a new Free Trade Agreement (FTA) between the UK and Switzerland, which is expected to boost UK services exports by an estimated £5.2 billion annually. Prime Minister Keir Starmer commented: "Whether you're growing a business or travelling for work, this agreement is about making life easier and creating more opportunity for people across the UK."
Visa and Work Rules
UK holidaymakers do not need a visa for stays up to 90 days in any 180-day period in the Schengen area. For services professionals, the FTA introduces visa-free travel for up to 90 days a year, and UK businesses can transfer employees to work in Switzerland for up to 5 years without stringent economic needs tests.
Trade Secretary Peter Kyle said: "This is the most significant services trade deal the UK has ever negotiated. It will bring huge benefits to British business and consumers."
