Entry to the UK: ID Card Changes from 1st October 2021

From 1 October 2021, most EU, EEA and Swiss citizens can only travel to the UK using a valid passport, unless they have:

• applied to the EU Settlement Scheme, or have an application pending.
• or otherwise have protected rights under the Citizens’ Rights Agreements.

Until this date, European Union (EU), European Economic Area (EEA) and Swiss citizens can currently travel to the UK with a valid passport or a national identity (ID) card.

The change from 1 October means an ID card will no longer be accepted for travel to the UK, unless the exemptions apply.

Anyone travelling to the UK on an invalid travel document is liable to be refused entry at the border.