EU Rejects Relaxing Post-Brexit Restrictions on UK Musicians Touring Europe

The European Union has ruled out easing post-Brexit restrictions for British artists touring Europe, citing the need for substantial changes to existing EU regulations.

This is a setback for the UK’s Labour government, which had promised to reduce barriers for performers, such as additional travel permits and merchandise restrictions.

Internal EU documents reveal that any agreement would require rewriting the EU-UK Trade and Cooperation Agreement, as well as changes to customs, transport, and service rules—something the European Commission is unwilling to do.

Labour's efforts to improve relations with the EU, particularly on trade and mobility, face difficulties. While Labour remains optimistic about securing better terms, EU officials say progress is unlikely unless the UK makes concessions in other areas. A youth mobility scheme proposal, which would allow citizens under 30 to work and travel between the UK and EU, was recently rejected by Prime Minister Keir Starmer.

Since Brexit, UK musicians have faced complex new bureaucracy, with different touring requirements in each EU country. While there have been minor improvements, major challenges remain, and hopes for a breakthrough under Labour are fading.

Touring No Longer Financially Viable for Many UK Musicians

A Musicians’ Union survey shows that 59% of UK musicians no longer tour the EU due to financial difficulties. Three-quarters of those who toured before Brexit have seen bookings drop, and 79% have been unable to replace this lost work with tours in other regions.

Internationally acclaimed baritone Simon Wallfisch lamented the situation, noting that young musicians today don’t have the same opportunities he had before Brexit.

The UK music industry, which generates over £10 billion annually, heavily relies on EU freedom of movement. Leading musicians have signed an open letter urging the government to address these challenges.

Pro-EU group “Thank EU for the Music” will campaign for visa waivers during the Last Night of the Proms on September 14 at the Royal Albert Hall.

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