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.
Do you need to renew your passport? Talk to us in the comment section below. Or if you need more advice on the above, contact us for further travel & immigration advice.
Check out the deals we have found below and tell us your travel plans.
Check out the offers and discounts from:
And because of the pandemic, don’t forget to get your travel insurance, which will cover you for flight disruptions and pandemic related matters.
IaM can help with your visa application to Europe, the United States, the UK & other countries
If you need help with a US visa, a UK Visa, or a visa to Europe, including help with appointment booking obligations, IaM can help. For more information and advice on US immigration, UK immigration law and US visa applications or if you need any help or assistance please, reach out to your Visa Coordinator at IaM.
Some of our posts include affiliate links. If you choose to purchase any of these products, we might get a small commission. For more information, check out our TOS.
- Italy's Citizenship Laws To Be Eased: What It Means For Non-EU Nationals - 2 October 2024
- Qatar Joins US Visa Waiver Program - 1 October 2024
- Countdown to the 2026 Diversity Visa Lottery: What You Need to Know - 30 September 2024