European travel to the UK is mandatory with a passport from today

European travelers must present their passport to be admitted to the country

0 Passport control at Gatwick Airport UNITED KINGDOM

The identity cards of citizens of EU member states as an entry document to the United Kingdom will no longer be accepted by the British authorities from today, 1 October.

European travelers will need to present their passport to be admitted to the country.

Exceptions are those who have acquired the right of permanent residence through the status of settled or pre-settled (pre-settled) resident, who will be able to continue to use their identity until at least 31 December 2025, but with a recommendation to have declared it by in advance in the immigration service of the Ministry of Interior.

Today's change was set after the completion of Brexit on 31 January 2020.

Home Secretary Pretty Patel said the change strengthens the UK's borders in the face of attempts by criminals to enter the country with forged documents.

The measure, however, raises concerns that it may cause additional transport problems, with European truck drivers not possessing valid passports.