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UK travel industry warns of summer chaos as EU biometric border checks ramp up

UK travel industry warns of summer chaos as EU biometric border checks ramp up

The EU’s forthcoming Entry-Exit System, which will fingerprint and photograph all non-EU visitors, is already causing multi-hour queues at several airports even though only a third of passengers are being registered. UK travel and business groups fear ‘disastrous’ disruption once 100 per cent compliance kicks in from April and are urging Brussels to relax or postpone the rules. The warning matters because British nationals make up Europe’s largest cohort of third-country travellers, meaning any delays will disproportionately hit UK companies and holidaymakers.

Feb 6, 2026
Home Office reinstates migrant-worker sponsor licences for firms previously penalised for abuse

Home Office reinstates migrant-worker sponsor licences for firms previously penalised for abuse

The Times reports that the Home Office has allowed scores of companies—mainly in social care—to regain Skilled Worker sponsor status despite previous licence revocations for serious breaches. Critics say the swift reinstatements undermine deterrence and call for tougher, longer bans. The episode signals possible tightening of compliance rules and higher audit risks for all UK visa sponsors.

Feb 6, 2026
Mandatory UK ETA enters final countdown, forcing tourism sector to rethink last-minute travel

Mandatory UK ETA enters final countdown, forcing tourism sector to rethink last-minute travel

The United Kingdom will enforce its Electronic Travel Authorisation from 25 February, obliging visitors from 85 visa-exempt nations to secure digital approval before boarding. Industry analysts say the change will reduce impulse trips and push carriers and hotels to educate customers quickly to avoid fines and no-shows.

Feb 6, 2026
China grants 30-day visa-free entry to UK nationals, opening new era for bilateral travel

China grants 30-day visa-free entry to UK nationals, opening new era for bilateral travel

Beijing has introduced 30-day visa-free entry for British passport holders, effective immediately, following high-level talks between Prime Minister Keir Starmer and President Xi Jinping. The policy is expected to boost UK–China tourism, accelerate business trips and symbolically reset bilateral relations that have been strained for years.

Feb 6, 2026

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