UK-Switzerland deal to scrap roaming charges and allow Britons to use e-gates
The UK signs a new services deal with Switzerland it says will increase exports by £5.2bn annually "in the long run".
UK and Switzerland Reach Agreement to Eliminate Roaming Charges and Enable E-Gate Access for Britons
The United Kingdom has finalized a new trade agreement with Switzerland that will enable British travelers to utilize e-gates at airports for the first time, facilitating quicker passage.
Trade Secretary Peter Kyle characterized the deal as "the most significant services trade deal the UK has ever negotiated." This agreement will also eliminate mobile roaming fees for tourists and professionals traveling between the two nations.
According to the government, this deal is projected to boost UK exports to Switzerland by £5.2 billion annually "in the long run."
A services mobility arrangement, which previously allowed businesses to offer services for up to 90 days without requiring a work permit, was set to expire in 2029; however, the new agreement establishes this provision on a permanent basis.
UK passport holders are expected to be able to use e-gates at Zurich airport by the end of this year, with Geneva and Basel airports likely to announce their timelines for implementation soon.
This initiative is distinct from Switzerland's adoption of the EU's new border control system, the Entry/Exit System (EES), which will permit UK citizens to access EU e-gates.
UK workers will also be allowed to transfer to Switzerland for employment for up to five years without undergoing rigorous economic needs assessments.
Ministers indicate that professionals such as lawyers, accountants, and architects will particularly benefit from this arrangement.
Government statistics reveal that approximately 800,000 Britons travel to Switzerland annually.
Switzerland ranks as the UK's sixth-largest market for services exports, with over £30 billion in services trade projected between the two countries by 2025. Swiss citizens already have access to e-gates at UK airports.
This agreement follows recent trade deals with the United States, India, the Gulf Cooperation Council, South Korea, and the European Union.
It also coincides with Sir Keir Starmer's final weeks as prime minister before Andy Burnham takes over.
"Whether you're growing a business or traveling for work, this agreement is about making life easier and creating more opportunities for people across the UK," Sir Keir stated.
"It means British firms will find it easier to sell their expertise in one of our most important markets in Europe, supporting jobs and investment here at home."
In related news, the transport secretary has engaged with the European commissioner for sustainable transport and tourism regarding the new EES border system.
Heidi Alexander and Apostolos Tzitzikostas have agreed to "collaborate to ensure the smoothest possible EES checks ahead of the busy summer period," according to the UK government.
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