IMA reminds EU citizens of what to expect at the UK border

The Independent Monitoring Authority for the Citizens’ Rights Agreement (IMA) is reminding EU and EEA EFTA citizens of what to expect when travelling amid further reports of difficulties at the UK border.

The IMA has created step-by-step videos for EU and EEA EFTA citizens and joining family members travelling to the UK to explain the procedures they should expect at the UK border.

The video guidance includes four step-by-step videos detailing the procedure when entering the UK for citizens travelling on a passport, national ID card, family permit, or with a valid EU Settlement Scheme (EUSS) pending application.

Pam Everett, Operations Director for the IMA said,

“We are aware of recent media reports and have received some information regarding EU citizens allegedly being refused re-entry to UK.

“We are mindful that such reported incidents can create understandable concern for citizens and their families. We therefore urge citizens planning to travel to familiarise themselves with the procedure at the UK border and to be fully aware of their rights.

“The IMA would encourage citizens and their family members who may be experiencing difficulties to contact us via our website or complaints portal so we may better understand the issues and consider any further intervention.”

The IMA has also previously published an open letter to air carriers reminding them of Home Office guidance following complaints from citizens who were denied boarding.

A reminder to EU citizens of their rights when travelling to the UK has also been issued to inform citizens of Home Office guidance that citizens who hold pre-settled or settled status under the EUSS or who are awaiting the outcome of a valid application will still be able to use their national ID card to enter the UK until at least 31 December 2025.

The IMA encourages any EU or EEA EFTA citizen or their family members who believes their rights are not being upheld to submit a complaint to its online portal.