A Facebook group, “France Visa Free”, is heightening its calls for the EU to reevaluate its 90/180 day rule. Currently, the rule only allows British nationals to stay in the EU for a limited time, affecting businesses and property owners. Hence, the group is lobbying for UK MPs to push for longer stays.
What is the 90/180-Day Rule?
The EU’s 90/180-day rule restricts non-EU citizens to a maximum of 90 days in the Schengen Zone every 180 days. Consequently, UK citizens, now classified as third-country nationals post-Brexit, face significant travel limitations.
Before Brexit, UK travelers enjoyed free movement across Europe. However, the current restrictions create problems for second-home owners, frequent visitors, and mobile business professionals. As a result, many Britons are struggling to manage their properties, visit family, or conduct business seamlessly.
Change to the 90/180 Day Rule
The France Visa Free group, led by Steven Jolly, is spearheading efforts to revise the rule. Recently, the group urged UK MPs to push for a reciprocal six-month visa waiver. This is because UK visa-waiver visitors such as EU passport holders can stay in the UK for six months.
Campaigners argue that extending the 90/180 day rule would benefit both British visitors and European economies. The campaign is gaining traction among industry leaders.
The UK’s Road Haulage Association (RHA) warns that the rule will severely impact British truck drivers once the EU’s Entry/Exit System (EES) launches. Furthermore, businesses reliant on seasonal UK workers fear losing experienced staff.
Benefits of Relaxing the Rule
Experts agree that a flexible visa system would resolve many of these issues with the 90/180 day rule. Without change, UK nationals and European industries will continue to face logistical headaches.
Extending the 90-day stay limit would bring multiple benefits. UK property owners could better manage their homes, while businesses could maintain cross-border operations more efficiently.
Additionally, European regions reliant on British tourism would see increased visitor spending. A fairer system would also strengthen UK-EU relations, reducing post-Brexit friction.
While change won’t happen overnight with the 90/180 day rule, momentum is building. Advocates insist that both the UK and EU stand to gain from a more flexible travel arrangement.
Political Response
UK politicians are starting to take notice of the 90/180 day rule campaign. Conservative MP Mark Pritchard recently questioned the government about negotiating a six-month visa arrangement with the EU.
In response, Cabinet Minister Nick Thomas-Symonds acknowledged concerns and confirmed ongoing discussions to improve UK nationals’ travel rights. However, the EU remains firm on enforcing the current rule.
Growing Movement
Despite these setbacks, the France Visa Free group remains hopeful. They plan to escalate lobbying efforts, engage with European lawmakers, and rally public support.
Furthermore, the group’s campaign is gaining widespread attention. With political backing and industry support, the movement is gathering momentum.
For now, UK nationals must navigate the restrictive 90/180-day rule. However, growing pressure may eventually push the EU to reconsider its stance. Until then, campaigners continue to fight for a fairer, more practical solution.
Photo by Global Residence Index on Unsplash
