The UK has signed a new trade deal with Switzerland that will allow British travellers to use e-gates at Swiss airports for the first time, speeding up airport passage. Trade Secretary Peter Kyle described the agreement as "the most significant services trade deal the UK has ever negotiated."

The deal also eliminates mobile roaming charges for tourists and professionals visiting either country. The UK government estimates the agreement will increase UK exports to Switzerland by £5.2 billion annually "in the long run."

A services mobility provision allowing businesses to provide services in Switzerland for up to 90 days without a work permit, previously set to expire in 2029, has now been made permanent.

UK passport holders will be able to use e-gates at Zurich airport from the end of 2026, with Geneva and Basel airports expected to announce their adoption timelines soon. This scheme is separate from Switzerland's implementation of the EU's Entry/Exit System (EES), which will enable UK citizens to use EU e-gates.

The agreement follows recent UK trade deals with the US, India, the Gulf Co-operation Council, South Korea, and the EU. It comes as Sir Keir Starmer prepares to leave office as prime minister, to be succeeded by Andy Burnham.

Sir Keir Starmer said, "Whether you're growing a business or travelling for work, this agreement is about making life easier and creating more opportunity for people across the UK."

Additionally, 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.

Sources