## Do You Need a Visa to Travel to Europe After Brexit?
**Introduction**
The United Kingdom (UK) left the European Union (EU) on 31 January 2020, marking a significant change in EU-UK relations. One of the major concerns for British citizens was whether they would need a visa to travel to Europe after Brexit.
**Visa-Free Travel**
As of January 2021, British citizens can still travel to the EU without a visa for short stays of up to 90 days within any 180-day period. This applies to all EU member states, including:
* Austria
* Belgium
* Bulgaria
* Croatia
* Cyprus
* Czech Republic
* Denmark
* Estonia
* Finland
* France
* Germany
* Greece
* Hungary
* Italy
* Latvia
* Lithuania
* Luxembourg
* Malta
* Netherlands
* Poland
* Portugal
* Republic of Ireland
* Romania
* Slovakia
* Slovenia
* Spain
* Sweden
**Visa Requirements for Extended Stays**
British citizens who plan to stay in the EU for longer than 90 days within any 180-day period will need to obtain a visa. There are several types of visas available, including:
* **Tourist Visa:** Allows British citizens to stay in the EU for a maximum of 90 days and engage in non-work activities.
* **Work Visa:** Allows British citizens to work in the EU for a specified period of time.
* **Study Visa:** Allows British citizens to study in the EU for a specified period of time.
**Exemptions from Visa Requirements**
There are some exceptions to the general visa requirements for British citizens. These include:
* **Passport Holder with Dual Citizenship:** British citizens who also hold citizenship of an EU member state do not need a visa to travel to that member state.
* **Permanent Residents:** British citizens with permanent residency in an EU member state do not need a visa to travel to that member state.
* **Diplomats:** British diplomats and their family members do not need a visa to travel to the EU.
**How to Apply for a Visa**
British citizens who need to obtain a visa to travel to the EU can apply through the following process:
1. **Identify the Appropriate Visa:** Determine which type of visa is required based on the purpose and duration of the stay.
2. **Gather Required Documents:** Collect all necessary documents, such as a passport, proof of residency, and evidence of purpose of travel.
3. **Submit Application:** Submit the application online or in person at the relevant embassy or consulate.
4. **Pay Fees:** Pay the required application fees.
5. **Attend an Interview (if required):** Some applications may require an in-person interview with embassy or consulate officials.
6. **Receive Decision:** The embassy or consulate will review the application and make a decision.
**Conclusion**
In general, British citizens do not need a visa to travel to the EU for short stays. However, those planning to stay for longer periods may need to obtain a visa. There are exemptions to the general visa requirements, and the application process involves submitting required documents and paying application fees. It is advisable to consult with the embassy or consulate of the country you intend to visit for specific guidance.
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