The Common Travel Area Agreement 2019: What You Need to Know

The Common Travel Area (CTA) is an arrangement between the United Kingdom, the Republic of Ireland, the Isle of Man, and the Channel Islands that allows people to travel freely within these areas without the need for a passport or visa. The agreement has been in place since 1922 and has been updated several times over the years, with the most recent update being in 2019.

The 2019 agreement aims to provide greater clarity and consistency regarding immigration rules and social security entitlements for citizens of the CTA. The agreement also includes provisions to protect the rights of citizens in the event of a no-deal Brexit.

One of the main changes in the 2019 agreement is the introduction of a Shared Data Hub, which will allow immigration officials in the UK and Ireland to share information about travellers entering and leaving the CTA. This will help to improve border security and prevent illegal immigration.

The agreement also includes provisions for the recognition of qualifications and professional credentials, which will make it easier for professionals to work in different parts of the CTA without needing to re-qualify.

Another important feature of the 2019 agreement is the commitment to maintaining the Common Travel Area in the event of a no-deal Brexit. This means that citizens of the CTA will still be able to travel freely between the UK and Ireland, and will continue to have access to social security and healthcare benefits.

Overall, the Common Travel Area Agreement 2019 represents an important step forward in the relationship between the UK, Ireland, and the Channel Islands. By providing greater clarity and consistency regarding immigration and social security rules, the agreement will make it easier for citizens of the CTA to travel and work within the area. With the commitment to maintaining the CTA in the event of a no-deal Brexit, the agreement also provides reassurance to citizens that their rights will be protected regardless of the outcome of Brexit negotiations.