UK House of Lords Considers Reforms to Address Brits' 90/180-Day Rule Concerns
UK House of Lords Considers Reforms to Ease 90/180-Day Rule for Brits With Second Homes in the EU
The House of Lords is currently reviewing the implications of the EU’s 90/180-day rule on British citizens who own property in the European Union, particularly in France. The move comes after growing complaints from second-home owners who feel unfairly restricted under the post-Brexit travel framework.
According to a report by The Connexion, individuals such as Mr. Jolly and his wife, who previously split their time between France and the UK, have seen their lifestyles disrupted since the end of free movement in 2021.
Lack of Reciprocity Fuels Frustration Among Brits
Under current rules, British citizens can only spend 90 days within any 180-day period in the Schengen Area without a visa. In contrast, EU citizens visiting the UK can stay for up to six months.
This discrepancy has led many UK nationals to argue that the system is unfair and not reciprocal, especially for those who own second homes in the EU and wish to live part-time abroad without undergoing complex visa applications.
Many British homeowners say the 90/180-day rule undermines their ability to travel freely, even within the EU. Time spent at their property in France reduces their ability to visit other Schengen countries for tourism, business, or family reasons.
Lords Enquiry Could Lead to Bilateral Agreement
The House of Lords is now conducting an enquiry into post-Brexit mobility issues, and proposals are being considered for a UK-EU mobility agreement that could offer:
- Longer stay allowances in the Schengen Area for UK citizens
- Six-month visa waivers
- Potential restoration of pre-Brexit residency rights for part-time EU residents
Such a bilateral agreement would aim to restore balance and flexibility for Britons who had previously enjoyed more liberal movement rights across the EU prior to Brexit.
Spain’s Proposed Property Tax Highlights Further Brexit Impact
In related developments, Spain’s Prime Minister recently announced plans to impose new taxes on non-EU nationals—including Britons—who wish to buy property in Spain.
This proposed legislation, aimed at tackling Spain’s housing crisis driven by overtourism, would make it more difficult and costly for non-EU buyers, particularly Britons, who have historically been among the largest groups of foreign property owners in Spain.
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