UK and EU Reach Landmark Agreement on Gibraltar's Post-Brexit Status

Tue Oct 21 2025 13:16:24 GMT+0300 (Eastern European Summer Time)

The deal aims to streamline border processes while respecting British sovereignty and enhancing economic stability.

The United Kingdom has officially struck a deal with the European Union to redefine Gibraltar's status following Brexit, ending long-standing uncertainties since the UK's EU exit in 2020, and ensuring a seamless border for the territory.

The UK has reached a significant agreement with the European Union regarding the status of Gibraltar following Brexit, addressing long-pending border regulations since the UK left the EU in 2020. The new deal aims to eliminate the need for checks on people and goods at the Gibraltar-Spain border, ensuring smoother transit.

Upon arrival at Gibraltar airport, travelers will undergo passport checks conducted by both Gibraltar and Spanish authorities, mirroring the existing protocol for Eurostar passengers at London's St Pancras, where individuals pass through British and French controls prior to boarding international trains.

UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy praised the agreement, stating it "protects British sovereignty, bolsters Gibraltar's economy, and allows businesses to resume long-term planning.” Gibraltar’s Chief Minister, Fabian Picardo, expressed his approval, emphasizing how the deal will "bring legal certainty to the people of Gibraltar and the businesses who depend on stability at the border."

Efforts are now directed at finalizing a UK-EU treaty text on Gibraltar expeditiously, according to the UK government. The territory of Gibraltar is a British Overseas Territory spanning 2.6 square miles and situated just south of Spain. The UK has maintained sovereignty over Gibraltar since the Treaty of Utrecht in 1713, a claim contested by Spain, which also asserts rights over the territory.

The status of Gibraltar and its border with Spain has posed challenges since Brexit, particularly given the daily crossings of approximately 15,000 individuals for work and leisure purposes. Currently, residents of Gibraltar can cross without passport stamping using residence cards, while Spanish citizens can employ a government-issued ID card.

Concerns have arisen regarding potential disruptions due to the EU's upcoming Entry/Exit system, expected to introduce passport checks, which could result in long waiting times at the border. Public sentiment within Gibraltar remains favoring British sovereignty, with a near-unanimous 99% of voters opposing shared sovereignty with Spain during a 2002 referendum.

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