Schengen rules will apply at Gibraltar border under post-Brexit deal
A new post-Brexit deal outlines that Schengen rules will apply at the Gibraltar border, eliminating routine passport checks for daily crossers while introducing dual checks for air and sea arrivals.
The recently announced post-Brexit deal between the UK and the EU regarding Gibraltar signifies a significant shift in border management for the territory. Under this new agreement, the 15,000 daily crossers at the Spain-Gibraltar border will no longer face routine passport checks, which aims to facilitate easier movement for residents and workers in the region. This change reflects a desire to maintain the flow of people and goods despite Brexit's complexities. However, the deal introduces a dual passport control system for those arriving by air or sea. Passengers will undergo checks by both Gibraltarian officials and Spanish authorities acting on behalf of the EU. This approach underscores the delicate balance the UK and Gibraltar are trying to achieve in maintaining British sovereignty while also adhering to certain EU regulations to streamline cross-border operations, particularly for frequent travelers. This arrangement is part of a broader effort to ensure a 'fluid border' between Gibraltar and Spain while addressing customs and regulatory concerns. The UK government has also pointed to a tailored customs model designed to minimize burdensome checks on goods, further facilitating day-to-day trade and travel. The overall aim is to build a cooperative framework that eases tensions and future border interactions after Brexit, although the dual checks may still raise concerns for those traveling by air or sea.