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A UK-Switzerland deal just made travel easy and data roaming cheap: Here are the 3 reasons why
The new UK-Switzerland services and trade deal made travelling easier by including free data roaming, the use of e-gates, and simpler labour laws.
The newly finalised UK-Switzerland trade agreement eliminates expensive data roaming fees and allows access to airport e-gates, providing major travel benefits for citizens of both countries.
Officially announced on 13 July 2026, this deal will help travellers, business professionals, and holidaymakers alike travel between countries almost effortlessly. Because this agreement goes both ways, Swiss travellers will also enjoy the same benefits as British travellers.
No more data roaming fees
Under the new agreement, you won’t have to face any unexpected or expensive roaming bill shocks when travelling between countries. Previously, even if your plan included free EU roaming, you wouldn’t be able to use your allowances in Switzerland, as it is not part of the EU.
Many would typically opt for a dedicated travel eSIM or a local Switzerland SIM card to stay connected rather than racking up expensive roaming charges.
Now, travelling from the UK to Switzerland, you’ll be able to use your mobile plan just as you would at home without incurring roaming charges. This also applies the other way around.
However, you’ll still be subjected to your domestic plan’s limits. For example, if your home mobile plan doesn’t include unlimited data, you’ll only be able to use your limited data allowance abroad. If you’re worried about running out of data mid-trip, an unlimited data eSIM for Switzerland might be the best solution.
Quick passport control with e-gates
Long airport lines are now a thing of the past for passengers flying between the UK and Switzerland. The deal allows UK nationals to use the automated e-gates at Zurich Airport, reducing lines, arrival wait times, and the time spent moving through passport control.
No one looks forward to waiting in long airport queues after a flight, so this is a big win for the UK! Swiss citizens are already permitted to use the e-gates at UK airports.
Work-related travel and professional relationships made easier
As a holidaymaker, the immediate travel benefits are undeniably great. However, the core foundation of this agreement is to improve work-related conditions, mobility, and services to and from Switzerland.
Under the new terms:
- UK service professionals can travel visa-free to Switzerland for up to 90 days a year
- UK businesses can transfer employees to work in Switzerland for up to five years without needing to meet the stringent economic needs requirements
This is especially important for UK graduates in finance, insurance, and consultancy who can now secure Swiss work permits.
Stay connected with unlimited data on your next Swiss adventure with Holafly
Whether you’re travelling for business or leisure, maintaining a stable internet connection is crucial for using your phone in Switzerland, navigating new cities, and staying in touch.
While the new rules allow you to use your existing allowances in Switzerland, relying on this can leave you stranded if you hit your monthly cap.
Planning ahead and going for a dedicated travel solution, like Holafly’s unlimited data eSIM for Switzerland, means you can step off the plane and get online instantly. Holafly also offers 1 GB of Always On free monthly backup data with every eSIM, for as long as you keep the eSIM installed.
Enjoy flexible eSIM plans for 1 to 90 days, 5G speeds, and 24/7 customer support to ensure your next journey is completely stress-free from every angle.
Connect to the fastest networks
International eSIMs, local networks. Enjoy the best of both worlds with Holafly.
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Born and raised in Queens, New York, I'm a Psychology graduate with a passion for writing that I've been nurturing since 2019. Over the years, I've enjoyed creating meaningful content across various niches, including sports, hospitality, and career development. At Holafly, I focus on crafting useful and inspiring pieces to make your adventures more effortless. One of the best perks of this role? Creating travel content always seems to inspire my next vacation destination!
