The start of the upcoming year brings a range of new laws that British citizens should take note of in the months ahead.
Holidaymakers are advised to stay informed about fresh border controls and a new £17 charge for travel to Europe starting in late 2026. Households may also need to adjust to new recycling rules, requiring waste separation into four distinct categories.
Efforts to combat unhealthy eating habits include a ban on junk food advertising and restrictions on children buying high-caffeine drinks. Workplace regulations are set to improve employee rights, while a minimum wage hike is expected this spring.
Renters will see changes with a ban on no-fault evictions, the end of fixed contracts, and bidding wars. The crackdown on benefit fraud will also continue with new measures enabling automatic debt collection.
In terms of travel, Brits heading to Europe will encounter new regulations. The Entry Exit System (EES) requires non-EU citizens, including Brits, to register at the EU border. Additionally, a fee of £17 for visiting EU countries will be introduced later in 2026 through the European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS).
New laws for non-British visitors to the UK will require an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) for those from 85 nationalities. The ETA scheme, fully enforced from February 25, aims to digitize the immigration system and enhance border control.
Recycling practices in England are set to improve with new regulations requiring separate collection of four waste streams. These changes aim to simplify recycling methods and boost household recycling rates.
Further reforms in 2026 include a crackdown on ticket touts reselling tickets above face value and enhanced fraud prevention powers for the Department for Work and Pensions.
Moreover, the National Living Wage will rise in April, benefitting workers across different age groups. The government is also planning major changes in rental laws to provide more security and rights for tenants.
Overall, these legislative changes aim to enhance various aspects of daily life for UK citizens while promoting a more sustainable and secure future.
