skip to main content

Musicians’ Union Calling for Touring Visa for Musicians Post-Brexit

The Musicians’ Union (MU) is calling on Government and Parliament to introduce a European Union (EU) touring visa for musicians working in the EU post-Brexit.

Published: 13 September 2018 | 12:00 AM Updated: 28 April 2021 | 4:29 PM

The Musicians’ Union (MU) is calling on Government and Parliament to introduce a European Union (EU) touring visa for musicians working in the EU post-Brexit.

Any EU touring visa must be affordable, multi-entry, admin-light and cover all EU member states.

Musicians, fans and all those who want to see music remain a viable career are encouraged to sign the petition calling on Government and Parliament to introduce this visa.

Over the next few weeks, the MU will be taking the proposal to Labour and Conservative Party Conferences. MU members are encouraged to contact their MPs asking them to visit the MU’s stand to discuss this and other issues affecting musicians.

Horace Trubridge, MU General Secretary, says:

"Music, and the performing arts more generally, rely on exchange of ideas and interaction between performers of different nationalities.

We love working in the EU and we love artists coming over here. If musicians can't travel easily both ways, our reputation as a country that embraces all arts and culture will be severely damaged.

Our members' ability to earn a living will also be severely affected."

Get MU membership today

From gig players to part-time teachers and professional instrumentalists, MU members can access specialist insurance for musicians. This includes Public Liability, Instrument and Equipment Insurance, Accident Insurance, Tax Investigation Insurance, and Professional Indemnity Insurance for music teachers.

Explore our member services

  • Get public liability insurance for musicians
  • Access expert legal support
  • Be represented in your profession
  • Access expert career advice, resources, and training events
  • Connect, network, and get to know the community of musicians

Learn about all membership benefits

Get MU membership today

Continue reading

MU General Secretary Naomi Pohl standing in front of Number 10 Downing Street, along with general secretaries from unions across the country.

MU General Secretary Raises AI Concerns with Prime Minister

The MU has welcomed the Government’s rethink on AI but has emphasised the importance of copyright reform to the Prime Minister. While the shift away from an opt-out system is positive, we continue to call for Government intervention to ensure musicians are fairly paid as AI licensing grows.

Published: 19 March 2026

Read more about MU General Secretary Raises AI Concerns with Prime Minister
A world map of the middle east with the Iranian flag pinned on Iran.

MU Statement on Conflict in Iran

Alongside the TUC, the MU condemns the dangerous escalation of military actions, precipitated by the US-Israeli attacks on Iran that flout international law and undermine prospects for peace.

Published: 18 March 2026

Read more about MU Statement on Conflict in Iran
Two young female musicians sat outside, one playing acoustic guitar.

MU to Host Diversity Panel and Advice Sessions at Launchpad 2026

The Musicians’ Union will take part in Launchpad Conference 2026 on Friday 27 March at Leeds School of Arts, bringing industry insight, a panel on cultural diversity in music, and one-to-one advice sessions for musicians across the North of England.

Published: 10 March 2026

Read more about MU to Host Diversity Panel and Advice Sessions at Launchpad 2026
Close up of wooden violin bow.

New Rules for Pernambuco Bows Come into Force

Following a decision at the CITES Conference of the Parties, new rules governing the international trade of pernambuco bows came into force on 5 March 2026. Guidance from the UK CITES authority explains what the changes mean for musicians.

Published: 06 March 2026

Read more about New Rules for Pernambuco Bows Come into Force