No ATA Carnet Needed for Touring Between NI and rest of UK

We’ve had confirmation that members based in England, Scotland and Wales do not currently require an ATA Carnet to gig in Northern Ireland, and vice versa.

By Dave Webster Published: 14 January 2021 | 10:57 AM Updated: 28 April 2021 | 4:32 PM

Photograph of a musician walking, whilst carrying a guitar in a hard case. We can only see the musicians arms and torso, the guitar case is well worn looking. — You can continue to move your equipment between Northern Ireland and the rest of the UK without needing an ATA Carnet. Photo credit: Shutterstock

The MU has spoken to the London Chamber of Commerce, and we’re pleased to learn that an ATA Carnet is not currently required for your equipment when travelling to Northern Ireland for work and back – or travelling from Northern Ireland to other parts of the UK and back. If this situation changes, we will let members know as soon as we can.

While you will most likely require an ATA Carnet if travelling to the Republic of Ireland for work, it is not currently a requirement to get one for travel within the UK including to Northern Ireland. This was one of the potential impacts of the Brexit deal that was unclear until we sought clarification.

For guidance on the documentation you will now need when gigging and touring in Europe, see our flowchart guide.

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