skip to main content

Take Part in the MU’s New Survey on Touring in the EU Post Brexit

Your answers are key to helping us assess the impact leaving the EU has had on touring musicians, and if our specialist information and guidance has been useful or needs improving. Your feedback is also vital in shaping our work when liaising with government.

Photo ofDave Webster
By Dave Webster Published: 03 April 2024 | 4:49 PM
Small blue toy car over a map of Europe.
With a General Election and the possibility of a new Labour Government, the chance of improving relations with the EU is increased. Image credit: Shutterstock.

As 2024 will be an important year for the UK with a General Election and the possibility of a new Labour Government, the chance of improving relations with the EU is increased. The Labour Party National Policy Forum Commitment states: “We will also push for an EU visa waiver for UK touring artists and the reduction of other administrative burdens”.

Since the UK left the EU, musicians have battled with the newly imposed red tape to access their nearest and largest market. In response, the MU has created a raft of guidance on all matters pertaining to working in the EU. We also signpost to other organisations and government websites to give members the most accurate guidance.

However, it is time to further assess the impact that leaving the EU has had and whether things are improving – how are musicians coping with the change, has the guidance that’s been made available helped? Can it be improved? What is the current state of available work opportunities for those wanting to tour in the EU? Your responses are key to helping us find out.

This survey is open to all touring musicians, including non-MU members so please do share this with others it may be relevant to. It should take only take 10 minutes to complete, and will close Friday 24 May.

View the survey for further details on privacy information. For more details, please contact eutouring@themu.org.

Continue reading

Close up of a Border Security Officer at a computer.

Updated Information and Advice for Musicians Working in the US

Tamizdat, a non-profit organisation that facilitates international cultural exchange, has provided updated advice for those entering the US, further to recent press commentary regarding increased scrutiny at ports of entry.

Published: 27 March 2025

Read more about Updated Information and Advice for Musicians Working in the US
A DJ performing at an outdoor festival in Croatia.

Positive News for Artists Gigging in Croatia

The Croatian Parliament has passed amendments to the Aliens Act, meaning UK artists and crew performing or touring in Croatia for less than three months no longer need a visa and work authorisation certificates.

Published: 13 March 2025

Read more about Positive News for Artists Gigging in Croatia
Double bass leaning against a wooden chair.

Double Basses on French Trains – An Update

Although the absolute ban on musicians travelling with a double bass on TGV trains in France has been reversed, there are some restrictions members need to be aware of.

Published: 04 March 2025

Read more about Double Basses on French Trains – An Update
Close up, side view, of an old piano with ivory keys.

The Ivory Act 2018 is Being Extended to Cover Four Additional Species

The Ivory Act 2018 has now been extended to cover the common hippopotamus, killer whale, narwhal and sperm whale. These Regulations, which come into force on 28 January, may impact those who intend to sell, purchase or hire musical instruments containing ivory.

Published: 21 January 2025

Read more about The Ivory Act 2018 is Being Extended to Cover Four Additional Species