The start of the upcoming year brings a wave of fresh regulations that Britons should keep an eye on in the months ahead. Vacationers should take note of new border controls and a £17 fee for European travel by late 2026. Households may see an extra bin due to updated recycling rules requiring waste separation into four categories.
The government’s efforts against unhealthy eating habits continue with a ban on junk food advertising and plans to restrict children from buying high-caffeine drinks. New workplace rules will strengthen employee rights and protections, including a minimum wage hike in the spring.
Renters will face significant changes with a ban on no-fault evictions and the end of fixed contracts and bidding wars. Additionally, the crackdown on benefit fraud persists with new powers for automatic debt collection.
Moreover, Britons can expect various changes in the European travel regulations. An Entry Exit System (EES) is now in place for non-EU citizens, including Brits, entering the Schengen area countries. The EES requires registration at the EU border, while a new fee for EU travel, known as the European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS), will be implemented in late 2026.
To enhance recycling rates, England will introduce new waste collection rules starting March 31, requiring households to separate food and garden waste, paper and cardboard, dry recyclables, and non-recyclable waste. These changes aim to standardize recycling practices and make it more convenient for residents.
Furthermore, laws are set to change for renters in England from May 1 to provide better rights, protections, and stability. The reforms include abolishing ‘no-fault’ evictions, transitioning to rolling tenancies, limiting rent increases, and ensuring fair treatment for tenants with pets or on benefits.
In efforts to combat plastic pollution, wet wipe sales containing plastic will be prohibited in England from spring 2027. Additionally, stricter anti-terror regulations under Martyn’s Law will require larger venues to prepare for potential attacks.
Lastly, a proposed law aims to ban ticket touts from reselling tickets above face value, intending to lower ticket prices and prevent unfair practices. These reforms are expected to benefit consumers and enhance fairness in ticket sales.