More than a quarter of UK musicians lost all EU work since 2021, report finds

The Guardian5 jun 2026Macro
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The survey by European Movement UK found that 59% of musicians now consider touring Europe no longer viable, with average tour earnings falling 45% since 2021. Nearly half experienced reduced EU work, and more than a quarter lost all such work. The report highlights post-Brexit barriers including varying visa requirements, the 90-day Schengen rule, ATA carnets costing over £400 (with security deposits up to 40% of equipment value), cabotage restrictions, and the loss of Creative Europe funding, which had provided €111m to UK organisations between 2014 and 2020. UK Music chief Tom Kiehl stated the findings affect the £8bn music sector and its 220,000 jobs, while venue owner Mig Schallache reported fewer European artists performing in the UK.