The European Union, Britain and Spain yesterday agreed to end border controls between Gibraltar and Spain, settling one of the final pieces of the Brexit puzzle.
The European Union (EU) and Britain reached an agreement on the status of the overseas territory of Gibraltar on Wednesday which facilitates border crossings and ends years of political uncertainty.
What Changes
The deal removes the border fence between Gibraltar and Spain. About 15,000 people who cross daily for work will no longer need passport checks when travelling by land.
Instead, travellers will face checks at Gibraltar’s airport and port. These will be run jointly by Spanish officials and Gibraltar authorities, similar to how Eurostar works in London.
Gibraltar will also change its tax system. The territory will end its VAT-free status and bring in a new local tax to match Spanish rates more closely.
The agreement covers work permits for the thousands of people who commute across the border daily. It also includes plans for police cooperation and environmental projects.
Political Issues
Spain’s Foreign Minister José Manuel Albares said the deal does not affect who controls Gibraltar. Spain still claims the territory but Britain will keep running it.
Agreement resolves the last major unresolved issue from Brexit, avoiding the need for checks on people and goods crossing the Gibraltar-Spain border to support prosperity in the region.
Next Steps
The agreement is not yet final. Lawmakers in the EU and Britain must approve it before it becomes law. This process will take several months.
Why It Matters
The deal removes the last physical barrier between Gibraltar and Spain since Britain left the EU. This should make life easier for workers and businesses on both sides of the border.
Gibraltar has been British territory since 1713 but sits at the southern tip of Spain. About 34,000 people live there, with thousands more crossing from Spain each day for work.
The agreement gives long-term certainty to residents and businesses after years of uncertainty following Brexit.
