09/04/2019 (Agence Europe) – On 9 April, the Council of the EU gave final approval to the visa-free arrangements for British citizens visiting the EU after the United Kingdom leaves the EU, whether it leaves with or without an exit agreement with the EU Twenty-Seven. The legislation had caused controversy in the European Parliament when the Council of the EU added a footnote describing Gibraltar as a 'British colony' (see EUROPE 12229/10). The visa-free arrangements apply to short visits (less than 3 months) within the EU and are based on condition of reciprocity: the arrangements will be suspended if the United Kingdom requires visas for citizens of any Member State. The legislation is intended to apply from 12 April, but will only apply when the United Kingdom actually leaves the EU. (SP)