Visa Code establishes rules for stays up to three months in EU territory. Member States must be present or represented in visa-required third countries. Airport transit visas required for nationals from certain countries. Multiple-entry visas available for frequent travellers
Four main colors: blue, red/burgundy, green, and black. Blue represents "new world" and economic union status. Red indicates economic union status, used by EU countries. Green signifies Islamic faith, used by many Islamic countries. Black is rarest, provides contrast and hides dirt
EU has third-largest economy globally with $16.6 trillion GDP in 2022. Germany, France and Italy account for over half of EU's total output. UK would have been second-largest economy at $3.4 trillion
Abstention occurs when a voter doesn't attend or votes during parliamentary sessions. Contrasts with blank votes, which are invalid ballots marked incorrectly. Active abstention involves voting both yes and no, unlike in the House of Lords
No official "President of Europe" title exists, but four institutions have presidents. European Council President since December 2024 (António Costa). European Commission President since December 2019 (Ursula von der Leyen). European Parliament President since January 2022 (Roberta Metsola)
UK joined EU in 1973, becoming only member state to withdraw. 1975 referendum showed 67.2% support for continued EC membership. Eurosceptic groups existed throughout UK's EU membership period