The United Kingdom officially left the European Union on January 31, 2020, at 11 p.m. GMT (midnight CET). After leaving, it entered a transition period that ended on December 31, 2020, during which the UK continued to follow EU rules while negotiating a future relationship with the EU.

Key Dates in the UK-EU Withdrawal Process

• June 23, 2016: UK referendum where 52% voted to leave the EU.
• March 29, 2017: UK formally notified the EU of its intention to leave (triggering Article 50).
• January 31, 2020: Official departure date of the UK from the EU.
• December 31, 2020: End of the transition period completing separation.

The Brexit process involved lengthy negotiations, political challenges, and several delays before the final departure date was set and ratified.