On 26 October, the UK and Ireland turned back their clocks, marking the end of summer time. Discover why countries follow daylight saving, which nations still do, and how perfect timing — in life and immigration — can make all the difference.
The story behind daylight saving time
On 26 October, the United Kingdom and Southern Ireland turned back its clocks by one hour, marking the official end of British Summer Time (BST) and the return to Greenwich Mean Time (GMT). Ireland follows the same pattern, adjusting from Irish Standard Time (IST) back to GMT on the very same day.
This synchronised time change is part of a long-standing European tradition known as Daylight Saving Time (DST) — a practice that dates back over a century.
The idea was first championed in the early 1900s by British builder William Willett, who wanted to make better use of natural daylight during summer months. During the First World War, this system was formally introduced to help conserve energy, and it has continued ever since.
Which countries change their clocks?
Many European countries — including France, Germany, Spain, and the Netherlands — still turn their clocks forward in spring and back in autumn.
Outside of Europe, countries such as the United States, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand also observe their own versions of daylight saving.
However, several regions including Japan, India, and most of Africa do not participate in any time change at all.
Supporters argue that daylight saving helps people enjoy more daylight after work during summer, while critics say it disrupts natural sleep rhythms and complicates travel schedules. Yet the tradition endures — a reminder of how societies continue to adapt time to their lifestyles.
Timing is everything — Especially in immigration
Just as the clocks move with the seasons, life often calls for new beginnings and adjustments. Whether you are planning to live, work, or study in the United Kingdom or Ireland, timing is everything — and missing an immigration opportunity can cost far more than an hour of sleep!
Do not let the “sundowner” catch you — contact Breytenbachs Immigration Consultants today for expert guidance on UK and Irish immigration routes. Our dedicated team ensures that your journey starts at the right time, with every detail handled with care and precision.
Contact us today for expert advice.
AUTHOR
This article was drafted by Seshni Reddy one of our UK and Irish immigration experts. It has been reviewed and authorised by Phillip Venter, a Director at BIC.
DISCLAIMER
This article is intended for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Immigration laws are subject to change and eligibility depends on individual circumstances. We recommend seeking professional legal advice tailored to your specific case.
