Call to speak to one of our experts 0330 094 8364

Brexit: The Latest Travel Advice

Four steps to take to prepare for your holiday to Europe

From 1st January 2021, travel to Europe will be slightly different due to Brexit. While you won’t need a visa for your average holiday trip, there are a few things you should be aware of when planning your trip.

Read our four-step guide to make sure you’ve got everything covered in plenty of time for your holiday.

1. Check your passport’s validity.

If travelling on a British passport, you must have at least three months left after the day you leave however the UK Government recommends a minimum of six months.

Your passport must have been issued within the last 10 years. If you renewed your current passport early and extra months were added beyond the standard 10 years then you should be aware that any extra months on your passport may not count towards the minimum period needed.

2. Take out correct travel insurance with adequate health cover

You should always be taking out a comprehensive travel insurance policy when you go on holiday, making sure the conditions cover your specific needs. You should consider the healthcare cover your insurance provider offers and whether it is sufficient for your personal circumstances.

The current European Health Insurance Cards will only be valid until its expiry date. If you apply for a new card, you’ll be issued with the new UK Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC). More details can be found by applying here.

3. Make sure you have all the correct documentation if you plan on driving in Europe

Green cards for insurance: If you plan on driving your own car while in Europe, you must obtain and carry a physical Green Card to ensure the validity of your UK car insurance in the EU. You can obtain this card from your car insurance provider but you may be charged a small fee to cover admin costs. It is recommended that you apply for a Green Card at least one month in advance of travel. If you are bringing a trailer or caravan then you may also need a Green Card so please check with your insurer.

GB Car Stickers: You will need to display a GB sticker for your own car when driving in the EU.

Driving Permits: While most driving licences will still be valid in the EU, if you have a paper licence or your driving licence was issued in Gibraltar, Guernsey, Jersey or the Isle of Man then you may need an International Driving Permit (IDP). These are available from the Post Office.

4. Check your mobile phone company’s policy on data roaming

From 1st January 2021, you may face additional charges when using your phone in the EU. The UK Government have introduced a £45 cap on data charges. Once this cap is reached, you will have to opt into additional charges to continue using data.

Some other points to be aware of when travelling to Europe

· You won’t need a visa for short holidays to Europe. That means any trip under 90 days within a 180-day period is visa-free for UK travellers.

· Be aware that you could be asked to provide evidence of a return ticket and sufficient money for your stay when passing through border control

· You may not be able to use the EU or EEA lanes at passport control

· You cannot take meat, milk or products containing these items into the EU. The only exceptions will be for powdered baby milk, baby food or pet food required for medical reasons

· If you are taking your pet abroad, your Pet Passport will no longer be valid. You will need to obtain an Animal Health Certificate and your pet must be microchipped and vaccinated against rabies. You should check with your vet before planning to take your pet into the EU.

For more information about travelling to the EU after Brexit, visit: Visiting Europe