What Does Brexit mean for travel to Europe in 2021
Brexit seems to be finally happening, but what does that mean for us travelling to Europe? Things will change and what once was an easy process, with not many things to think about other than packing and making sure you have your passport and EHIC, unfortunately, there will be a few other things to remember and arrange before you go.
Passports and Visa Requirements Check the date that your passport expires. After the 1st January 2021 you must have at least 6 months validity, on the date of your arrival to travel to the EU. Your passport must also be less than 10 years old. If you would like to check whether your passport is valid for travel, use this link https://www.gov.uk/check-a-passport-travel-europe-1-january-2021
If you need to renew your passport, I would highly recommend you renew sooner rather than later, to ensure you have it in your hands well before your travel date. You can find details of how to renew your passport here https://www.gov.uk/renew-adult-passport/renew
You will not require a visa to enter an EU country, if you are staying for less than 90 days, within a 180 day period. My recommendation would be to check the FCDO website for country specific guidance and this can be checked here https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice
Travel Insurance and Health Care in Europe
The European Health Insurance card or EHIC will no longer be valid for use by British citizens as of the 1st January 2021. As always, my advice is to ensure you have the appropriate travel insurance, adequate for the country you are travelling to and this forms part of your conditions for booking. I can offer a comprehensive travel insurance, using our preferred travel insurance provider, please contact me directly for details.
When looking at insurance policies, please ensure that it will cover your individual circumstances, which includes any pre existing medical conditions. Use this link https://www.gov.uk/guidance/foreign-travel-insurance#history for general information and guidance on travel insurance.
Driving abroad
If you wish to drive in the EU on or after the 1st January 2021 you will need to obtain an International Driving Permit (IDP). These can be bought at the Post Office for £5.50 per permit. Please note that you may need more than one permit, if you’re driving through more than one country. You can check to see which IDP you will require in which country here https://www.gov.uk/driving-abroad/international-driving-permit
If you are taking your own car abroad, you will no longer be able to take advantage of the EU’s automatic 3rd party motor insurance cover, so you will need to obtain a Green Card from your car insurance company. These are physical green cards, so you will need to apply for one with plenty of time for it to arrive before the start of your journey. These are issued free of charge.
Mobile Data Roaming charges
Check if your mobile phone operator will offer free roaming to avoid potential new charges when travelling to Europe. A new law means you will be notified when you reach a £45 spend, and you will need to opt-in to continue using mobile data.
Border Control and Potential Disruption
Be prepared to show a return ticket or proof of an onward journey when you enter an EU country from 1st January 2021. This will be to prove that you are not staying longer than 90 days.
Also, please be prepared to give yourself more travelling time, as there maybe disruption to services for a short period after the 1st January 2021. This may mean travelling to the airport in plenty of time, to be able to get through passport control or security.
