On 1 January, 2021, the Brexit transition period ended, meaning that Brits are now officially and functionally not part of the EU anymore. But just because we’re in this new phase doesn’t necessarily mean everyone is clear on its consequences – especially for travel across borders.
While there are still a few loose ends to tie up as of this publication date, most of the travel changes have been set in stone – for now at least. So if you’re looking to travel to an EU country, Norway, Iceland, Liechtenstein or Switzerland, keep reading to see what you should be aware of before departure.
Passport changes
First things first. Passport requirements have changed, so even if you could travel on it to Europe before, it’s a good idea to check your passport again. It needs to be no more than 10 years old and you need to have at least three months’ validity left on it at the time of departure.
If you’re not sure whether you pass both of those requirements, check the UK government’s site here.
Airport changes
Brits will no longer be using the EU citizens queue but instead stand in the Non-EU citizens queue, where you may be asked to show your return or onward ticket and show that you have sufficient funds during your stay in the EU.
Also, no meat, milk or products containing these are allowed into the EU from the UK. And you’ll need a special certificate to bring back certain plants, fresh vegetables, flowers and grains.
And, just like residents of other non-EU countries, you’ll now be able to enjoy duty-free shopping on goods including alcohol and tobacco in ports, airports and international train stations on your way back from your EU destination.
Health insurance changes
You’re going to want to dig out your European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) before you depart. That insurance card is still valid until it expires, after which you can apply for the new UK Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC) with coverage in EU countries. Both are free of charge.
The GHIC does not, however, cover health services in non-EU countries (Norway, Switzerland, Liechtenstein and Iceland), so you should check your travel insurance to make sure they will cover any health issues that may arise in those countries.
Wherever you’re travelling, the UK government’s site stresses the importance of making sure you have adequate health coverage.
Changes for drivers of private cars in Europe
If you’re planning on driving in the EU in your own car, there are a few extra pieces of documentation you’ll need to gather before you start your journey.
First, make sure you have a GB sticker to put on the back of your car. For your existing car insurance to be valid in the EU, you’ll also need a Green Card (or International Motor Insurance Card), which is a certificate of insurance proving you have the minimum insurance coverage needed to drive in Europe. This can be a lengthy process, so put in your Green Card application with your insurance company at least six weeks before your travel date. If you’re driving a caravan or with a trailer, you may need a Green Card for those too.
Changes for both drivers of private cars and hired cars
Check your driving license. If it’s a valid photocard license that was issued in the UK, you’re good to go. But if it’s a paper license or was issued in Gibraltar, Guernsey, Jersey or the Isle of Man, you might need to apply for an International Driving Permit (IDP). Find out the requirements of the country you’ll be driving in by checking their embassy site here.
You can apply for an IDP at the post office. There are three types of IDP depending on the country being visited, and if you’re planning on driving in more than one country, you may need more than one type.
Read more about driving in the EU post-Brexit on our Driving Abroad page.
Pet travel changes
Holidaying in Europe with your dog, cat or ferret? Plan well in advance, because the new rules also affect them and can take a long time to carry out.
If you have one, your existing pet passport will no longer be valid (if it was issued in the UK. If it was issued in an EU country or Northern Ireland, it’s still valid). Instead, you’ll need an Animal Health Certificate (AHC). This requires a blood test, the results of which can take up to three months to get back.
Your pet will also need to be microchipped and vaccinated against rabies. If your pet is travelling to Finland, Malta, Northern Ireland, Ireland or Norway, they’ll need a tapeworm treatment too.
Trip duration changes
You won’t need a visa if you’re planning on holidaying in the EU for fewer than 90 days in total out of an 180-day period of time. But the key word here is “total”. That means that the combined time spent in any of the EU countries, Norway, Liechtenstein, Switzerland or Iceland over the course of 180 consecutive days is part of the 90-day total. If, however, your trips take you to Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus or Romania, these days are not counted toward the 90-day limit.
If you’ll be staying longer than 90 days in the EU for e.g. study or business, you can apply for a visa.
Travel to Ireland is less restrictive
As part of the Common Travel Area, Ireland is much more relaxed on many of the restrictions listed above. For example, you can stay longer than 90 days out of 180, you don’t need to have a minimum of six months left on your passport and you don’t need extra documents to hire a car or drive your own in Ireland.
One last thing…
Check your phone operator’s data roaming plan. As your phone will no longer be EU-based, using data roaming to make calls, send texts and go online while on holiday in the EU could add up and get costly.
Bottom line: travel to the EU is still possible and absolutely worthwhile. After all, who can deny themselves a trip to southern Europe after a long UK winter? We just need to keep a few more things in mind when planning EU trips from now on.
Stay updated on the latest restrictions here.
