Archives for December 8, 2020

Throughout 2020 we have all been somewhat consumed by something other than BREXIT, however, with the countdown on, to the end of the year, we wanted to put together some top tips, for travelling ‘post BREXIT’ (from 1stJanuary 2021).  As always, if you are a client of ours we will be talking to you directly, about the specifics that may affect your booking.

Passports

When travelling within Europe, you have always been able to do so, right up until your passport expires. From 1stJanuary 2021, you will need to ensure that you have 6 months validity on your passport from your date of return.  You may be refused entry in to a country if this is not in place.

We would urge you to check your passports as a matter of priority and make an application as soon as possible.  There will be a great many people affected by this new rule.  Turnaround times at the passport office are currently at around 3-4 weeks, but this is likely to become longer with increased demand.

To complicate matters further, if you have a passport that expires at the end of 2021 or early 2022, its possible that you could still be denied entry into an EU country, if you do not renew you passport now.  When some UK passports were renewed 9-10 years ago, they were given an additional 9 months validity. From 1stJanuary 2021, this additional 9 months will not be recognised.

At The Airport

You will no longer be able to use EU fast-track passport control and customs lanes.

Travel Insurance & EHIC

If you are travelling on or after 1stJanuary 2021, the EHIC (European Health Insurance Card) will no longer be valid.

Please ensure that you take our adequate travel insurance every time you travel overseas and should you have any questions about this, please do let us know.

If you are a UK state pensioner living in the EU before the end of 2020, you will be able to use the EHIC beyond 2020, but you must apply for a new card.

EHIC is also valid for students, who have started a course in the EU before the end of 2020, until their course finishes.  Again they will require new cards.

Driving License

When driving in EU countries from 1stJanuary 2021 onwards, you will need to carry your UK driving license, but you may also need an IDP (International Driving Permit). The type of IDP will depend on the country you are diving in / through.

IDP’s can be purchased through the Post Office at a cost of £5.50.

Car Insurance

You will require a ‘green card’ when driving in the EU.  This is proof that you have motor insurance cover for driving abroad.  If you are towing a caravan or trailer you will need to carry separate green cards.  We would suggest contacting your vehicle insurance company at least 6 weeks prior to travelling to make the necessary arrangements.

GB Stickers

You will need to display a GB (Great Britain) sticker on the rear of your vehicle even if you have a number plate with the Euro symbol.

Travelling with Pets

Sadly if you are travelling with your pet, the Pet Passport will no longer be valid.  Please speak to your veterinarian at least 4 months prior to travel, to discuss the necessary procedures for the country you are travelling to.

Mobile Data Roaming

The guarantee of free roaming throughout the EU, Iceland, Liechtenstein and Norway ends on 1stJanuary 2021.

Please check with your mobile phone company, before travelling, to ensure you are aware on any charges that you may incur.

Duty Free

If you are travelling from Great Britain into the EU after 1stJanuary 2021, you can take advantage of duty-free shopping.  Current duty-free limits will increase in the new year.  There will no longer be tax-free airport sales of goods like electronics and clothing.

For any further questions about your booking and travelling after 1stJanuary 2021, please do call us on 01428 658777.

Information correct at the time of publishing – 08.12.20

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