As we fast approach 29th March 2019 media around Brexit is gaining in momentum. We've found that information around a "no deal" Brexit is confusing and misleading. So we've put together clear and concise information about what to do in the event of a No Deal Brexit.
Will my flight still operate?
If a deal is agreed then the UK will enter a transition period. This means everything will stay the same until the end of December 2020. In the event of a no deal scenario, the European Commission has said that UK airlines will still be able to operate flights between the UK and the EU. UK
Will I need a visa to travel to EU after Brexit?
The EU announced in November that, even in a no deal scenario, UK travellers can still visit the EU without a visa, providing the same is offered to EU citizens visiting the UK.
My holiday is after 29 March 2019 and it cannot go ahead due to Brexit. What are my options?
In a no deal scenario, the EU has said flights will still be able to operate. You should ensure that any travel arrangements for travel post 29th March 2019 are booked with a reputable UK travel company. All holidays offered by Platinum World Travel are protected under the Package Travel Regulations Act. If your holiday cannot go ahead you will be issued a full refund. If you have booked independently online you may not be covered, so please check before booking.
My passport is due to expire
You should check the date your passport expires. Presently travel to the EU requires that your passport is valid for the duration of your stay. From 29th March 2019 the UK government is recommending you have at least 6 months on your passport from the date of your arrival into an EU country. Also check when your passport was renewed. If extra months have been added to your passport expiry date these will not count towards the 6 months that must be remaining. The UK Government has published a website tool to check the validity of your passport under these rule. You may wish to renew your passport sooner rather than later to ensure you have it in time for your holiday or travel plans.
European Health Insurance Card & Travel Insurance
The European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) currently allows any EU citizen access to state medical care when they are travelling in another EU Country. In the event of a no deal Brexit, UK registered EHIC cards will no longer be valid.
Platinum World Travel has always advised that business & leisure travellers have appropriate travel insurance to cover their needs. EHIC cards have limitations and should not be used as a substitute to Travel Insurance.
Driving Licences
If you have a full UK driving license, you don't currently need an additional license to drive in the EU. In the event of a no deal Brexit this is likely to change. Post 29th March 2019 you may need to apply for the relevant International Driving Permit. These currently cost £5.50 and are available from the AA, RAC and the Post Office. You should check carefully with permit is required for each country you intend to drive within, as you may need more than one permit to comply with the law.
Green Cards for Car Insurance
In the event of a no deal Brexit, UK citizens driving UK registered vehicles under UK Insurance will need to carry a physical Green Card for your car insurance to be valid in the EU. These cards are issued by insurers and you may be charged a small fee to cover administration costs. You should check with your insurer for more information if you are planning to drive your vehicle in the EU on or after 29th March.
Taking Pets Abroad
If you travel with your pets, the good news is that in the event of a no deal Brexit, you can still continue to travel with your beloved pets from the UK to the EU. However, requirements for documents and health checks would change. You should consult with your Vets for up to date information at least 4 months before travel.
Data Roaming
Don't get stung with unexpected charges. Presently, the cost of using your phone in an EU country is the same as it is in the UK. In the event of a no deal Brexit these rules will no longer apply. Some companies have said that they will continue to offer this to their customers, but you should check directly with your network provider to avoid any nasty surprises.
If you have any questions or concerns around post 29th March 2019 travel please feel free to contact us. We are more than happy to help.
