There have been a lot of changes and adjustments to travel for British Passport holders to the EU since Brexit, with the recent announcements about EES I thought a quick summary of what you need to know would be useful.
Post-Brexit Travel Basics
Since leaving the European Union (EU), the UK is no longer part of the EU’s freedom of movement arrangements. UK passport holders can still visit most European countries without a visa for short trips, but only for up to 90 days within any 180-day period. This applies to countries within the Schengen Area, including popular destinations like France, Spain, Italy, and Germany. For longer stays, you will need a visa or residency permit depending on the purpose of your stay.
Passport Validity
This continues to catch people out. You must ensure your passport meets the requirements. Take a look at your passport and check
(1) will my passport be less than 10 years old on the day I plan to travel? If yes, proceed to point 2. If NO - then you need to renew your passport.
(2) will my passport have at least three months’ validity remaining after my planned departure date from the Schengen Area? If NO - then you need to renew your passport.
Entry/Exit System (EES)
Entry/Exit System (EES) is planned to launch on 10 November 2024. EES is an automated IT system for registering non-EU travelers. It will replace the manual stamping of passports with electronic records, including entry and exit dates. This system aims to strengthen border security and monitor the 90/180-day rule more effectively. In the long run this should result in shorter queues at immigration on entering the UK. However, be prepared for delays when the system is introduced as biometric data, such as fingerprints and facial images, will be scanned and stored for every passenger, which will almost inevitably lead to slower processing times and lengthy queues.
European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS)
From 2025, UK passport holders will also need to apply for an ETIAS authorization before traveling to the Schengen Zone. ETIAS is not a visa but a pre-travel authorization system for visa-exempt travelers. You have to apply for the equivalent if you are travelling to the US, Canada, Australia, Jamaica and a whole heap of other countries. The application process will involve providing personal details, travel information, and answering security questions. The process is expected to take about 10 minutes and cost circa £7. Once granted, ETIAS authorization will be valid for three years or until your passport expires.
Health Insurance
Make sure you have comprehensive travel insurance - the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) may still offer some cover, but it would be unwise to travel without insurance; not having cover could leave you without medical care and/or with a huge bill. Noone wants to have to set up a Go Gund Me page on your behalf!! Get the insurance.
If in doubt, ask your travel agent. This is one that you want to make sure you get right before you go - noone wants the anxiety of being delayed or, worse case scenario, turned away at the airport ...
Happy travels!
