Navigating Travel After Brexit: Driving In The EU And Visa

Brexit, the United Kingdom’s historic withdrawal from the European Union, has impacted various aspects of life, including driving regulations for UK and EU citizens. The referendum result was the culmination of years of Euroscepticism and growing nationalist sentiment within the UK.

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The decision to leave the EU set in motion a complex process of negotiations and legal procedures that ultimately led to the UK’s formal withdrawal on January 31, 2020. But, the true effects of Brexit on different sectors, such as travel and transportation, became clearer during the transition period leading up to December 31, 2020 .

As the countries establish their new relationship, here’s what you need to know regarding the new requirements for traveling and driving in the EU after Brexit:

Passport Requirements

Post-Brexit, UK passport holders are now classified as “third-country nationals” by EU countries. This classification has introduced new passport validity rules that travelers must adhere to:

Validity Duration

UK passports must be issued within ten years before the entry date into the EU. Moreover, they must be valid for at least three months beyond your intended departure date from the EU. For example, if you plan to enter Spain on September 5, 2024, your passport must have been issued after September 5, 2014, and be valid until at least December 19, 2024.

Renewal Confusion

Many UK passports issued before September 2018 may have longer validity periods due to the previous practice of extending the validity of new passports by up to nine months from the old passport. However, EU countries do not accept this additional validity, leading to confusion and potential travel disruptions for many.

Visa Regulations

The visa requirements for UK citizens traveling to EU countries have changed. UK travelers can still visit EU countries for up to 90 days within a 180-day period without needing a visa, whether for tourism or business purposes.

But a visa may now be required for longer stays or specific activities (such as work or study). EU citizens traveling to the UK do not need a visa for short visits but should be prepared to show proof of their travel plans and sufficient funds for their stay.

The Status of UK Driving Licenses in the EU

Following Brexit, the status of UK driving licenses in EU countries has undergone significant scrutiny. As of now, UK driving licenses remain valid for driving in most EU nations, but there are specific conditions and exceptions that drivers should be aware of.

Are UK Driving Licenses still valid in the EU?

For the majority of UK drivers, standard driving licenses continue to be accepted across EU countries. This means that if you hold a valid UK photocard driving license, you can legally drive in most EU nations without any additional documentation.

However, certain exceptions apply, particularly for drivers with paper licenses or from specific territories. Drivers in these categories may need to obtain an International Driving Permit (IDP) to drive legally in some EU countries.

Exceptions and Specific Conditions

Countries like France and Spain have specific requirements that UK drivers should keep in mind. While UK photocard licenses are generally accepted, drivers with paper licenses must acquire an IDP to drive in these nations.

The IDP serves as a translation of your driving license and is recognized internationally. Additionally, it is important to note that the type of IDP required may vary depending on the country you are visiting; for instance, a 1968 IDP is needed for countries like France and Germany, while a 1949 IDP is necessary for driving in Andorra .

Recognition of EU Driving Licenses in the UK

The UK government has committed to recognizing EU and EEA driving licenses indefinitely. This means that EU drivers can continue to drive in the UK without any changes to the existing rules. However, if EU citizens become UK residents, they may need to exchange their EU license for a UK license once they reach the age of 70 or after three years of residency , depending on which comes first.

Changes to International Driving Permit (IDP) Requirements

With the UK’s exit from the EU, it’s important for travelers to be aware of the new driving rules. Staying informed can help prevent any issues when driving in Europe.

Brexit Changes to IDP Requirements for UK Travelers

Post-Brexit, UK citizens may need an International Driving Permit to drive in certain EU countries, particularly if they hold a paper driving license or a license issued in Gibraltar, Guernsey, Jersey, or the Isle of Man. UK photocard licenses are widely accepted across most EU countries, but individuals with paper licenses should verify the specific requirements of their destination country.

Countries Requiring an IDP for UK Drivers

The necessity for an IDP depends largely on the destination country. Generally, UK drivers may require an IDP in the following scenarios:

Countries requiring a 1968 IDP: Most EU countries, including France and Germany, require a 1968 IDP for UK drivers with paper licenses.
Countries requiring a 1949 IDP: An IDP is required when visiting Malta with a paper license for stays exceeding 30 days in Cyprus or for licenses issued in Jersey, Guernsey, Gibraltar, or the Isle of Man.

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Before traveling, it’s wise to check the specific IDP requirements for your destination to ensure a smooth driving experience.

Types of IDPs Needed: 1949 vs. 1968 Conventions

There are three types of IDPs, but only two are relevant for driving in EU countries:

1949 IDP: Valid for 12 months, this permit is required for certain countries, including Malta and Cyprus , under specific conditions.
1968 IDP: This permit is valid for three years (or until the expiry of your driving license, if sooner) and is required for most EU countries.

The distinction between these two types of IDPs is crucial, as using the wrong type could lead to legal issues while driving abroad.

How to Obtain an IDP in the UK

You can apply for an IDP at any shop with a PayPoint or previously at Post Offices. The cost for an IDP is approximately £5.50. To apply, you will need to provide:

A valid UK driving licence
A passport-sized photograph
Payment for the IDP fee

It is advisable to apply for an IDP before your travel to ensure you have it in hand when needed.

Insurance and Documentation for Driving in the EU

With the UK’s departure from the European Union, UK and EU drivers must now be aware of the changes in insurance requirements and necessary documentation when driving across borders.

Travel Insurance Requirements for UK Drivers in the EU

Prior to Brexit, UK drivers could rely on their standard motor insurance policies when traveling to EU countries. However, UK motorists may now need to obtain additional coverage.

A Green Card serves as an international insurance certificate, confirming that you meet the minimum required motor insurance coverage in the country you’re visiting. To obtain a Green Card, UK drivers must contact their insurance provider before traveling to the EU.

Carrying proof of insurance is essential when driving abroad, as authorities may request it. Not having valid insurance documentation may lead to fines or the potential impoundment of your vehicle.

European Health Insurance Card (EHIC)

The European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) allows travelers to access necessary state-provided healthcare services in EU countries at the same cost as residents. Post-Brexit, UK citizens can still use their EHIC until it expires. Still, they are encouraged to apply for the Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC), which offers similar benefits for accessing healthcare in EU countries.

Necessary Documentation for UK and EU Drivers

In addition to insurance, both UK and EU drivers must carry specific documentation when traveling across borders. For UK drivers, this includes:

A valid UK driving licence
The vehicle’s registration documents (V5C log book)
A VE103 form if you are renting or leasing the vehicle
EU drivers must also carry their valid driving license and any proof of insurance when driving in the UK.

EU drivers must also carry their valid driving license and any proof of insurance when driving in the UK. It’s always a good idea to double-check the requirements before you travel to avoid any surprises.

GB and UK Stickers

Until September 28, 2021, a GB sticker was necessary unless the vehicle’s number plate displayed “GB” or the Union Flag. However, from September 28, 2021, the sticker required has changed from “GB” to “UK.” A UK sticker is mandatory for UK drivers, even if “GB” appears on their number plate.

Concluding Thoughts

The United Kingdom’s departure from the European Union has significantly changed the rules and regulations surrounding driving in Europe. While most drivers can continue using their standard driving licenses, knowing the specific requirements for the countries you plan to visit is crucial.

For a hassle-free driving experience in the EU, travelers must stay informed about the latest developments and regulations and obtain an IDP online . . This way, UK and EU drivers can still drive across borders despite the changes brought about by Brexit.

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