Since 1st January 2021, there are changes to travel requirements in EU countries on the Continent. We run through them here:

Passports

A passport must have six months remaining validity and be less than 10 years old even if it has six months left on it.

Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC)

This free card replaces the European Health Insurance Card, although this is still valid while it remains in date, and gives you access to emergency state-provided healthcare during a temporary stay in EU countries at either a reduced cost or for free. It doesn’t cover private healthcare costs and doesn’t replace travel insurance. It cannot be used in Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway and Switzerland.

Visas

Visas are not necessary for short trips to most EU countries, Norway, Switzerland, Iceland and Liechtenstein, where you can stay for 90 days in any 180-day period. If you visit Bulgaria, Croatia, Romania and Cyprus, visits to other EU countries do not count towards the 90-day total.

You may need to produce a return ticket and proof of enough money for your stay at border control.

Phone roaming charges for Europe

Vodafone, EE, O2, 3 and Sky Mobile have no plans to introduce roaming charges for Europe at present, but it is worth checking with your provider for limits, rules  and regulations.

Driving 

You can drive in the EU using your UK driving licence, but if it’s a paper licence you will also need an International Driving Permit. In addition you will need a Green Card from your insurer when driving your own vehicle and an additional Green Card if towing a caravan or trailer. A GB sticker on the rear of your vehicle is compulsory in Spain, but will not be needed if your number plate includes GB on its own or with the Union flag. You will need it if it has a Euro symbol. Attaching one covers you on all counts.

Pet travel

An Animal Health Certificate replaces the existing passport scheme, which is no longer valid. Allow one month to obtain the certificate and the relevant vaccinations.

For clarification on all travel aspects to the EU visit https://www.gov.uk/visit-europe-1-january-2021

To find a ferry crossing, visit Discover Ferries.

You’re in Hall 6 Advice Lounge & Event Theatre at Van Live! See what else is happening on stage, or take me to the Show Guide.