Just had a thought, Do we need new passports after January 1st because of new EU rules. ?
Hi currently the situation is no. Carry on using your current EU passport until it expires. You will then get the new blue British passport. Make sure you have at least 6 months before your passport expires.
Some things may change very quickly.
Curently the EHIC card will still be accepted within the EU and we will continue to offer reciprocal arrangements with vistors from the EU.The EU may get start getting funmny about it later but currently they have agreed to accept it providing we offer the reciprocal arrangements
It’s particularly important you get travel insurance with the right cover if you have a pre-existing medical condition. This is because the EHIC scheme covers pre-existing conditions, while many travel insurance policies do not.
DrivingYou may need extra documents from 1 January 2021.
You might need an international driving permit (IDP) to drive in some countries.
If you’re taking your own vehicle, you might also need a ‘green card’ or valid proof of insurance and a GB sticker.
PetsFrom 1 January 2021 you will not be able to use the existing pet passport scheme. Instead you’ll need to follow a different process, which takes 4 months.
So apply to your vet early
Border control: You may have to show a return or onward ticket
Show you have enough money for your stay
Use separate lanes from EU, EEA and Swiss citizens when queueing
Mobile roaming:
free roaming may end. Although various providers say they will continue as present
From 1 January 2021, the guarantee of free mobile phone roaming throughout the EU, Iceland, Liechtenstein and Norway will end.
Check with your phone operator to find out about any roaming charges you might get from 1 January 2021.
A new law means that you’re protected from getting mobile data charges above £45 without you knowing.
You can always use WhatsAp and make free calls
If your travel company goes out of business
You’re protected if you buy a package holiday and the company goes out of business. You get this cover even if it’s an EU company, as long as the company targets UK customers.
Otherwise, you can claim compensation if you used your credit card. You’ll continue to be able to claim for payments between £100 and £30,000.
Entering other countries
Visas for short trips:
If you’re a tourist, you will not need a visa for short trips to EU countries, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway and Switzerland. You’ll be able to stay for up to 90 days in any 180-day period.
You can sign up at https://www.gov.uk/email-signup?topic=%2Ftransition for e mails to keep you up to date on changes
Geoff
