Brexit Travel Advice

Post-Brexit travel

We know that many people are unsure of what it means to travel after Brexit, and what requirements and changes are in place. We’ve put together the following guidance, which will hopefully make things as clear as possible.

Please note that the following advice is subject to change, with further guidance and information available on the UK Government’s website. We recommend checking the website ahead of travelling to ensure that you have the most up to date information.

Departing passengers

Passports

To travel to an EU country, you will need to check your passport and ensure that you have at least 6 months left before your passport is due to expire, and your passport must be less than 10 years old. This applies to both adult and child passports. If your passport does not meet these requirements, you will need to renew it.

Please ensure that you check the travel advice and regulations for the country you are travelling to.

Visas

Depending on the reason for travel, and the length of time you intend to travel for, you may need a visa.

UK Government advice states that you will not need a visa if you are a tourist travelling in most EU countries, and you’re visiting for a short period of time. Typically, you will be able to stay for up to 90 days in any 180-day period.

However, different rules are in place for certain countries such as Croatia, Bulgaria, Cyprus and Romania. If you visit these countries, then visits to other EU countries won’t count towards the 90-day total.

If you are travelling for work, study, for business travel, or you are planning to stay for longer than 90 days, you may need a visa or permit.

Please visit the travel advice page for the country you are travelling to for further information.

Travelling on business

You may need additional documentation if you are a UK citizen travelling to the EU for business purposes. Click here for further information.  

Checks at the border

There may be additional checks for UK citizens travelling in the EU, and you may have to show an onward ticket, or proof of funds to show that you have enough money for your stay.

Health insurance

It is always important to have appropriate travel insurance whenever you travel.

As of 1 January 2021, the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC), which provides access to emergency state-provided medical assistance during a temporary stay, may not be valid.

Duty Free

There are changes to duty free shopping following Brexit.

Passengers are able to buy duty free alcohol and tobacco products, where available in British ports, including airports and on-board aircraft.

However, tax-free sales will end on goods such as clothing, electronics and cosmetics. Please click here for further information.

VAT return scheme for EU travellers

As of 1 January 2021, the VAT return scheme for all visitors to the UK is no longer in place.

EU and non-EU visitors will be able to purchase goods tax-free in store if they arrange for all goods to be shipped to their overseas address. Click here for further information.

Travelling with pets

Subject to your airlines rules, you may still be able to travel with your pet. However, there will be a different process to get an animal health certificate.

Please check the latest information here, and we recommend that you contact your vet well in advance of your trip to allow you to plan ahead.

Arriving passengers

The UK Government has confirmed that Irish citizens can continue to enter and live in the UK as they did prior to Brexit.

Arriving into the UK from overseas

If you are an EU, EEA or Swiss citizen travelling to the UK, you are permitted to continue to travel for holidays and short trips without a visa. You must have a valid passport to enter, that must be valid for the duration of your trip. EU, EEA and Swiss citizens may continue to use the E-gates with a biometric passport. Visit the UK Government website for further information

Travelling with ID cards

Depending on which country you are travelling from, you may be able to enter the UK with an ID card. Please check the relevant Government guidance and with your airline for further information.

Travelling with pets

Click here for the latest guidance for travelling with pets to the UK.

Duty free

There are changes to personal allowances for bringing goods back to the UK. Please read the latest government guidelines here.