BRITS heading abroad this year have been assured that their travel plans won’t be disrupted by Brexit as trade talks take place later this month.
The transition period means changes to visas, passports and flights when travelling to the EU are unlikely to happen as a deal is negotiated.
2
Research by ABTA has found that 31 per cent of Brits are still confused about how Brexit will affect their holidays.
However, on January 31, the UK will officially leave the EU when it is no longer possible to revoke Article 50.
Until the end of 2020, the country will then be in a transition period – and ABTA have confirmed that Brits can rest assured about their EHIC and passports being unaffected.
What is the current rule regarding EHICs?
EHICs, introduced in 2004, protect British tourists abroad when it comes to getting basic medical care without additional costs when in an EU country.
This means getting the same healthcare as citizens in that country without being charged. They will remain valid for the duration of the year.
They are free of charge from the official website, but Brits are advised to still purchase travel insurance if going abroad.
In an event of no-deal in 2021, EHICs could become invalid.
2
What are the current rules regarding passports?
Passports will also remain valid in EU countries without needing an additional 15 months as was previously advised in a no-deal scenario.
Instead, Brits simply have to have a passport that is in date for the duration of the trip before visiting Europe.
Mark Tanzer, ABTA Chief Executive, explained: “The UK is primed to enter a new Brexit phase from 31 January, when trade talks begin, and when it does nothing will change when it comes to travel.
“This means that valid passports can still be used, EHIC cards will still be valid and the same gates can be used at border check points.
BREXIT BOOM Brexit 2020 – what happens on January 31?
“People can continue to make their travel plans with confidence that things won’t change until at least the end of 2020.”
Other changes regarding visas, flights, mobile roaming or other methods of transport such as trains and cars in the EU will also not come into effect.
If the UK gets to the end of the transition period – December 2020 – without a deal, than no-deal could come into force.
Brits who are still worried about their holiday after Brexit can make sure their travel insurance protects them against any changes due to a no-deal.
Travelling to Europe will also remain visa-free after Brexit despite previous concerns.
The confusion of Brexit has also resulted in cheaper holidays.
