I love taking road trips around Europe – it’s so much easier than in the UK, mostly because there’s so much more space!
However, there’s one thing that drives me absolutely crazy: Preparing your Paperwork for EU travel
There’s so much of it, and they do check it. You’ll need to have everything on hand and ready to show if requested.
Traveling to Europe Post-Brexit-Paperwork for EU travel
Since Brexit, there are a few important things you need to check before traveling from the UK to the EU:
- Verify your passport (details below)
- Check your healthcare/travel insurance
- Ensure you have the correct driving documents
- Prepare pet travel documents if needed
Checking Your Passport
Passport expiry dates have become more complicated. For most European destinations, your British passport must have at least 3 months of validity from the date you plan to leave the country (or the EU).
Even if you’re not planning a full 90-day stay, it’s a good idea to renew your passport at least 6 months before it expires, as some countries still require 6 months of validity.
Additionally, your passport must be valid for no more than 10 years from the date of issue.
This is crucial: many passports issued in the last decade have an extra 9 months added on, but the EU won’t recognize this. So, for example, if your passport was issued on 1st September 2015, the EU will consider it expired on 1st September 2025, regardless of its printed expiry date.
Make sure your passport is valid for at least 3 months plus your travel time beyond this date. (Ireland is an exception – you can travel there as long as your passport is still valid.)
Also, if your passport is over 10 years old, renew it as soon as possible. You can do this online or at your local Post Office.
Important: You do not need a blue passport yet – continue using your red one, even if it still says “EU” on the cover. However, you won’t be able to use the EU citizen lanes at border control.
Insurance and Healthcare in Europe Post-Brexit
If you have an EHIC (European Health Insurance Card), it remains valid until it expires. The new Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC) has replaced it, but its coverage isn’t as extensive.
In some countries, you’ll be required to pay a co-payment towards your state-provided treatment. This means you’ll pay the same charge as locals for healthcare services.
Note: The GHIC is free for eligible UK residents. Don’t pay for it – apply via the NHS website.
In short, expect to cover healthcare costs yourself or make sure you have comprehensive travel insurance before you go.
Driving in the EU Post-Brexit – Required Documents
If you plan to drive in the EU, make sure you have the following:
- Your UK card driving license (ensure it’s up to date!)
- Insurance documents
- Vehicle V5 logbook (with your correct address)
- Proof that your vehicle is taxed and MOT’d
- A UK sticker for your vehicle. In Spain, you must have the white oval UK sticker on the back, even if it’s on your registration plate.
- An International Driving Permit (IDP) if required
