HOW TO... prepare for the changes

Apart from the uncertainty surrounding travel and COVID, there are some important changes that have taken place now that Brexit is done and dusted. Here’s what you’ll need to know about so you can be ready to hop on a plane, a boat or a train once restrictions are lifted and it’s safe to holiday abroad again!

• If travelling to the EU, Switzerland, Norway, Iceland or Liechtenstein, make sure your passport has at least six months left and is less than 10 years old on the day you travel. For trips to Ireland, carry on using your passport so long as it’s valid for the length of your stay.

• Your current European Health Insurance Card

(EHIC) can still be used to access emergency medical care in the EU until its expiry date. After which, the government will issue a new Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC).

• Just like the EHIC, the new GHIC is free and you can apply for it online at nhs.uk. Every family member will need their own card and you can apply for yours as well as your partner’s and any children under 16.

• Make sure your travel insurance covers healthcare as well as travel disruption, theft or loss, cancellation and any COVID-related issues.

• If you’re renting a car within the EU you may need an International Driving Permit (IDP) but only if you have a paper licence and these can be bought at the Post Office for £5.50.

• There’s no need for a visa if you’re just having a holiday and you can stay for up to 90 days in any 180-day period. There are different rules for Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus and Romania. We may see a new EUwide visa waiver scheme (ETIAS) come into effect in 2022 but for now we can travel visa-free.