Guidance
UK nationals travelling to EU: essential information
Information on the rights of UK nationals travelling in the European Union, European Economic Area (EEA) and European Free Trade Area (EFTA), and Switzerland.
Latest updates
If there is no EU Exit deal, you will need to take new action before travelling to an EU destination. This page will provide information on what you need to do before travelling.
This page will be updated regularly. Check back before travelling.
Staying up to date
We will publish country-specific information on the travel advice pages to help you prepare for travel after EU Exit.
You can also receive the latest updates by signing up for alerts on each country page.
Current status of UK nationals travelling to EU destinations
Until the UK leaves the EU on 29 March 2019, the UK remains a full member of the EU. As a UK national, there will be no change to your rights or status when travelling to an EU destination up until 29 March 2019.
You can:
• continue to travel freely within the EU using a UK passport
• enter another EU country without a visa
• enter another EU country without a visa
Travelling in an EU country after 29 March 2019: plan ahead
It is possible that the UK will leave the EU without a Brexit deal. This means your rights and status when travelling to an EU country could change.
More information on the steps you would need to take ahead of travelling in the event of a ‘no deal’ EU Exit is below.
● You may need to renew your passport earlier than planned. Read about changes to passport validity requirements
● Your mobile operator may not provide free roaming in the EU so check with them before you travel. Make sure you know how to turn off data roaming on your mobile if you are worried about being charged. Read more about using your mobile phone in the EU
● It is important to continue to take out comprehensive travel insurance (including health cover) before travel abroad. Read more about travel insurance
● Insolvency protection for package holidays bought from a UK based provider will remain the same. When buying from an EU-based provider your rights and protections may be different. You should check with your travel provider for clarification.
● Your rights and protections when buying timeshare from UK-based sellers will remain the same, but they may change if you’re buying from an EU based seller after Brexit.. You should check with your seller to confirm these conditions before buying.
● Read about your general consumer rights and protections when buying goods and services in the EU after Brexit.
● If you intend to drive in the EU after exit, you may need a green card from your insurer. Read about to get a green card and find out more about vehicle insurance in the EU
● You may need an International Driving Permit to drive in the EU after exit. Read about driving permits and driving in the EU
● You should contact your vet four months before taking your pet to the EU. Read about taking your pet with you to an EU destination
● You will need an ID document and additional health documentation to take your horse to the EU. Read about taking your horse with you to an EU destination
Published 21 December 2018
